Category
Microbiology
Sub Category
Microscopy/ culture/ sensitivity (M/C/S)
Synonyms/Aliases
sputum microscopy, culture & sensitivity
Abbreviations
Sputum C/S; Sputum M/C/S.
Type
profile/ panel (bundled tests)
Results
Results will be ready after 3 - 4 days
Method
culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing (where indicated) using conventional methods
Temp
Transport temprature at room temperature. refrigerate if delay is expected.
Setup
Setup perfomed daily
Pre-analytic Considerations :
.
Components / Parameters
microscopy, pathogen isolation, identification & reporting of appropriate antibiotics as applicable
Test ordering Instructions
Fill out request form fully & legibly. Book with the lab/ confirm reagent availability.
Patient preparation
rinse the mouth with water & cough deeply after taking deep breaths to get a good quality expectorated sputum specimen. collect sputum and not saliva.
Sample Requirements
Fill out test request form fully & legibly. clinical history/ indications required inclusive of results of other diagnostic work-up. concurrent CBC printout or CBC order required. concurrent PBF order/ examination required for optimal hematological assessment.
Sample type
sputum
Container/ preservative
Sterile Container
Sample volume
3 ML
Rejection criteria
labeling issue (unlabeled/ mislabeled); missing request form; mismatch between request form & sample details; wrong sample type; >25 squamous epithelial cells/ lpf on microscopy (indicative of saliva).
Other Instructions
if other tests are required e.g. tb culture, they must be separately ordered.
Reference intervals
Negative for Pathogens
Clinical Utility
detecting bacteria responsible for infections.
Test Limitations/ Confounders
prior exposure to antibiotics can result in false negative cultures; some potential pathogens may occur as normal flora in some patients.