Atypical pneumonia is a lung infection.
“Typical pneumonia” is a severe illness. It is usually caused by bacteria such as
Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae,
or
Klebsiella pneumoniae
. Typical pneumonia tends to strike older individuals, especially those with heart or lung conditions.
In contrast, atypical pneumonia tends to be a milder illness. It is caused by a different assortment of bacteria or viruses, and it usually strikes healthy young people.
All types of pneumonia are potentially serious conditions that require care from your doctor.
Atypical pneumonia is usually caused by:
-
Bacteria
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae
- Chlamydia
bacteria
- Coxiella burnetii
- Legionella
-
Viruses
The following factors increase your chances of developing atypical pneumonia:
- Being a child, adolescent, or young adult
- Living in closed communities, such as dormitories in boarding schools or colleges, and military barracks
- Cigarette smoking
- Lung disease
- Weakened immune system
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume the cause is due to pneumonia. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions.
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough, often dry
- Sore throat
- Phlegm (sputum) production
- Muscle aches and pains
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fast breathing
- Intense fatigue
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
- Chest X-ray
–looking at your lungs with a chest x-ray may reveal pneumonia
- Blood Tests
–testing your white blood cells can determine whether you are experiencing a bacterial or a viral infection. Other blood tests can identify the presence of certain bacteria or viruses.
- Blood Cultures–
bacteria or viruses may be grown from samples of your blood in a laboratory. The specific type of bacteria or virus can then be identified, so that you can receive appropriate treatment.
- Sputum Test–
if you are coughing up sputum, you may be asked to collect some in a sterile container for testing. This can reveal what type of bacteria is causing your illness, so the correct treatment can be started.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Usually, atypical pneumonia due to bacteria can be treated with oral antibiotics at home. However, more severe pneumonia may require intravenous antibiotics in the hospital. Some of the antibiotics used to treat atypical pneumonia include erythromycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin.
Viral pneumonia will not respond to antibiotic treatment.
If you are severely ill from pneumonia, you may need extra oxygen.
To help reduce your chances of getting pneumonia, take the following steps:
- Use good handwashing techniques.
- Avoid contact with other ill people.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treating any chronic conditions.
Last reviewed December 2006 by David Juan, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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