What does green sputum indicate?

Green sputum is often indicative of stagnant sputum that has been colonized by gram-negative bacteria. This coloration typically arises from the presence of neutrophils and bacteria in the sputum, which are involved in the body’s immune response to infection. When a patient has a respiratory infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, these bacteria can produce specific enzymes and pigments that turn the sputum green.

The presence of green sputum suggests that there may be a significant bacterial component to the illness, highlighting the need for further evaluation and possibly antibiotic treatment. Recognizing this characteristic of sputum can help healthcare providers determine the underlying cause of a patient's respiratory symptoms and guide appropriate management strategies.