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[Pneumopathies caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae]
J P Bruaire1, J P Ducroix, F Eb
1Service de Médecine interne, Hôpital Nord, CHRU, Amiens.
Abstract:
Among the atypical pneumonias observed between March 1990 and March 1991, 6 were diagnosed as being caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae of the TWAR strain. The serological diagnosis was obtained by a microimmunofluorescence test. All 6 patients had anti-TWAR antibody levels higher than 512; they were treated with a macrolide administered by the oral route and were cured without sequelae or recurrences. Four cases received a ten day course of roxithromycin 300 mg/day and one case received erythromycin 2 g/day also for 10 days. The sixth case received a short course of azithromycin 500 mg once daily for three days. In 2 other patients presenting with clinical and radiological signs of pneumonia the diagnosis of C. pneumoniae infection could not be made despite an antibody level equal or higher than 512, since the serological results showed cross-reactions between C. pneumoniae, C. trachomatis and C. psittaci antibody responses.
Insights
Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR strain) caused atypical pneumonia in six patients. Macrolide antibiotics effectively treated these infections, leading to complete recovery without complications.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Atypical pneumonias present diagnostic challenges.
- Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR strain) is an identified cause of community-acquired pneumonia.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Observation:
- Six cases of atypical pneumonia were diagnosed as Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR strain) infection between March 1990 and March 1991.
- Microimmunofluorescence testing confirmed high anti-TWAR antibody levels (>512) in affected patients.
- Two additional patients with pneumonia symptoms could not be definitively diagnosed due to serological cross-reactivity.
Findings:
- All six confirmed Chlamydia pneumoniae patients were successfully treated with oral macrolide antibiotics (roxithromycin, erythromycin, azithromycin).
- Treatment resulted in complete cure without sequelae or recurrence.
- The study highlights the efficacy of macrolides in treating TWAR strain pneumonia.
Implications:
- Macrolide antibiotics are effective for treating Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR strain) pneumonia.
- Accurate serological diagnosis is essential, but cross-reactivity can complicate interpretation.
- Further research into diagnostic methods and treatment protocols for atypical pneumonias is warranted.