Differential diagnosis of fever and pulmonary densities in mechanically ventilated patients.
Sepsis continues to represent a major threat to the recovery of mechanically ventilated patients and a serious challenge to physicians in charge of their care. Diagnosis of pneumonia is made difficult by numerous infectious and noninfectious conditions that may present in a clinically similar fashion. Clinical criteria are insensitive in identifying extrapulmonary sources of fever. Furthermore, several pathologic conditions may coexist in a single patient, making correct diagnosis and treatment even more difficult. A thorough understanding of the various causes of fever and pulmonary densities, other than pneumonia, is necessary to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. This understanding then allows a systematic approach to diagnosis using the most appropriate tests.
Louthan
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FB
Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Tennessee-Memphis 38163, USA.
Meduri
G U
GU
D003428:Cross Infection / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D003663:Decision Trees; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005334:Fever / Q000209:etiology*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D001261:Pulmonary Atelectasis / Q000175:diagnosis; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis