Step-by-Step Guide to Sputum Processing in the Laboratory. Sputum examination plays a critical role in the diagnosis of respiratory infections. In the clinical microbiology laboratory, sputum samples undergo a systematic workflow that includes specimen reception, macroscopic examination, smear preparation, staining, microscopic examination, culture, and final reporting. Each step is essential for identifying pathogens responsible for diseases such as bacterial pneumonia and pulmonary tuberculosi

What Is Sputum? The Shocking Truth About Your Lung Mucus