Nasopharyngeal Culture
Alternate Names : Culture - Nasopharyngeal, Swab for Respiratory Viruses, Swab for Staph Carriage
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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Why is the Test 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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