A 32-Year-Old Hospitalized Man Is Evaluated for New-Onset Shortness of Breath

A 32-year-old hospitalized man is evaluated for new-onset shortness of breath and confusion.  The patient was admitted 3 days ago following a motor vehicle collision during which he sustained bilateral femur fractures, a pelvic fracture, and urethral injury.  He underwent surgical repair with no operative complications.  Temperature is 37.9 C (100.2 F) , pulse is 110/min, respirations are 24/min, and oxygen saturation is 84% on room air.  On physical examination, the patient appears agitated and disoriented.  The lungs are clear to auscultation and there is no lower extremity edema.  A petechial rash is present on the chest.  ECG shows sinus tachycardia with no ischemic changes.  Which of the following histologic changes has most likely taken place in this patient's lung tissue?

A) Alveolar fluid rich in neutrophils
B) Fat microglobules in pulmonary arterioles
C) Prominent interstitial infiltration by mononuclear cells
D) Red thrombus lodged in the pulmonary artery
E) Scattered necrosis with alveolar hemorrhage

Correct Answer:

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