LAB TEST
Sputum fungal smear
A sputum fungal smear is a laboratory test that looks for fungus in a sputum sample. Sputum is the material that comes up from air passages when you cough deeply.
How the Test is Performed
A sputum sample is needed. You will be asked to cough deeply and spit any material that comes up from your lungs into a special container. The sample is sent to a lab and examined under a microscope.
How to Prepare for the Test
There is no special preparation.
How the Test will Feel
There is no discomfort.
Why the Test is Performed
Your health care provider may order this test if you have symptoms or signs of a lung infection, such as if you have a weakened immune system due to certain medicines or diseases such as cancer or HIV/AIDS .
Normal Results
A negative result means no fungus was seen in the test sample. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results may be a sign of a fungal infection. Such infections include: Aspergillosis Blastomycosis Coccidioidomycosis Cryptococcosis Histoplasmosis
Risks
There are no risks associated with a sputum fungal smear.
References
Banaei N, Deresinski SC, Pinsky BA. Microbiologic diagnosis of lung infection. In: Broaddus VC, Ernst JD, King TE, et al, eds. Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 19. Saullo JL, Alexander BD. Fungal infections: opportunistic. In: Broaddus VC, King TE,…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 31/12/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.