Pneumonia

Pneumonia is still an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide in young and elderly individuals. Management depends on the likely aetiology and severity, which also form the basis of national and international guidelines. This article provides a summary of the key aspects of pneumonia, including aetiology, pathology, diagnosis and management, and highlights recent changes in UK guidelines. In addition, preventive strategies such as vaccination and the potential role of newly discovered biomarkers in the management of pneumonia are discussed.