Community-acquired pneumonia and nosocomial pneumonia in adults

Abstract

Community and hospital acquired bacterial pneumonia in adults are increasing public health problems, with numerous hospitalizations annually and frequent causes of morbidity and mortality. Rapid characterization of the clinical picture must be accompanied by a decision regarding the need for patient hospitalization and treatment should be based on severity of presentation and epidemiological aspects. The follow up is essential, both outpatient and in hospital, in keeping with the criteria of treatment failure and need for review of initial treatment. Particularly in hospital-acquired pneumonia (nosocomial), the diagnosis is a challenge and analysis of time of onset is crucial for directing empirical treatment. Emphasis on prevention is an attempt to reduce the frequency of cases.