Pulmonary nodules are more frequent nowadays due to CT accuracy. Septic pulmonary embolization is a rare but serious disease. The common causes include intravenous drug use, infective endocarditis, presence of intravascular dispositive such as catheters, pacemakers, periodontal abscess, purulent infection of the skin and soft tissues, liver abscess and less frequent pneumonia.
Authors document a case of an 85-year-old female, admitted to investigating bilateral pulmonary metastasis identified by thoracic CT. During hospitalization she presented fever and respiratory insufficiency, a thoracentesis revealed an empyema and she underwent antibiotic therapy for six weeks with partial recovery.
Patients with septic pulmonary embolism who require critical care, especially those with pneumonia and liver abscess, are associated with high mortality. Early diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic therapy and respiratory support are essential.
Key words: Pulmonary nodules, septic pulmonary embolization, pneumonia
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