[The relationship between bacterial sputum analysis and infection].

Sputum specimens were examined microscopically for the presence of squamous epithelial cell (SECs) and leucoctyes. Where less than 10 SECs and more than 25 leucocytes per low-power field were present, pathogenic organisms were isolated from 84% of patients with pulmonary infections. Sputum specimens which did not comply with these requirements showed a weaker correlation and more non-pathogenic organisms of the buccal cavity were isolated. The bacteriological isolates in sputum specimens and the clinical conditions with which they were associated in this series, are described.