Bacteriasptcult
A sputum culture test identifies bacteria causing respiratory infections by growing and analyzing bacteria from a mucus sample coughed up from the lungs.
{"This test finds harmful bacteria in your lungs or airways","It helps doctors choose the right antibiotic for treatment","A sample of mucus is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis","Results typically take 2-3 days to come back"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6460-0
- Short code
- SPUTC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Spt Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof sputum collection container with screw-cap lid
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87070
- SNOMED
- 40733004
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL of sputum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours. Specimens should be processed as soon as possible after collection to ensure viability of fastidious organisms.
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is a Sputum Culture Test?
A sputum culture is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria in mucus (sputum) that you cough up from your lungs. This test is commonly used to diagnose respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, or other lung infections. By identifying the specific bacteria causing your illness, doctors can prescribe the most effective treatment.
How is the Sample Collected?
You will be asked to cough deeply and spit mucus into a sterile container. To ensure the sample is from your lungs and not your mouth, you may be asked to rinse your mouth with water first. In some cases, a healthcare provider may collect the sample using a bronchoscope. The sample should be delivered to the lab quickly for accurate results.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results show whether bacteria are present and, if so, what type. A 'positive' result means bacteria were found and identified. The report will include the specific bacteria species and may include sensitivity testing, which shows which antibiotics can effectively treat the infection. A 'negative' result means no disease-causing bacteria were found, though this doesn't always rule out infection.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
No fasting required. Patient should rinse mouth with water prior to collection to minimize contamination with oral flora. If possible, collect prior to initiation of antibiotic therapy. Patient should be instructed to cough deeply and expectorate sputum from the lower respiratory tract, not saliva.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does a negative result mean I don't have an infection?
How long does it take to get results?
Is this test painful?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy