1. Usefulness of Sputum Examination.

The bacteriological examination of sputum.

Pitfalls in the collection, transport, processing, and interpretation of the expectorated sputum culture are discussed. Data are presented which suggest that, under stricdy controlled conditions, the culture of sputum may be a valuable adjunct to the diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia. In 1971 there were 2,068,000 diagnosed cases of bacterial pneumonia resulting in 34,183,000 days of disabled act...

Misinformation from sputum cultures without microscopic examination.

Only 13 of 38 hospital laboratories surveyed include a Gram stain routinely in microbiological sputum examination. In a prospective three-hospital study, 60% of over 1,200 "sputum" specimens consisted predominantly of saliva, as judged by cell composition. Compared with the results of cultures in which microorganisms presumptively identified on sputum smears were specifically sought ("directed ...

Induced sputum cell counts: their usefulness in clinical practice.

Airway inflammation is fundamental to the aetiology and persistence of asthma and other airway conditions. The presence and type of airway inflammation can be difficult to detect clinically, delaying the introduction of appropriate treatment. Induced sputum cell counts are a relatively noninvasive, safe and reliable method of identifying airway inflammation. They can accurately discriminate eos...

The Diagnosis of Lung Cancer by Examination of Sputum.

Evaluation of some methods for the laboratory examination of sputum.

Methods for the quantitation of leucocytes, squamous epithelial cells, and potential pathogens in sputa are described. Microscopic examination showed that 58% of sputa tested (554/957) were purulent or moderately purulent and 48% were moderately or heavily contaminated by squamous epithelial cells. The presence of squamous epithelial cells indicated oropharyngeal contamination. A simple dilutio...