(Community acquired) Pneumonia

Question 1

What is the causative organisms for (Community acquired) Pneumonia?

Answer 1

• Streptococcus pneumoniae

Question 2

What is the structure of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae?

Answer 2

• Gram positive
• Diplococcci/short chains seen
• Polysaccharide capsule= virulence factor

(Member of Viridans group of streptococci)

Question 3

What antibiotics are used to treat pneumonia?

Answer 3

1. MILD: Amoxicillin
2. MODERATE: Amoxicillin and Doxycycline
3. SEVERE: Co-amoxiclav (IV) and Doxycycline

(Slightly different if penicillin allergy)

Question 4

How do antibiotics used to treat pneumonia act?

Answer 4

Inhibit cell wall synthesis

Question 5

What abnormalities can be seen in the following x-ray and micrograph what could be the likely diagnosis?

Answer 5

• Consolidation in lungs (liquid in air spaces)
• Pulmonary oedema (w./inflammatory cell infiltration)

Likely diagnosis: Pneumonia