Hengitysnäytteitä

Hengitysnäytteitä is the Finnish term for breath samples, commonly used in medical diagnostics to evaluate respiratory health. The samples can be obtained via expectoration of sputum, induced sputum, or more invasive procedures such as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), depending on the clinical context. These samples provide direct access to pathogens, inflammatory cells, and biomarkers present in the lower airways.

In human medicine, hengitysnäytteitä are routinely collected to identify bacterial, viral, or fungal pneumonia, especially in cases of community‑acquired and hospital‑acquired infections. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, nasal and throat swabs became essential for detecting SARS‑CoV‑2. Microbiological culture, molecular PCR, and serological assays are then applied to the samples to confirm infection and guide antimicrobial therapy. Moreover, markers of airway inflammation, such as eosinophil counts or cytokine levels, can be measured to monitor treatment response.

Veterinary practice also utilizes hengitysnäytteitä to diagnose respiratory diseases in livestock and companion animals. Sampling methods adapted to the species—such as oropharyngeal swabs in cattle or bronchoscopy in dogs—allow detection of pathogens like Mycoplasma, Pasteurella, or Parainfluenza viruses.

The main advantages of breath sample testing include non‑invasiveness, rapid turnaround, and high specificity when appropriate laboratory methods are used. Limitations involve sample contamination, variable cellular yields, and the need for skilled personnel to collect and handle specimens. Continued research into novel biomarkers and improved collection technologies is expected to expand the diagnostic utility of hengitysnäytteitä across clinical settings.