Lung Abscess Flashcards
1
Q
Waaaat is it?
A
Basically a localised area of pus in the lung parenchyma, often under a fair bit of pressure
2
Q
What are the signs/symptoms?
A
Pain Weight Loss Fever/Chills Dull or Absent Breath Sounds from the area Productive Cough Fatigue/Lethargy
3
Q
How do we investigates?
A
CXR or CT
Blood & Sputum Culture (including TB smears)
Thoracentesis (drawing fluid from the abscess)
4
Q
How do we treat?
A
Postural Drainage
Antibiotics, treats a bacterial infection and prevents a secondary infection
Percutaneous drainage~
May need surgery e.g. wedge resection, lobectomy, pneumonectomy (whole lung)
5
Q
How does an abscess arise int he lung?
A
Most often from cavitating pneumonia but also aspiration and from blockage by a tumour etc.
6
Q
What organisms most often cause a lung abscess from pneumonia?
A
Staph Aureus
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
