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Mixed Streptococcus pneumoniae and gram-negative bacillary pneumonia in the elderly

S L Berk, S L Wiener, L B Eisner

    Southern Medical Journal
    |February 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Elderly patients with Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumonia can develop serious gram-negative infections. This study reports on six such cases, highlighting risk factors and characteristics of this severe mixed bacterial pneumonia.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Pulmonology
    • Geriatrics

    Background:

    • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common cause of pneumonia in the elderly.
    • Concomitant infections can complicate pneumonia treatment and outcomes.
    • Gram-negative bacilli pose a significant threat in vulnerable patient populations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe the clinical, laboratory, and epidemiological features of elderly patients with mixed Streptococcus pneumoniae and gram-negative bacilli pneumonia.
    • To identify potential risk factors associated with this severe co-infection.

    Main Methods:

    • Retrospective analysis of 24 elderly patients with confirmed Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumonia.
    • Identification of six patients with concomitant gram-negative aerobic bacilli infection.
    • Detailed reporting of clinical and epidemiological data for the co-infected group.

    Main Results:

    • Six of 24 elderly patients (25%) with S. pneumoniae pneumonia had concurrent gram-negative aerobic bacilli infection.
    • All six patients were elderly men with underlying cardiopulmonary disease.
    • Four patients had prior antibiotic exposure, and three had recent gram-negative pneumonia episodes.

    Conclusions:

    • Mixed bacterial pneumonia, including gram-negative co-infection, is an important consideration in elderly patients with S. pneumoniae pneumonia.
    • Underlying cardiopulmonary disease and prior antibiotic use may increase risk.
    • Further research is needed to understand optimal management strategies for these complex cases.

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