Progression of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in a Morbidly Obese Patient With a History of Vaping and Asthma: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Management

• Published in: Cureus 2024, Vol.16 (4), p.e57828-e57828
• Main Authors: Chiji-Aguma, Jennifer C, Adeyemi, Olaoluwa M, Osanoto, Akolade S, Akanmode, Abiodun M
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57828

Lung abscess and empyema represent significant complications of community-acquired pneumonia, particularly in patients with comorbidities such as obesity, asthma, and vaping (which can lead to vaping-associated lung injury). While these conditions rarely occur simultaneously, their coexistence significantly escalates both mortality and morbidity. Management strategies typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating diagnostic evaluation through imaging, administration of antibiotics, and often surgical drainage. While antibiotics are fundamental in treating both conditions, empyema management almost invariably necessitates surgical intervention. Initial imaging usually involves plain radiographs, although ultrasound and lung CT scans provide heightened sensitivity and fluid characterization. Here, we present the case of a 24-year-old morbidly obese patient with a history of bronchial asthma initially presenting with community-acquired pneumonia, which subsequently deteriorated into lung abscess and empyema, ultimately requiring surgical intervention.