Necrotizing Pneumonia Research Articles

Bacterial septicemia and herpesvirus infection in Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella) stranded in the São Paulo coast, Brazil

In August 2021, two juvenile male Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella) stranded in the southeastern Brazilian coast and were referred to rehabilitation centers. The animals presented increased body temperature, prostration, respiratory distress and despite treatment died. A necropsy following a standardized protocol was performed, and formalin-fixed tissues were processed for microscopic examination. Samples were screened for morbillivirus, herpesvirus, and Brucella spp. by molecular analyses (PCR, RT-PCR). Bacteriological culture was performed in samples collected from the lungs, trachea, and lymph nodes of both cases. The main histopathologic findings were of infectious nature, including multifocal necrotizing and fibrinous mixed interstitial pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and bronchitis, with intralesional myriad bacteria associated with vascular fibrinoid necrosis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from tracheal and lung swabs of Case 1, and Klebsiella oxytoca was found in nostril swabs, tracheobronchial lymph nodes, and lung of Case 2. Gammaherpesvirus infection was detected in both cases, and the sequences retrieved were classified into the genus Percavirus. All tested samples were PCR-negative for Brucella spp. and morbillivirus. We hypothesize that the deficient immunological status in association with starvation predisposed the reactivation of herpesvirus and secondary bacterial co-infections. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first molecular detection of herpesvirus in an Antarctic pinniped. These findings reinforce that Otariid gammaherpesvirus circulating in the Southern Hemisphere are likely endemic in the Arctocephalus genus. This report contributes to the current knowledge of health aspects affecting wild pinnipeds, especially in the poorly studied Antarctic species.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia Associated with Pulmonary Embolism and Necrotizing Pneumonia in Children.

To explore the clinical characteristics, treatment, and long-term prognosis of mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) combined with pulmonary embolism (PE) in children. The medical records of 16 children who were diagnosed with MPP associated with PE between January 2016 and January 2023 at Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine were retrospectively reviewed. The average age patients were 8.24 ± 1.99 years. All cases were diagnosed with refractory mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP) and presented complications in the form of necrotizing pneumonia (NP). The main symptoms observed were cough and fever (n = 16, 100%), chest pain (n = 8, 50%), dyspnea (n = 8, 50%), and hemoptysis (n = 4, 25%). In these cases, 12 patients had involvement of the pulmonary artery, 3 patients experienced issues with the pulmonary vein, and 1 patient had simultaneous involvement of both the pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein. Among the 12 pulmonary artery embolism cases, 6 involved the right pulmonary artery, 4 involved the left pulmonary artery, and 2 involved both the right and left pulmonary arteries. The mean D-dimer level was 8.50 ± 4.76 mg/L. All patients received anticoagulant therapy, and after treatment, there was a significant improvement in their symptoms and lung lesions. Children with RMPP, chest pain, hemoptysis, and elevated D-dimer levels should be closely monitored for the potential development of PE. The co-occurrence of MPP and PE often involves the presence of NP. In cases of confirmed PE, anticoagulation therapy may be a suitable consideration. PE and NP resulting from MPP generally had a favorable overall prognosis.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a predictor of poor outcomes of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) may lead to varioussignificantoutcomes,suchas necrotizing pneumonia(NP) and refractory MPP (RMPP). We investigated the potential of the peripheral blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to predict outcomes in patients with MPP. This was a prospective study of patients with MPP who were admitted to our hospital from 2019 to 2021. Demographic and clinical data were collected from patient records and associated with the development of NP and RMPP and other outcome measures. Of the 1,401 patients with MPP included in the study, 30 (2.1%) developed NP. The NLR was an independent predictor of NP (odds ratio 1.153, 95% confidence interval 1.022-1.300, P=0.021). The probability of NP was greater in patients with a high NLR (≥1.9) than in those with a low NLR (<1.9) (P<0.001). The NLR was also an independent predictor of RMPP (odds ratio 1.246, 95% confidence interval 1.102-1.408, P<0.005). Patients with a high NLR were more likely to develop NP and RMPP and require intensive care, and had longer total fever duration, longer hospital stays, and higher hospitalization expenses than those with a low NLR (all P<0.005). The NLR can serve as a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with MPP. It can predict the occurrence of NP, RMPP, and other poor outcomes. The use of this indicator would allow the simple and rapid prediction of prognosis in the early stages of MPP, enabling the implementation of appropriate treatment strategies.

