Test Description: Sputum for Occult Blood

The Sputum for Occult Blood test is used to detect hidden (occult) blood in a patient’s sputum, which is not visible to the naked eye. This test is often used to help diagnose conditions such as lung cancer, tuberculosis, or respiratory infections. Blood in the sputum can be a sign of inflammation, infection, or malignancy in the respiratory tract. The test typically uses chemical reagents or microscopic examination to identify trace amounts of blood. A positive result may indicate the need for further diagnostic tests, such as imaging or a biopsy, to determine the underlying cause.