Pharyngotonsillar culture
What is analysed?
A pharyngotonsillar culture is a laboratory test used to identify the presence of bacteria or other pathogens in the throat and tonsils.
How is it used?
Pharyngotonsillar culture is used to diagnose bacterial infections such as streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat) and tonsillitis.
Why undergo the analysis?
Pharyngotonsillar culture is performed when a patient presents with symptoms of a throat infection, such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
When to undergo the analysis?
Pharyngotonsillar culture is typically done when symptoms persist despite initial treatment or when streptococcal infection is suspected.
What sample is required?
A throat swab sample is collected for pharyngotonsillar culture.
Is any prior preparation necessary?
No specific preparation is required before a pharyngotonsillar culture. However, patients should avoid using mouthwash or throat lozenges before the test.
How is it used?
The collected sample is cultured on a special medium in the laboratory to allow the growth of bacteria. The resulting colonies are then examined and identified to determine the presence of pathogens.
What are the normal values?
There are no specific "normal" values for pharyngotonsillar culture. The test aims to identify the presence of pathogenic bacteria.
Pharyngotonsillar culture results
| Result | Interpretation |
| Positive | Presence of pathogenic bacteria indicating infection |
| Negative | Absence of pathogenic bacteria or non-culturable species |
This table summarises the interpretation of pharyngotonsillar culture results, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of throat infections.
What do altered values signify?
Positive results indicate the presence of pathogenic bacteria, confirming a bacterial infection in the throat. Negative results suggest the absence of bacterial pathogens or indicate that the bacteria present are not culturable using standard methods.