Terminology Tuesday

Sputum Culture

Lovely word, isn't it? Sputum. Sorry. Definition...

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A sputum culture is a test used to determine what bacteria or fungi are infecting a persons lungs and/or breathing passages.

The test is run using a swab at the back of the throat to collect the Sputum**. The culture is then tested for growth. If not growth is present, the culture is considered negative. If there is growth, the test is positive and is then checked under a microscope to determine the type of bacteria.


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**Extra definition: Sputum. The thick fluid fluid produced by the lungs and the airway leading to the lungs.