Chapter 8, Problem 1Q

What are the large blue-stained areas on the sputum slide?

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The large blue stains on the sputum slides.

Introduction:

A sputum culture test is used to identify bacteria and fungi that affects and infects the respiratory system. Sputum is a kind of thick fluid that is produced in the lungs and the respiratory passage. Generally, for the sputum culture test early morning sputum is taken.

Explanation of Solution

Sputum culture test determines the infection in the respiratory tract and the lungs. If there is any infection due to bacteria or fungi, then there might be the presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in the sputum. This is because, WBCs are the part of the immune system that fight against infections in the human. In the sputum culture test, large blue stains depict the white blood cells.

Conclusion

In the sputum culture test, large blue stains depict the white blood cells.