[Bacterial counts in sputum. The value and interpretation in lower respiratory tract infections (author's transl)].

A convenient and effective microtechnic of bacteria numeration in sputum has been used and its results are presented, considering the accompanying clinical data. One has therefore been able to appreciate the signification of the number and prevalance of bacteria isolated in lower respiratory tract infections: 1) The concentration of 10(7) bacteria/ml is a useful critical value, but it does not mean either virulence or lower limit of pathogenicity. 2) The importance of the predominance of a bacterial strain is an essential parameter in quantitative analysis. 3) The interpretation of the bacteriological results can only be made after thoroughly examining the cytology, the clinical infection symptoms, the anamnestic data, and considering the possibility of an antibiotic therapy preceding the test.