Title: Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) due to Atypical Pathogens
Volume: 1
Issue: 3
Author(s): Argyris Michalopoulos, Michael Rizos and Matthew E. Falagas
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Community-acquired pneumonia, atypical pathogens, legionella, mycoplasma, chlamydia, intensive care unit
Abstract: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a relatively common and potentially serious infection that affects both immunocompetent and immunosuppressive adults throughout the world. The annual incidence of CAP in the United States is approximately 4 million cases. CAP due to atypical pathogens accounts for approximately 20 to 40 percent of cases necessitating hospitalization. There are few data regards to the prevalence rates of severe CAP due to atypical pathogens necessitating admission to the intensive care unit. This review article summarizes clinical features, diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis, and management based on guidelines of medical societies.
