What is a nasopharyngeal culture?

A nasopharyngeal culture is a test that checks for bacteria or viruses that are causing an infection in the back of your throat and upper part of your nasal passage (nasopharynx).

During a nasopharyngeal culture, your health care provider will use a long, thin swab to collect a sample of fluid from the back of your nose and throat.

The sample is then sent to a laboratory, where it's tested for bacteria or viruses that could be causing your symptoms.