Sputum Examination Routine

Sputum examination routine is the most common test to detect respiratory tract disease caused by fungi or bacteria. Sputum is a combination of saliva and mucus. One can collect sputum by coughing or aspirating from the lower respiratory tract.

In a healthy person, sputum is transparent, and odorless. It contains water, proteins, carbohydrates, and mineral salts. However, in patients with respiratory diseases, sputum may contain blood, bacteria, and viruses, leading to a change in color.

Sputum test is generally prescribed in case of acute and chronic diseases of the respiratory system like pneumonia, bronchial asthma, lung gangrene, fungal infection of the lungs, and tuberculosis.

Sputum test is a simple and effective method for detecting disease. Sputum examination provides information about the condition, its severity and helps to choose the right treatment.