The Sputum Wet Prep Technique,Eosinophils,and Reversible Obstructive Lung Disease

Abstract

A single, rapid microscopic examination of unstained wet sputum is called the sputum wet prep technique. The examination ordinarily takes only a couple of minutes and can be performed by respiratory therapists. Use of the sputum wet prep technique can help reveal whether the specimen is true sputum; where it originated; whether infection is present; whether infection is viral or bacterial; whether there is reversible obstructive airways disease, asthma, or bronchitis; how effective ongoing steroid therapy is; whether the patient smokes; and whether lipoid pneumonia may be present. Few clinical laboratories are currently performing sputum wet prep examinations, and this suggests that many respiratory therapy services could fill this gap and provide a useful clinical service.