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Culture, Sputum


TEST DIRECTORY
Test Name
Culture, Sputum
Test Code
CULSPUT
SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS
Specimen Requirements
Minimum of 2.0 mL sputum
Supplies for Submission
Sterile Container (1)
Specimen Collection

A Gram stain with 10 epis/lpf will NOT be cultured.
Such a specimen indicates oropharyngeal contamination and is not representative of the lower respiratory tract, thereby rendering culture results invalid.

Click here to view general guidelines for culture specimens.

  • Collect first morning sputum or expectorated sputum.
Storage Requirements
Room Temperature.
Specimens are stable if stored at room temperature for 24 hours.
GENERAL AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Turn Around Time
7 days
CPT Code
87205, add 87070 if cultured