Hypertonic Saline as a Useful Tool for Sputum Induction and Pathogen Detection in Cystic Fibrosis.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the qualitative and semi-quantitative detection of pathogens in the airway secretions of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and the sputum induction capacity before and after inhalation of 7% hypertonic saline solution (HSS).

Methods: The study enrolled 64 patients with CF. Airway secretions were collected from all enrolled patients with CF before and after inhalation of 7% HSS, and the samples were screened for pathogens.