Lung Abscess Cliffnotes

Question 1

Define lung abscess

Answer 1

An infection of the lungs characterized by a local accumulation of pus and destruction of the surrounding tissue

Question 2

What are common causes of lung abscesses?

Answer 2

• Most commonly caused by anaerobic bacteria
• Aerobic bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci, gram negative bacteria)
• Can be seen w/lung cancer
• May occur after aspiration

Question 3

What are Lung abscesses often mistaken for?

Answer 3

Pneumonia, as progression occurs necrosis becomes more evident and may spread to adjacent lung tissue

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of Lung Abscesses?

Answer 4

• Fever
• Cough, initially nonproductive (or minimal production), followed by production of purulent, foul-smelling secretions
• Chest pain and/or Weight loss
• Hemoptysis
• Digital clubbing
• Tachycardia and/or tachypnea

Question 5

Lung abscess on CxR?

Answer 5

Localized area of consolidation

• common in superior segments of the lower lobes and posterior segments of upper lobes as a result of position during an aspiration event

Question 6

Aside from a CxR, what other findings can help diagnose a lung abscess?

Answer 6

• Increased WBC
• Anemia
• Sputum culture reveals purulence and necrosis

Question 7

Treatments for Lung abscess

Answer 7

Antibiotics, postural drainage, and adequate nutrition

Question 8

What is an Empyema?

Answer 8

Pus accumulated in the pleural space, it can occur if a abscess ruptures.

• it should be drained before postural drainage