Which term refers to the mucus secretion from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea expelled through the mouth?

• A. Palliative
• B. Sputum
• C. Immunoglobulins
• D. Poikilocytosis

Answer: (B)

Sputum is the mucus secreted by the lining of the lungs, bronchi, and trachea that is expelled through the mouth by coughing. It comes from the airways themselves, not from saliva, and is often collected for testing to help diagnose infections or other respiratory conditions. Clinically, the appearance and amount of sputum (color, thickness, quantity) can provide useful clues—clear or white sputum might accompany viral infections, while yellow or green can indicate a bacterial infection; coughing up blood would require careful evaluation. The other terms don’t fit because palliative describes care aimed at relief rather than a mucus product, immunoglobulins are antibodies, and poikilocytosis refers to abnormal red blood cell shapes.