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Last updated: October 11, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Green Discharge from Wound

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection: This is a common cause of green discharge due to the production of pyocyanin, a green pigment. Pseudomonas infections are often associated with wounds, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with exposure to contaminated water.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Staphylococcal infection: While not typically green, staph infections can produce a thick, purulent discharge that may appear greenish due to the presence of other bacteria or debris.
  • Proteus mirabilis infection: This bacterium can produce a greenish discharge due to its ability to break down urea, although this is less common than Pseudomonas.
  • Wound contamination with environmental organisms: Exposure to contaminated soil, water, or other environmental sources can introduce bacteria that produce pigments, leading to colored discharge.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Necrotizing fasciitis: Although the discharge may not always be green, this condition is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. The presence of any foul-smelling discharge, especially with signs of tissue necrosis, should raise suspicion.
  • Gas gangrene: Caused by Clostridium species, this condition can produce a foul-smelling, possibly discolored discharge due to gas production in tissues. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Chromobacterium violaceum infection: This bacterium produces a violet pigment but can occasionally cause infections with greenish discharge, especially in tropical regions.
  • Burkholderia cepacia complex infection: While more commonly associated with respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients, these bacteria can produce pigments and cause wound infections with colored discharge in rare cases.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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