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A lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) is an infection below the level of the larynx and includes bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. LRTIs result from viral or bacterial invasion of lung parenchyma. Viral infections are diagnosed by the recognition of characteristic constellation of clinical signs and symptoms and treatment consists of supportive care measures (except for influenza, antivirals may be given). Bacterial LRTIs (in particular bacterial pneumonia) requires expedient, effective, and specific antimicrobial therapy. An appropriate treatment regimen for the patient with an LRTI can be established with the aid of a thorough medical history, physical examination, chest radiograph, knowledge of common bacterial pathogens, and results of properly collected cultures. This chapter will focus on pneumonia; see the special considerations section for information on bronchitis and bronchiolitis.
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Pneumonia is inflammation of the lung with consolidation and is classified by the setting in which it develops (eg, community-acquired or hospital-acquired). The etiology of bacterial pneumonia varies in accordance with the type of pneumonia. Table 21-1 lists common bacterial pathogens associated with the various classifications of pneumonia. Viruses are a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in adults (often co-infecting with bacteria) and in children (65%). Viral pneumonia in children is frequently caused by respiratory syncytial, influenza or parainfluenza virus.
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