Lower Respiratory Culture, Other Than Expectorated Sputum
Also known as: Bronchial Lavage Culture, Bronchoscopy, Transtracheal Aspirate Culture, Lung Tissue Culture
Use
The Lower Respiratory Culture, Other Than Expectorated Sputum test is used for the isolation and identification of aerobic bacteria considered pathogenic in the lower respiratory tract. This test is crucial for diagnosing bacterial infections in the lower respiratory tract, except those of expectorated sputum. It helps guide appropriate antibiotic treatment by determining the presence of specific pathogens.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
In bronchoscopy and aspirated specimens, reduction of contamination can be achieved by positioning adjustments and using specific collection tools such as a telescoping double catheter. A high frequency of false positives, around 25%, can occur. Bronchial washings may be diluted with bacteriostatic antiseptics or irrigating solutions. If anaerobic bacteria are suspected, a separate specimen should be submitted for anaerobic culture. Some pathogens require special laboratory measures to be isolated, and their presence should be communicated to the laboratory.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 32355-0 - Bacteria Spec Resp Cult
- 32355-0 - Bacteria Spec Resp Cult
- 6463-4 - Bacteria Spec Cult
- 23658-8 - Other Antibiotic Susc Islt
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Volume
10 to 50 mL lavage fluid
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Sterile screw-cap container
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C
Causes for Rejection
Unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy; inappropriate transport device; leaking specimen; received after prolonged delay (>72 hours)
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant