Purulent Sputum

Aka: Purulent Sputum

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II. 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

III. 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

IV. 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)

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