Pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. National and international guidelines addressing the management of pneumonia have been developed during recent years, with the aim of improving the care and outcomes of pneumonia. This article addresses many of these management issues with reference to changes in management for particular patient groups. The importance of stratifying risk and immediate emergency department management is discussed. In addition, response to therapy and follow-up management is examined. The evidence behind present practice, possible future directions for pneumonia management with the advent of new biomarkers, and the influence of commonly used drugs on the risk of pneumonia are discussed.