Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Lung abscess is a type of liquefactive necrosis of the lung tissue and formation of cavities (more than 2 cm) [1] containing necrotic debris or fluid caused by microbial infection. This pus -filled cavity is often caused by aspiration, which may occur during anesthesia, sedation, or unconsciousness from injury.
Complications may include lung abscess, acute respiratory distress syndrome, empyema, parapneumonic effusion, and pneumonia [3] [1] Some include chemical induced inflammation of the lungs as a subtype, which occurs from acidic but non-infectious stomach contents entering the lungs. [1] [2] Infection can be due to a variety of bacteria. [2]
Aspiration can result in patient death through a variety of mechanisms. It is important to recognize and diagnose early in order to improve patient outcomes. Death from aspiration and aspiration-related syndromes is most common in elderly patients with known baseline risk factors, though it frequently goes unrecognized. [18]
The most common complication from a foreign body aspiration is a pulmonary infection, such as pneumonia or a lung abscess. [7] This can be more difficult to overcome in the elderly population and lead to even further complications. Patients may develop inflammation of the airway walls from a foreign body remaining in the airway. [2]
It is life-threatening in the elderly or those who are immunocompromised. [ 13 ] [ 14 ] The most common treatment is antibiotics and these vary in their adverse effects and their effectiveness. [ 13 ] [ 15 ] Pneumonia is also the leading cause of death in children less than five years of age in low income countries. [ 15 ]
Necrotizing pneumonia (NP), also known as cavitary pneumonia or cavitatory necrosis, is a rare but severe complication of lung parenchymal infection. [1] [2] [3] In necrotizing pneumonia, there is a substantial liquefaction following death of the lung tissue, which may lead to gangrene formation in the lung.
Abscess - A pocket of fluid and bacteria may appear on X-ray as a cavity in the lung. Abscesses, typical of aspiration pneumonia , usually contain a mixture of anaerobic bacteria . Although antibiotics can usually cure abscesses, sometimes they require drainage by a surgeon or radiologist .
Pneumonia may develop complications such as a lung abscess, a round cavity in the lung caused by the infection, or may spread to the pleural cavity. [citation needed] Poor oral care may be a contributing factor to lower respiratory disease, as bacteria from gum disease may travel through airways and into the lungs. [14] [15]