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Protocol and Guidelines for Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosing Neonatal Pulmonary Diseases Based on International Expert Consensus
Published on: March 6, 2019
Hydropneumothorax as a complication of necrotizing pneumonia
Andria Papazachariou1, Eleni Papadokostaki1, Despoina Kypraiou1
1MD, Internal Medicine Department, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece, PC 71110.
Introduction:
Hydropneumothorax with a bronchopleural fistula is an infrequent but severe complication of necrotizing pneumonia associated with high morbidity and mortality. Few cases in the adult population have been reported.
Case Report:
This is a case of a 76-year-old male patient who developed pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae complicated by hydropneumothorax. He was managed conservatively with chest tube placement but denied surgical management and eventually died despite initial improvement.
Conclusions:
Early recognition and appropriate management of pneumonia complications, such as hydropneumothorax, including thoracic surgeon interventions, are crucial as this complication can be fatal. Factors like the patient's overall status, preferences, and comorbidities may have a crucial effect on clinical decisions and outcomes.
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