What do gram-positive cocci, gram-negative rods and cocci in my sputum culture mean?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been feeling unwell for months, coughing up thick white grey sputum with glue-like stick bubbles. My sputum lab results say I have many gram-positive cocci, few gram-negative rods, rare gram-negative cocci. I do not know what these results mean. Please guide me.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Can you please send the microbiology lab report of sputum to guide you better?

Thanks.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You have to attach the report to the option available while sending.

Let me guide you based on the information you have provided.

These are bacteria that are found in your sputum.

These positive and negative word means the ability of bacteria to stained with gram stain.

It helps the clinician to guide with the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

Have you done an antibiotic susceptibility test of the sputum?

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I suggest you take antibiotics for your cough as it is evident that your sputum report has shown the presence of bacteria, mainly gram-positive cocci, with others too.

You have to visit your treating doctor to diagnose your condition through medical history, relevant investigations needed, and local examination of the chest for proper medications and treatment.

Answer 4

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The presence of bacteria in the sputum is not usual.

Your sputum test report showed the presence of bacteria(both positive and negative, as you have mentioned).

Clinically also you are not feeling well and have a headache.

Your treating doctor knows your relevant medical history regarding your condition. Therefore, he would be in a better position to guide regarding this.

Regards.