30/09/2025
Sputum MCS (Microscopy, Culture, and Sensitivity) Test
1. Objective
The objective of the sputum MCS test was to identify microorganisms present in the respiratory tract and to determine their antibiotic susceptibility pattern.
2. Principle
The principle was based on direct microscopic examination of sputum for bacteria and cells, culture of sputum on suitable media for bacterial growth, and sensitivity testing of isolated organisms against different antibiotics.
3. Materials
The materials used were:
Fresh sputum sample (early morning, sterile container)
Gram stain and Ziehl-Neelsen stain reagents
Inoculating loop
Culture media (Blood agar, MacConkey agar, Chocolate agar, etc.)
Incubator
Microscope
Antibiotic discs (for sensitivity testing)
4. Procedure
1. The sputum sample was collected in a sterile, leak-proof container.
2. A direct smear was prepared and stained with Gram stain and Ziehl-Neelsen stain for microscopic examination.
3. The sample was inoculated onto culture media plates using an inoculating loop.
4. The plates were incubated at 35–37°C for 24–48 hours.
5. After incubation, bacterial colonies were examined for morphology and further biochemical tests were performed for identification.
6. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.
5. Result
The result showed the type of bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or others) along with their sensitivity or resistance to commonly used antibiotics.
6. Uses
The sputum MCS test was used for:
Diagnosing lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, etc.)
Guiding antibiotic therapy by showing drug susceptibility
Monitoring treatment effectiveness
Detecting resistant strains of bacteria
7. Consultation
The results were interpreted by the physician in combination with clinical findings and imaging studies. Abnormal findings such as multidrug-resistant organisms required further consultation for targeted therapy.
