Sputum Cytology: Risks
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Risks
Home or office sample
There is no risk associated with collecting a sputum sample at home or at your doctor's office.
Bronchoscopy sample
Bronchoscopy is generally a safe procedure. Although complications are rare, you should discuss the risks in your particular case with your doctor. Complications that may occur include:
- Spasms of the bronchial tubes. These can impair breathing.
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
- Infection, such as pneumonia. These usually can be treated with antibiotics.
| Last updated: | March 21, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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