Changes in coagulation markers in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and their predictive value for Mycoplasma severity

BackgroundThis study investigates the correlation between coagulation levels and the severity of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) in children. In addition, the study analyses the predictive value of coagulation abnormalities in MPP combined with necrotising pneumonia (NP).MethodsA total of 170 children with MPP who underwent treatment between June 2021 and February 2022 were selected for this study. The study population was divided into groups according to the severity of the disease to compare differences in the incidence of coagulation abnormalities between the groups. The participants were also divided into groups according to imaging manifestations to compare the differences in coagulation function among the different groups. All data information was processed for statistical analysis using SPSS Statistics 25.0 and GraphPad Prism 7.0 statistical analysis software.ResultsThe incidence of coagulation abnormalities in the children in the severe MPP (SMPP) group was significantly higher than that in the normal MPP (NMPP) group (P < 0.05). The multi-factor logistic regression analysis revealed that the D-dimer level is an independent risk factor for the development of NP in SMPP (P < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) in D-dimer, fibrinogen degeneration products (FDP), neutrophils, lactate dehydrogenase and serum ferritin for predicting SMPP combined with NP. Bronchoscopic manifestations of coagulation indicators (D-dimer and FDP levels) were significantly higher in the mucus plug group than in the non-mucus plug group, while the activated partial thromboplastin time levels were lower in the former than in the latter (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe degree of elevated D-dimer and FDP levels was positively correlated with the severity of MPP, with elevated serum D-dimer levels (> 3.705 mg/L) serving as an independent predictor of MPP combined with NP in children.

A Lower Lip Infection (Furuncle) Complicated by Abscess of the Lip, Suppurative Cheilitis Glandularis, Lip Necrosis, Septic Bilateral Multilobar Necrotizing (Destructive) Pneumonia, and Pleurisy (Pleuritis): A Case Report and Literature Review

Infection of the lower lip can manifest differently. The likelihood of such prompt life-threatening septic complications, as thrombophlebitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, etc, may be underestimated due to the small size of the local inflammation of the lip. We present a 21-year-old Caucasian female with a Staphylococcus epidermidis infection of the lower lip (furuncle) complicated by lip abscess, suppurative cheilitis glandularis, lip necrosis, septic bilateral multilobar necrotizing (destructive) pneumonia, pleurisy (pleuritis), and pulmonary insufficiency of the first degree (type I). Clinical photos of the report demonstrate all stages of the course of inflammation and treatment of the severe lower lip infection from the moment of admission. Preoperative condition, the period of formation and demarcation of necrosis, cleaning of the wound from purulent content, demonstration of fibrinous exudate (also known as fibrinous plaques), the appearance of granulations, and visualization of lip scars as of the day of discharge from the hospital (day 26) are presented. The article also includes a chest X-ray at the time of admission, on the second day, and on the seventh day of hospital stay. The report is enriched as well by three-dimensional multi-slice computed tomography (3D MSCT) images on the eighth, eighteenth, and fortieth days from the moment of admission to our hospital. 3D MSCT of the lungs is showing the areas of pulmonary tissue necrosis and the healing phase. The article contains two videos (cine images) with a duration of 21 seconds and 2 minutes 11 seconds, which demonstrate chest MSCT on the hospital day 8 and 18. The patient was discharged on the 27th day of admission. According to our English-language literature search, it's a first ever reported case of the lower lip furuncle which led such a unique combination of severe local and septic complications documented at all stages of treatment from both aspects clinical and radiological. An update of the classification of uncomplicated and complicated forms of development of furuncles (i.e., boils) and carbuncles is done and presented. More than 37 literary sources were analyzed, and their key aspects complemented our report. Articles with necrotizing fasciitis of the lips were also analyzed.

Clinical Characteristics of Necrotizing Pneumonia Caused by Different Pathogens.

