Bronchopneumonia
Summary
Bronchopneumonia is a patchy, multifocal infection of the bronchi/bronchioles extending into adjacent alveoli, typically bilateral and basal. Common pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas; often affects very young, elderly, or debilitated patients.
Detail
Compared with lobar pneumonia (a single lobe, usually Streptococcus pneumoniae, with classic four phases: congestion, red hepatization, gray hepatization, resolution), bronchopneumonia shows patchy, often bilateral consolidation centered on bronchi/bronchioles with intervening normal lung -- a 'gunshot' pattern on CXR. Histology shows acute inflammatory exudate filling bronchioles and surrounding alveoli. Risk factors include extremes of age, immobilization, post-operative state, cystic fibrosis, and aspiration. Pathogens often suggested by setting: S. aureus post-influenza (often with abscesses/cavitations); Klebsiella in alcoholics/diabetics ('currant jelly' sputum, upper lobe cavities); Pseudomonas in CF and ventilated patients; H. influenzae in COPD. Complications include lung abscess, empyema, sepsis, and bacteremic seeding.
Sources
- First Aid for USMLE Step 1 2024
- Robbins Basic Pathology 10th ed
- Pathoma
Reviewed by AnkiBoss editorial — medical student review. Information here is for study reference only and is not medical advice. Spotted an error? Let us know.