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Published on: April 25, 2025

Antibiotic therapy of abscess of the lung and bronchiectasis

W L HEWITT

    California Medicine
    |May 1, 1952
    PubMed

    Insights

    Penicillin is the primary treatment for lung abscesses caused by fusospirochetal bacteria. Other antibiotics like streptomycin, aureomycin, chloramphenicol, or terramycin are effective alternatives or for specific bacterial agents.

    Area of Science:

    • Pulmonary Medicine
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Lung abscesses are frequently caused by fusospirochetal bacteria.
    • Specific bacterial agents like Klebsiella necessitate alternative treatments.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To outline the primary and alternative antibiotic treatments for lung abscesses.
    • To discuss antibiotic utility in managing bronchiectasis exacerbations.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of common etiologic agents in lung abscess.
    • Evaluation of antibiotic efficacy and indications.

    Main Results:

    • Aqueous crystalline penicillin is the first-choice treatment for most lung abscesses.
    • Streptomycin is indicated for Klebsiella infections.
    • Aureomycin, chloramphenicol, and terramycin show effectiveness, especially after penicillin failure.
    • Inhaled antibiotics should complement systemic treatment.
    • Antibiotics are crucial for controlling acute exacerbations in bronchiectasis.

    Conclusions:

    • Antibiotic selection for lung abscess depends on the causative agent.
    • A range of antibiotics offers therapeutic options for lung infections.
    • Effective management of bronchiectasis involves controlling infectious exacerbations.
    Keywords:
    ANTIBIOTICS/therapeutic useBRONCHIECTASIS/surgeryLUNGS/abscess

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