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Pulmonary Abscess Cavity
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Pulmonary Abscess Cavity

Close up view of lung with subpleural cavity containing shaggy material (arrows).
Surrounding lung shows emphysema.
No evidence of acute pneumonia surrounding cavity.
(Description By:Melinda Sanders, M.D. )
(Image Contrib. by: UCHC )
Abscess
Etiology

Secondary to inhalation, particularly of aspirated stomach contents
Unsucessfully treated or untreated bacterial infection
Embolized organisms e.g.from endocarditis
Trauma
Neoplasm
Miscellaneous including unknown
Pathogenesis

Generally due to necrotizing organisms such as gram positive and gram negative bacteria, as well as fungi,
Epidemiology

Immunocompromised patients are at risk as are
Individuals prone to aspiration such as alcoholics, comatose patients, or individuals with depressed gag or cough reflex
General Gross Description

Cavity in the lung with necrotic debris unless drained by bronchial tree
Wall generally irregular and shaggy
Most likely located in right lung if secondary to inhalation
May be anywhere if sequel to bronchopneumonia or septic emboli
General Microscopic Description

Destruction of pulmonary parenchyma
Often contains causative organism
Marked acute inflammation
Clinical Correlation

Cough with purulent sputum and pain
General symptoms such as fever and weight loss
Requires drainage and antibiotics for cure
References

Cotran RS, Kumar V, Robbins SL: Robbins Pathologic Basis of Disease. 5th edition. Philadelphia, W.B. Saunders, 1994, pp. 699-700.
Abscess
Synopsis by: Melinda Sanders M.D. (T28000M46240)[120]
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