How Common Are Atypical Pathogens in Community-Acquired Pneumonia?

Atypical pathogens were identified in about 20% to 30% of CAP cases worldwide.

Many clinical guidelines — including those of the American Thoracic Society and the Infectious Diseases Society of America — recommend initial coverage for atypical pathogens in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) (Journal Watch Apr 25 2007 and Clin Infect Dis 2007; 44:S27). But how commonly are these organisms implicated in CAP?

In this study, researchers accessed a database with information on the pathogens responsible for CAP in 4337 hospitalized patients in 21 countries; patients were participants in drug-company-sponsored antibiotic trials between 1996 and 2004. Methods for identifying atypical pathogens included PCR testing, serologic testing, and cultures. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumo…

Reviewing Author

Allan S. Brett, MD

How Common Are Atypical Pathogens in Community-Acquired Pneumonia?

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