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Aspiration pneumonia |
| Definition: |
| Aspiration pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs and bronchial tubes caused by inhaling foreign material, usually food, drink, vomit, or secretions from the mouth into the lungs. This may progress to form a collection of pus in the lungs (lung abscess). |
| Alternative Names: |
| Anaerobic pneumonia; Aspiration of vomitus; Necrotizing pneumonia |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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Aspiration of foreign material (often the stomach contents) into the lung can be a result of disorders that affect normal swallowing, disorders of the esophagus (esophageal stricture, gastroesophageal reflux), or decreased or absent gag reflex (in unconscious, or semi-conscious individuals). Old age, dental problems, use of sedative drugs, anesthesia, coma, and excessive alcohol consumption are also causal or contributing factors. The response of the lungs depends upon the characteristics and amount of the aspirated substance. The more acidic the material, the greater the degree of lung injury, although this may not necessary lead to pneumonia. |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
| Physical examination may reveal crackling sounds in the lungs. These tests also help diagnose this condition:
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| Treatment: |
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Hospitalization may be required for management of the illness. Treatment measures vary depending on the severity of the pneumonia. Antibiotics, which treat the organisms in the environment, are given. Patients receive special antibiotics to treat organisms which may live in the mouth. The types of organisms which are present depend on the health of the patient and where they live (private residence, chronic nursing facility, etc.) Patients may need to have their swallowing function assessed. If there is difficulty with proper swallowing, other methods of feeding the patient may be necessary. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| The outcome depends on the severity of the pneumonia, the type of organism, the extent of lung involvement. If acuterespiratory failure develops, the patient may have a prolonged illness or die. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if shortness of breath, wheezing, chills, fever, or chest pain occur. |
| Prevention: |
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Reviewed By: Steven Kawut, M.D., Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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