Pulmonary infiltrate

Pulmonary infiltrate is a term used to describe a condition where substances such as fluid, cells, or other material have filled the lung's air spaces, often as a result of an infection or other medical condition.

Causes

Pulmonary infiltrates can be caused by a variety of conditions, including pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and pulmonary edema. Other causes can include autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, and exposure to certain drugs or environmental toxins.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pulmonary infiltrates can vary depending on the underlying cause, but often include shortness of breath, cough, and fever. Other symptoms can include chest pain, fatigue, and weight loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as a chest X-ray or CT scan. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to determine the exact cause of the infiltrates.

Treatment

Treatment for pulmonary infiltrates depends on the underlying cause. For example, if the infiltrates are caused by an infection, antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs may be used. If the cause is an autoimmune disease, treatment may involve immunosuppressive drugs. In some cases, treatment may involve managing the symptoms while the body heals itself.

See also

• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis
• Lung cancer
• Pulmonary edema
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus

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