Pneumonia Acute bacterial or viral infection of the lung Inflammation and consolidation of the lung parenchyma.
Pathophysiology Droplet infection Bacteria adheres to mucous membrane and starts off a full scale inflammatory reaction. Mediators released by alveolar mast cells, and endotoxins from bacteria damage capillary membrane.
Pathophysiology Inflammatory exudate fills up alveoli High levels of fibrin, red blood cells, dead cells and bacteria Leucocyte infiltration and phagocytosis Fibrin deposition on pleural surfaces causes Pleuritis
Clinical Features Fever with Chills Haemoptysis with “rusty” sputum Dyspnoea Debility Loss of consciousness in severe cases.
Conclusion: Common in the very young and very old. Early detection and treatment could be life saving especially in the elderly. Use of antibiotics has changed the course of the disease.
“Terrorist” Diseases Smallpox Anthrax
Smallpox (Variola) Ancient disease Eradicated in 1977 Transmitted by respiratory droplets
Anthrax Bacillus anthracis Zoonosis Spores resist heat, dessication, and chemical disinfection for years Spores germinate in the human body, multiply and release a potent necrotizing toxin
Anthrax Cutaneous is localised and overcome by immune system Disseminated infection causes widespread tissue destruction and is usually fatal
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