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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.
Lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is a term often used as a synonym for pneumonia but can also be applied to other types of infection including lung abscess and acute bronchitis. Symptoms include shortness of breath, weakness, fever, coughing and fatigue. [3]
Complications may occur, such as exudative pleural effusion, empyema, and lung abscesses. [4] If left untreated, aspiration pneumonia can progress to form a lung abscess . [ 5 ] Another possible complication is an empyema , in which pus collects inside the lungs. [ 6 ]
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]
An abscess can occur anywhere in the lung. [4] Risk factors for polymicrobial lung abscesses (abscesses caused by multiple species of bacteria) include alcoholism, a history of aspiration (food or water accidentally going down the trachea), poor dentition (bad teeth), [7] older age, diabetes mellitus, drug abuse, and artificial ventilation. [2]
Complications may occur in particular in the elderly and those with underlying health problems. [139] This may include, among others: empyema, lung abscess, bronchiolitis obliterans, acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, and worsening of underlying health problems. [139]
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]
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 .