Asked by harshita tokala on May 12, 2024

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A 35-year-old recent immigrant is being seen in the clinic for symptoms of a cough associated with rust-colored sputum, low-grade afternoon fevers, and night sweats for the past 2 months. Based on these findings, what is the most likely cause?

A) Pneumonia
B) Bronchitis
C) Tuberculosis
D) Pulmonary edema

Rust-Colored Sputum

Sputum with a rust-like color, often indicating the presence of blood, and commonly associated with certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia.

Tuberculosis

A bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can spread to other organs.

Night Sweats

Excessive sweating during the night, often associated with medical conditions or hormonal changes.

  • Pinpoint ordinary and irregular findings during respiratory checks and comprehend their implications for patient management.
  • Identify disparities among diversified lung disorders by examining assessment data.
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TB
Tameeka BarnesMay 12, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Sputum is not diagnostic alone, but some conditions have characteristic sputum production. Tuberculosis often produces rust-colored sputum in addition to other symptoms of night sweats and low-grade afternoon fevers. Pneumonia typically presents with yellow-green sputum and pink, frothy sputum is characteristic of pulmonary edema. Bronchitis alone usually has a dry, not productive, cough.