To explore the clinical characteristics of necrotizing pneumonia (NP) caused by different pathogens. A total of 282 children with NP admitted to Kunming Children's Hospital from January 2014 to November 2022 were enrolled. The clinical data of all children was collected. According to the different pathogens causing NP, the children were divided into three groups: the Mycoplasma pneumoniae necrotizing pneumonia (MPNP) group, the bacterial necrotizing pneumonia (BNP) group, and necrotizing pneumonia with no pathogen detected (NNP) group. The basic information, symptoms, signs, laboratory tests, radiological features, treatment, and prognosis of the three groups were compared. Among the 282 cases of NP, there were 62 (22.0%) cases of MPNP, 98 (34.75%) cases of BNP, and 142 (50.35%) cases of NNP. The most common bacteria causing NP were Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Acinetobacter baumannii, respectively. Most clinical features of the three groups were statistically significant. The area under the concentration curve of white blood cell, C-reactive protein, albumin, neutrophil percentage, and fibrinogen in differentiating MPNP from BNP were 0.743 (0.638-0.849), 0.797 (0.711-0.883), 0.766 (0.671-0.861), 0.616 (0.509-0.724), and 0.634 (0.523-0.744), respectively. The decision curve showed that white blood cells, albumin, and C-reactive protein had good clinical application in differentiating MPNP from BNP. All patients were improved and discharged without death. Bacteria are the most common cause of NP, and the most common bacteria are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. NP with no pathogen detected accounted for a large proportion. white blood, C-reactive protein, and albumin can identify the pathogens of NP. Patients with BNP were more severe, had a longer hospital stay, and were more likely to undergo closed drainage and surgery.

Risk Prediction Model for Necrotizing Pneumonia in Children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia.

To analyze the predictive factors for necrotizing pneumonia (NP) in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) and construct a prediction model. The clinical data with MPP at the Children's Hospital of Kunming Medical University from January 2014 to November 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Eighty-four children with MPP who developed NP were divided into the necrotizing group, and 168 children who did not develop NP were divided into the non-necrotizing group by propensity-score matching. LASSO regression was used to select the optimal factors, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to establish a clinical prediction model. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve were used to evaluate the discrimination and calibration of the nomogram. Clinical decision curve analysis was used to evaluate the clinical predictive value. LASSO regression analysis showed that bacterial co-infection, chest pain, LDH, CRP, duration of fever, and D-dimer were the influencing factors for NP in children with MPP (P < 0.05). The results of ROC analysis showed that the AUC of the prediction model established in this study for predicting necrotizing MPP was 0.870 (95% CI: 0.813-0.927, P < 0.001) in the training set and 0.843 (95% CI: 0.757-0.930, P < 0.001) in the validation set. The Bootstrap repeated sampling for 1000 times was used for internal validation, and the calibration curve showed that the model had good consistency. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed that the predicted probability of the model had a good fit with the actual probability in the training set and the validation set (P values of 0.366 and 0.667, respectively). The clinical decision curve showed that the model had good clinical application value. The prediction model based on bacterial co-infection, chest pain, LDH, CRP, fever duration, and D-dimer has a good predictive value for necrotizing MPP.

Necrotizing Pneumonia in Children: Early Recognition and Management

Necrotizing pneumonia (NP) is an uncommon complicated pneumonia with an increasing incidence. Early recognition and timely management can bring excellent outcomes. The diagnosis of NP depends on chest computed tomography, which has radiation damage and may miss the optimal treatment time. The present review aimed to elaborate on the reported predictors for NP. The possible pathogenesis of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and coinfection, clinical manifestations and management were also discussed. Although there is still a long way for these predictors to be used in clinical, it is necessary to investigate early predictors for NP in children.

Development of a Nomogram for Predicting Massive Necrotizing Pneumonia in Children.

