Lung Abscess Flashcards
1
Q
What is a lung abscess?
A
Caveating area of localised, supportive infection within the lung
2
Q
What are causes of lung abscesses?
A
Pneumonia
Aspiration
Septic emboli
Sub-phrenic or sub-hepatic abscess
3
Q
What are common causes of aspiration?
A
Alcoholism
oesophageal obstruction
Bronchial obstruction
Pulmonary infarction
4
Q
What are the clinical features of lung abscesses?
A
Swinging fever Cough Foul smelling sputum Pleuritic chest pain Haemoptysis Malaise Weight loss
5
Q
What are investigations for lung abscesses?
A
Bloods (Hb - anaemia / neutrophils / CRP / Blood cultures)
Sputum microscopy culture and cytology
CXR
6
Q
What would be seen on CXR for a lung abscess?
A
Walled cavity often with a fluid level
7
Q
How is a lung abscess managed?
A
Antibiotics IV as indicated by sensitivities
