User:Mr. Ibrahem/Pulmonary contusion

A pulmonary contusion, also known as lung contusion, is a bruise of the lung. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest wall tenderness, and coughing, including coughing up blood. Onset of symptoms may occur within hours to days of the injury. Complications can include acute respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, pulmonary bleeding, and respiratory failure. Unlike lung laceration, pulmonary contusion does not involve a cut or tear of the lung tissue.

It is usually caused by blunt trauma to the chest. Other causes include the shock wave from an explosion or penetrating injury. The underlying mechanism involves injury to the lung parenchyma, leading to leakage of fluid from the capillaries into the alveoli. Diagnosis is by medical imaging such as chest X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound. Associated injuries may include rib fractures or a pneumothorax.

The use of seat belts and airbags reduces the risk to people in vehicles. The contusion frequently heals on its own with supportive care. This may include close monitoring, supplemental oxygen, and pain medication. If breathing is severely compromised, mechanical ventilation may be necessary. Fluid replacement may be required to ensure adequate blood volume, but fluids are given carefully since fluid overload can worsen pulmonary edema.

Pulmonary contusions are common, making up about 30% to 75% of lung injuries due to blunt chest injuries. The risk of death is about 10% to 25%. The condition was first described in 1761 by the Italian Morgagni. With the use of explosives during World Wars I and II, pulmonary contusion from blasts gained greater recognition.