This study aimed to develop a nomogram model for predicting massive necrotizing pneumonia (NP) in children. A total of 282 children with NP admitted to Kunming Children's Hospital from January 2014 to November 2022 were enrolled. The children with NP were divided into massive necrotizing pneumonia (MNP) group and non-MNP group according to the severity of the lung necrosis. The clinical data of the children were collected, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the influencing factors of MNP. A nomogram model was constructed, and its predictive efficacy was evaluated. The predictors selected by LASSO regression analysis were: haematogenous spread, white blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb), C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) (P < 0.05). Based on the above independent influencing factors, a nomogram model for MNP was constructed. The bootstrap method was used to repeat sampling 1000 times. The results showed that the consistency index of the nomogram model in predicting MNP was 0.833 in the training set and 0.810 in the validation set. The results of ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC) of the nomogram model for predicting MNP was 0.889 [95% CI (0.818, 0.959)] in the training set and 0.814 [95% CI (0.754, 0.874)] in the validation set. The calibration curve of the nomogram predicting MNP was basically close to the actual curve. The decision curve showed that the nomogram had good clinical utility. We developed a nomogram for predicting MNP, which can help clinicians identify the severity of lung necrosis early.

Characterization of pediatric patients with necrotizing pneumonia treated at a quaternary care center in Bogotá, Colombia, 2010-2017

Introduction: The incidence of Necrotizing Pneumonia (NP) as a complication of pneumonia has increased. Between 0.6 and 2% of parapneumonic effusions result in empyema, while up to 20% are complicated by necrosis. Methodology: A observational, ambispective study was conducted. The retrospective phase included patients treated between 2010 and 2015; the prospective between 2015 and 2017. The clinical records of patients with pneumonia were reviewed. Patients with pneumatoceles in radiography (Rx) or chest tomography (CT), or bronchopleural fistulas diagnosed were included. Results: 69 patients were collected. Information on immunization was obtained in 67% of patients. Laboratory test results showed leukocytosis &gt; 15,000/mL (65%), thrombocytosis &gt; 450,000/mL (45%), and LDH in pleural fluid &gt; 2500 IU/L (61% of 18 patients). Imaging findings were consolidation (75% vs. 100%) and pneumatocele (33% vs 90%). Microbiological isolates were collected from 27 patients. Streptococcus pneumoniae (56%) and Staphylococcus aureus (30%) were the most common agents. Twelve (80%) pneumococci were identified: five serotype 3, two serotypes 14 and 19A, one serotypes 6A, 8, and 1. Conclusions: NP is a complication that should be suspected in children under 5 years of age with torpid evolution, leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, increased LDH levels in pleural fluid, and pneumatoceles in imaging scans.

A Retrospective Chart Review of Pediatric Complicated Community-Acquired Pneumonia: An Experience in the Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital.

Background Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the most common global health issues. Even though many vaccinations and new diagnostic tools are available, CAP has a higher mortality rate, especially in children less than five years of age. Complicated CAP (CCAP) in a healthy child is a severe disease characterized by a combination of local complications, such as parapneumonic effusion (PPE), empyema (EMP), necrotizing pneumonia (NP), abscess, pneumothorax, and bronchopleural fistula, and systemic complications, such as bacteremia, metastatic infection, multiorgan failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and, rarely, death. This study describes the demographic features, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with CCAP at the Al Qassimi Women's and Children's Hospital (AQWCH). Methodology This retrospective chart review aims to collect and explore the data of all previously healthy children admitted with CCAP between the ages of one month and 13 years at AQWCH from January 2018 to December 2020. The primary study outcome measure is to provide clinicians with the diagnostics, evaluation, and management required to treat complicated pneumonia. Results A total of 195 patients were diagnosed with CAP, of whom 30 (15.3%) were diagnosed with CCAP. Of these, 14 (46.6%) patients had NP, eight (26.7%) had PPE, and eight (26.7%) had EMP. The median age of patients was 2.5 years, with 13 (43%) males and 17 (57%) females. The median duration of their stay in the hospital was 16 days. All patients were vaccinated with Hib, PCV13, or PCV7, and 57% of the patients received antibiotics before admission. The most common findings were consolidation and pleural effusion. Blood culture was negative in all cases, and pleural culture was positive only in three cases. A total of 17 (57%) patients underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), and post-VATS surgical emphysema was found to be the most common complication. Chest X-rays normalized after three months in 65% of patients. On comparing patients who were admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) before any surgical intervention with those who were not, it was found that patients who required PICU admission were young (median = 2 years; interquartile range (IQR) = 1-4.5; p = 0.044) and had higher respiratory rate (mean = 49 breaths/per minute, standard deviation (SD) = 11; p = 0.000). In addition, they had lower median albumin (median = 2 g/L; IQR = 1.8-2.23; p = 0.004). On comparing patients who required VATS and those who did not require VATS, it was found that the former had a higher median respiratory rate (48 per min; range = 42-54; p = 0.01). A cavity in the chest computed tomography (CT) was found in 86% of patients with VATS (p = 0.017), and they had lower median albumin (median = 2 g/L; IQR = 1.92-2.24; p = 0.012), as well as longer median duration of using oral antibiotics (median = 21 days; IQR = 19-26; p = 0.025). Patients with complicated NP had a higher respiratory rate and higher PICU admission, and more cavity in the chest was found in the CT study. Most NP patients also underwent VATS and had longer median days of using oral antibiotics. One patient developed a bronchopleural fistula, and one patient diagnosed with NP died. Conclusions CCAP is a major cause of hospitalization in children. It is important to suspect CCAP in all CAP patients not responding to treatment after 48-72 hours.

