• SAMPLE TYPE
• MICROSCOPY
• PUS CELLS
• EPITHELIAL CELLS
• GRAM POSITIVE COCCI
• GRAM NEGATIVE BACILLI
• YEAST CELLS
• FUNGAL ELEMENTS
• Other Findings
• Pathologist remark/Note:
• INCLUDED TEST PARAMETERS & DETAILS:
• Sample Validity (Epithelial vs. Pus Cells):
• Epithelial Cells: These are "skin" cells from the mouth. A high number suggests the sample is mostly saliva rather than deep lung mucus.
• Pus Cells (Leukocytes): High numbers indicate an active immune response to an infection in the lungs.
• Bacterial Identification:
• Gram-Positive Cocci: Purple, round bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae (a common cause of pneumonia).
• Gram-Negative Bacilli: Pink, rod-shaped bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae or Klebsiella.
• Fungal Elements:
• Yeast & Fungal Elements: Detects fungal organisms like Candida, which may indicate an infection, especially in patients with weakened immune systems.

Why does the report take 24 hours?

While the stain is fast, our pathologists perform a meticulous scan of the slide to quantify the bacteria and pus cells accurately for a definitive clinical remark.

What if I can't cough up anything?

You may need "nebulization" or a warm steam inhalation to help loosen the mucus before collection.

Why was my sample rejected?

If the microscope sees too many epithelial cells (from the mouth), it means the sample is saliva, not sputum, and the result would be misleading.

Can this test detect a viral infection?

No. Viruses like the flu or COVID-19 cannot be seen with a Gram stain; they require PCR or Antigen testing.

Does "No Organisms Seen" mean I'm okay?

Not necessarily. It may mean the bacteria count is low, or that the infection is viral or caused by "atypical" bacteria like Mycoplasma.

Why is an early morning sample best?

Mucus collects in the lungs overnight, making the first cough of the day the richest in potential pathogens.

What are "Gram-Positive Cocci"?

These are purple, round bacteria often responsible for community-acquired pneumonia.

Can it detect fungal infections?

Yes, it is very effective at spotting yeast cells and fungal branches (hyphae) in the respiratory tract.

Should I brush my teeth before?

You can rinse with water, but avoid toothpaste and mouthwash as they can kill the bacteria we are trying to detect.

Can it detect TB?

No. TB requires a separate, specialized stain called an AFB Stain.

Why is the "Pathologist Remark" important?

It provides context—such as whether the bacteria are found inside the pus cells—which tells the doctor how active the infection is.

Does the test hurt?

No, it only involves coughing into a cup.

What if I have already started antibiotics?

The bacteria may not show up, or they may look "distorted" under the microscope, making identification difficult.

How much sample is needed?

Usually, 1–2 teaspoons (5ml) of thick mucus is sufficient.

Is the test result confidential?

Absolutely. At Dr. Patho, your respiratory health data is protected by the highest privacy standards.