Pneumonia Flashcards
Define Pneumonia
Inflammatory condition of the lung, leading to abnormal alveolar filling with consolidation and exudation
Describe the pathology of pneumonia
During infection, acute inflammation results in the migration of neutrophils out of capillaries and into alveoli. They phagocytose and release enzymes, leading to oedema.
What are the four stages of pneumonia with time frames?
Congestion - first 24hours
Red hepatization - 2-3 days
Grey hepatization - 4-6 days
Resolution - >6 days
What are 7 possible causes of pneumonia?
Bacteria Fungi Viruses Parasites Chemical Aspiration Inhalation
How can pneumonia be classified into four different types?
Community Acquired
Healthcare Associated
Hospital Acquired
Ventilator Associated
Describe four common symptoms of pneumonia
Fever Malaise Muscle aches Coughing Tactile Fremitus Dyspnoea Pleuritic or chest pain
What five factors are used in the clinical prediction rule?
Temp >37.8 degrees C HR > 100 bpm Crackles Decreased/ bronchial breath sounds Absence of asthma
What five other ways could pneumonia be diagnosed?
CXR CT Scan Blood test Sputum Culture Pleural fluid culture Bronchoscopy
Describe the general management of pneumonia
Anti-biotics/ anti-fungals O2 support Hydration - IV fluids Rest Analgesics Cough suppressant meds Fever reducing meds Prevention through vaccines
Describe the congestion phase of pneumonia
Vascular engorgement, intra-alveolar fluid, numerous bacteria. Lung heavy, swollen and red.
Describe the Red hepatisation phase of Pneumonia
Massive exudation develops with RBC, leukocytes and fibrin filling alveolar spaces. Affected area appears red, firm, airless, like liver.
Describe the white hepatisation phase of Pneumonia
Progressive disintegration of RBC and persistence of a fibrin exudate
Describe the resolution phase of pneumonia
Consolidated exudate within the alveolar spaces undergoes progressive digestion to produce debris that is later reabsorbed ingested by macrophages or coughed up
