Culture & Sensitivity, Aerobic, Sputum- Conventional Identification & Automated AST on Vitek

Culture & Sensitivity, Aerobic, Sputum

Conventional Identification & Automated AST on VITEK

Test Overview
Sputum Culture & Sensitivity is a microbiological test used to detect aerobic bacterial pathogens that may be responsible for respiratory tract infections. The isolated organism is identified using conventional microbiological methods, followed by automated antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) on VITEK.

What does the test detect?

• Aerobic bacterial pathogens in sputum
• Identification of clinically significant organisms
• Antibiotic susceptibility/resistance pattern
• Antibiotics likely to be effective against the isolated organism

Why is this test done?
It may be recommended when a bacterial respiratory infection is suspected, particularly in cases of:

• Persistent or productive cough
• Fever with respiratory symptoms
• Suspected pneumonia
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Failure to respond to empirical antibiotics

Sample Required: Sputum
Method: Conventional organism identification + Automated AST on VITEK
Report: Organism identified, if significant, with antimicrobial susceptibility results

Important: Proper sputum collection is essential to minimize contamination and improve the clinical value of the culture. Antibiotic selection should be based on the susceptibility report and clinical assessment by the treating physician.