Postviral Complications: Bacterial Pneumonia

Clin Chest Med. 2017 Mar;38(1):127-138. doi: 10.1016/j.ccm.2016.11.006. Epub 2016 Dec 13.

Abstract

Secondary bacterial pneumonia after viral respiratory infection remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Susceptibility is mediated by a variety of viral and bacterial factors, and complex interactions with the host immune system. Prevention and treatment strategies are limited to influenza vaccination and antibiotics/antivirals respectively. Novel approaches to identifying the individuals with influenza who are at increased risk for secondary bacterial pneumonias are urgently needed. Given the threat of further pandemics and the heightened prevalence of these viruses, more research into the immunologic mechanisms of this disease is warranted with the hope of discovering new potential therapies.

Keywords: Bacterial pneumonia; Influenza; Innate immunity; Interferons; Respiratory viruses.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate / immunology*
  • Influenza, Human / complications*
  • Influenza, Human / microbiology
  • Influenza, Human / pathology
  • Pneumonia, Bacterial / complications*
  • Pneumonia, Bacterial / microbiology
  • Pneumonia, Bacterial / pathology