Definition:
Lung abscess pertains to an acute lung infection characterized by a localized accumulation of pus, inflammation, and tissue damage.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis of lung abscess is based on the patient's medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. A bronchoscopy sometimes may be done to rule out the possibility of lung cancer. In cases of serious infections, a fiberoptic bronchoscope with a protected specimen brush may be inserted to take material directly from the affected patient's lungs to determine the presence of infectious organisms. In majority of cases, chest X-ray results are usually sufficient to make a diagnosis.
Treatment:
Treatment for lung abscess involves a combination of antibiotic medications, oxygen therapy, and surgery. Common antibiotics used to target lung abscess are clindamycin, penicillin V, and penicillin G, which may be taken intravenously or orally. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the damaged part of the lungs or to drain the abscess. Supportive care usually follows.
Symptoms and Signs:
Common symptoms of lung abscess are: general malaise (or feelings of being ill); fever; chills; sweating; coughing; the presence of pus and blood in cough; as well as a distinctive foul-smelling odor during coughing.
Causes:
A majority of lung abscesses are caused by infections of certain bacteria. Anaerobes that do not need oxygen or air to thrive are the leading cause of such infections, although some cases are also linked to anaerobic and aerobic (air breathing) organisms. When these bacteria invade the lungs, they are engorged by phagocytes, which in turn release chemicals that can cause inflammation, necrosis, and damage to lung tissues. In addition, lung abscess may also be caused by accidental inhalation of infectious material from the mouth into the airway and lungs. Obstruction of the bronchi due to tumors, swollen tissue, or foreign objects, may also lead to lung abscess.
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