Lung Abscess: Anaerobic Pneumonia, Foul Smell, Air–Fluid Levels | Treatment & Red Flags Explained

Описание: A lung abscess is a localized collection of pus in the lung caused most commonly by anaerobic bacteria after aspiration or severe pneumonia. In this video, we break down the classic features, investigations, and management strategies in the simplest exam-focused way.

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🫁 What You Will Learn

1. Causes of Lung Abscess
• Post-pneumonia (anaerobes, gram-negative organisms)
• Aspiration due to intubation, alcoholism, seizure, or poor gag reflex
• Necrotizing pneumonia

2. Classic Clinical Features
• Foul-smelling (putrid) sputum
• Purulent discharge
• Fever, cough, weight loss
• Chest X-ray showing air–fluid level

3. Medical Treatment

First-line anaerobic coverage:
• Ampicillin–clavulanic acid
• Meropenem
• Imipenem

Second-line (if resistant):
• Clindamycin → but remember the risk of C. difficile!

4. Imaging Findings
• Thick-walled cavity
• Air–fluid level
• Located in dependent segments of the lung

5. When to Consider Surgery
• Abscess greater than 6 cm (not mm)
• Poor response to antibiotics
• Suspected malignancy or obstructive lesion

This is vital knowledge for USMLE, PLAB, FCPS, MRCP, and clinical rotations.

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✅ Hashtags

#LungAbscess #AnaerobicPneumonia #AspirationPneumonia #USMLE #PLAB #FCPS #InternalMedicine #Pulmonology #MedicalEducation #CriticalCare #ChestXRay #MedEd #Antibiotics #Clindamycin #AmpicillinClavulanate