A sputum culture is a diagnostic test used to identify bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in the mucus (sputum) that is coughed up from the lungs. This test helps detect infections in the respiratory system, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, or other lung-related diseases, providing essential information for targeted treatment.

A sputum culture involves collecting a sample of mucus from the lungs and growing it in a laboratory to determine which microorganisms are present. This test helps doctors understand the type of infection affecting your respiratory system, guiding them in selecting the most effective antibiotics or other medications for treatment.

No, the sputum culture procedure is not painful. It simply requires you to cough up mucus from your lungs. In cases where you cannot produce enough sputum, a nebulizer treatment may be used to help stimulate mucus production, which is also non-invasive and painless.

Bacterial infections: Such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or bronchitis. Fungal infections: Including conditions caused by fungi like Aspergillus. Mycobacteria: Responsible for infections like tuberculosis (TB). Respiratory viruses: Although less commonly diagnosed through sputum cultures, viral infections can sometimes be detected.