Lab

Purulent Sputum

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Purulent Sputum

  • Pathophysiology
  1. Yellow, green or dirty gray Sputum Color
  2. Color is related to Leukocyte released peroxidase
  3. Color alone does not distinguish Bacterial Infection
  • Causes
  • Small amounts of Purulent Sputum
  1. Upper respiratory source
    1. Acute Sinusitis
    2. Allergic Rhinitis
    3. Acute Bronchitis
  2. Lung source
    1. Pneumonia (resolving)
    2. Tuberculosis
    3. Lung Abscess
  • Causes
  • Large amounts of Purulent Sputum
  1. Lung Abscess (less Sputum than other causes below)
  2. Bronchiectasis (200-500 ml/day Sputum)
  3. Bronchopleural Fistula (Copious amounts of Sputum)