Histopathology of Childhood Pneumonia in Developing Countries

The Pathology of Community-Acquired Pneumonia

“…Bacteria are easily identified in the infiltrate of early infections. Most uncomplicated cases show complete regeneration of the alveolar epithelium without residual scar formation, but massive necrosis of the lung tissue and pneumatocele formation has been reported in children (Anderson & Turner, 1991;Kerem et al, 1994;Asmar et al, 1978). Lung abscess has been reported as a complication of pneumococcal pneumonia with bacteremia (Isaacs, 1986).…”

“…In this context, extensive necrosis of the right middle and lower lobes is common. Pleural fibrosis, empyema, and bronchiectasis may develop (Barnes, 1994;Anderson & Turner, 1991). The etiologic anaerobic organisms include Peptostreptococcus, Peptococcus, Fusobacterium, and Bacteroides species (Bartlett, 1991).…”

“…The etiologic anaerobic organisms include Peptostreptococcus, Peptococcus, Fusobacterium, and Bacteroides species (Bartlett, 1991). Superinfection in aspiration pneumonia often involves mixed anaerobic and/or aerobic microorganisms including Enterobacteriaceae, P. aeruginosa, and others (Anderson & Turner, 1991).…”

“…Superinfection with S. pneumoniae, S. aureus, A. fumigatus, or H. influenzae may follow influenza or measles. Infection with respiratory syncytial virus may be followed by S. pneumoniae or H. influenzae pneumonia (Anderson & Turner, 1991;Fischer & Walker, 1979). The histological features are those of bacterial and viral pneumonia.…”

Acute Pneumonia and its Complications

“…Viral inclusions within the nucleus of respiratory cells and necrosis of bronchial or bronchiolar epithelium can be seen in some fatal viral infections especially, adenoviral pneumonia. 41,42 Air trapping with resultant disturbances in ventilation-perfusion ratio can occur from obstructed or obliterated small airways and thickened alveolar septa.…”