A bstract Chronic lung abscesses are rare, especially with advancements in microbiological diagnostics and antibiotic therapy. However, they remain significant indications for surgical intervention, including lobectomy, when other treatments fail. Diagnosis can be challenging due to nonspecific symptoms, necessitating a high index of suspicion. Risk factors include immunosuppression, chronic alcohol use, and diabetes mellitus. We report the case of a 42-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes who presented with a 6-month history of recurrent productive cough, intermittent high-grade fevers, and worsening breathlessness. Initially managed empirically for pulmonary tuberculosis at a peripheral center, further imaging confirmed a lung abscess. The patient underwent a left lower lobectomy, leading to symptom resolution and improved glycemic control. This case highlights the importance of early imaging, comprehensive clinical evaluation, and multidisciplinary management of chronic lung abscesses, particularly in high-risk patients.
Akanni et al. (Fri,) studied this question.