Questions on Respiratory System Related

Review Questions on Respiratory System related questions and content

Sputum specimens are examined to detect which of the following?

  • A. Foreign bodies
  • B. Cancer cells
  • C. Pulmonary emboli
  • D. Inflammation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Sputum specimens are often examined for cancer cells in cases of suspected lung cancer. While foreign bodies (A) can sometimes be identified, they are less common in routine sputum analysis. Pulmonary emboli (C) cannot be detected via sputum examination; imaging studies are required. Inflammation (D) may be inferred from white blood cell counts, but detecting cancer cells is more specific and clinically significant.