Lower Respiratory Culture

Ordering the Lower Respiratory Culture

Lower Respiratory Culture helps identify bacteria, fungi, or other germs in the lungs that may be causing infection. This test is often used when someone has a cough that does not go away, mucus that changes color, or other signs of a lung infection. Interestingly, this test can also help detect rare or unusual organisms that do not respond to standard treatments, which can guide more targeted therapy.

Ordering this test can provide several specific benefits:

• Pinpoints the exact cause of a persistent cough or chest congestion.
• Helps doctors choose the most effective antibiotic or antifungal treatment.
• Detects resistant bacteria that may not respond to common medications.
• Monitors ongoing lung infections to see if treatment is working.
• Reduces the risk of unnecessary or incorrect medication use.

Who Should Consider Sputum Bacterial and Fungal Analysis

People who have a cough that lingers for weeks, produce thick or discolored mucus, or have repeated chest infections may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been treated for bronchitis but still feels tired and coughs up yellow mucus might need this test to find out if a different germ is causing the problem.

Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:

• Someone with chronic lung conditions, like COPD or asthma, who develops new symptoms.
• People who have recently traveled and developed a cough that does not improve.
• Those with weakened immune systems who are more likely to get lung infections.
• Workers exposed to dust or chemicals who start coughing up mucus.
• People who have had dental work and then develop a chest infection, as mouth bacteria can sometimes reach the lungs.

This test should be ordered to find out exactly which germ is causing a lung infection, so the right treatment can be started quickly. Waiting to order this test may allow the infection to get worse or make it harder to treat, especially if the germ is resistant to common medicines. Take the next step to get clear answers about your symptoms.

Preparing for Sputum Microbiology Testing

Fasting is not required before this test, so you can eat and drink as usual. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you about how to collect your sputum sample, as this helps make sure the results are useful.

Labs Included When Ordering Your Lower Respiratory Culture

Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.

Lower Respiratory Culture FAQ

Is there Lower Respiratory Culture testing near me?

You can find nearby locations for Lower Respiratory Culture using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. This is especially helpful if you have trouble traveling due to a persistent cough or need a quick, convenient way to provide a sputum sample.

What is the cost of the test?

The price for this test includes all fees, including sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to know exactly which germ is causing your lung symptoms, so you can get the right treatment.

How often should I retest?

Retesting is usually recommended if symptoms return or do not improve after treatment, or if your doctor wants to check if the infection has cleared. Repeating the test can help make sure the infection is gone and that the treatment worked as expected.

How accurate is the test?

Lower Respiratory Culture uses a microbiological culture method, where sputum is grown on special plates to identify bacteria and fungi. The test has a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 95%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.

Important Notes

• Extra Cost of $15 per Organism Sensitivity
• Brush teeth and/or rinse mouth well with water before attempting to collect the specimen to reduce the possibility of contaminating the specimen with food particles etc.