MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Characteristics of expectorated sputum often suggest the diagnosis of its cause. Chronic expectoration of large amounts of purulent and foul-smelling sputum is strongly suggestive of bronchiectasis. Sudden production of such a sputum in a febrile patient indicates a lung abscess.

Detailed explanation-2: -Common culprits include smoke, air pollution, and pollen. Sometimes, however, a cough that produces mucus can signal an acute health condition, such as an upper or lower respiratory infection. Other times, it may be a symptom of a chronic lung condition, such as COPD.

Detailed explanation-3: -About bronchiectasis Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition where the airways of the lungs become abnormally widened, leading to a build-up of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection. The most common symptoms of bronchiectasis include: a persistent cough that usually brings up phlegm (sputum)

Detailed explanation-4: -Mucus in the lungs is known as phlegm or sputum. It is a common symptom in chronic lung diseases such as COPD (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease or asthma.

Detailed explanation-5: -A cough is your body’s way of protecting your lungs. Sometimes when you cough, you can bring up mucus, also called phlegm or sputum. When that happens, doctors call it a “wet” or “productive” cough.