Earwax, or cerumen, naturally forms in the ear canal and an Earwax swab sample refers to a biological specimen collected from the ear using a swab for diagnostic or research purposes. Earwax swabs are commonly used in medical settings to detect various infections, particularly those caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can affect the ear canal tract

The process typically involves inserting a swab into the ear canal and gently rotating it to collect a sample of wax or cerumen. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, where it can be cultured, examined under a microscope, or subjected to molecular testing methods such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to identify the presence of bacteria, infections, pathogens, or abnormalities