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Cytology, Sputum

Also known as Sputum cytology

₹539~~₹550~~ 2% Off

You need to provide

Sputum

This test is for

Male, Female

Earliest reports in

48 hours

Test Preparation

Please provide your clinical history, doctor's prescription, surgical history, treatment history, and radiology findings, if available.
Please provide a fresh, early morning sputum sample; produced by coughing deeply for accurate analysis.
Clinical History required. Duly filled Cytopathology Requisition Form should be provided (2 pages).

Understanding Cytology, Sputum

What is Cytology, Sputum?

The Cytology, Sputum test involves a microscope examination of sputum (thick mucus coughed up from the lungs) to check for abnormal or cancerous cells. This test is commonly used to diagnose lung infections and respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis. It also detects lung cancer.

Sputum is the thickened secretion produced in the lungs and the airways that is commonly coughed up during respiratory infections or illnesses. It contains mucus, dead cells, bacteria, and other materials of the respiratory tract. Sputum can provide important clues for the detection of diseases such as cancer, infection, and inflammation based on its composition and color. The Cytology, Sputum is a safe and non-invasive diagnostic test that detects abnormal cells in the respiratory tract, especially in the lungs. It studies the characteristic features of the sputum cells, such as size, shape, number, and arrangement, to determine abnormalities.

The Cytology, Sputum test is recommended for individuals presenting with symptoms such as persistent cough, pain in the chest, blood in the sputum (hemoptysis), weight loss without any known reason, or difficulty in breathing. Normally, it may be carried out in cases where the doctor suspects lung cancer, tuberculosis, or other respiratory diseases. In addition, the test is suggested for individuals with a high risk of lung cancer, such as smokers, people with a work history of exposure to harmful materials, like asbestos, or people with a family history of respiratory cancers. It may be used as an adjunct with other diagnostic tools, such as chest X-rays, chest CT scans, or bronchoscopies, to show the presence of abnormal cells or tumors in the lungs.

For this test, the individual needs to provide their clinical history, doctor's prescription, surgical and treatment history, and any available radiology findings. Make sure to fill out the Cytopathology Requisition Form, provided by the laboratory personnel. For sputum collection, a fresh, early morning sputum sample should be collected by coughing deeply for accurate analysis. To minimize contamination, rinse the mouth with water before sample collection.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate at home solely based on these test results. Always consult the doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from the Cytology, Sputum test will help doctors prescribe targeted treatments, ensuring effective and appropriate medical care.

What is Cytology, Sputum used for?

The Cytology, Sputum test is done:

To detect abnormal or cancerous cells in the sputum, which could indicate lung cancer or pre-cancerous conditions.
To diagnose respiratory infections like tuberculosis or pneumonia.
To investigate the cause of unexplained respiratory symptoms, such as persistent cough, blood in sputum, or shortness of breath.
To monitor individuals with a history of lung cancer for recurrence.
To monitor individuals with known respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In conjunction with other diagnostic tests like chest X-rays, CT scans of the chest, or bronchoscopies to evaluate the health of the lungs and identify abnormal or cancerous cells.
To assist in the early detection of lung cancer.

What does Cytology, Sputum measure?

The Cytology, Sputum test measures the presence of abnormal or malignant cells in sputum samples. It is tailored to identify potential lung cancers, infections, or other respiratory diseases by detecting the presence of atypical or cancerous cells. If cancerous cells are found, further diagnostic tests (such as imaging or biopsies) may be needed to determine the extent of the disease and to plan treatment. In addition to cancer, the detection of abnormal cells in sputum can also suggest lung infections or other respiratory conditions, such as tuberculosis (TB) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

On the contrary, a negative test result means that no abnormal or malignant cells are found in the sputum sample. This suggests that the sample does not show signs of lung cancer, infections, or other significant lung diseases. However, a negative result does not completely rule out a condition, especially if symptoms persist. Sometimes, early-stage cancers or infections may not shed enough abnormal cells into the sputum, and additional tests or follow-ups may be needed to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cytology, Sputum

Q. What is Cytology, Sputum test?

The Cytology, Sputum is a pathology test that examines mucus (sputum) from the lungs or airways under a microscope to check for abnormal cells. It helps diagnose conditions like infections, lung diseases, or cancer, particularly lung cancer.

Q. Why is Cytology, Sputum test performed?

The Cytology, Sputum test is used when an individual has symptoms related to respiratory illness such as a persistent cough, blood in the sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or other signs of lung problems.

Q. How is the sputum sample collected?

The sputum sample is collected by coughing up sputum (mucus) from the lungs, usually in the morning. It’s important to cough deeply to produce a good sample. If possible avoid contamination with saliva. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Q. Is any specific preparation needed before the test?

The sputum sample should be collected early in the morning after taking a deep cough. It is advised to rinse the mouth thoroughly with water before sample collection to help remove food particles and avoid contamination.

Q. What do the results of the Cytology, Sputum test mean?

If abnormal cells are found, it could indicate an infection, precancerous changes, or cancer. If cancerous cells are detected, further tests and treatment may be required. If no abnormal cells are found, it suggests that there is no immediate sign of infection or cancer, though additional tests may be needed for a full diagnosis.

Q. Are there any risks associated with Cytology, Sputum test?

The Cytology, Sputum test is a non-invasive test with minimal risks. The main challenge is producing an adequate sputum sample. There are no significant risks involved, though it may be uncomfortable for some people to cough deeply to obtain the sample.

Q. How often should I take this test?

The test frequency varies depending on individual health needs and doctor’s recommendation. However, 3 days of consecutive testing is advisable by some clinician to increase possibility to detect abnormality.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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