Sputum Culture

Test Code

SPUCU

Specimen Name

Sputum Culture

CPT Codes

  • 87070
  • 87205

Collect

Sterile Container

Stability

Refrigerated

Volume

10 mLs

Minimum Volume

1 mL

Performed

Performed Sunday through Saturday - Reported Final at 3 days

Components

Additional Information

Gram stain is completed to assess specimen quality. Specimen showing >10 epithelial cells/lpf and <25 WBC/lpf on smear will be rejected for culture. Notification of unacceptable specimens is provided. Please note on the test request form if sputum from a Cystic Fibrosis patient. If an uncommon organism, such as B. Pertussis, Nocardia, or Legionella is suspected, it is essential to note on the test request form.

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Test Information

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Common Lab Definitions

  • Serum 
  • Plasma 
  • STT