pneumonie

Pneumonie, or pneumonia, is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough, fever, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Pneumonie is classified by where it was acquired: community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), or ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or less commonly other organisms.

Signs and symptoms vary with age and underlying health. Common manifestations include cough with or without sputum, fever, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest or abdominal pain, and fatigue. Confusion or delirium may be prominent in older adults. Viral infections may have a more gradual onset, while bacterial pneumonias often present more acutely.

Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation plus imaging and laboratory tests. A chest radiograph is typically used to confirm infiltrates. Blood tests may show elevated white blood cells and inflammatory markers. Microbiological testing (such as sputum culture, urine antigen tests, or blood cultures) helps identify pathogens in selected cases. Severity scores (for example CURB-65) aid decisions about outpatient versus inpatient care.

Treatment depends on severity and the likely pathogens. Most outpatient cases are treated with empiric antibiotics appropriate for CAP, while more severe cases or hospital patients require intravenous antibiotics. Duration is typically 5–7 days for uncomplicated cases, longer in complicated infections. Supportive care includes fluids and oxygen therapy as needed, and vaccination against influenza and pneumococcus to aid prevention.

Prognosis and complications: Many people recover fully, but pneumonia can be serious, especially in the elderly, very young, or those with chronic illnesses. Possible complications include pleural effusion, empyema, lung abscess, respiratory failure, or sepsis.