Sputum culture
Key points
- Sputum is a secretion that is produced in the lungs and the bronchi (tubes that carry the air to the lung).
- This mucus-like secretion may become infected, bloodstained, or contain abnormal cells that may lead to a diagnosis.
Alternative names
Routine sputum culture
Definition
Sputum is a secretion that is produced in the lungs and the bronchi (tubes that carry the air to the lung). This mucus-like secretion may become infected, bloodstained, or contain abnormal cells that may lead to a diagnosis. Sputum is what comes up with deep coughing.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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