A 75-year-old woman with no history of lung problems or smoking is admitted to the shadow general medical floor for new onset fever and cough. you find rales and increased tactile fremitus on physical exam. what is likely to be her main medical problem?

These clinical signs suggest a respiratory disease: pneumonia (pulmonary infection by an agent)

Classically, pneumonia is manifested by the usual signs of infection and inflammatory reaction such as fever, and by specifically pulmonary signs (coughing, spitting). But it can take different forms depending on the germ involved and the people. Typical pneumonia is pneumonia associated with a bacterium called pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae). In this case, the onset of symptoms is often abrupt, with very high fatigue, usually fever high (above 39 °C), chills, chest pain ("stabbing"), sometimes breathing difficulties. Clinical examination is important for diagnosis. The stethoscope auscultation allows to hear crackling (crackles) localized, during breathing, and the percussion of the thorax with the fingers to perceive a dull sound, corresponding to the replacement of the air by secretions within the focus infectious.

Final answer:

The 75-year-old woman's symptoms are indicative of a respiratory infection, most likely pneumonia, characterized by a fever, cough, rales, and increased tactile fremitus. This condition is common among the elderly due to weakened immune systems. Confirmation would require more diagnostic tests, such as a chest radiograph.

Explanation:

The symptoms presented by the 75-year-old woman are indicative of a respiratory infection, most likely pneumonia. Rales and increased tactile fremitus on physical examination, along with onset fever and cough, are common signs of this condition. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, and it can be caused by a variety of organisms including bacteria, viruses and fungi.

These symptoms can be better confirmed with further diagnostic tests like a chest radiograph, which was noted in the reference cases as showing evidence of pneumonia in terms of 'shadows' or 'abnormal material'. Moreover, the greenish color of the sputum sample is also an indication of bacterial infection, as is common in pneumonia. Advancements of these symptoms can lead to serious health issues if not treated timely and appropriately, as such, it is crucial for her to receive medical attention.

The main factor contributing to a possible diagnosis of pneumonia in this case is the lady's age. As we age, our immune system typically becomes less effective, increasing the risk of infection such as pneumonia. This is despite the fact that she has no history of lung problems or smoking. It is important to note that such conditions can affect anyone, regardless of their past medical history.

Learn more about Pneumonia here:

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