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Pneumonia: Diagnosis and Treatment for special Populations
Pneumonia: Diagnosis and Treatment for special PopulationsTranscriptCommon tests to diagnose and treat pneumonia include a physical exam, x-rays, labtests, breathing therapy and medications. However, additional procedures and teststhat take a closer look inside the body are sometimes required.For example, your doctor may conduct a bronchoscopy to confirm your diagnosis.During a bronchoscopy, a thin tube is inserted into your windpipe to look directlyinside your airways.Sometimes during a bronchoscopy, saline – a form of purified saltwater – is used towash your lungs. The fluid is suctioned out and tested for infection.If you have developed fluid in the space between your lungs and the chest wall, acondition known as a pleural effusion; or have an infected pleural effusion, called anempyema, a procedure known as a thoracentesis may be performed to determine thecause. During this procedure, a long thin needle is inserted between the ribs and usedto withdraw fluid from the pleural space. Again, this fluid is sent to the lab.If there is a large amount of fluid in the pleural space, a chest tube may be inserted tohelp it drain. This will also help you breathe easier and make you more comfortable.In severe cases of pneumonia that don’t respond to common treatments, the lungtissue itself may need to be studied through a lung biopsy. A biopsy collects a smallsample of lung tissue through needle aspiration, a technique in which a needle isinserted between the ribs and gathers cells for examination.In cases where pneumonia damages a portion of the lung, your doctor may order athoracotomy. This is a surgical procedure which permanently removes the affectedlung tissue.Each of these procedures has different risks and possible complications. Discuss themwith your healthcare team, and ask any questions you have. 20% gradient meshhealthclipshealthclipshealthclipshealthclips4% gradient meshThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, orsuitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.hc_pd_10034_98_en_t00002.pdf © Milner-Fenwick, Inc.healthclips5% gradient mesh
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