What is likely found in a patient diagnosed with acute bacterial sinusitis?

In the context of acute bacterial sinusitis, foul-smelling nasal discharge is a hallmark symptom that can indicate a bacterial infection rather than a viral one. This type of discharge often results from the presence of bacteria and the associated inflammatory response that can lead to pus formation, giving it a distinct and unpleasant odor. Patients typically experience other symptoms as well, such as facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, and possibly fever, but the foul smell is more specifically tied to bacterial colonization and infection.

While clear nasal discharge is often associated with viral upper respiratory infections, it is not characteristic of a bacterial sinus infection. A persistent cough for three days may occur but is not specific to acute bacterial sinusitis and can also present in other conditions. Improvement after five days is more indicative of a self-limiting viral condition or an initial phase of the illness rather than an acute bacterial sinusitis diagnosis, which is typically expected to persist without treatment beyond this timeframe. Therefore, the foul-smelling discharge in acute bacterial sinusitis effectively distinguishes it from other types of sinus or respiratory infections.