World Pneumonia Day 2024: All you need to know about the four varied forms of this deadly infection

Here are four significant types of pneumonia and how each is caused, according to Dr Kawatra:

Viral pneumonia can be difficult to manage in severe cases (Source: Freepik)

Severity and treatment

Dr Kawatra says fungal pneumonia is “the most difficult to treat, especially in immunocompromised individuals.” Fungal infections can be chronic, often require extended therapy, and have a higher risk of resistance and relapse. Some fungal pathogens resist standard antifungal treatments, and the therapy can have significant side effects. Long-term antifungal therapy is required, with supportive care, particularly if respiratory distress is present.

“Aspiration pneumonia can also be challenging because it often involves mixed infections, including anaerobic bacteria, which can be harder to treat. Left untreated, complications like abscesses or empyema (infection in the pleural space) may lead to complications. Recurrence is common if the underlying cause (e.g., swallowing dysfunction) is not addressed,” he adds. Treatment includes broad-spectrum antibiotics for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, and supportive care like oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation if needed.

Dr Kawatra says viral pneumonia can be difficult to manage in severe cases, especially with viruses like influenza or COVID-19, which may lead to respiratory failure. However, in healthy individuals, viral pneumonia often resolves independently with supportive care.

Bacterial pneumonia is typically the easiest to treat, especially with sensitive organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae, responding well to antibiotics. “The challenge arises with resistant strains (e.g., MRSA or Pseudomonas aeruginosa), which may require more potent antibiotics,” he says, adding that treatment includes antibiotics, with the choice based on the suspected pathogen and patient factors. In severe cases, IV antibiotics, oxygen therapy, or ventilatory support may be necessary.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.