Pneumonia

Inflammation of the lungs due to infection. There are 2 main types: lobar pneumonia and bronchopneumonia. Lobar pneumonia initially affects 1 lobe of a lung. In bronchopneumonia, inflammation initially starts in the bronchi and bronchioles (airways). Pneumonia can be caused by any type of microorganism, but most cases are due to viruses, such as adenovirus, or bacteria, such as,, and. Symptoms are usually fever, chills, shortness of breath, and a cough that produces yellow-green sputum and occasionally blood. Potential complications include pleural effusion, pleurisy, and a lung abscess. Diagnosis is made by physical examination, chest X-ray, and examining sputum and blood for microorganisms. Treatment depends on the cause, and may include antibiotic drugs or antifungal drugs. Aspirin or paracetamol may be given to reduce fever, and, in severe cases, oxygen therapy and artificial ventilation may be needed. In most cases, recovery usually occurs within 2 weeks.