Sputum/respiratory samples (routine)
| About This Test |
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Department: Microbiology, Virology and Molecular Microbiology Requirement: Specimen types: Sputum Aspirated/suction sputum Induced sputum Bronchoalveolar washing/lavage/trap/brush Endotracheal secretions Minimum volume 1ml
Turnaround Time: 2-5days |
Semi-quantitative culture for common bacterial respiratory pathogens.
Culture for fungi routinely included for cystic fibrosis and ventilated patients only.
If aspergillus/fungal infection suspected please state on request
In severe infections consider Legionnaires disease
Please state if recent or prolonged overseas travel. Consider viral infections including SARS/MERS coronavirus infection.
Contact laboratory prior to sending samples if Histoplasmosis suspected.
Other Comments:
Collection container (including preservatives): CE marked leakproof container, send to laboratory in sealed plastic bag.
Special instructions - Relevant clinical data and details of recent or current antimicrobial treatment should be provided: Please state if underlying condition - cystic fibrosis, immunosuppressed, lung transplant etc. Please state if ventilated patient.
Specimen transport: If processing is delayed, refrigeration is preferable to storage at ambient temperature. Delays of over 48hr are undesirable.