Bronchopneumonia

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Bronchopneumonia
Synonyms Bronchial pneumonia
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Cough, fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing
Complications Respiratory failure, sepsis, pleural effusion
Onset Rapid
Duration Varies
Types N/A
Causes Bacterial infection, viral infection, fungal infection
Risks Smoking, COPD, immunosuppression
Diagnosis Chest X-ray, sputum culture, blood tests
Differential diagnosis Lobar pneumonia, tuberculosis, pulmonary embolism
Prevention Vaccination, hand hygiene, smoking cessation
Treatment Antibiotics, antiviral drugs, supportive care
Medication Amoxicillin, azithromycin, oseltamivir
Prognosis Generally good with treatment
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


A type of pneumonia characterized by inflammation of the bronchi and surrounding lung tissue


Bronchopneumonia, also known as lobular pneumonia, is a type of pneumonia that affects the bronchi and surrounding lung tissue. It is characterized by patchy areas of consolidation in the lungs, primarily affecting the alveoli and bronchioles. This condition is often seen in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Bronchopneumonia occurs when infectious agents, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, invade the bronchi and spread to the surrounding lung tissue. The infection leads to inflammation and the accumulation of exudate in the alveoli, resulting in impaired gas exchange. The patchy distribution of inflammation distinguishes bronchopneumonia from lobar pneumonia, which affects an entire lobe of the lung.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The most common causes of bronchopneumonia include:

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of bronchopneumonia can vary in severity and may include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of bronchopneumonia typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests, including:

  • Physical examination: Listening for abnormal lung sounds such as crackles or rales.
  • Chest X-ray: Reveals patchy areas of consolidation in the lungs.
  • Sputum culture: Identifies the causative organism.
  • Blood tests: May show elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of bronchopneumonia depends on the underlying cause and may include:

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures for bronchopneumonia include:

  • Vaccination: Pneumococcal vaccine and influenza vaccine can reduce the risk of infection.
  • Good hygiene practices: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
  • Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for bronchopneumonia varies depending on the patient's age, overall health, and the promptness of treatment. Most individuals recover fully with appropriate treatment, but complications can occur, especially in vulnerable populations.

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