What disease condition is associated with purulent green sputum that has a foul odor?

• A. Cystic fibrosis
• B. Mycoplasma pneumonia
• C. Bronchiectasis
• D. Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Answer: (C)

Purulent green sputum with a foul odor is most commonly associated with bronchiectasis. This condition involves the abnormal and permanent dilation of the bronchial tubes, often resulting from chronic infection, inflammation, or obstruction. The accumulation of mucus can lead to bacterial overgrowth, which produces pus that gives rise to the purulent sputum observed in patients. The distinct green color often indicates the presence of bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is known for causing infections in the lungs of individuals with bronchiectasis, especially those with underlying lung disease.

In contrast, while cystic fibrosis can also lead to purulent sputum and has a foul odor due to thick, sticky mucus, the characteristic green sputum is more frequently associated with infections stemming from bronchiectasis. Mycoplasma pneumonia typically results in a different type of sputum, often not purulent or foul-smelling, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever is primarily an infectious disease transmitted by ticks, not typically associated with respiratory symptoms like purulent sputum. Therefore, the nature of the sputum and the clinical context strongly point towards bronchiectasis as the correct association.