SPUTUM Meaning and
Definition
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Sputum is a substance that is produced and expelled from the respiratory system, particularly the lungs, through coughing or spitting. It is a mixture of saliva and mucus along with other respiratory secretions, such as dead cells, bacteria, and foreign particles. The word "sputum" is primarily used in medical or clinical contexts to refer to the mucus and phlegm coughed up from the lower respiratory tract, mainly the bronchi and lungs.
Sputum can vary in its consistency, color, and volume, which can provide valuable information to healthcare professionals in diagnosing various respiratory conditions. For instance, thick and yellow or green sputum is often indicative of a bacterial infection, while thin and clear sputum can suggest a viral infection. Bloody or brown-colored sputum may indicate the presence of blood and potential damage to the respiratory system. In addition to its diagnostic value, analyzing sputum can help doctors monitor the progress of certain diseases, evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, and identify specific pathogens causing the infection.
To obtain a sputum sample for analysis, individuals are usually asked to cough deeply to bring up the sputum into their mouth and then spit it into a sterile container. This sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope or to perform various tests, including culture and sensitivity testing, to identify the underlying cause of the respiratory symptoms.
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1. Expectorated matter, especially mucus or mucopurulent matter expectorated in diseases of the air-passages. 2. An individual mass of such matter.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In med., the matter discharged from the mouth in disorders of the breathing organs; spittle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for SPUTUM
Etymology of SPUTUM
The word "sputum" comes from Latin "sputum", which means "spit" or "saliva". It is derived from the verb "spuere", meaning "to spit". "Sputum" specifically refers to the saliva and respiratory secretions expelled from the lungs and upper respiratory tract, often produced during a cough or in certain respiratory diseases.
Similar spelling word for SPUTUM
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