Lung Infections - Abscess

Question 1

Features of lung abscesses

Answer 1

• localised area of suppurative necrosis

- usually forms large cavities

Question 2

Causes of lung abscesses

Answer 2

1. Infection
   - S. aureus
   - pulmonary infarction
   - aspiration of infective material
   - septic emboli - multiple abscesses
   - bronchial obstruction, bronchiectasis, neoplasms
   - spread from other sites

Question 3

Complications of lung abscesses (3)

Answer 3

1. Rupture into pleura - empyema, pneumothorax
2. Hemorrhage from erosion into a pulmonary vessel
3. Bacteraemia