High altitude pulmonary edema misdiagnosed as pneumonia

Abstract

High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is a relatively rare form of high altitude illness. However, without immediate treatment, HAPE is fatal. Furthermore, HAPE is characterized by non-specific signs and symptoms, and many clinical conditions may mimic it. In the present article, we report a case of HAPE misdiagnosed as pneumonia. We also discuss the issues of prevention and early treatment options in this illness.

Keywords

• high altitude pulmonary edema
• pneumonia
• misdiagnosis