Performed by: Labcorp: What It Is, What It Tests, and How to Get Your Lab Results

A sputum culture test is a laboratory analysis used to detect and identify bacteria or fungi that may be causing a respiratory tract infection. The test involves collecting a sample of sputum (mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract) and cultivating it in a lab to see what types of microorganisms grow. This helps in diagnosing infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, or tuberculosis. The results guide healthcare providers in choosing the most effective treatment, particularly in selecting the right antibiotics if a bacterial infection is identified. The test is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of respiratory infections.

Biomarkers included in this panel:

Mixed Respiratory Flora

Mucus

The term "Mixed Respiratory Flora" on a sputum test refers to the presence of a diverse range of microorganisms that are normally found in the upper respiratory tract. This includes a variety of bacteria, both harmless (commensal) and poten

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Polys (polymorphonuclear leukocytes)

Mucus

Polys, also written as PMNs (polymorphonuclear leukocytes), are primarily neutrophils — the most abundant white blood cells in a healthy adult. In microbiology reports (gram stain, sputum culture, wound culture, urine analysis), PMNs are report

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Sputum Culture, Bacterial

Performed by: Labcorp: What It Is, What It Tests, and How to Get Your Lab Results

Biomarkers included in this panel:

Mixed Respiratory Flora

Polys (polymorphonuclear leukocytes)

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