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| Definition: |
This is a sample of nasopharyngeal (the part of the pharynx that is over the roof of the mouth) secretions that is obtained and grown in a culture medium to detect the presence of organisms that can cause disease.
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| Alternative Names: |
Culture - nasopharyngeal; Swab for respiratory viruses; Swab for Staph carriage
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| How the test is performed: |
You will be asked to cough before the test begins and then tilt your head back. A sterile cotton-tipped swab is gently passed through the nostril and into the nasopharynx (the part of the pharynx that is over the roof of the mouth). The swab is quickly rotated and then removed.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
Adults:
There is no special preparation.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
The patient may experience slight discomfort and may gag.
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| Why the test is performed: |
The test identifies microorganisms that cause upper-respiratory tract symptoms. Nasopharyngeal cultures are useful in identifying respiratory viruses, Staphylococcus aureus, Bordetellapertussis, and Neisseria meningitidis (types of bacteria). The culture may be used to test for appropriate antibiotic therapy.
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| Normal Values: |
The presence of organisms commonly found in the nasopharynx is normal.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
Pathogens (any virus, bacteria, or fungus that can cause disease) are found.
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| What the risks are: |
There are no risks.
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| Special considerations: |
Not applicable.
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Review Date: 1/13/2002
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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