A nasal discharge swab may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the bacteria which may be the reason for infections in the upper respiratory tract. The upper respiratory tract consists of the throat and behind the nose. This test helps in diagnosing bacterial especially anaerobic bacterial infections. In this procedure, the swab is carefully introduced into the nasal region. Using gentle pressure and in a circular motion, swab the internal circumference of the nostril and remove slowly.
Upper respiratory tract infection can be due to bacterial or fungal or viral infection in the upper respiratory parts like the throat and behind the nose. The upper respiratory tract infection may cause chest congestion, chronic cough, runny nose, etc.
Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can not survive in the presence of oxygen. Some of the examples of anaerobic bacteria are Staphylococcus, E.Coli, Clostridium, Actinomyces, Acetobacterium, etc. The growth of anaerobic bacteria causes anaerobic infections. Anaerobic infections can occur when deep tissues are injured or exposed. This can occur due to surgery or trauma, etc. The risk factors of getting an anaerobic infection are diabetes, a weak immune system, low blood flow, staph infection, open wounds, etc. The common symptoms of anaerobic infection are smelly discharge, pus-filled abscess, discoloration of the infected area, etc.
This test may be recommended to you if you experience symptoms of upper respiratory infection like whooping cough, severe cold or a runny nose, sore throat, chronic cough, chest congestion, headache, etc. This test may be specially performed to check if the infection is due to anaerobic bacteria or not. This test is also recommended to plan the treatment according to the type of bacteria. The test is also recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Nasal Discharge. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Nasal Discharge.
No specific preparation is required for this nasal discharge swab culture and sensitivity test.
The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.
If your test results show negative it means there is no growth of anaerobic bacteria.
If your test results show positive it may indicate that you may have an anaerobic bacterial infection in the upper respiratory tract.
If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | The growth depends on the infecting organism. Clearing around the disc indicates organism is sensitive to antibiotic |