Which are common complications of pneumonia?

• A. Pneumothorax
• B. Atelectasis and pleural effusion
• C. Pulmonary edema
• D. Hyperkalemia

Answer: (B)

Inflammation from pneumonia commonly disrupts both the airways and the pleural space, leading to two frequent complications: atelectasis and pleural effusion. Atelectasis happens when mucus plugs and inflammatory debris block small airways and shallow, restricted breathing allows parts of the lung to collapse, reducing ventilation and worsening gas exchange. Pleural effusion develops as inflammatory processes increase vascular permeability and fluid leaks into the pleural space, sometimes forming a parapneumonic effusion. These are seen frequently, especially in older adults or when treatment is delayed, making them typical sequelae of pneumonia. Clinically, you may notice reduced or absent breath sounds in affected bases and chest discomfort, with imaging often showing focal lung collapse and small effusions. Management emphasizes treating the infection, encouraging deep breathing and mobility with incentive spirometry to prevent atelectasis, and evaluating the need for drainage if the effusion is sizable or suspicious for infection. While pneumothorax can occur in some cases and pulmonary edema may arise in patients with heart failure or severe illness, and electrolyte disturbances like hyperkalemia are not characteristic complications of pneumonia.