Pneumonia in immunocompromised host

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Lungs

Pneumococci organism

Respiratory system

The lungs

Pneumonia in immunodeficient patient

The goal of treatment is to get rid of the infection with antibiotics or antifungal agents. The specific drug used will depend on what kind of organism is causing the problem. One drug may kill one type of organism, but not another.

Respiratory treatments (to remove fluid and mucus) and oxygen therapy are often needed.

The outcome may be poor if the pneumonia is caused by a virus or fungus, or if the patient is severely immunosuppressed.

• Respiratory failure
• Death

Call your health care provider if you are immunosuppressed and you have symptoms of pneumonia.

Review Date: 11/07/2005
Reviewed By: Cyrus Badshah, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University; Assistant Attending Physician, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & Medical Director, Chest (TB) Clinic and Directly Observed Therapy Program, Harlem Hospital Center. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.