Content
The sputum examination can be indicated by the pulmonologist or general practitioner to investigate respiratory diseases, this is because the sample is sent to the laboratory to evaluate the sputum macroscopic characteristics, such as fluidity and color, in addition to the presence of microorganisms. Thus, based on the results of the sputum test, it is possible to diagnose the disease and start the most appropriate treatment.
This examination is simple and does not require many preparations before it is performed, it is only recommended to clean the throat, mouth and nose with water only and to collect it in the morning.
What is it for
Sputum examination is usually indicated by the pulmonologist or general practitioner in order to confirm the diagnosis of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, bronchitis and cystic fibrosis.
In addition, sputum testing can be recommended to monitor the response to treatment for an infection or to see which antibiotic is best to fight an infection.
How the exam is done
To do the sputum examination, many preparations are not necessary, it is only recommended that the person wash his hands and clean his mouth and throat with just water. The use of antiseptics and toothpaste can interfere with the test result and, therefore, is not indicated.
After washing the mouth with water, it is indicated that the person coughs deeply to release the secretions that are in the lung, avoiding only collecting the saliva from the mouth and upper respiratory tract. In this way, it is possible to guarantee the collection of microorganisms that may be causing the infection.
Generally, collection should be done in the morning before eating or drinking, to avoid contaminating the sputum sample. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids the day before the appointment, to fluidize secretions and sleep on your back and without a pillow, to facilitate sputum exit at the time of collection.
In some people, the doctor may even recommend doing a bronchoscopy to be able to collect the necessary amount of lung sputum. Understand what bronchoscopy is and how it is done.
How to understand the result
The results of the sputum examination indicated in the report take into account the macroscopic aspects of the sample, such as fluidity and color and microscopic evaluation. The results that can appear in the report are:
- Negative or undetectable: it is the normal result and means that no bacteria or fungi have been found that can cause disease.
- Positive: means that bacteria or fungi have been found that can cause disease in the sputum sample. In these cases, the type of microorganism is also usually indicated to help the doctor choose an antibiotic or antifungal.
In the case of a negative result, it is very important that the test is still evaluated by the pulmonologist since, if there are symptoms, it may mean that there is an infection caused by viruses that are not identified in the test.