Inserm

The lung infection from which Nelson Mandela has suffered for several years lodges in an essential part of the human organism, the lungs and bronchiae. Pneumonia, pneumopathy and pulmonary abscesses are the main pulmonary infections so far identified.

In the vast majority of cases, these infections are due to viruses, microbes or bacteria that infiltrate into the lungs and, depending on the level of resistance, cause disorders of the respiratory tract.

The part of the lung that becomes infected will determine which disease affects the patient. The commonest symptoms of infection are coughing, breathlessness and respiratory failure.

Pulmonary infection may sometimes have very serious consequences. Such an infection can cause serious breathing difficulties and can also damage the broncho-pulmonary system.  The elderly are particularly vulnerable.

For more information, please contact Camille Locht, Director of the Inserm unit “Lille Infection and Immunity Centre”.

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