lungpneumoni

Lungpneumoni is a term used to refer to pneumonia of the lungs, an inflammatory condition that affects the lung parenchyma and alveolar spaces. It is most often caused by infection, though noninfectious inflammatory processes can also contribute. The condition disrupts normal gas exchange and can range from mild to life threatening.

Causes and types vary. Community-acquired pneumonia occurs outside healthcare settings and is commonly caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or atypical pathogens. Hospital- or ventilator-associated pneumonia develops in healthcare settings and often involves resistant organisms. Viruses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, and fungi can also cause lungpneumoni, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Classification may be by location (lobar, bronchopneumonia), by pathogen type (bacterial, viral, fungal), or by onset timeframe.

Clinical features include fever, cough with sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. Exam findings may show crackles, decreased breath sounds, or signs of respiratory distress. In older adults, symptoms may be less typical and can include confusion or functional decline.

Diagnosis relies on medical history, physical examination, and imaging, most commonly chest radiography showing focal consolidation. Additional tests can include sputum Gram stain and culture, blood cultures, and pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas measurements. In uncertain cases, CT imaging or bronchoscopy may be used.

Treatment is directed at the likely pathogen and illness severity. Bacterial pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics; viral pneumonia may require antiviral therapy and supportive care. Severe cases may need hospitalization, oxygen, or intensive care. Prevention strategies include vaccination, good hygiene, smoking cessation, and rapid treatment of underlying illnesses. Prognosis varies with age, comorbidities, and pneumonia severity. Complications can include pleural effusion, empyema, and respiratory failure.