Lung abscess
ABNORMAL
NORMAL* Anaerobes are bacteria that live where there is no oxygen. A lung Abscess is a collection of pus in the lungs. Anaerobic bacterial infections may cause lung Abscess when bacteria are aspirated into the lungs.
* Aspiration into the lungs may be due to impaired normal swallowing mechanisms, esophageal disorders (e.g., acid Reflux), altered consciousness levels, or absent gag reflex.
* Patients with Alcoholism, dental/gum disease, Seizures, swallowing disorders, or who are under anesthesia or have tracheal or nasogastric tubes are at higher risk.
SYMPTOMS
* Fever
* Cough with foul smelling sputum
* Shortness of breath
* Wheezing
* Weight loss
* Fatigue
* Poor dental hygiene is common
HOW THE DIAGNOSIS IS MADE
* Chest X-Ray
* Chest CT Scan
* Thoracentesis (scope passed into lungs) or needle biopsy, if diagnosis is unclear
TREATMNT
* Medications:
1. Penicillin intravenously
2. Clindamycin intravenously
3. Unasyn intravenously
4. Others also effective
SIMILAR CONDITIONS
* Tuberculosis
* Lung Cancer
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