Lobar Pneumonia: Clinical Update, Advanced Management, and Emerging Science
1Al-Yarmouk University College, Iraq - Diyala – Baqubah, Iraq
2Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
*Corresponding author
Abstract:
Lobar pneumonia is a distinct anatomical pattern of acute pneumonia characterized by relatively homogeneous consolidation involving a substantial portion of a pulmonary lobe. Unlike bronchopneumonia, which typically produces patchy involvement of individual lobules, lobar pneumonia is associated with contiguous inflammatory spread and has historically been described through four pathological stages: congestion, red hepatization, gray hepatization, and resolution. Although the classical presentation has become less frequent with early antimicrobial intervention and improved diagnostic practices, lobar consolidation remains an important clinical manifestation of severe bacterial respiratory infection. Streptococcus pneumoniae remains a prominent etiological agent, while other bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens may contribute depending on the clinical setting and host characteristics. Community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and ventilator-associated pneumonia differ in their epidemiological characteristics and predominant pathogens, including antimicrobial-resistant organisms such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli. Emerging pathogens and hypervirulent strains further complicate diagnosis and management. This review provides an updated overview of lobar pneumonia, encompassing its classification, etiological spectrum, pathophysiology, clinical relevance, histopathological characteristics, and emerging resistant pathogens. Particular emphasis is placed on contemporary changes in disease presentation, pathogen distribution, and management considerations, highlighting the continuing importance of accurate diagnosis, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and recognition of evolving patterns of pneumonia.
Keywords:
Lobar Pneumonia, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Antimicrobial Resistance, Hepatization
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How to cite this article:
Sadiq M. A. AL-Hiti, Ajwad Awad Assumaidaee and Maryam Maadh Badr. 2026. Lobar Pneumonia: Clinical Update, Advanced Management, and Emerging Science
Int.J.Curr.Microbiol.App.Sci.
15(9): 1-8
doi:
https://doi.org/10.20546/ijcmas.2026.1509.001
Citations
National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) 
