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Respiratory tract infections in adults
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|February 8, 2011
Summary
Most upper respiratory infections stem from viruses, making diagnosis difficult. This study details diagnosing pneumonia and differentiates viral, bacterial, and mycoplasma causes, including rare adult epiglottitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are frequently viral, yet clinical presentation alone cannot identify the causative agent.
- Epiglottitis, a severe condition causing upper airway obstruction, can be caused by type B Hemophilus influenzae in adults, mirroring risks seen in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline a diagnostic approach for pneumonia.
- To describe pneumonias specifically caused by viruses, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Clinical findings assessment for URTI diagnosis.
- Diagnostic strategy for pneumonia.
- Pathogen-specific pneumonia characterization.
Main Results:
- Clinical diagnosis of URTIs is often insufficient to determine the specific pathogen.
- Hemophilus influenzae type B epiglottitis presents a significant airway obstruction risk in adults, similar to children.
- Distinct approaches are necessary for diagnosing viral, Mycoplasma, and bacterial pneumonias.
Conclusions:
- Accurate pathogen identification for URTIs and pneumonia requires more than clinical assessment.
- Awareness of adult epiglottitis due to Hemophilus influenzae type B is crucial for timely intervention.
- Specific diagnostic pathways are essential for managing viral, Mycoplasma, and bacterial pneumonias effectively.
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