<B>Pulmonary Abscess, NOS </B>

[©]

Pulmonary Abscess, NOS

Etiology:

• Secondary to inhalation particularly of aspirated stomach contents
• Unsucessfully 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 Correlations:

• 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. W.B. Saunders. Philadelphia 1994. pp.699-700.