Aspiration Pneumonia Flashcards
1
Q
What is aspiration pneumonia?
A
Inhalation of oropharyngeal contents into the lower airways that leads to lung injury and resultant bacterial infection.
2
Q
Risk factors for aspiration pneumonia?
A
Altered mental status Swallowing dysfunction GI disease Inhibition or tracheostomy tube Older age Feeding tube Recumbent position
3
Q
PAthophysiology of aspiration pneumonia
A
Aspiration causes an inflammatory reaction called pneumonitis.
This can result in damage to the lung parenchyma.
Damage to lung parenchyma causes an inflammatory reaction that lead to symptoms such as fever, cough or elevation of WCC
4
Q
Where does aspiration usually occurs?
A
The right lower lobe because the right main bronchus is straighter from the trachea compared to the left.
5
Q
Management of aspiration pneumonia
A
Same as HAP & CAP
6
Q
Differentials of aspiration pneumonia
A
Aspiration pneumonitis Atelectasis Pulmonary oedema Lupoid pneumonia CAP HAP
