Lung infarction

Lung infarction is a medical condition that occurs when there is a blockage in the blood vessels of the lung, leading to tissue death due to lack of oxygen. This condition is often caused by a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot that travels to the lungs from another part of the body.

Causes

The most common cause of lung infarction is a pulmonary embolism. Other causes can include conditions that affect the blood vessels in the lungs, such as vasculitis, sickle cell disease, and lung cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lung infarction can vary, but often include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood. Other symptoms can include fever, rapid heart rate, and low oxygen levels in the blood.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lung infarction typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. These can include a chest X-ray, CT scan, or ventilation-perfusion scan. Blood tests may also be used to check for signs of a blood clot.

Treatment

Treatment for lung infarction typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This can include medications to dissolve the blood clot, such as anticoagulants or thrombolytics, or procedures to remove the clot. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Prevention

Prevention of lung infarction primarily involves reducing the risk of developing blood clots. This can include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active. Medications may also be used to prevent blood clots in individuals at high risk.

See also

• Pulmonary embolism
• Vasculitis
• Sickle cell disease
• Lung cancer

Lung infarction Resources
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