Why Sputum Test Is Done?
A Sputum Test, Also Known as a Sputum Culture, Is a Test That Your Doctor May Order When You Have a Respiratory Tract Infection or Other Lung-Related Disorder...
A sputum test, also known as a sputum culture, is a test that your doctor may order when you have a respiratory tract infection or other lung-related disorder to determine what is growing in the lungs. Sputum is a thick substance that accumulates when bacteria or fungi grows and multiples in the lungs or bronchi.
What happens if sputum test is positive?
A sample of sputum is added to a substance that promotes the growth of bacteria. If no bacteria grow, the culture is negative. If bacteria grow, the culture is positive. If TB bacteria grow, then the person has tuberculosis.
What can a sputum sample detect?
A bacterial sputum culture is used to detect and diagnose bacterial lower respiratory tract infections such as bacterial pneumonia or bronchitis. It is typically performed with a Gram stain to identify the bacteria causing a person's infection.
Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.
