Pneumonia with lung abscess
Alternative names:
anaerobic pneumonia; aspiration of vomitus; aspiration pneumonia; necrotizing pneumonia; pyogenic pneumonia
Treatment:
Hospitalization is usually required for management of the illness. Treatment measures vary depending on the severity of the pneumonia. The objective of treatment is to control the infection by antibiotic therapy until improvement in chest X-ray is demonstrated.
Intubation of the airway (endotracheal tube passed through the nose or mouth through the trachea) may be required to keep the airway open and to deliver oxygen directly to the lungs. Mechanical ventilation (a respirator) may be used in the critically ill who cannot breathe adequately on their own. The ventilator attaches directly to the endotracheal tube. Air and oxygen are delivered to the patient by hoses connected to the ventilator according to the need of the patient. As improvement occurs, a patient is gradually weaned from the machine.
Suctioning of secretions that build up in the lungs via mouth or endotracheal tube is necessary to keep the airway clear.
Medications such as antibiotics to treat infection and bronchodilators to keep the airway open are often indicated.
Chest tube placement to drain the infection from the pleural space may be necessary to control the infection.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome depends on the severity of the pneumonia. If acute respiratory failure develops, the patient may have a prolonged illness or die. Healing may take as long as 6 to 12 months.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if shortness of breath, wheezing, chills, fever, or fainting spells occur.
|
