Throat swab
General information:
Examination of throat secretions is required in cases of tonsillitis, pharyngitis, tonsillopharyngitis, angina, scarlet fever, candidiasis of the oral cavity, contact infectious diseases, etc. The most common causes are S.aureus, S.pneumoniae, H.influenzae, S.pyogenes , Candida, etc.
Examination for the presence of pathogenic flora in the throat, including fungi. Material for microbiological research should be taken before the start of antibacterial therapy. In a control examination, a secretion is taken at least 2-3 days after the end of the antibiotic course. It is usually made in two to three days depending on the growth and type of microorganisms, the need for an antibiogram and the possible presence of fungi. It is important to know that there are always microorganisms in the oral cavity - the normal flora of the human body, which is why a longer procedure is required to isolate possible pathogens.
Sample required:
Throat secretions are taken in the morning before meals and before the patient has used toothpaste, toilet water for oral cavity hygiene, chewing gum or throat medications.
The material is taken with a sterile swab/spectule/carefully without touching the tongue and cheeks. The tongue is pressed with the spatula until the nasopharynx and tonsillitis are visualized. By applying light pressure, a secretion is taken from the palatal arches. The tampon is carefully pulled out without touching the oral cavity.
It is recommended that in more serious conditions, small children, before surgery, be taken by the relevant specialist or on site in the laboratory.
The presence of saliva and impurities of secretions is a sign that the sample was not taken correctly and we cannot guarantee the result.
It is recommended to transport up to 2 hours. In cases of delay, they can be left in a refrigerator at 2-8 °C for up to 72 hours