The four stages of lobar pneumonia and their pathological manifestations
Feb 20, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
The four stages of lobar pneumonia are the congestion stage, red hepatization stage, gray hepatization stage, and resolution stage. The congestion stage is characterized by alveolar congestion and edema, accompanied by chills and high fever. In the red hepatization stage, the lung lobe or segment appears dark red, with rust-colored sputum production. During the gray hepatization stage, the alveoli appear gray, accompanied by impaired breathing and dyspnea. In the resolution stage, the alveoli begin to return to normal and symptoms gradually subside.
The four stages of lobar pneumonia are the congestion stage, red hepatization stage, gray hepatization stage, and resolution stage. Pathological manifestations typically differ across these stages.
1. Congestion Stage
This stage occurs within the first 1 to 2 days after disease onset and is primarily caused by alveolar congestion and edema. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as chills and high fever.
2. Red Hepatization Stage
In this stage, the lung lobe or segment appears dark red due to an excessive accumulation of red blood cells in the alveolar spaces. Patients often produce rust-colored sputum.
3. Gray Hepatization Stage
The color of the affected lung tissue turns gray due to the presence of large amounts of fibrin, white blood cells, and cellular debris in the alveoli. This stage is generally associated with dyspnea and breathing difficulties.
4. Resolution Stage
During this phase, fibrin, bacteria, and other substances in the alveoli significantly decrease, and the alveoli gradually return to normal. Respiratory symptoms such as cough, sputum production, and breathing difficulties markedly improve.
With timely and proper treatment, the condition can usually be well controlled. However, delayed treatment may lead to complications such as septic shock and pleurisy.
