DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Pulmonary Disease

Lung Abscess

HIGH SEVERITY

A pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue, usually caused by bacterial infection. Often follows aspiration pneumonia. Associated with poor dental hygiene, alcoholism, or swallowing disorders. Modern antibiotics have reduced incidence significantly.

Global Affected

60.0K

Countries

Symptoms

Cough with foul-smelling sputum

Fever

Night sweats

Weight loss

Fatigue

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Bad breath

Treatment Options

Antibiotics (4-8 weeks)

Percutaneous drainage

Bronchoscopic drainage

Postural drainage

Surgical resection (rare)

Nutritional support

Dental care

Treatment of underlying cause

Risk Factors

1Poor dental hygiene

2Alcoholism

3Seizure disorders

4Swallowing dysfunction

5Immunocompromised

6Aspiration risk

7Gastroesophageal reflux

8Bronchial obstruction

Diagnostic Methods

1Chest X-ray (cavity with air-fluid level)
2Chest CT (gold standard)
3Sputum culture
4Bronchoscopy
5Blood cultures
6Dental examination

Prognosis

Excellent with antibiotics. 80-90% cure rate with medical therapy alone. Mortality <5% with modern treatment. Chronic abscesses (>6 weeks) may need drainage.

Prevention

Good dental hygiene
Alcohol moderation
Aspiration precautions
Treatment of swallowing disorders
Prompt treatment of pneumonia
Smoking cessation

Research Status

Prolonged antibiotic therapy (4-6 weeks or longer) usually effective. Anaerobic coverage essential. Percutaneous drainage for large or persistent abscesses. Surgery rarely needed now. Good dental hygiene important for prevention.

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513324
https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.