pulmonary disorders
Lung Abscess
Introduction
Lung abscess is a necrotizing lung infection characterized by a pus-filled cavitary lesion. It is most commonly caused by aspiration of oral secretions by patients who have impaired consciousness. Symptoms are productive cough, fever, sweats, and weight loss. Diagnosis is based primarily on chest x-ray. Treatment usually is with a combination beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor or a carbapenem. 