Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Endotracheal Secretion Swab

An endotracheal secretion swab is cultured to test the sensitivity of the anaerobic bacteria which may be the reason for infections in the tracheal region which is called bacterial tracheitis. This test helps in diagnosing bacterial especially anaerobic bacterial infections. These endotracheal secretions are collected through an endotracheal tube. In this procedure, the swab is carefully introduced into the endotracheal tube. Using gentle pressure and in a circular motion, swab the internal circumference of the endotracheal tube several times.

What are anaerobic bacteria?

Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can not survive in the presence of oxygen. Some of the examples of anaerobic bacteria are Staphylococcus, E.Coli, Clostridium, Actinomyces, Acetobacterium, etc. The growth of anaerobic bacteria causes anaerobic infections. Anaerobic infections can occur when deep tissues are injured or exposed. This can occur due to surgery or trauma, etc. The risk factors of getting an anaerobic infection are diabetes, a weak immune system, low blood flow, staph infection, open wounds, etc. The common symptoms of anaerobic infection are smelly discharge, pus-filled abscess, discoloration of the infected area, etc.

What is bacterial tracheitis?

The trachea is knowns as windpipe and is an important part of your body’s airway system. When the air is inhaled through the nose it travels through the larynx (voice box) and down the trachea. Tracheitis is an infection of trachea caused by bacteria which may be aerobic or anaerobic. Since the infection is caused by bacteria it is called bacterial tracheitis. This is a rare condition which typically affects young children. If not treated in the early stage this may lead to life-threatening complications.

Why this test is recommended?

This test may be recommended to you if you experience certain symptoms of tracheitis. The infection may be usually contracted by an upper respiratory infection which includes cold, cough, and low-grade fever. After two to five days they may develop into symptoms of infection and airway obstruction like high fever, nasal flaring, wheezing, cyanosis (a blue tinge on the skin), difficulty in breathing, deep severe cough, etc. in some conditions the individual may develop stridor which is a high-pitched sound produced during breathing. This is considered as a sign of serious infection and partial airway obstruction. This can be life-threatening.

This test may be specially performed to check if the infection is due to anaerobic bacteria or not. This test is also recommended to plan the treatment according to the type of bacteria. The test is also recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.

The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.

If your test results show negative it means there is no growth of anaerobic bacteria.

If your test results show positive it may indicate that you may have an anaerobic bacterial infection in the upper respiratory tract.

If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.