Alveolar macrophages (also called pulmonary macrophages or histiocytes) are the key indicator of an adequate sputum sample. These cells are resident phagocytes in the alveoli and terminal airways, where they ingest inhaled particles such as carbon, dust, and microorganisms. Their presence in sputum confirms that the specimen originates from the lower respiratory tract and not just saliva or upper airway secretions. Alveolar macrophages are typically large, round cells with abundant, foamy or vacuolated cytoplasm often containing brownish-black carbon particles. They may be bi- or multinucleated and have kidney-shaped or oval nuclei with fine chromatin. Finding these cells ensures the sample is representative for diagnosing conditions like pneumonia, interstitial lung diseases, or malignancy.

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Zambia

• Joseph Soko – 101 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies