Sputum

Sputum is a thick fluid secreted in the lungs and respiratory passages, containing mucus, cellular debris, microorganisms, and often blood.

It is expelled by coughing or clearing the throat, providing valuable diagnostic clues about respiratory diseases.

Analyzing its composition, color, consistency, and presence of any unusual elements helps in identifying infections, inflammation, or underlying conditions like asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, or even lung cancer.

The examination involves a process called sputum cytology or sputum culture.

Sputum meaning with examples

• The doctor examined the patient's sputum sample to identify the bacteria causing the pneumonia. The color was green, indicating infection.
• Persistent coughing produced copious amounts of thick sputum, making breathing difficult. It was a sign of chronic bronchitis.
• After waking up, the person coughed up a small amount of bloody sputum. The concerned individual immediately consulted a pulmonologist.
• The sputum test was negative for any pathogenic organisms, suggesting the cough wasn't caused by an infection and other tests would be done.