Question

What is the terminal (final) stage of lobar pneumonia?

• A. Congestion
• B. Red hepatization
• C. Gray hepatization
• D. Resolution

Hint:

After the two hepatization stages, what restores normal aerated lung?

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Classical lobar pneumonia passes through four sequential pathological stages, the Laennec stages: congestion, red hepatization, gray hepatization, and finally resolution.

Step 2: Stage one (congestion) shows dilated congested alveolar capillaries with bacteria-rich fluid. Stage two (red hepatization) shows a red firm liver-like lobe packed with fibrin, neutrophils and extravasated red cells. Stage three (gray hepatization) shows a grayish-brown dry lobe with disintegrating red cells and appearing macrophages.

Step 3: The final stage is resolution. Enzymatic action liquefies the solid fibrinous exudate, the debris and fluid are cleared from the air spaces, and the normal aerated lung architecture is restored. This is why resolution is the terminal stage.

Step 4: Congestion, red hepatization and gray hepatization are earlier stages, so resolution is the correct answer.