Unresolved Pneumonia

[Eco1]

I have Asthma COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS) and spent several weeks in hospital 8 months ago with Pneumonia which was resistant to antibiotics. I have since been taking Ciprofloxacin as a long-term plan to reduce infections.

Since my recovery, I have noticed that I have become more and more breathless and recently had a 6 minute walk test which was abandoned after 4.30 minutes due to my oxygen level dropping to 83%. My DLCO level is currently around 30%.

I had a CT scan two weeks ago and saw my Consultant this week. He has informed me that there is a shadow or cavity where the Pneumonia was and it has been observed to be growing in my last two scans, which I was not aware of.

My Consultant has told me that it is 50 / 50 infection or a tumour. I have now been referred for a Bronchoscopy, PET scan and Lung Biopsy and a Specialist Nurse will be contacting me on Monday.

I am trying to remain positive but it is very difficult. I am interested in hearing from anyone who may have been through this or has had unresolved Pneumonia.

Thank you in advance.

[Hidden]

I’ve never had a 6 mwt but I could never do 4.3 minutes. My sats would be in the 70’s. My Fev1 is 25 and dlco 60. It baffles me how different all copd cases are.

[knitter]

I can only imagine how you feel at the moment , and I am afraid I can be of little help.

It was 25 years ago since I was diagnosed with bacterial double pneumonia , then asthma , then COPD/ asthma.

There were no CT scans available in those days, only X-rays . I continued coughing up discoloured mucus for years, many courses of oral and IV antibiotics and steroids.

Shadows were seen on my XRays post pneumonia...but my lungs are clearer now. I still cough up clearish mucus from my upper respiratory area, but infections are rare . Still asthmatic.

I was given the pneumonia vaccine a few years ago too.

Sending you my best wishes.

[shouty]

Keep positive. I was convinced when x-ray showed shadow as my Dad died of lung cancer. Had CT scan & told had got nodules & most are benign & can disappear or not change. I'd had ongoing chest inf. s & eventually told got Bronchiectasis prob cos I'd been colonised by Haemophilis infection. I understand the anxiety of waiting for answers but as other folks will tell you even tumours can turn out to be benign. Damn infections bane of lung disease life. Do hope you get resolution soon.

[PollyP]

Hi, around 3/12 years ago I was almost in a similar position to you with ACOS and a lengthy unresolving pneumonia with nodules popping up all the time.. It took almost a year to get well and I think it was the scarring from the infection which made breathing more difficult.

Try not to predict the outcome of those coming tests. Enjoy today it is all we have.

I am good now, using Azithromicyn as a prophylactic AB which is a help.

I over winter in a warmer drier climate than UK which really helps. I work hard on keeping as healthy as possible. Can walk 3 miles a day or so and enjoy life.

May your recovery go well.