Lung inflammation and/or infection resulting from abnormal entry of fluids (saliva or blood), foreign particles or food debris into the lower respiratory tract.
Predisposing conditions for aspiration pneumonia include decreased consciousness, difficulty swallowing or dysphagia, upper gastrointestinal tract disorders, mechanical disruption of the glottic or cardia sphincter, and lack of sensation in the pharyngeal area.
It presents with an abrupt sensation of suffocation, fever and foul-smelling sputum.
Diagnosis is based on clinical history and physical examination, and is later confirmed by imaging and microbiological tests.
Treatment includes antibiotics and supportive care with oxygen therapy for moderate to severe respiratory insufficiency, analgesics, antipyretics and bronchodilators. In some cases, removal of the material by fibrobronchoscopy may be necessary.
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