A<unk>  is a laboratory diagnostic test that evaluates for the presence of a bacterial or fungal infection in the<unk> . A sample from the<unk>  is collected by swabbing the<unk>  and placing the sample into a special cup (culture) that allows infections to grow. If an organism grows, the culture is positive and the presence of an infection is confirmed. The type of infection is found using a microscope, chemical tests, or both. If no infection grows, the culture is negative. Common infectious organisms tested for by a<unk>  include Candida albicans known for causing thrush and Group A streptococcus known for causing strep<unk> , scarlet fever, and rheumatic fever.<unk> s are more sensitive (81% sensitive) than the rapid strep test (70%) for diagnosing strep<unk> , but are nearly equal in terms of specificity.
Throat culture
Nasopharyngeal swab
Sputum culture
Bronchoalveolar lavage
Saliva testing
Rapid strep test
Bronchial brushing
Viral culture