[Viral pneumonia. COVID-19 pneumonia]
D Alonso Menchén1, J Balsa Vázquez1, J M Barbero Allende1
1Servicio de Medicina Interna. Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias. Universidad de Alcalá. Alcalá de Henares. Madrid. España.
Abstract:
Viruses are becoming more and more important as etiological agents of pneumonia, mainly due to improvements in diagnostic techniques. At present, they account for approximately one-third of community-acquired pneumonia cases. They tend to occur in children and elderly patients, causing anything from mild cases to severe cases which require intubation and intensive care. The main causative agents include rhinovirus, influenza virus A or B, metapneumovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus, coronavirus, or adenovirus. Infection produced by SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the current COVID-19 pandemic, which has had devastating consequences, is proof of the vital importance of viral pneumonia. This is the main subject of this update. Drawing on the abundant information available, which has been continuously evolving since the beginning of the pandemic, this section will review the main characteristics of the virus, its pathophysiology, and its clinical manifestations as well as the main diagnostic and treatment methods.
Insights
Viral pneumonia is increasingly recognized as a significant cause of community-acquired pneumonia, especially in children and the elderly. This review covers viral pneumonia characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment, highlighting SARS-CoV-2.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Context:
- Viruses are increasingly identified as key etiological agents of pneumonia, accounting for about one-third of community-acquired cases.
- Improvements in diagnostic techniques have enhanced the recognition of viral pneumonia.
- Viral pneumonia affects all age groups, with a higher prevalence in children and the elderly.
Purpose:
- To provide an updated review of viral pneumonia, focusing on the impact of SARS-CoV-2.
- To consolidate current knowledge on viral pneumonia characteristics, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment.
Summary:
- The abstract reviews viral pneumonia, a growing concern in community-acquired infections.
- Key viral pathogens include rhinovirus, influenza viruses, metapneumovirus, RSV, parainfluenza virus, coronavirus, and adenovirus.
- The review details viral pneumonia's pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies, emphasizing SARS-CoV-2.
Impact:
- Highlights the critical role of viral infections, particularly SARS-CoV-2, in pneumonia etiology.
- Underscores the importance of understanding viral pneumonia for public health and clinical management.
- Provides a comprehensive overview for clinicians and researchers navigating the evolving landscape of viral respiratory infections.
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