CASE OF ESCHERICHIA COLI NECROTIZING PNEUMONIA WITH CAVITARY LESIONS

CASE OF ESCHERICHIA COLI NECROTIZING PNEUMONIA WITH CAVITARY LESIONS

S2449 A Unique Case of Simultaneous Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Introduction: Anal cancer (AC) is uncommon and comprises only 3% of all digestive system malignancies. It is associated with HPV, tobacco use, and HIV. Esophageal cancer (EC) is the 8th most common cancer and 6th most common cause of death worldwide. Among other associations, HPV and tobacco use has been strongly linked to development of esophageal SCC. Though they have similar risk factors, the literature is limited when it comes to cases of simultaneous anal SCC and esophageal SCC. Case Description/Methods: A 50-year-old male with history of tobacco use presented with dysphagia, dyspnea, and weight loss. His symptoms were progressive with 20 lbs. of weight loss in 3 months. He initially had solid food dysphagia which progressed to liquids and constant regurgitation of food. His cough and dyspnea were acute and worsened 1 week prior to his presentation. He endorsed a bulging growth around his anus that grew over several months. He was found to have a left lower lobe necrotizing pneumonia (NP) on CT scan as well as thickening of the esophagus with liver lesions suspicious for metastatic disease. Labs showed leukocytosis, macrocytic anemia, and a mild transaminitis. He was tested for tuberculosis and HIV which was negative. He underwent an EGD which showed a large, friable, fungating esophageal mass whose biopsies showed SCC. For his anal lesion, he underwent an excisional biopsy which was positive for SCC as well. The patient was treated with antibiotics for his NP with a plan of 6 weeks of therapy followed by repeat imaging to determine if any surgical interventions would be needed. Oncology planned for palliative chemoimmunotherapy once his NP resolved. To improve his dysphagia, a palliative esophageal stent was placed (Figure). Discussion: This patient had both a primary anal SCC and esophageal SCC with his only risk factor being tobacco use. Though both AC and EC commonly metastasizes to the liver, EC is more likely to metastasize. For esophageal SCC, local lymph node invasion typically occurs early since the lymphatics are in the lamina propria rather than beneath the muscularis mucosa. In this case, the patient presented with a NP and though no definitive fistula was noted on imaging, local invasion of esophageal SCC can present with fistulizing disease. Unfortunately, Stage 4 esophageal SCC is incurable though systemic therapies may provide a palliative effect and survival benefit. In this case, an endoscopic esophageal stent was placed for palliation of his dysphagia while awaiting chemoimmunotherapy.Figure 1.: Image A demonstrates the CT scan finding of esophageal wall thickening. Image B is the EGD finding of a large, friable, fungating, circumferential esophageal mass. Image C shows the successful placement of an esophageal stent for palliative treatment of the patient’s dysphagia.

POS-133 CASE REPORT OF DISSEMINATED KLEBSIELLA INFECTION IN T2DM LEADING TO CKD

K. pneumoniae can present as two forms of community-acquired pneumonia, acute and chronic. Although acute pneumonia may turn into necrotizing pneumonia, which results in a prolonged clinical course, it often has a rapidly progressive clinical course. In contrast, chronic Klebsiella pneumonia runs a protracted indolent course that mimics other chronic pulmonary infections and malignancies. The Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria usually affects the right upper lung lobe and results in the creation of a cavity, as well as pus-producing tissue death.K. pneumoniae is an aggressive microorganism, accounting for 0.5 to 5% of pneumonia cases. It can lead to cavitation (30-50% of cases) and necrotising pneumonia (NP) within a short period of time (days). Case : 40 year old male with a history of diabetes mellitus (DM) was admitted 20 days back patient was admitted and treated for DKA and LRTI discharged after treatment. Patient readmitted 20 days later with complaints of right sided loin pain, high grade fever of 8 days, cough with expectoration for one month, pyuria for 5 days and anuria for one day. Patient readmitted On admission – P-96/min, BP-140/90 mmhg, RR-26/min, Spo2-96% with O2. On evaluation patient was found to have raised creat (8mg/dl) initiated on hemodialysis. Patient ultrasound showed of left sided bulky kidney with acute pyelonephritis. CXR showed cavitatory lesion in middle lobe of right side lung. 5days Later patient complaint of increased left loin pain repeat USG showed left sided psoas abscess so CT showed no any evidence of communication of pyelonephritis with abscess. Pigtail drain was placed for psoas abscess, culture which was positive for klebsiella. Sputum culture was positive for klebsiella, A diagnosis of dissiminated klebsiella infection was made. In spite of all necessary investigations and treatment patient was dialysis dependent, patient deteriorated over time and could not be saved. Investigations :Tabled 1ParametersValuesHemoglobin9.8 gm/dlTotal leukocyte counts25,500/cummPlatelets2.4 lac/cummUrea104 mg/dlCreatenine4.2 mg/dlSerum Na136 mmol/lSerum K4.5 mmol/lBilirubin1.5 mg/dlSGOT/SGPT45/32Calcium7.6 mg/dlPhosphorus5.8 mg/dlUric acid6.2 mg/dlHbA1c10.5%Urine examinationAlb ++ Sug + Epi cells 1-2/min Pus cells - plenty RBC - 1-2/hpf24 hr urinary protein1.5 gm/day Open table in a new tab Sputum culture & Pus culture – klebsiella Sputum for MTB - negative Fundus – moderate NPDR CXR – Cavitatory lesion in right lung middle zone USG – RK – 12.5*5.9cm, LK – 13.6*6.2cm mod dilation of pelvicalyceal system bilateral bulky kidneys with left acute pyelonephritis. CT abd – left psoas bulky with evidence of 8*2.5 cm well defined hypodense collection within. CT chest – Thick walled cavitatory lesions with surrounding consolidation noted in medial segment of right middle lobe, postero-basal segment of right lower lobe, superior segment of left lower lobe We conclude that patients with immunocompromised state like Diabetes mellitus are more prone to disseminated infections which can lead to high morbidity and mortality. Good glycemic control, early diagnosis and effective management with could be key role in managing a diabetic patient.

Necrotizing pneumonia in children: Chest computed tomography vs. lung ultrasound.

BackgroundThe utilization of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the chest for the diagnosis of necrotizing pneumonia (NP), a complication of community-acquired pneumonia, is controversial because of the inherent ionizing radiation involved. Over the past few years, the growing availability of bedside Lung Ultrasound (LUS) devices has led to increased use of this nonionizing imaging method for diagnosing thoracic pathology, including pneumonia.ObjectiveThe objectives of this study were as follows: first, to compare the performance of LUS vs. CT in the identification of certain radiological signs of NP, and second, to determine whether LUS could replace CT in the diagnosis of NP.Materials and methodsWe compared retrospectively the CT and LUS images of 41 patients between 2005 and 2018 in whom at least one contrast-injected chest CT scan and one LUS had been undertaken fewer than 7 days apart.ResultsPleural effusions were demonstrated almost systematically (100% on CT vs. 95.8% on LUS). Visualization of septations in pleural effusions was clearly superior on LUS (20.4% on CT vs 62.5% on LUS). Concerning the detection of necrosis, we observed a strong correlation between LUS and the gold-standard CT (95.8% on LUS vs. 93.7% on CT). Parenchymal cavities were more easily detected on CT than on LUS (79.1 vs. 35.4%).ConclusionLUS has shown to be as effective as CT in the diagnosis of NP. The use of CT in patients with NP could be limited to the detection of complications such as bronchopleural fistulae in unfavorably evolving diseases.

