What does WBC in sputum mean?

Generally, with regard to Gram-stained sputum, the presence of the engulfment (phagocytosis) of bacteria by white blood cells (WBCs) is considered a sign of infection caused by those organisms.

What is commensal respiratory flora?

Commensal Organisms Have The Potential to Cause Harm. Like all human skin and mucosal surfaces, the respiratory tract is colonized with commensal bacteria that protect the host from disease, increase epithelial cell renewal rates, and promote production of mucosal immunoglobulins.

What does bacteria in sputum mean?

Bacterial sputum cultures detect the presence of disease-causing bacteria (pathogens) in people who are suspected of having bacterial pneumonia or other lower respiratory tract infections. Bacteria in the sample are identified and susceptibility testing is performed to guide antibiotic treatment.

What is normal flora in sputum?

The presence of normal upper respiratory tract flora should be expected in sputum culture. Normal respiratory flora include Neisseria catarrhalis, Candida albicans, diphtheroids, alpha-hemolytic streptococci, and some staphylococci.

What do Commensals do?

Commensal bacteria supply the host with essential nutrients and defend the host against opportunistic pathogens. They are involved in the development of the intestinal architecture and immunomodulatory processes. On the other hand, the host provides the bacteria with nutrients and a stable environment.

Does a positive sputum culture mean pneumonia?

If your results were not normal, it may mean you have some kind of bacterial or fungal infection. Your provider may need to do more tests to find the specific type of infection you have. The most common types of harmful bacteria found in a sputum culture include those that cause: Pneumonia.

What is a good quality sputum?

Sputum smear having an average number of <10 SEC and >25 PC/ field was considered as good quality and smear with >10SEC and <25 PC/ field was treated poor quality.

Is pus a bacterial infection?

Pus is the result of the body’s natural immune system automatically responding to an infection, usually caused by bacteria or fungi. Leukocytes, or white blood cells, are produced in the marrow of bones. They attack the organisms that cause infection.