Diagnostic and treatment of community acquired pneumonia

Abstract

In Germany, the incidence of community acquired pneumonia ranges approximately between 307,000 to 831,000 cases annually. As far as relevant antibiotic prescriptions take place in an outpatient setting, knowledge of relevant pathogens, diagnostic tools and careful prescription of antibiotic treatment is required. In the present review, we present current guideline strategies for detection and adequate treatment of community acquired pneumonia. Additionally, we propose the implementation of the "Access, Watch, Reserve" (AWaRe) classification of antibiotics by the World Health Organization (WHO) into the current German guideline for community acquired pneumonia for emphasizing antibiotic stewardship in an outpatient and inpatient setting.