Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia
Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (pronunciation: kuh-MYOO-ni-tee uh-KWY-erd bak-TEER-ee-uhl noo-MOH-nee-uh) is a type of pneumonia that is contracted by a person with little contact with the healthcare system. The chief difference between community-acquired pneumonia and other types of pneumonia is that patients with community-acquired pneumonia are usually not hospitalized or in a nursing home.
Etymology
The term "community-acquired bacterial pneumonia" is derived from the fact that the infection is acquired in the community, outside of a healthcare setting. The term "bacterial" refers to the type of pathogen that causes the infection.
Causes
Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia is most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, but can also be caused by other bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydophila pneumoniae.
Symptoms
Symptoms of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia can include cough, fever, chills, fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia typically involves a physical examination, a chest X-ray, and possibly a sputum culture to identify the bacteria causing the infection.
Treatment
Treatment for community-acquired bacterial pneumonia usually involves antibiotics, rest, and fluids. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention
Prevention of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia can include vaccination, good hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
See also
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