Update on the Treatment and Prevention of CAP in Children
Update on the Treatment and Prevention of CAP in Children
Pneumonia results from the proliferation of microbial pathogens and the host's response to the offending microorganisms at the alveolar level of the lower respiratory tract. Microorganisms may gain access to the lower respiratory tract through four different pathways: inhalation of contaminated droplets, aspiration of oropharyngeal or gastrointestinal contents, hematogenous spread, and progressive extension from a contiguous site of infection. Pneumonia occurs after the host's immune and nonimmune defense systems are breached and manifests when the capacity of alveolar macrophages to ingest, kill, and clear microorganisms is exceeded by the number of pathogens.
Pathophysiology
Pneumonia results from the proliferation of microbial pathogens and the host's response to the offending microorganisms at the alveolar level of the lower respiratory tract. Microorganisms may gain access to the lower respiratory tract through four different pathways: inhalation of contaminated droplets, aspiration of oropharyngeal or gastrointestinal contents, hematogenous spread, and progressive extension from a contiguous site of infection. Pneumonia occurs after the host's immune and nonimmune defense systems are breached and manifests when the capacity of alveolar macrophages to ingest, kill, and clear microorganisms is exceeded by the number of pathogens.
