Sputum Cytology

Why It Is Done

Sputum cytology is done to detect:

• Lung cancer. However, this is not used as a screening test for people at risk for developing lung cancer, such as smokers.
• Noncancerous lung conditions, such as pneumonia or inflammatory diseases, tuberculosis, or the buildup of asbestos fibers in the lungs (asbestosis).

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: March 21, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
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