Pneumonia associated with near-drowning.

Publication/Presentation Date

10-1-1997

Abstract

Drowning and near-drowning can abruptly devastate the lives of both the affected victims and their families. In addition to the complications directly caused by the submersion, several indirect causes of morbidity exist. Infection is one of the complications associated with near-drowning, and pneumonia is the most severe of these infectious complications. The risk factors, microbiological causes, diagnostic approach, and appropriate therapy for pneumonia associated with near-drowning are not well described in the literature. Herein, we review the epidemiology and pathophysiology associated with near-drowning, discuss the potential mechanisms of infection, and describe the likely risk factors for pneumonia related to near-drowning. We also detail the microbiological causes of this entity and provide important clinical and epidemiological information associated with specific pathogens. Finally, we summarize an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic approach to pneumonia associated with near-drowning.

Volume

25

Issue

4

First Page

896

Last Page

907

ISSN

1058-4838

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

9356805

Department(s)

Department of Medicine

Document Type

Article

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