Differential Diagnosis for Thick Sputum

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Chronic Bronchitis: This condition is characterized by the production of thick, sticky mucus that can be difficult to cough up. It's often associated with smoking or long-term exposure to irritants.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Asthma: Inflammation and constriction of the airways can lead to the production of thick sputum, especially during exacerbations.
  • Pneumonia: Bacterial or viral infections can cause the production of thick, purulent sputum.
  • Bronchiectasis: A condition where the airways are permanently enlarged, leading to an abnormal accumulation of mucus.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems, causing thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Lung Cancer: Although less common, lung cancer can cause the production of thick sputum, especially if it obstructs an airway or causes post-obstructive pneumonia.
  • Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that can cause the production of thick, bloody sputum.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: While not typically associated with sputum production, a large pulmonary embolism can cause infarction of lung tissue, leading to the production of thick, bloody sputum.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: A genetic disorder that can cause lung disease, including the production of thick sputum.
  • Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: A rare genetic disorder that affects the movement of cilia in the respiratory tract, leading to the accumulation of thick mucus.
  • Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA): A condition that occurs in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis, causing an allergic reaction to Aspergillus fungus and leading to the production of thick, sticky sputum.