SAQ 262 – Paediatrics – left lower lobe pneumonia

Question 6. left lower lobe pneumonia.

a. Diagnosis

• Left lower-lobe pneumonia.

b. Radiological findings

• Patchy left-base opacity.
• Reduced left-hemithorax volume.
• Reduced left rib spacing.
• Obscured left hemidiaphragm.
• Scoliosis to the right.

c. Disposition factors

• Oxygenation, including saturation above 92%.
• Work of breathing.
• Hydration status.
• Conscious state.
• Previous poor response to oral antibiotics.
• Comorbidities such as aspiration risk, asthma, or cystic fibrosis.
• Prematurity.
• Distance from hospital.
• Parental understanding and coping.