If you are asked to take a buccal swab, which cavity would you swab?
The correct answer and explanation is :
When asked to take a buccal swab, the correct area to swab is the inside of the cheek. Specifically, you would swab the mucous membrane of the buccal cavity, which is the area of the cheek that lines the mouth.
Explanation:
A buccal swab is a sample collection method used primarily for obtaining cells from the inner cheek to perform various tests, such as genetic analysis, DNA testing, or disease diagnostics. The buccal cavity refers to the space inside the mouth, bounded by the teeth and gums on one side, and the cheek on the other. This cavity includes the soft tissue lining of the inner cheeks, which is where the cells to be collected are located.
To collect a buccal swab, a sterile cotton or synthetic swab is gently rubbed on the inner cheek, usually on the side of the mouth near the back teeth. The cheek’s lining contains epithelial cells, which are easily collected with the swab. The collected cells can be used to extract DNA or other materials for laboratory testing.
Buccal swabs are a preferred method of sample collection because they are non-invasive, easy to perform, and less uncomfortable compared to other methods like blood or saliva collection. They are commonly used in a variety of applications, such as in DNA testing for ancestry analysis or medical conditions, in forensic science to collect evidence from a suspect, or even in drug testing or research studies.
The process of swabbing is relatively simple and quick. It involves rubbing the swab against the mucosal surface inside the cheek to gather cells, and the swab is then placed in a container to be sent to a laboratory for further analysis. This method is generally safe and causes minimal discomfort.