It is all in the sputum: a case of non-resolving pneumonia.

To cite: Hanrahan L, Chotirmall SH, Nicholson S, et al. BMJ Case Rep Published online: [please include Day Month Year] doi:10.1136/bcr-2014207843 DESCRIPTION An 87-year-old woman presented with a 2-day history of dyspnoea, productive cough and rightsided chest discomfort. Having become increasingly lethargic over the preceding fortnight, she also noted unquantifiable weight loss over the prior 3-month period. Physical examination and initial radiological and haematological assessment was consistent with a community-acquired pneumonia and associated parapneumonic effusion confirmed by pleural aspiration. She was appropriately treated with a full course of intravenous antibiotic therapy however failed to completely resolve. Subsequent bronchoscopy did not reveal an obstructing tumour