Q: Does a nasal swab test check for sinusitis bacteria if we only confirmed pneumococcus?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
We had a nasal swab test done and it confirmed the presence of pneumococcus. Does this test also check for bacteria that cause sinusitis? If my child has sinusitis, do we need to undergo a separate test to identify the specific sinusitis bacteria?
Answer:
I understand your concern regarding the nasal swab test results and the confirmation of pneumococcus.
Nasal Swab Tests and Sinusitis Bacteria
A general nasal swab test can typically identify the bacteria responsible for causing sinusitis:
Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) itself is actually one of the primary bacterial causes of sinusitis.
Other common bacteria that cause sinusitis include Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Most of these common pathogens are checked for and identified together during the same swab test.
When Additional Testing Might Be Needed
Further evaluation and testing may be required if:
Symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks despite antibiotic treatment.
The patient experiences recurrent sinusitis (4 or more episodes a year).
There are unusual or severe symptoms, such as intense headaches or vision problems.
Since pneumococcus was already confirmed, it is highly likely that the underlying bacterial cause of the sinusitis has already been found. Most cases improve significantly with the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
Please follow up with your pediatrician for a re-evaluation if the child experiences nasal congestion, yellow nasal discharge, or a cough that lasts for more than 10 days, or if a high fever continues for more than 3 days.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
