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Necrotising staphylococcal pneumonia — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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HardRespiratory InfectionsNecrotising staphylococcal pneumoniaSCE Respiratory

A 53-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes develops severe pneumonia, haemoptysis and pleuritic pain. CT shows necrotising right upper-lobe consolidation with early cavitation. Blood cultures grow Staphylococcus aureus after recent influenza. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Necrotising staphylococcal pneumonia

Post-influenza severe pneumonia with haemoptysis, cavitation and S. aureus bacteraemia is typical of necrotising staphylococcal pneumonia. IPF and sarcoidosis do not present with acute cavitating sepsis. Pneumothorax causes pleuritic pain but not necrotising consolidation and bacteraemia.

Reference: NICE NG250 Pneumonia in Adults; BTS CAP Guideline