Severe necrotising pneumonia complicated with bronchopleural fistulae in a neonate

Necrotising pneumonia (NP) is an uncommon condition in children when compared with the adult age group and is even more reported in the new-borns. The first published data on NP in children date back to 1994, but still there is a paucity of data when it comes to the new-borns. Pathologically, it is characterised by inflammation of the pulmonary tissue with consolidation and peripheral necrosis, thereby leading to local destruction of lung tissue and development of multiple small lung cavities. Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare complication of NP seen in new-born. In this case report, we discuss a case of new-born with severe NP complicated by BPF.

Early predictors of lung necrosis severity in children with community-acquired necrotizing pneumonia.

To analyze baseline clinical and laboratory characteristics and explore the possible predictors of lung necrosis severity in children with community-acquired necrotizing pneumonia (NP). This retrospective observational study was performed in a tertiary referral center. A total of 104 patients aged <15 years with community-acquired pneumonia and radiologically confirmed NP by computed tomography (CT) were included. Patients were classified into the mild, moderate, or massive necrosis groups. Among them, 29, 41, and 34 patients had mild, moderate, and massive necrosis, respectively. Moreover, 34.6% of the patients were admitted to pediatric intensive care unit. Massive necrosis was more likely to occur during winter (p < 0.05) and was associated with more severe clinical outcomes, such as longer duration of fever, longer hospitalization, increased mortality, and a higher risk of subsequent surgical intervention (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the following were independent risk factors for massive necrosis in this study: C-reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.036), serum albumin (p = 0.009), and immunoglobulin M (IgM) (p = 0.022). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that when the cut-off value for CRP, serum albumin, and IgM were set at 122 mg/L, 30.8 g/L, and 95.7 mg/dl, respectively, they showed good diagnostic performance for differentiating patients with massive necrosis from all patients with NP. NP is a potentially severe complication of pediatric community-acquired pneumonia. Different severities of lung necrosis can lead to different clinical outcomes. CRP, serum albumin, and IgM levels are independent predictors of the degree of lung necrosis.

Aerossacolitis and Pneumonia in an Indian Peafowl Caused by Lactobacillus agilis

Background: The peafowl is an ornamental bird that has the habit of eating directly from the earthy soil, which makes this bird more susceptible to endoparasites. One important endoparasite is Eucoleus contortus, which leads to inflammatory processes that alter the local microbiota, potentializing disease. By the other way, a member of the bird’s microbiota there is the genus Lactobacillus, but when occurs some imbalance, these bacteria can overgrowth and even cause some infection. This report describes the pathological and microbiological findings of chronic necrotizing pneumonia and aerossacolitis caused by Lactobacillus agilis in a peafowl, associated with parasitism by E. contortus. Case: A peafowl (Pavo cristatus), adult, male, who lived on a farm with contact with other species of animal, was submitted to post-mortem examination due to sudden death. This animal lived in an extensive system on the property and was the only one of its species. During the gross evaluation, the air sacs were filled with solid yellowish crumbly material. The same material was observed forming well-defined nodules that occupied &gt; 50% of the lung parenchyma. Histological analysis showed multiple parabronchi dilated and filled with caseous necrosis, characterized by abundant cellular debris and fibrin deposition. These areas were surrounded by the proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and inflammatory infiltrate of macrophages, giant cells, lymphocytes, and plasma cells. The air sacs parenchyma showed fibrin deposition and mixed inflammatory infiltrate. Multiple gram-positive bacilli were observed within the caseous foci in Gram-stained slides. In the crop and esophageal mucosa, cross-sections of filiform nematodes morphologically compatible with E. contortus were associated with chronic inflammatory infiltrate and epidermal hyperkeratosis. A lung section was submitted to Gram-Brown-Hopps and Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stains for bacterial investigation, and Grocott's methenamine silver (GMS) stain for fungal investigation. Short gram-positive bacilli bacteria are observed within the caseous foci in Gram-stained slides. By the other way, no agents were identified on the ZN and GMS stains. Following the analysis, lung fragments were cultivated at aerobic and microaerophilic conditions on sheep blood agar and McConkey agar. All the microbial cultures were incubated at 37°C to 48 h. Pure culture, in microaerophilic condition, of Gram-positive bacilli, was observed. The isolated bacterium was identified by MALDI-TOF MS as L. agilis.Discussion: Although uncommon, L. agilis was the single bacterium identified and therefore, associated as a primary cause of necrotic pneumonia and aerossacolitis in the studied peafowl. The presence of E. contortus could induce the aspiration of regurgitated of little amount of material from the gastrointestinal tract with sufficient bacterial load to initiate an infection, but not enough to smother the animal. The gradual aspiration can induce a chronic inflammatory condition. Infections by bacteria from the host microbiota have been observed in animals and humans with immunodeficiency. In summary, both the parasitosis and the inflammation could be resulted by the parasite and the aspiration of gastric product, which probably interfered in the immune response and allowed the overgrowth of L. agilis. In the current case report, based on macroscopic, microscopic and bacteriological results, we have provided insights to understand how the parasitosis made possible a pneumonia from a bacterium from the host's microbiota. Finally, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of L. agilis as causal agent of fatal necrotic pneumonia and aerossacolitis in peafowl.Keywords: respiratory infection, ornamental birds, secondary infection, parasitosis.

