Lung contusion mimicking lobar pneumonia in an adolescent: A diagnosis imbroglio

Abstract

Lung contusion is a common injury resulting from blunt chest trauma, characterized by damage to the lung parenchyma and impaired lung function. We present an 11-year-old male who sustained blunt chest trauma and subsequently developed symptoms mimicking lobar pneumonia. Initial chest radiography suggested lobar pneumonia, and treatment was initiated accordingly. Persistent pain prompted reevaluation, with subsequent diagnosis of pulmonary contusion. The patient improved with supportive care.

This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of differentiating pulmonary contusion from pneumonia in pediatric patients with chest trauma and the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion when evaluating such patients.