Nonresolving pneumonia in the setting of malignancy

Abstract

Purpose of review: This article reviews recent literature and experience in the diagnosis of nonresolving and slowly resolving pneumonia as it pertains to malignancy.

Recent findings: Malignancy must be considered as an important cause of pneumonia that resolves slowly or has incomplete resolution. Airway obstruction is more common than malignant infiltration as a cause of pneumonia that does not resolve appropriately. Infection due to resistant or unusual organisms must also be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Summary: Nonresolving pneumonia remains an important clinical challenge. Bronchoscopic evaluation in conjunction with computed tomography and PET scanning is still the most important technique for diagnosis.