Study on Local Pneumonia Epidemiology and Legionella's Role
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: A Hospital-based Study on the Local Epidemiology of Pneumonia Including the Contribution of Legionella Pneumonia
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Albert Iruthiaraj Lourdesamy Anthony, Zarifah Zam, Narwani Hussin
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Hospital-based Study on the Local Epidemiology of Pneumonia Including the Contribution of Legionella Pneumonia
Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.6.8
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of infectious disease mortality globally, particularly among hospitalized patients. Despite its prevalence, identifying the causative pathogens for pneumonia often proves challenging, with only 20% of cases featuring a known etiology in real-life practice. The introduction of advanced diagnostic tools, such as the Legionella urine antigen test (LUAT), in developed nations has improved detection rates significantly. This study aimed to investigate the microbiological etiology of pneumonia in hospitalized patients and specifically assess the incidence of Legionella pneumonia in a community hospital in Malaysia, where comprehensive testing for this pathogen is not routinely conducted.
Importance of Microbiological Diagnosis
A microbiological diagnosis was established in only 104 out of 504 enrolled patients (20.6%), highlighting the elusive nature of pneumonia causes in many cases. The most frequently isolated pathogens were Gram-negative bacteria, which indicated a higher associated morbidity and prolonged hospital stays for culture-positive cases. Interestingly, only three cases (0.6%) were attributed to Legionella pneumonia, suggesting that this pathogen is not a common source of infection in the studied population. The findings underscored a critical gap in effective pathogen identification, as a majority (79.4%) of pneumonia cases remained undiagnosed. This situation points to the need for improved diagnostic strategies and resources to better understand the true etiology of pneumonia, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the research demonstrated significant variations in pneumonia etiology, with culture-negative cases being prevalent and often overlooked. The results suggest that Legionella pneumonia is not a common cause in the Malaysian context, albeit being frequently underestimated in other regions. The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing diagnostic capabilities to ensure better identification of pathogens and implementation of tailored treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes. Consequently, a multicenter study may be warranted to further investigate these patterns and refine understanding of the pneumonia landscape in Malaysia.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What percentage of pneumonia cases identified an underlying microbiological cause?
Only 20.6% of the pneumonia cases studied had a microbiological cause identified. This highlights the challenge in diagnosing the etiology of pneumonia in hospitalized patients.
How effective is the Legionella urine antigen test in this study?
The study found that the Legionella urine antigen test confirmed only 0.6% of cases diagnosed with Legionella pneumonia, suggesting it is not a common cause of pneumonia in the region.
What findings were observed among patients with culture-negative pneumonia?
Patients with culture-negative pneumonia were generally younger, had shorter hospital stays, and a lower use of antipseudomonal antibiotics, indicating less severe illness compared to culture-positive pneumonia cases.
What demographic trends were noted in hospitalized pneumonia patients?
The study found that a significant portion of hospitalized pneumonia patients were older adults, aged 65 years and above, who often presented with multiple comorbidities, intensifying their risk for complications.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Study on Local Pneumonia Epidemiology and Legionella's Role”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The term 'Study' is central to research and scientific inquiry. It refers to a systematic investigation into a particular issue or phenomenon. In this context, the study aims to analyze the microbiological etiology of pneumonia in hospitalized patients, contributing valuable insights to the medical community about pathogen detection and treatment outcomes.
2) Table:
In academic research, 'Table' refers to a structured format for presenting data. Tables summarize findings, enabling clearer comparisons and analysis of results, such as demographic characteristics or pathogen distribution in patients. This enhances comprehension and facilitates readers' understanding of complex information by organizing it visually.
3) Disease:
The term 'Disease' denotes an abnormal condition affecting the body or mind that leads to noticeable symptoms or dysfunction. In this document, various diseases related to pneumonia are discussed, emphasizing the importance of understanding the microbiological causes to improve diagnosis, management, and treatment of pneumonia in hospitalized patients.
4) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to a class of medications used to treat infections caused by bacteria. In the context of pneumonia, appropriate antibiotic use is crucial for effective treatment. The study examines antibiotic regimens and their correlation with patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of tailored antibiotic therapy based on identified pathogens.
5) Blood:
'Blood' is vital for transporting nutrients, gases, and waste products in the body. In this research context, blood samples are collected to culture for pathogens, assisting in the microbiological diagnosis of pneumonia. The analysis of blood culture yields provides insights into the severity and nature of infections.
6) Pursued:
The term 'Pursued' in research indicates the efforts made to investigate or explore a particular topic. In this study, specific testing methodologies for identifying bacterial and viral pathogens were pursued to enhance understanding and provide clarity on the causes of pneumonia, ultimately improving patient management strategies.
7) Rules:
'Rules' refer to principles governing behavior or operations within a specific context. In scientific research, following methodological rules ensures validity and reliability of findings. These regulations guide researchers in collecting and analyzing data, maintaining ethical standards, and contributing to credible, reproducible outcomes in their studies.
8) Death:
The term 'Death' signifies the cessation of all biological functions sustaining a living organism. In the medical context, studies on pneumonia often focus on death rates and their relation to underlying conditions. Understanding mortality associated with pneumonia helps shape treatment protocols and preventive strategies in clinical settings.
9) Life:
'Life' encompasses the unique characteristics distinguishing living organisms from inanimate matter. In medicine, the study of life often revolves around health, wellness, and disease prevention. The research considers the impact of pneumonia on patients' quality of life and the implications for public health strategies to reduce infection rates.
10) Performance:
'Performance' refers to the effectiveness or efficiency with which tasks are executed. In clinical research, it can relate to the efficacy of diagnostic tests or treatments. Evaluating the performance of different pathogens in causing pneumonia helps identify effective management strategies and improves patient outcomes through tailored interventions.
11) Cancer:
The term 'Cancer' denotes a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. While the primary focus is pneumonia, understanding the interplay between lung infections and comorbidities like cancer is essential for developing comprehensive treatment plans for affected patients, especially those with higher susceptibility to severe infections.
12) Shauca (Sauca):
'Sauca' likely refers to an individual or a research team member associated with the study. In academic citations, names are critical for attribution, allowing readers to trace the origin of ideas or findings. The contribution of specific researchers is pivotal in advancing knowledge in medical literature.
13) Field:
The term 'Field' generally denotes a specific area of study or expertise. In the medical research context, it refers to fields like microbiology, epidemiology, or infectious diseases. The specialized knowledge within these fields drives advancements and better understanding of conditions such as pneumonia and its various etiological factors.
14) Fever:
'Fever' is a physiological response characterized by an increase in body temperature, often indicating infection or illness. In pneumonia cases, fever is a common symptom that aids clinicians in diagnosing the severity of infections. Assessing patient fever patterns contributes to overall clinical evaluations and treatment strategies.
15) Sage:
'Sage' may refer to wisdom or profound knowledge, often utilized in guiding medical practices. In this context, the accumulation of 'sage' knowledge is crucial for healthcare professionals to develop effective treatment regimens and educational frameworks for managing conditions like pneumonia, enhancing patient care and outcomes.
16) Male:
The term 'Male' indicates the biological sex determined by specific genetic and physiological characteristics. In the study, male gender is analyzed concerning the prevalence, demographics, and outcomes of pneumonia, thus allowing researchers to identify potential differences in health risks and treatment responses attributed to biological sex.
17) Tuberculosis:
'Tuberculosis' (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs but can impact other body parts. The exclusion of patients suspected to have active tuberculosis in this study highlights the importance of differential diagnosis, ensuring clarity in pneumonia cases and facilitating targeted treatments to improve patient safety and outcomes.
18) Calculation:
'Calculation' represents the mathematical process of determining values or outcomes based on data. In research studies, appropriate calculation techniques are vital for sample size determinations, error margins, and statistical significance. Accurate calculations enhance research credibility and ensure that conclusions drawn are statistically valid.
19) Perception:
'Perception' relates to the way individuals interpret sensory information and experiences. In the context of pneumonia diagnosis, medical personnel's perception of symptoms can influence clinical decision-making and diagnostic processes. Recognizing variations in clinical perception is essential for training and improving diagnostic accuracy in pneumonia cases.
20) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the section in research where findings are interpreted, contextualized, and analyzed. It allows authors to address the implications of their results, compare with existing literature, and propose future research directions. This critical aspect fosters a deeper understanding of the implications and relevance of the study.
21) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' encompasses information, understanding, and awareness gained through experience or education. In medical research, knowledge is fundamental for guiding clinical practice, improving patient outcomes, and informing health policies. The study contributes to the collective body of knowledge regarding pneumonia etiology, impacts, and management.
22) Teaching:
'Teaching' involves imparting knowledge or skills to others. In healthcare, effective teaching strategies enhance the training of medical professionals about pneumonia diagnosis and treatment. Sharing findings from research contributes to educational practices, ensuring that healthcare providers stay updated on current evidence-based practices and patient care protocols.
23) Species:
'Species' is a fundamental classification unit in biology, representing groups of organisms capable of interbreeding. In microbiology, understanding bacterial species involved in pneumonia aids in identifying effective treatments and informing public health strategies to manage infections. Knowledge about species variation is vital for effective disease management.
24) Science (Scientific):
'Science' signifies the systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. In this context, it refers to the rigorous methodologies employed to research pneumonia, emphasizing scientific approaches in understanding disease mechanisms, treatment efficacy, and patient outcomes.
25) Aureus:
'Aureus' typically refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that can cause a range of illnesses, including pneumonia. The study's relevance includes analyzing this bacterium's role in microbial infections, enhancing understanding of resistance patterns, and tailoring antibiotic therapies for effective treatment against such pathogens.
26) Nature:
'Nature' refers to the intrinsic characteristics or inherent qualities of something. In this context, it encompasses the biological and ecological aspects of pathogens causing pneumonia. Understanding the nature of different infectious agents is vital for developing preventative and therapeutic approaches in managing pneumonia cases effectively.
27) Reason:
'Reason' denotes the explanation or justification for a particular action or belief. In the context of medical research, understanding the underlying reasons for health trends, such as pneumonia incidence, is crucial for developing effective public health measures and optimizing patient care strategies based on observed phenomena.
28) Medium:
'Medium' signifies a means of communication or an environment for conducting experiments. In scientific research, the term can relate to growth media used for culturing bacteria, which is crucial for isolating pathogens in pneumonia studies. Proper selection of growth mediums enhances the reliability of microbial diagnosis.
29) Pain:
'Pain' is a physical sensation characterized by discomfort or suffering, often associated with illness or injury. In the context of pneumonia, understanding patients’ pain levels can guide clinicians in managing symptoms effectively. Accurately assessing pain contributes to comprehensive patient care and improves treatment outcomes.
30) Gold (Golden):
'Gold' often symbolizes a standard or benchmark, such as 'gold standard' tests or procedures used in clinical diagnosis. In pneumonia research, identifying gold standard diagnostic methods enhances the reliability and accuracy of pathogen detection, ensuring effective treatment strategies are based on verified specimens and methodologies.
31) Post:
'Post' indicates a subsequent or following condition. In research, post-assessment of patient outcomes after treatment provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of medical interventions for pneumonia. Post-study evaluations contribute to evidence-based practices, thereby improving future healthcare strategies and patient care models.
32) Pur:
'Poor' describes a state of inadequate quality or performance, and in medical terms, it often refers to suboptimal health outcomes or access to care. Understanding the poor outcomes associated with pneumonia can drive efforts to improve healthcare access, reduce morbidity, and enhance overall patient management strategies.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Study on Local Pneumonia Epidemiology and Legionella's Role’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Public health, Data collection, Statistical analysis, Sample size, Clinical trial, Study population, Observational study, Clinical Practice, Treatment response, Study design, Mortality Rate, Viral etiology, Cerebrovascular disease, Study protocol, Case detection rate, Co-morbidities, Antimicrobial therapy, Clinical recovery, Clinical information, Declaration of Helsinki, Patient characteristics, Intensive care unit, Etiological Diagnosis, Prospective observational study, Study findings, Sputum sample, Community Acquired Pneumonia, Hospital-acquired pneumonia, Diagnostic delay, Gram negative organism, Study Limitation, Selective media, Patient Outcome, Blood sample, Serological test, Antibiotic Guidelines, Microbiological diagnosis, Point-of-care testing, Public Health Authorities, Severe sepsis, Patients with pneumonia, Older patients, Pathogen distribution, Mortality trend, Prospective analysis, Gram-negative infection, Pneumonia cases, Antipseudomonal antibiotic, Positive Cases, Demographic characteristic.