Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 16, 2025

Absorption of Nasal and Bronchial Fluids: Precision Sampling of the Human Respiratory Mucosa and Laboratory Processing of Samples
Published on: January 21, 2018
The bacteriology of recurrent acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis: a longitudinal analysis
Dan Yaniv1,2, Daniel Stern3,4, Igor Vainer5,3
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel. dan_yaniv6@yahoo.com.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to describe the microbiology of recurrent acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis over time.
Methods:
Retrospective review of patients with recurrent acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent endoscopic-guided cultures during acute exacerbations of chronic rhinosinusitis.
Results:
386 cultures were obtained from 112 patients during recurrent acute exacerbations of CRS. A change of bacterial isolates during the course of recurrent exacerbations was observed in 68% (76/112) of patients, necessitating a change of treatment in 40% (45/112). The main risk factor for the subsequent change in cultures was polymicrobial growth. Sinus surgery was not associated with subsequent change in cultured isolates. Resistant strains developed in 11.6% (13/112) of patients, of whom those with abnormal mucociliary clearance being at the highest risk.
Conclusion:
Repeated middle meatal cultures should be considered in patients with recurrent exacerbations of CRS, particularly in cases not responding to standard therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Sputum Studies I: Gram Stain, cytology, and Acid-fast smear and culture
Gram Stain
The Gram Stain is an integral part of sputum studies. It involves the staining of sputum, which permits...
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...

