Throat swab culture is a bacteriological test that allows the detection and identification of bacterial pathogens causing upper respiratory tract infections (tonsillitis, pharyngitis, rhinosinusitis).
If pathogenic bacteria are detected, an antibiotic susceptibility test with MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) is performed to determine the lowest concentration of an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth, in order to select effective antibacterial therapy.
Automated identification of microorganisms is performed using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry on the MALDI Biotyper sirius IVD System analyzer (Bruker, Germany).
The throat connects the oral cavity with the oropharynx. The oropharyngeal microflora is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that plays a key role in maintaining local immunity, protecting the mucosa, and regulating inflammatory responses. In healthy individuals, it is mainly represented by commensal bacteria that do not cause harm but instead support normal epithelial function.
The core microbiota consists of α-hemolytic streptococci (Streptococcus mitis, S. salivarius, S. sanguinis) as well as representatives of the genera Neisseria, Veillonella, Actinomyces, Haemophilus, and Prevotella. In deeper parts of the oropharynx, anaerobes predominate, participating in the breakdown of food residues and maintaining microbial balance. Fungi of the genus Candida may also be present in small quantities, especially when immune control is reduced.
This microflora performs a barrier function, preventing pathogen colonization, producing antimicrobial substances (bacteriocin-like peptides, hydrogen peroxide, organic acids), stimulating secretory IgA production, and forming immune tolerance to harmless antigens.
Disruption of the microbial composition may occur due to antibiotic therapy, viral infections, immunodeficiency states, stress, or poor hygiene. This creates conditions for the overgrowth of opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms such as Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, or Candida spp., which can cause inflammatory diseases of the oropharynx and systemic complications.
Microbiological examination has particular diagnostic value when clinical manifestations are nonspecific or do not allow reliable determination of disease etiology, as well as in cases that require a justified selection of antibacterial therapy.
Determining the qualitative and quantitative composition of the throat microflora makes it possible to establish whether the finding represents transient carriage of opportunistic bacteria or an active infection requiring etiotropic treatment. Determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and performing an antibiotic susceptibility test ensure a personalized selection of antibacterial therapy based on the pathogen’s sensitivity. This approach improves treatment efficacy, reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance, and minimizes side effects.
Results are interpreted according to international EUCAST and CLSI standards, ensuring high analytical accuracy and clinical relevance.
If pathogenic microorganisms are detected, self-medication is inappropriate and potentially dangerous. The final therapeutic decision must be made by a physician based on a comprehensive clinical and laboratory assessment.
