pneumokocker

Pneumokocker, also known as pneumococcus, refers to Streptococcus pneumoniae, a Gram-positive, lancet-shaped diplococcus that is encapsulated. It commonly colonizes the human upper respiratory tract and is a frequent cause of bacterial infections worldwide. The organism is optochin sensitive and bile soluble in laboratory testing.

It causes a range of diseases. Non-invasive infections include acute otitis media, sinusitis, and community-acquired pneumonia. Invasive pneumococcal disease includes meningitis, bacteremia, sepsis, and pneumonia with pleural effusion; these are more common in young children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated secretions; asymptomatic carriage in the nasopharynx is common, particularly in children.

Diagnosis relies on culture and identification from sterile sites, Gram stain of sputum, blood cultures, and urine antigen testing. The bacterium has many distinct serotypes defined by its polysaccharide capsule, with vaccines covering several of them. Vaccines include the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), and newer 15- and 20-valent formulations, for children and adults, and the polysaccharide PPSV23 for adults and at-risk groups. Widespread vaccination reduces invasive disease and carriage of vaccine serotypes.

Treatment depends on disease severity and resistance patterns and often starts with empiric therapy that covers common pneumococci; antibiotic choices may include penicillin or amoxicillin where susceptible, with alternatives for resistant strains. Invasive disease requires prompt broad-spectrum therapy and supportive care. Prevention relies on vaccination and prudent antibiotic use to curb antimicrobial resistance.

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