Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Sputum
What is this test?
Sputum may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the bacteria. This test helps in diagnosing the infection of the respiratory tract. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present in the respiratory region. This test is performed on the sputum collected by your healthcare provider.
What is sputum?
Sputum is a thick viscous mucus or phlegm which is expelled from the lower respiratory tract (bronchi and lungs) through coughing. Often it is mistaken as saliva or spit. Bacterial sputum cultures will help in detecting the presence of disease-causing bacteria in people who are suspected to have respiratory tract infections or pneumonia. Bacteria in the sample are identified and susceptibility testing is performed to plan the treatment.
What are anaerobic bacteria and anaerobic respiratory infections?
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.
Anaerobic bacteria are common in chronic upper respiratory tract infections. Respiratory tract infection may affect your normal breathing. The symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection include a runny nose, cough, congestion in the sinuses or lungs, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, body aches, tiredness, fever, loss of consciousness, etc.
Why this test is recommended?
This test is recommended to you if you experience symptoms like a cough, shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, muscle aches, fever, chills, tiredness, confusion, etc. 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.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic Sputum.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Sputum. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Sputum.
For this sputum culture and sensitivity test, you may be asked to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth water prior to sample collection. You may also be asked to avoid food for at least 1-2 hours before the test.
Understanding your test results
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 respiratory tract.
If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | The growth depends on the infecting organism. Clearing around the disc indicates organism is sensitive to antibiotic |