Review Question - QID 100102

Aspiration pneumonia is associated with a diminished cough reflex and dense opacities in the dependent lung fields. Impaired cough reflex, as seen with alcohol ingestion, is a risk factor for aspiration pneumonia.

Ingestion of alcohol or any substance that reduces consciousness can be associated with a decreased cough reflex and an inability to protect the airway, predisposing to aspiration pneumonia. Other conditions that can be associated with aspiration pneumonia include dementia, drug abuse, neuromuscular disorders and large volume feeding tubes.

Figure/Illustration A is a chest radiograph that displays an infiltrate in the lower right lung field (arrows) consistent with a dependent distribution due to aspiration pneumonia

Incorrect Answers:
Answer 1: Long distance travel is often associated with the formation of pulmonary embolism.
Answer 3: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is often asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally by EKG. It can be a cause of sudden death.
Answer 4: Valvular heart disease can be associated with IV drug use with the resulting formation of pulmonary embolism.
Answer 5: Close living quarters such as army barracks or college dorm rooms are often associated with infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or meningococcemia.