Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Throat Swab
What is this test?
A throat swab may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the anaerobic bacteria which may be the reason for infections in the throat. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present in the throat region. The individual undergoing this test will be asked to wide open the mouth and tilt the head back. Sometimes a tongue depressor is also used. A sterile cotton swab is gently introduced across the back of throat, tonsils, and sore areas for few seconds. Thus the swab collects the secretions being produced in the back of the throat.
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.
Why this test is performed?
This test may be recommended to you if you are suspected to have a throat infection and experience symptoms like redness, swelling, white streaks on the tonsils or pus on the tonsils, red spots in the roof of the mouth, 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 Throat Swab.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Throat Swab. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Throat Swab.
No specific preparation is required for this throat swab culture and sensitivity 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 throat region.
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 |