: Streptococcus pneumoniae Antigen, Sputum, Qualitative, Culture

: What This Test Detects

: Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia, sinus infections, and meningitis. This test examines a sputum specimen for the presence of the organism, either by detecting bacterial antigen or by culture, to help determine whether pneumococcus is contributing to a respiratory infection.

: Why Sputum Is Used

: Sputum is the material brought up from the lower airways when you cough deeply. Because it comes from the lungs rather than the mouth, it can reflect what is happening in the respiratory tract and help identify the cause of a lung infection.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: You will be asked to cough deeply and spit the material into a sterile container. A good-quality sample should be thick mucus rather than mostly saliva. In some cases a clinician may collect the sample with a suction device. Follow the collection instructions carefully so the laboratory receives a usable specimen.

: What Results Mean

: A positive result suggests pneumococcal infection is present and can help guide treatment decisions. A negative result reduces but does not eliminate the possibility of pneumococcal disease, since results depend on sample quality and the amount of organism present. Results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, exam, and other tests.