Interventional Bronchus Occlusion Using Amplatzer Devices - A Promising Treatment Option for Children with Persistent Air Leak.

Persistent air leak (PAL) is a severe complication of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (SSP). Surgical interventions are usually successful when medical treatment fails, but can be associated with significant complications and loss of potentially recoverable lung parenchyma. Retrospective analysis of efficacy and safety of interventional bronchus occlusions (IBO) using Amplatzer devices (ADs) in children with PAL secondary to SSP. Six patients (four males, 4-15 years of age) underwent IBO using ADs as treatment for PAL. Necrotizing pneumonia (NP) was the most common cause (n=4) of PAL. Three patients were previously healthy and three suffered from chronic lung disease. All patients required at least two chest tubes prior to the intervention for a duration of 15-43 days and all required oxygen or higher level of ventilatory support. In three cases, previous surgical interventions had been performed without success. All children improved after endobronchial intervention and we observed no associated complications. All chest tubes were removed within 5-25 days post IBO. In patients with PAL related to NP (n=4), occluders were removed bronchoscopically without re-occurrence of pneumothorax after a mean of 70 days (IQR: 46.5-94). IBO using ADs is a safe and valuable treatment option in children with PAL independent of disease severity and underlying cause. A major advantage of this procedure is its less invasiveness compared to surgery and the parenchyma- preserving approach.

Necrotizing pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumoniae in children during the period of non-systematic use of PCV13 in Catalonia, Spain

BackgroundSome studies have observed an increased incidence of necrotizing pneumonia (NP) in recent years. This might be related to the emergence of non-vaccine S. pneumoniae serotypes after PCV7 introduction although it is suggested that evolutionary factors may have modified the virulence and the interactions of pneumococci. The aim of this study was to clinically and microbiologically define NP in the population served by the three major paediatric hospitals in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). MethodsA prospective observational study was conducted in patients <18 years hospitalized due to invasive pneumococcal disease (January 2012–June 2016). Data of confirmed cases of pneumococcal NP (diagnosed by culture or DNA detection and serotyped) were collected. PCV13 was not systematically administered in Catalonia during the study period, but was available in the private market so the vaccination coverage in children increased from 48.2% to 74.5%. Results35 cases of NP were identified. 77.1% of cases were associated with empyema. In the first 4 years, a trend to a decrease in NP incidence was observed (p=0.021), especially in children <5 years (p=0.006). Serotype 3 was responsible for 48.6% of NP cases. Five patients with NP due to serotype 3 were fully vaccinated for their age with PCV13. ConclusionsSerotype 3 has a preeminent role in pneumococcal NP and was associated with all PCV13 vaccination failures. Although in our series the incidence does not seem to be increasing, evolution of pneumococcal NP rates should be monitored after inclusion of PCV13 in the systematic calendar.