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Nasopharyngeal culture 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.
How to Prepare:
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 experience, 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:
How it Feels:
The patient may experience slight discomfort and may gag.
Risks:
There are no risks.
Why this Test is Performed:
The test identifies microorganisms that cause upper-respiratory tract symptoms. Nasopharyngeal cultures are useful in identifying Bordetella pertussis and Neisseria meningitidis (types of bacteria). The culture may be used to test for appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Normal Values:
The presence of organisms commonly found in the nasopharynx is normal.
Abnormal Results:
Pathogens (any virus, microorganism, or other substance that can cause disease) are found.
Cost:
The average cost is approximately $35.
Special Considerations:
Not applicable.
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