What can a yellow sputum indicate in a patient?

Yellow sputum typically indicates that the body is dealing with an infection or inflammation within the respiratory system. The color results from the presence of white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, which respond to pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. When these white blood cells accumulate in the respiratory secretions, they can cause the mucus to take on a yellow hue, which serves as a visible indication of an underlying issue.

This finding is significant in clinical assessments because yellow sputum is often associated with conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, or other infections, where inflammation and immune response are heightened. In contrast, normal sputum may be clear, and other colors like green or brown may suggest different underlying conditions or infections. Thus, yellow sputum warrants further evaluation to determine the exact cause of infection and the appropriate treatment plan.