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Sputum

Sputum is a thick fluid that is produced in the lungs and in the airways that lead to the lungs. It may contain mucus, pus, blood or blood proteins, bacteria, and saliva.

A person who has an infection or disease of the respiratory system may cough up sputum.

Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Maria Essig
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
Last Updated March 10, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 10, 2009
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