We will explore the essential aspects of atypical pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, which is caused by bacteria other than Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Various infectious agents can cause atypical pneumonia, including:
In children, adolescents, and young adults, Mycoplasma pneumonia is one of the most common causes of atypical pneumonia.
Among older adults, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, formerly known as Chlamydia pneumoniae, is another common cause of atypical pneumonia.
This bacterium is associated with Legionnaires' disease, a severe atypical pneumonia that occurs in outbreaks or sporadically, usually in individuals with underlying health conditions or exposure to contaminated water.
Atypical viral pneumonia can be caused by respiratory viruses such as influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and parainfluenza virus.
Atypical pneumonia may also be caused by other less common pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
Atypical pneumonia may have different symptoms than typical bacterial pneumonia, including:
Respiratory symptoms: Mild to moderate cough, often dry or nonproductive, with or without sputum production.
Compared to typical bacterial pneumonia, low-grade fever has a lower intensity.
Weakness, malaise, and fatigue may occur, often disproportionate to the severity of respiratory symptoms.
Symptoms of a viral illness include headaches, body aches, and muscle pains.
In contrast to typical bacterial pneumonia, auscultation of the lungs may reveal fine crackles or wheezing, and chest X-ray findings may be less pronounced.
Among the diagnostic modalities available to diagnose atypical pneumonia are clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
A chest X-ray may show patchy or diffuse infiltrates, interstitial changes, or segmental consolidation indicative of atypical pneumonia.
Nonspecific inflammatory markers may be detected in blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
Specimens such as sputum, nasopharyngeal swabs, or blood samples can be collected for microbiological culture, antigen detection, or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to identify the causative pathogen.
Antibodies against specific pathogens, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Chlamydophila pneumoniae, can be detected using serological tests such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) or indirect immunofluorescence assays (IFAs).
Depending on the causative pathogen, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors, atypical pneumonia may be treated in one of the following ways:
The mainstay of treatment for atypical pneumonia caused by bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, or Legionella pneumophila is antibiotic therapy. In this case, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin) or tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline) are often used.
During influenza outbreaks or for high-risk individuals, antiviral medications may be considered for atypical pneumonia caused by respiratory viruses.
Rest, adequate hydration, fever management, and symptomatic relief of cough or discomfort may help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.
Atypical pneumonia can be prevented by reducing exposure to infectious agents and practicing good respiratory hygiene. Strategies may include:
In addition to preventing respiratory infections, vaccination against influenza virus and pneumococcal bacteria reduces the risk of pneumonia, including atypical pneumonia.
By washing hands regularly with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, respiratory pathogens can be reduced.
When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow and avoid close contact with others who are sick.
Legionella pneumonia can be reduced by avoiding exposure to contaminated water sources, such as cooling towers, hot tubs, or air conditioning systems.
The atypical pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, is caused by pathogens other than typical bacteria. To prevent complications and manage atypical pneumonia, early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are essential. Consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have atypical pneumonia or are experiencing respiratory symptoms.
