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Is Presence Of Epithelial Cells In Sputum A Concern?
Question: Hello, I had my phlegm analyzed and there were few epithelial cells, likely directly from my lungs. Should I be concerned?
Brief Answer:
There's nothing to worry.
Detailed Answer:
Hi & Welcome.
I can understand your concern, but there is nothing to worry about it.
A few epithelial cells are normally present in the sputum.
The respiratory tract (airways) are lined with epithelial cells so, it is quite common to have these cells in the expectorated sputum.
However, if inflammation occurs in the respiratory tract, these cells are expectorated with the mucus, and the sputum must therefore contain numerous epithelial cells along with inflammatory cells.
Hope this answers your query, however you may send a follow up query if you have any clarification.
Best regards.
There's nothing to worry.
Detailed Answer:
Hi & Welcome.
I can understand your concern, but there is nothing to worry about it.
A few epithelial cells are normally present in the sputum.
The respiratory tract (airways) are lined with epithelial cells so, it is quite common to have these cells in the expectorated sputum.
However, if inflammation occurs in the respiratory tract, these cells are expectorated with the mucus, and the sputum must therefore contain numerous epithelial cells along with inflammatory cells.
Hope this answers your query, however you may send a follow up query if you have any clarification.
Best regards.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. REMY KOSHY
Answered by
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