Do Statins Improve CAP Outcome?

In a prospective observational study, 30-day mortality and incidence of complicated pneumonia were significantly lower in patients on statins than in those not on statins.

Several retrospective studies have demonstrated improved outcomes among patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) who are taking statins. Some researchers believe that these medications not only lower serum cholesterol levels but also may produce beneficial anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects. However, others have argued that these potential benefits can be explained by the “healthy-user” effect — i.e., that being on a statin is a marker for better health and improved access to healthcare.

To examine this issue, researchers performed a prospective observational study of consecutive patients admitted to an Edinburgh, Scotland, hospital with CAP between January 2005 and November 2007 (n=1007). The patients’ use of statins and…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Do Statins Improve CAP Outcome?

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Reviewing Author