About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 20, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
...
5
...

Whooping Cough (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:
Medical Editor:

Whooping Cough Diagnosis

The best way to diagnose whooping cough is by confirming the presence of the specific disease-causing bacteria Bordetella pertussis in mucus taken from the nose and throat.

  • Because the growth of the bacteria is inhibited by cotton, either calcium alginate or Dacron swabs must be used in obtaining the sample. Studies have shown that cultures are more likely to be positive if the sample is collected during the first stage of the illness or early in the second. The likelihood for isolating the organism (and confirming the diagnosis) declines with any delay in specimen collection beyond the first three weeks of illness. A culture negative for Bordetella pertussis is usually seen after five days of treatment with antibiotics.
  • Other laboratory methods used to diagnosis pertussis infection such as serologic testing and PCR are available in certain labs. Neither method has been shown to be more specific than culture isolation of the organism.
  • A complete blood count (CBC) may be performed.

Must Read Articles Related to Whooping Cough

Cough
Coughs A cough is a symptom of an underlying disease or condition. A chronic or persistent cough may signal certain lung conditions that should be evaluated by a healt...learn more >>
Immunization Schedule, Adults
Immunization Schedule, Adults At least 45,000 adults in the United States die of complications of influenza, pneumococcal infections, and hepatitis B each year. These diseases, and others th...learn more >>
Immunization Schedule, Children
Immunization Schedule, Children Vaccinations are some of the most important tools available for preventing disease. Most children get all their shots during childhood. Parents should consult t...learn more >>

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Whooping Cough - Symptoms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What symptoms did you experience with your whooping cough?

Whooping Cough - Describe Your Experience

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe your experience with whooping cough (pertussis).

Parenting and Pregnancy

Get tips for baby and you.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Pertussis »

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a respiratory tract infection characterized by a paroxysmal cough.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies