Epidemiology of community-acquired pneumonia in older adults: a population-based study

Study on the material basis and immunological enhancement activity of dangdi oral liquid

Studies have shown that a lot of traditional Chinese medicines could improve the immunity of the body. Dangdi oral liquid (DDO) was mainly composed of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Danggui), Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. (Dihuang), Achyranthes bidentata Bl. (Niuxi), Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (Gancao). In this study, the rapid ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) method was used to identify the potentially effective compounds of DDO. Then the immune activity of DDO was measured by lymphocyte proliferation, macrophage phagocytic function, NK cell activity, delayed type hypersensitivity reaction, hemolytic plaque number, sIgA content and immune organ index. The results showed that a total of 51 compounds were identified. In addition, DDO could significantly promote the lymphocyte proliferation, improve macrophage phagocytic ability, NK cell activity, hemolytic plaque number, sIgA content and immune organ index compared with control group, and the medium dose possessed the best efficacy (P＜0.05). These results indicated that DDO could enhance the immunity of mice.

Risk of Parkinson's disease-related death in cancer survivors: A population-based study in Japan

BACKGROUND

The risk of Parkinson's disease (PD)-related death in patients with cancer largely unexplored.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Neoplasms ANd other causes of DEath (NANDE) study, which investigates the causes of death in patients with cancer in Japan. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated to compare the risk of PD-related deaths in patients with cancer to that of the general population. Poisson regression models were employed to estimate the relative risk of PD-related death in the subgroups.

RESULTS

The cohort included 548,485 patients with cancer, yielding 2,047,398 person-years at risk from 1995 to 2013. During the study period, 242,250 patients died and 145 deaths were attributable to PD. The SMR for PD-related death was 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.99-2.75). Patients who were diagnosed with cancer before 70 years of age had a high SMR (>5) for PD-related deaths. The SMR of patients with mouth-to-stomach cancers (lip, oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach cancers) was 3.72 (95% CI: 2.84-4.86), while that of those with other cancers was 1.93 (95% CI: 1.57-2.37). The multivariate Poisson regression model revealed that patients with mouth-to-stomach cancers were more likely to die of PD than those without (relative risk 2.07, 95 % CI; 1.46-2.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cancer are at a high risk of PD-related death; particularly, mouth-to-stomach cancers and potentially obstructing medication for PD are attributable to a high mortality risk. Careful management, including adequate PD treatment, would benefit cancer survivors with PD and reduce the risk of PD-related death.

Impact of viral detection in patients with community-acquired pneumonia: An observational cohort study

PURPOSE

The presence of a respiratory virus in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) may have an impact on the bacterial etiology and clinical presentation. In this study we aimed to assess the role of viral infection in the bacterial etiology and outcomes of patients with CAP.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of all adults hospitalized with CAP between November 2017 and October 2018. Patients were classified according to the presence of viral infection. An unvaried and a multivaried analysis were performed to identify variables associated with viral infection and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall 590 patients were included. A microorganism was documented in 375 cases (63.5%). A viral infection was demonstrated in 118 (20%). The main pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae (35.8%), Staphylococcus aureus (2.9%) and influenza virus (10.8%). A trend to a higher rate of S. aureus (p=0.06) in patients with viral infection was observed. Patients with viral infection had more often bilateral consolidation patterns (17.8% vs 10.8%, p=0.04), respiratory failure (59.3% vs 42.8%, p=0.001), ICU admission (17.8% vs 7%, p=0.001) and invasive mechanical ventilation (9.3% vs 2.8%, p=0.003). Risk factors for respiratory failure were chronic lung disease, age >65 years, positive blood cultures and viral infection. Influenza, virus but no other respiratory viruses, was associated with respiratory failure (OR, 3.72; 95% CI, 2.06-6.73).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study reinforces the idea that co-viral infection has an impact in the clinical presentation of CAP causing a more severe clinical picture. This impact seems to be mainly due to influenza virus infection.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Roles of Procalcitonin and Other Tools in Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Narrative Review

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is among the most common causes of death and one of the leading healthcare concerns worldwide. It can evolve into sepsis and septic shock, which have a high mortality rate, especially in critical patients and comorbidities. The definitions of sepsis were revised in the last decade as "life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection". Procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and complete blood count, including white blood cells, are among the most commonly analyzed sepsis-specific biomarkers also used in pneumonia in a broad range of studies. It appears to be a reliable diagnostic tool to expedite care of these patients with severe infections in the acute setting. PCT was found to be superior to most other acute phase reactants and indicators, including CRP as a predictor of pneumonia, bacteremia, sepsis, and poor outcome, although conflicting results exist. In addition, PCT use is beneficial to judge timing for the cessation of antibiotic treatment in most severe infectious states. The clinicians should be aware of strengths and weaknesses of known and potential biomarkers in expedient recognition and management of severe infections. This manuscript is intended to present an overview of the definitions, complications, and outcomes of CAP and sepsis in adults, with special regard to PCT and other important markers.

Clinical Features of COVID-19 and Differentiation from Other Causes of CAP

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, one of the most common reasons for infection-related death worldwide. Causes of CAP include numerous viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens, though frequently no specific organism is found. Beginning in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused incredible morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 has many features typical of CAP such as fever, respiratory distress, and cough, and can be difficult to distinguish from other types of CAP. Here, we highlight unique clinical features of COVID-19 pneumonia such as olfactory and gustatory dysfunction, lymphopenia, and distinct imaging appearance.

Exploration of Aging-Care Parameters to Predict Mortality of Patients Aged 80-Years and Above with Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Purpose

The study explores a clinical model based on aging-care parameters to predict the mortality of hospitalized patients aged 80-year and above with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Patients and methods

In this study, four hundred and thirty-five CAP patients aged 80-years and above were enrolled in the Central Hospital of Minhang District, Shanghai during 01,01,2018–31,12,2021. The clinical data were collected, including aging-care relevant factors (ALB, FRAIL, Barthel Index and age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index) and other commonly used factors. The prognostic factors were screened by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to predict the mortality risk.

Results

Univariate analysis demonstrated that several factors, including gender, platelet distribution width, NLR, ALB, CRP, pct, pre-albumin, CURB-65, low-density, lipoprotein, Barthel Index, FRAIL, leucocyte count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count and aCCI, were associated with the prognosis of CAP. Multivariate model analyses further identified that CURB-65 (p < 0.0001, OR = 5.44, 95% CI = 3.021–10.700), FRAIL (p < 0.0001, OR = 5.441, 95% CI = 2.611–12.25) and aCCI (p = 0.003, OR = 1.551, 95% CI = 1.165–2.099) were independent risk factors, whereas ALB (p = 0.005, OR = 0.871, 95% CI = 0.788–0.957) and Barthel Index (p = 0.0007, OR = 0.958, 95% CI = 0.933–0.981) were independent protective factors. ROC curves were plotted to further predict the in-hospital mortality and revealed that combination of three parameters (Barthel Index+ FRAI +CURB-65) showed the best performance.

Conclusion

This study showed that CURB-65, frailty and aCCI were independent risk factors influencing prognosis. In addition, ALB and Barthel Index were protective factors for in CAP patients over 80-years old. AUC was calculated and revealed that combination of three parameters (Barthel Index+ FRAI +CURB-65) showed the best performance.

Respiratory etiological surveillance among quarantined patients with suspected lower respiratory tract infection at a medical center in southern Taiwan during COVID-19 pandemic

Background

A comprehensive study of respiratory pathogens was conducted in an area with a low prevalence of COVID-19 among the adults quarantined at a tertiary hospital.

Methods

From March to May 2020, 201 patients suspected lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) were surveyed for etiologies by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR: FilmArray TM Respiratory Panel) test combination with cultural method, viral antigen detection and serologic surveys.

Results

Total 201 patients tested with FilmArray TM Respiratory Panel were enrolled, of which 68.2% had sputum bacterial culture, 86.1% had pneumococcus and Legionella urine antigen test. Their median age was 72.0 year-old with multiple comorbidities, and 11.4% were nursing home residents. Bacteria accounted for 59.7% of identified pathogens. Atypical pathogens were identified in 31.3% of total pathogens, of which viruses accounted for 23.9%. In comparison to patients with bacterial infection, patients with atypical pathogens were younger (median= 77.2 vs 67.1, years, P = 0.017) and had shorter length of hospital (8.0 vs 4.5, days, P = 0.007).

Conclusions

Patients with LRTI caused by atypical pathogens was indistinguishable from those with bacterial pathogens by clinical manifestations or biomarkers. Multiplex PCR providing rapid diagnosis of atypical pathogens enhance patient care and decision making when rate of sputum culture sampling was low in quarantine ward during pandemic.

Prognostic value of blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio for mortality of pneumonia in patients receiving glucocorticoids: Secondary analysis based on a retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have revealed that blood urea nitrogen-to-serum albumin ratio (BUN/ALB) is one of major risk factors of mortality in pneumonia. However, there are fewer scientific research about the correlation between BUN/ALB ratio and outcome of pneumonia in patients receiving glucocorticoids. This study was undertaken to explore the prognostic value of BUN/ALB ratio for mortality of pneumonia in patients receiving glucocorticoids.

METHODS

The present study was a retrospective cohort study. 1397 subjects receiving glucocorticoids alone or glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressants from six secondary and tertiary academic hospitals in China were analyzed. The endpoint of the study was 30-day mortality. It was noted that the entire study was completed by Li et al. and uploaded the data to the DATADRYAD website. The author only used this data for secondary analysis.

RESULTS

After adjusting potential confounders (age, sex, WBC, persistent lymphocytopenia, PLT, ALT, AST, Cr, high-dose steroid use, and COPD), non-linear relationship was detected between BUN/ALB ratio and 30-day mortality, whose point was 0.753. The effect sizes and the confidence intervals on the left and right sides of inflection point were 23.110 (7.157, 74.623) and 0.410 (0.074, 2.283), respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed the positive association was stronger among subjects with connective tissue disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between BUN/ALB ratio and 30-day mortality of pneumonia in patients receiving glucocorticoids is non-linear. BUN/ALB ratio is positively related with 30-day mortality when BUN/ALB ratio is less than 0.753.

The hospitalization burden of all-cause pneumonia in China: A population-based study, 2009-2017

BACKGROUND

Pneumonia represents a public health problem of substantial health and economic burden. However, the evidence on the burden of adult pneumonia is limited in China.

METHODS

The China Kadoorie Biobank recruited 512,725 participants aged 30-79 years from five urban and five rural areas during 2004-2008. The current analyses included 506,086 participants who were alive in 2009. Pneumonia hospitalizations were ascertained through the health insurance system until December 31, 2017. Generalized linear models were used to examine the secular trends and regional and population variations in pneumonia hospitalization rate, mean length of hospital stay (LOS), and 30-day case fatality rate (CFR).

FINDINGS

A total of 27,879 participants with 36,567 pneumonia hospitalizations were identified with a mean follow-up time of 8·9 years. The unadjusted hospitalization rate was 8·4 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8·3, 8·6) per 1000 person-years, with an increase of 15·5% annually from 4·2 (3·9, 4·4) in 2009 to 10·9 (10·6, 11·3) in 2017, after adjusting for age, sex, study area. The mean LOS was 8·8 (95% CI: 8·7, 8·9) days, with a slight decrease of 1·0% annually from 2009 to 2017. The average 30-day CFR remained practically unchanged at 2·4 (95% CI: 2·2, 2·5) deaths per 100 admissions. A clear seasonal pattern of pneumonia hospitalization rate was observed, and the hospitalization rate and CFR differed across regions and subpopulations of different ages and underlying conditions.

INTERPRETATION

There was an increasing hospitalization burden of pneumonia in Chinese adults, especially for adults aged ≥60 years or those with underlying conditions.

FUNDING

The National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation, the National Key R&D Program of China, the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology.

TRANSLATED ABSTRACT IN CHINESE

This translation in Chinese was submitted by the authors and we reproduce it as supplied. It has not been peer reviewed. Our editorial processes have only been applied to the original abstract in English, which should serve as reference for this manuscript. :, ., .:(China Kadoorie Biobank)2004-2008555030-79.506,086200911.20091120171231.,30,.:8.9, 27,879, 36,567.8.4 (95% CI:8.3, 8.6)/1000, ,, 20094.2 (3.9, 4.4)201710.9 (10.6, 11.3), 15.5%.8.8(95% CI:8.7, 8.9), 1.0%.30, 2.4(95% CI:2.2, 2.5)/100.;,, 30.:, ≥60.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Drug-Related Problems in People With Dementia Living in the Community: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this systematic review were to identify the prevalence and risk factors associated with of drug-related problems (DRPs) in people living with dementia in the community.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

People with dementia living in the community.

METHODS

Six databases (Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Scopus, and CINAHL) were searched using a combination of keywords and Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms with 4 concepts: dementia, older adults, DRPs, and community-dwelling. Primary outcomes were adverse drug reactions (ADRs), adverse drug events (ADEs), and medication errors (MEs).

RESULTS

There were 22 studies included: 4 cross-sectional studies and 18 cohort studies. The number of participants in these studies ranged from 81 to 21,795. The pooled prevalence for any ADEs, including ADRs, in people living with dementia was 19.0% (95% CI 11.6%-27.7%), whereas the pooled prevalence for specific types of ADEs ranged from 2.6% to 10.2%. Furthermore, the prevalence of MEs ranged from 0.9% to 41.3%. Psychotropic medications, polypharmacy, and inappropriate medications contributed to an increased risk of experiencing DRPs, whereas support with medication management was a protective factor.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The prevalence of overall DRPs experienced by people with dementia was highly variable in included studies. Awareness that certain medication, patient, and medication management factors are associated with the risk of people with dementia experiencing DRPs may guide clinicians to identify high-risk situations and implement suitable mitigation strategies.

Risk Factors for Infections, Antibiotic Therapy, and Its Impact on Cancer Therapy Outcomes for Patients with Solid Tumors

Infections represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Multiple factors related to the patient, tumor, and cancer therapy can affect the risk of infection in patients with solid tumors. A thorough understanding of such factors can aid in the identification of patients with substantial risk of infection, allowing medical practitioners to tailor therapy and apply prophylactic measures to avoid serious complications. The use of novel treatment modalities, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy, brings diagnostic and therapeutic challenges into the management of infections in cancer patients. A growing body of evidence suggests that antibiotic therapy can modulate both toxicity and antitumor response induced by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and especially immunotherapy. This article provides a comprehensive review of potential risk factors for infections and therapeutic approaches for the most prevalent infections in patients with solid tumors, and discusses the potential effect of antibiotic therapy on toxicity and efficacy of cancer therapy.

Burden of pneumococcal disease among adults in Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece): a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim was to summarize pneumococcal disease burden data among adults in Southern Europe and the potential impact of vaccines on epidemiology. Of 4779 identified studies, 272 were selected. Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) incidence was 15.08 (95% CI 11.01-20.65) in Spain versus 2.56 (95% CI 1.54-4.24) per 100,000 population in Italy. Pneumococcal pneumonia incidence was 19.59 (95% CI 10.74-35.74) in Spain versus 2.19 (95% CI 1.36-3.54) per 100,000 population in Italy. Analysis of IPD incidence in Spain comparing pre-and post- PCV7 and PCV13 periods unveiled a declining trend in vaccine-type IPD incidence (larger and statistically significant for the elderly), suggesting indirect effects of childhood vaccination programme. Data from Portugal, Greece and, to a lesser extent, Italy were sparse, thus improved surveillance is needed. Pneumococcal vaccination uptake, particularly among the elderly and adults with chronic and immunosuppressing conditions, should be improved, including shift to a higher-valency pneumococcal conjugate vaccine when available.

Community-acquired pneumonia: Trends in and research on drug resistance and advances in new antibiotics

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) refers to infectious inflammation of the lung parenchyma developing outside of a hospital. CAP has quite a high mortality and morbidity rate worldwide, and especially among elderly patients. The increasing burden of CAP is due to antibiotic resistance, the growth of the elderly population, and underlying comorbidities. Streptococcus pneumoniae remains the most common bacterial pathogen causing CAP, but multi-drug resistance bacteria and potential pathogens have increased the difficulty and challenges of managing CAP. Although preventive measures, diagnostic techniques, and treatment strategies are constantly advancing and improving, the susceptibility of multi-drug resistant pathogens, such as including Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, has not improved significantly in recent decades, thus highlighting the importance and necessity of developing new antibiotics for the treatment of CAP. New antimicrobials have been approved over the past few years that will expand treatment options for CAP, and especially for patients with potential comorbidities. This situation also offers the chance to reduce the abuse of antibiotics, their toxicities, and their adverse reactions and to provide effective personalized antibiotic treatment.

Burden of pneumonia in patients with viral and bacterial coinfection in Spain during six consecutive influenza seasons, from 2009-10 to 2014-15

PURPOSE

Lower respiratory infections remain the most lethal communicable disease worldwide. Viral and bacterial coinfections (VBC) are common complications in patients with seasonal influenza and are associated with around 25% of all influenza-related deaths. The burden of pneumonia in patients with VBC in Spain is poorly characterized. To address this question, we aimed to provide population data over a period of six consecutive influenza seasons, from 2009-10 to 2014-15.

METHODS

We used the discharge report from the Minimum Basic Data Set (MBDS), published annually by the Spanish Ministry of Health, to retrospectively analyse hospital discharge data in individuals aged ≥60 years with a diagnosis of pneumonia and influenza, based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9-CM codes 480-486 and 487-488, respectively), from 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2015.

RESULTS

In total, 1933 patients ≥60 years old were hospitalized for pneumonia and influenza, of whom 55.2% were male. The median age was 74 years (interquartile range [IRQ] 15); half of the patients were ≥75 years old. Influenza was the main diagnosis in 64.4% of the patients, and all-cause pneumonia in 15.8%, half of whom were assigned a diagnostic code for pneumococcal pneumonia. The mean annual hospitalization rate was 2.99 per 100,000 population (95% CI 2.9-3.1) throughout the study period, while the highest rate, 5.6 per 100,000 population (95% CI 5.2-6.0), was observed in the 2013-14 season. The mean annual mortality rate was 0.5 deaths per 100,000 population (95% CI 0.4-0.6) and in-hospital case fatality rate was 16.1% (95% CI 14.5-17.8).

CONCLUSIONS

In Spain, community-acquired pneumonia and influenza continue to be an important cause of hospitalization and mortality in patients over 60 years of age. There is an urgent need to further develop prevention strategies such as joint vaccination for both pathologies.

Cost Effectiveness of Different Initial Antimicrobial Regimens for Elderly Community-Acquired Pneumonia Patients in General Ward

Purpose

The cost-effectiveness of different guideline-concordant antimicrobial regimens for elderly patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) was rarely discussed. This study attempts to explore the most appropriate cost-effectiveness of guideline-concordant antimicrobial regimen for elderly patients with CAP in general wards.

Patients and Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective, 4:2:1 matched study enrolling 511 elderly patients with CAP hospitalized in general wards. Two hundred ninety-two patients prescribed with β-lactam monotherapy (group A), 146 patients prescribed with fluoroquinolone monotherapy (group B) and 73 patients prescribed with β-lactam/macrolide combination therapy (group C). Clinical outcomes and medical costs were analyzed by χ² test for categorical variables or Kruskal–Wallis H-test for continuous variables.

Results

There were no statistical differences in imaging features, etiology and complications during hospitalization among these three groups. The rates of clinical failure occurrence, in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality and 60-day mortality also had no significant differences among group A, B and C patients; however, the median length of stay (LOS) in group A patients was 12.0 days, which was significantly higher than that in group B and C patients (both 10.0 days, p<0.02). The median total, drug, and antibiotic costs for one elderly CAP episode in group B patients were RMB 10368.4, RMB 3874.8, and RMB 1796.3, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in group A and C patients (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Non-inferiority of clinical failure occurrence and short-term mortality was observed in different guideline-concordant antimicrobial regimens for elderly patients with CAP in general wards; however, the median LOS and hospitalization-associated costs for one elderly CAP episode with fluoroquinolone monotherapy were significantly lowest, and this strategy was considered to be the most cost-effective strategy in general wards.

Activity of daily living upon admission is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in older patients with community-acquired pneumonia

BACKGROUND

Older patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) are at high risk for short-term mortality. Activity of daily living (ADL) is associated with clinical outcomes in older patients. We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of ADL upon admission on the in-hospital mortality in older patients with CAP.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving patients aged ≥65 years admitted to Beijing Chao-Yang hospital due to CAP between June 2012 and June 2020. ADL evaluation upon admission was performed by Barthel Index (BI). Data from all patients were extracted from the electronic medical records.

RESULTS

Four thousand eight hundred eighty patients were included, 131 patients (2.7%) died during their hospitalization. Median BI in the Deceased group was 45 (20-65), Deceased group had lower BI scores than Survivors group (p < 0.001). Low BI (< 60) was more frequent in patients who died in the hospital than in patients discharged alive (69.5% vs. 13%, p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality was higher among patients with worse ADL upon admission (BI< 60) compared to those BI≥60 (12.6% vs. 0.9%). The worse ADL upon admission (BI< 60) was associated with an increase in the risk of death during CAP hospitalization, worse ADL upon admission (BI< 60) showed an odds ratio (OR) for in-hospital mortality of 7.53 (95%CI: 2.77-20.48; P < 0.01). This association remained significant after adjustment for age, comorbid conditions, respiratory failure, pathogens and laboratory findings (OR, 3.74; 95%CI, 2.37-5.91; P < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that BI upon admission is a predictor related to in-hospital mortality in elderly patients, the area under the ROC curve of BI in predicting in-hospital mortality was 0.81 (with 95% confidence interval: 0.78-0.85). The predictive value of ADL upon admission was better than age in our study population.

CONCLUSION

Activity of daily living upon admission is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in older patients with community-acquired pneumonia.

Respiratory Muscle Weakness as a Risk Factor for Pneumonia in Older People

INTRODUCTION

The respiratory muscle strength regulates the effectiveness of coughing, which clears the airways and protects people from pneumonia. Sarcopenia is an aging-related loss of muscle mass and function, the worsening of which is associated with malnutrition. The loss of respiratory and swallowing muscle strength occurs with aging, but its effect on pneumonia is unclear. This study aimed to determine the risks of respiratory muscle weakness on the onset and relapse of pneumonia in older people in conjunction with other muscle-related factors such as malnutrition.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal study with 47 pneumonia inpatients and 35 non-pneumonia controls aged 70 years and older. We evaluated the strength of respiratory and swallowing muscles, muscle mass, and malnutrition (assessed by serum albumin levels and somatic fat) during admission and confirmed pneumonia relapse within 6 months. The maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures determined the respiratory muscle strength. Swallowing muscle strength was evaluated by tongue pressure. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to evaluate the muscle and fat mass.

RESULTS

The respiratory muscle strength, body trunk muscle mass, serum albumin level, somatic fat mass, and tongue pressure were significantly lower in pneumonia patients than in controls. Risk factors for the onset of pneumonia were low inspiratory respiratory muscle strength (odds ratio [OR], 6.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.56-30.11), low body trunk muscle mass divided by height2 (OR, 6.86; 95% CI, 1.49-31.65), and low serum albumin level (OR, 5.46; 95% CI, 1.51-19.79). For the relapse of pneumonia, low somatic fat mass divided by height2 was a risk factor (OR, 20.10; 95% CI, 2.10-192.42).

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory muscle weakness, lower body trunk muscle mass, and malnutrition were risk factors for the onset of pneumonia in older people. For the relapse of pneumonia, malnutrition was a risk factor.

Factors associated with acute myocardial infarction in older patients after hospitalization with community-acquired pneumonia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and acute myocardial infarction cardiovascular (AMI) are two important health issues in older patients. Little is known regarding characteristics of AMI in older patients hospitalized for CAP. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence, characteristics compared with younger patients, impact on clinical outcomes and risk factors of AMI during hospitalization for CAP in geriatric patients.

METHODS

Eleven thousand nine adult inpatients consisted of 5111 patients≥65 years and 5898 patients< 65 years in respiratory ward diagnosed with CAP were retrospectively analyzed by electronic medical records.

RESULTS

159 (3.1%) older patients in respiratory ward experienced AMI during hospitalization for CAP. AMI were more frequently seen in patients≥65 years compared with patients< 65 years (3.1% vs. 1.0%). Patients≥65 years who experienced AMI during hospitalization for CAP had higher percentage of respiratory failure (P = 0.001), hypertension (P = 0.008), dyspnea (P = 0.046), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) ≥7 mmol/L (P < 0.001), serum sodium< 130 mmol/L (P = 0.005) and had higher in-hospital mortality compared to patients< 65 years (10.1% vs. 6.6%). AMI was associated with increased in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, OR, with 95% confidence interval: 1.49 [1.24-1.82]; P < 0.01). Respiratory failure (OR, 1.34 [1.15-1.54]; P < 0.01), preexisting coronary artery disease (OR, 1.31[1.07-1.59]; P = 0.02), diabetes (OR, 1.26 [1.11-1.42]; P = 0.02) and BUN (OR, 1.23 [1.01-1.49]; P = 0.04) were correlated with the occurrence of AMI in the older patients after hospitalization with CAP.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of AMI during CAP hospitalization in geriatric patients is notable and have an impact on in-hospital mortality. Respiratory failure, preexisting coronary artery disease, diabetes and BUN was associated with the occurrence of AMI in the older patients after hospitalization with CAP. Particular attention should be paid to older patients with risk factors for AMI.

Role of the inflammatory response in community-acquired pneumonia: clinical implications

INTRODUCTION

Despite adequate antibiotic coverage, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality worldwide. It induces both a local pulmonary and a systemic inflammatory response, particularly significant in severe cases. The intensity of the dysregulated host response varies from patient to patient and has a negative impact on survival and other outcomes.

AREAS COVERED

This comprehensive review summarizes the pathophysiological aspects of the inflammatory response in CAP, briefly discusses the usefulness of biomarkers, and assesses the clinical evidence for modulating the inflammatory pathways. We searched PubMed for the most relevant studies, reviews, and meta-analysis until August 2020.

EXPERT OPINION

Notable efforts have been made to identify biomarkers that can accurately differentiate between viral and bacterial etiology, and indeed, to enhance risk stratification in CAP. However, none has proven ideal and no recommended biomarker-guided algorithms exist. Biomarker signatures from proteomic and metabolomic studies could be more useful for such assessments. To date, most studies have produced contradictory results concerning the role of immunomodulatory agents (e.g. corticosteroids, macrolides, and statins) in CAP. Adequately identifying the population who may benefit most from effective modulation of the inflammatory response remains a challenge.

Prognostic value of chest computed tomography in community-acquired pneumonia patients

Background

Chest computed tomography (CT) is commonly used to diagnose pneumonia in Japan, but its usability in terms of prognostic predictability is not obvious. We modified CURB-65 (confusion, urea >7 mmol·L⁻¹, respiratory rate ≥30 breaths·min⁻¹, blood pressure <90 mmHg (systolic) ≤60 mmHg (diastolic), age ≥65 years) and A-DROP scores with CT information and evaluated their ability to predict mortality in community-acquired pneumonia patients.

Methods

This study was conducted using a prospective registry of the Adult Pneumonia Study Group – Japan. Of the 791 registry patients, 265 hospitalised patients with chest CT were evaluated. Chest CT-modified CURB-65 scores were developed with the first 30 study patients. The 30-day mortality predictability of CT-modified, chest radiography-modified and original CURB-65 scores were validated.

Results

In score development, infiltrates over four lobes and pleural effusion on CT added extra points to CURB-65 scores. The area under the curve for CT-modified CURB-65 scores was significantly higher than that of chest radiography-modified or original CURB-65 scores (both p<0.001). The optimal cut-off CT-modified CURB-65 score was ≥4 (positive-predictive value 80.8%; negative-predictive value 78.6%, for 30-day mortality). For sensitivity analyses, chest CT-modified A-DROP scores also demonstrated better prognostic value than did chest radiography-modified and original A-DROP scores. Poor physical status, chronic heart failure and multiple infiltration hampered chest radiography evaluation.

Conclusion

Chest CT modification of CURB-65 or A-DROP scores improved the prognostic predictability relative to the unmodified scores. In particular, in patients with poor physical status or chronic heart failure, CT findings have a significant advantage. Therefore, CT can be used to enhance prognosis prediction.

Chest CT modification of CURB-65 and A-DROP improves prognosis prediction in community-acquired pneumonia. Patients with low physical status or chronic heart failure may have mismatch of chest CT and radiography findings.https://bit.ly/30GbNZS

Clinical and microbiological profile of adult inpatients with community acquired pneumonia in Ilorin, North Central, Nigeria

Background

The optimal management of community acquired pneumonia (CAP) depends on the clinical and microbiological profile in the locality.

Objectives

To determine the clinical and microbiological profile of patients admitted with CAP in Ilorin, Nigeria.

Methods

One hundred and two consenting consecutively selected patients with clinical and radiologic confirmation of CAP were recruited in 12 months. The socio-demographic, physical examination and laboratory/radiologic parameters were documented in a questionnaire. Microbiological evaluation of their sputum was done and blood samples were taken for complete blood count, culture, serum urea and serological evaluation for atypical bacteria and some viral pathogens.

Results

CAP constituted 5.9% of the total medical admissions during the one-year study period. The mean age of the patients was 49 ± 22 years with the largest frequency in those aged 65 years and above. The commonest symptoms were shortness of breath (96.1%) and cough (94.1%), with a median duration of 3 days from symptom onset to admission. Systemic hypertension was the commonest comorbid illness (25/102; 24.5%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the predominant pathogen isolated (20/102; 28.1%). The susceptible antibiotics were Imipenem, Ceftazidime and Ceftriaxone. Intra-hospital mortality was 17.6%. CURB – 65 score of ≥ 2 and the presence of complications of CAP were the independent predictors of mortality.

Conclusion

CAP constitutes a significant disease burden in Ilorin, Nigeria. Typical bacteria accounted for over half of the pathogens isolated from the patients with gram negative agents predominating. This highlights a possible shift in the microbiological profile which could guide empirical treatment.

Marked Reduction in 28-day Mortality Among Elderly Patients with Severe Community-acquired Pneumonia: Post Hoc Analysis of a Large Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

There were few studies on the case mortality of severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in elderly people. Improved outcomes with XueBiJing (XBJ) injection vs placebo have been shown in overall trial populations. We investigated the efficacy and safety of XBJ vs placebo in subjects with severe CAP stratified by age (<65 and ≥65 years).

Methods

This post hoc analysis of a large randomized trial compared data from elderly and nonelderly patients with XBJ, 100 mL, q 12 h, or a visually indistinguishable placebo for five-to-seven days.

Results

Among subjects ≥65 years (n=291), 23 (16.0%) XBJ recipients and 41 (27.9%) placebo recipients (P=0.014) died within 28 days. Among subjects <65 years (n=360), XBJ still had lower mortality (XBJ 15.6% vs placebo 22.8%; P=0.082), without significantly statistical difference. Total duration of ICU stay and the time of mechanical ventilation were similar in both groups (P>0.05). XBJ also had a favorable safety profile, with no clinically relevant differences between the two groups. The overall incidence of adverse events was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

XBJ was safe and effective for reduction in 28-day mortality among elderly patients with severe CAP. Additional confirmatory trials involving elderly patients are needed to further confirm the present results.

Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx. ChiCTR-TRC-13003534.

The respiratory disease burden of non-traumatic fractures for adults with cerebral palsy

Background

Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) are vulnerable to non-trauma fracture (NTFx) and premature mortality due to respiratory disease (RD); however, very little is known about the contribution of NTFx to RD risk among adults with CP. The purpose of this study was to determine if NTFx is a risk factor for incident RD and if NTFx exacerbates RD risk in the adult CP population.

Methods

Data from 2011 to 2016 Optum Clinformatics® Data Mart and a random 20% sample Medicare fee-for-service were used for this retrospective cohort study. Diagnosis codes were used to identify adults (18+ years) with and without CP, NTFx, incident RD at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month time points (pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial/pleura disease), and comorbidities. Crude incidence rates per 100 person years of RD were estimated. Cox regression estimated hazard ratios (HR and 95% confidence interval [CI]) for RD measures, comparing: (1) CP and NTFx (CP + NTFx); (2) CP without NTFx (CP w/o NTFx); (3) without CP and with NTFx (w/o CP + NTFx); and (4) without CP and without NTFx (w/o CP w/o NTFx) after adjusting for demographics and comorbidities.

Results

The crude incidence rate was elevated for CP + NTFx vs. CP w/o NTFx and w/o CP + NTFx for each RD measure. After adjustments, the HR was elevated for CP + NTFx vs. CP w/o NTFx for pneumonia and interstitial/pleura disease at all time points (all P < 0.05), but not chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (e.g., 24-month HR = 1.07; 95%CI = 0.88-1.31). The adjusted HR was elevated for CP + NTFx vs. w/o CP + NTFx for pneumonia at all time points, interstitial/pleura disease at 12- and 24-month time points, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at 24-months (all P < 0.05). There is evidence of a time-dependent effect of NTFx on pneumonia and interstitial/pleura disease for CP + NTFx as compared to CP w/o NTFx.

Conclusions

Study findings suggest that NTFx is a risk factor for incident RD, including pneumonia and interstitial/pleura disease, among adults with CP and that NTFx exacerbates RD risk for adults with vs. without CP.

Serum cholesterol as a predictor of mortality among the elderly patients with pneumonia in the emergency department

BACKGROUND

Reduced cholesterol levels are associated with poor outcomes in critically ill patients. However, the effect of reduced cholesterol levels on the prognosis of patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum total cholesterol levels and the clinical outcomes of elderly patients with CAP.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study that included elderly (≥65 years) CAP patients hospitalized through emergency department between January 2016 and December 2019. We collected their baseline characteristics and laboratory data, including total cholesterol levels at the time of admission. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between total cholesterol levels and 14-day in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 380 patients were included. The overall 14-day in-hospital mortality rate was 12.37%. Survivors had higher total cholesterol levels than non-survivors (median, 125 mg/dL; interquartile range [IQR], 102-151 mg/dL versus median, 100 mg/dL; IQR, 83-126 mg/dL; p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model showed that a total cholesterol level of <97 mg/dL was independently associated with 14-day in-hospital mortality in patients with CAP (odds ratio, 2.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-7.599; p = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

A decreased level of total cholesterol was associated with increased short-term mortality in elderly patients with CAP. Initial total cholesterol levels may be a useful biomarker to predict the outcome of patients with CAP.

Psychotropic Drug-Associated Pneumonia in Older Adults

The use of psychotropic drugs (antipsychotics, benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-related drugs, and antidepressants) is common, with a prevalence estimates range of 19-29% among community dwelling older adults. These drugs are often prescribed for off-label use, including neuropsychiatric symptoms. The older adult population also has high rates of pneumonia and some of these cases may be associated with adverse drug events. In this narrative review, we summarize the findings from current observational studies on the association between psychotropic drug use and pneumonia in older adults. In addition to studies assessing the use of psychotropics, we included antiepileptic drugs, as they are also central nervous system-acting drugs, whose use is becoming more common in the aging population. The use of antipsychotics, benzodiazepine, and benzodiazepine-related drugs are associated with increased risk of pneumonia in older adults (≥ 65 years of age), and these findings are not limited to this age group. Minimal and conflicting evidence has been reported on the association between antidepressant drug use and pneumonia, but differences between study populations make it difficult to compare findings. Studies regarding antiepileptic drug use and risk of pneumonia in older persons are lacking, although an increased risk of pneumonia in antiepileptic drug users compared with non-users in persons with Alzheimer's disease has been reported. Tools such as the American Geriatric Society Beers Criteria and the STOPP/START criteria for potentially inappropriate medications aids prescribers to avoid these drugs in order to reduce the risk of adverse drug events. However, risk of pneumonia is not mentioned in the current criteria and more research on this topic is needed, especially in vulnerable populations, such as persons with dementia.

Role of Vitamin D in Preventing and Treating Selected Extraskeletal Diseases-An Umbrella Review

Evidence is accumulating that vitamin D may have beneficial effects on respiratory tract, autoimmune, neuro-degenerative, and mental diseases. The present umbrella review of systematic reviews (SRs) of cohort studies and randomised controlled trials (RCTs), plus single Mendelian randomisation studies aims to update current knowledge on the potential role of vitamin D in preventing and treating these extraskeletal diseases. Altogether, 73 SRs were identified. Observational data on primary prevention suggest an inverse association between vitamin D status and the risk of acute respiratory tract infections (ARI), dementia and cognitive decline, and depression, whereas studies regarding asthma, multiple sclerosis (MS), and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are scarce. SRs of RCTs support observational data only for the risk of ARI. No respective RCTs are available for the prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), MS, and T1DM. SRs of RCTs indicate beneficial therapeutic effects in vitamin D-deficient patients with asthma and COPD, while effects on major depression and T1DM need to be further elucidated. Mendelian randomisation studies do not consistently support the results of SRs. Since several limitations of the included SRs and existing RCTs do not permit definitive conclusions regarding vitamin D and the selected diseases, further high-quality RCTs are warranted.

Gender differences in community-acquired pneumonia

INTRODUCTION

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is the most common type of lower respiratory tract infection and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in adults worldwide. Sex and gender play an active role in the incidence and outcomes of major infectious diseases, including CAP.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We searched the following electronic databases from January 2001 to December 2018: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAIL, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central register of Controlled Trials), DARE (Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and ACP Journal Club database.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Several studies have reported higher male susceptibility to pulmonary infections and higher risk of death due to sepsis. Biological differences (e.g. hormonal cycles and cellular immune-mediated responses) together with cultural, behavioral and socio-economic differences are important determinants of the course and outcome of CAP. However, gender-related bias in the provision of care and use of hospital resources has been reported among women, resulting in delayed hospital admission and consequently necessary care.

CONCLUSIONS

CAP is more severe in males than in females, leading to higher mortality in males, especially in older age. To identify gender differences in CAP can guide patient's prognostication and management.

Influenza and Bacterial Coinfection in Adults With Community-Acquired Pneumonia Admitted to Conventional Wards: Risk Factors, Clinical Features, and Outcomes

Background

Relevance of viral and bacterial coinfection (VBC) in non-intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalized adults with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is poorly characterized. We aim to determine risk factors, features, and outcomes of VBC-CAP in this setting.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort of adults admitted to conventional wards with CAP. Patients were divided into VBC-CAP, viral CAP (V-CAP), and bacterial CAP (B-CAP) groups. Independent risk and prognostic factors for VBC-CAP were identified.

Results

We documented 1123 episodes: 57 (5.1%) VBC-CAP, 98 (8.7%) V-CAP, and 968 (86.1%) B-CAP. Patients with VBC-CAP were younger than those with B-CAP (54 vs 71 years; P < .001). Chronic respiratory disease was more frequent in patients with VBC-CAP than in those with V-CAP (26.3% vs 14.3%%; P = .001). Among those with influenza (n = 153), the VBC-CAP group received empirical oseltamivir less often (56.1% vs 73.5%; P < .001). Patients with VBC-CAP also had more respiratory distress (21.1% VBC-CAP; 19.4% V-CAP, and 9.8% B-CAP; P < .001) and required ICU admission more often (31.6% VBC-CAP, 31.6% V-CAP, and 12.8% B-CAP; P < .001). The 30-day case-fatality rate was 3.5% in the VBC-CAP group, 3.1% in the V-CAP group, and 6.3% in the B-CAP group (P = .232). Furthermore, VBC-CAP was associated with severity criteria (odds ratio [OR], 5.219; P < .001) and lack of empirical oseltamivir therapy in influenza cases (OR, 0.401; P < .043).

Conclusions

Viral and bacterial coinfection-CAP involved younger patients with comorbidities and with poor influenza vaccination rate. Patients with VBC-CAP presented more respiratory complications and more often required ICU admission. Nevertheless, 30-day mortality rate was low and related either to severity criteria or to delayed initiation of oseltamivir therapy.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of community-acquired pneumonia in autoimmune disease-induced immunocompromised host: A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in autoimmune diseases (AID)-induced immunocompromised host (ICH) had a high incidence and poor prognosis. However, only a few studies had determined the clinical characteristics of these patients. Our study was to explore the characteristics and predictors of mortality in CAP patients accompanied with AID-induced ICH.

METHODS

From 2013 to 2018, a total of 94 CAP patients accompanied with AID-induced ICH, admitted to Emergency Department of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, were enrolled in this study. Clinical data and the risk regression estimates of repeated predictors were evaluated by generalized estimating equations (GEEs) analysis. An open-cohort approach was used to classify patient's outcomes into the survival or non-survival group.

RESULTS

The hospital mortality of patients with CAP occurring in AID-induced ICH was 60.64%. No significant differences were found with respect to clinical symptoms and lung images between survival and non-survival groups, while renal insufficiency and dysfunction of coagulation had higher proportions in non-survival patients (P<0.05). Both noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) were performed more frequently in non-survival group (P< 0.05). By the multivariate GEEs analysis, the repeated measured longitudinal indices of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (odds ratio [OR]=1.055, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.025-1.086), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (OR=1.004, 95%CI 1.002-1.006) and serum creatinine (sCr) (OR=1.018, 95%CI 1.008-1.028), were associated with a higher risk of mortality.

CONCLUSION

The CAP patients in AID-induced ICH had a high mortality. A significant relationship was demonstrated between the factors of NLR, LDH, sCr and mortality risk in these patients.

Monitoring of community-acquired pneumonia hospitalisations before the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine into Polish National Immunisation Programme (2009-2016): A nationwide retrospective database analysis

PURPOSE

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common infection with significant morbidity and mortality. In January 2017, Poland introduced pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) into their national immunisation programme to protect children against invasive pneumococcal disease. This study was designed to investigate pneumonia-related hospitalisation rates and trends from 2009 to 2016 prior to the introduction of nationally funded PCV vaccination.

METHODS

Using national public statistic data available from the National Institute of Public Health - National Institute of Hygiene, annual hospitalisation rates for pneumonia were analysed, categorised by aetiology and age (<2, 2-3, 4-5, 6-19, 20-59, 60+ years). Trends over time were assessed, as well as in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

The overall hospitalisation rate due to pneumonia varied between 325.9 and 372.2/100,000 population. Higher rates of hospitalisation were seen in older adults and children ≤5 years. Trends were observed when analysing hospitalisations by pneumonia aetiology within age groups: between 2009 and 2016, Streptococcus pneumoniae hospitalisations significantly increased for children aged <2, 2-3, and 4-5 years, from 5.3 to 12.4, 5.2 to 8.2, and 1.9 to 4.6/100,000 population respectively. Whereas hospitalisations due to Haemophilus influenzae pneumonia decreased significantly from 7.8 to 1.8 and 4.8 to 1.9/100,000 children aged <2 and 2-3 years respectively. The numbers of in-hospital deaths increased from 5578 in 2009 to 8149 in 2016, with >85% of deaths in the 60+ age group.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first national study of pneumonia hospitalisations in Poland, providing the baseline data from which to investigate the impact of the change in vaccination policy on pneumonia hospitalisations in Poland.

Increased Virulence of an Encapsulated Streptococcus pneumoniae Upon Expression of Pneumococcal Surface Protein K

Background

Current Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccines selectively target capsular polysaccharide of specific serotypes, leading to an increase in nonencapsulated S. pneumoniae (NESp). Cocolonization by encapsulated pneumococci and NESp increases the opportunity for intraspecies genetic exchange. Acquisition of NESp genes by encapsulated pneumococci could alter virulence and help vaccine-targeted serotypes persist in the host.

Methods

Adhesion and invasion assays were performed using immortalized human pharyngeal or lung epithelial cells. In vivo models assessing murine nasopharyngeal colonization and pneumonia, as well as chinchilla otitis media (OM), were also used.

Results

Pneumococcal surface protein K (PspK) expression increased encapsulated pneumococcal adhesion and invasion of lung cells and enhanced virulence during pneumonia and OM. Additionally, PspK increased nasopharyngeal colonization, persistence in the lungs, and persistence in the middle ear when expressed in a capsule deletion mutant. Competition experiments demonstrated encapsulated pneumococci expressing PspK also had a selective advantage in both the lungs and nasopharynx.

Conclusions

PspK increases pneumococcal virulence during pneumonia and OM. PspK also partially compensates for loss of virulence in the absence of capsule. Additionally, PspK provides a selective advantage in a competitive environment. Therefore, acquisition of PspK increases encapsulated virulence in a condition-dependent manner. Together, these studies demonstrate risks associated with pneumococcal intraspecies genetic exchange.

Hospital and economic burden of influenza-like illness and lower respiratory tract infection in adults ≥50 years-old

BACKGROUND

Influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) cause substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. The study assessed the health and economic burden of ILI and LRTI according to age and comorbidities, since available evidence is limited and heterogeneous.

METHOD

The prevalence of comorbidities, the seasonal incidence rates and the mean and per capita direct costs of ED accesses for ILI/LRTI, whether followed by hospitalization or not, recorded in adults aged ≥50 years over the last 6 years, in the referral hospitals located in the Genoese metropolitan area (Liguria, Italy) where the syndromic surveillance system is active, were evaluated through a retrospective observational study. Comorbidities were estimated through the Chronic Condition Data Warehouse that integrates multiple Medicare data sources. A comparison with the administrative healthcare International Classification of Diseases-9th revision-Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM)-based data was also conducted.

RESULTS

The prevalence of subjects with ≥1 comorbidity ranged from 23.49 to 59.92%. The most prevalent all-age comorbidities were cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The overall ILI/LRTI incidence rate was 6.73/1000 person-years, almost double the value derived from routine data, and increased with age. The highest rates were observed in patients with renal failure and bronchopneumopathies. The mean cost of ED accesses/hospitalization for ILI/LRTI was €3353 and was almost twice as high in the ≥85 years as in the youngest age-group. The highest mean costs were observed in patients with renal failure and cancer. The per capita costs increased from €4 to €71 with age, and were highest in patients with renal failure and bronchopneumopathy.

CONCLUSION

The burden of ILIs/LRTIs in terms of ED accesses and hospitalizations in adults aged ≥50 years is heavy, and is related to increasing age and, especially, to specific comorbidities. These results could contribute to revising age- and risk-based anti-influenza and -pneumococcus immunization strategies.

Retrospective Study: Association of Chronic Sphenoid Rhinosinusitis With Community Acquired Pneumonia

Objectives

Our objective in this study is to examine the association between chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis and community acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

A list of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients who presented to a tertiary rhinology clinic from 2013 to 2015 was conducted. Patients were excluded if they were not seen for at least 2 years. Patients were categorized into CRS with sphenoid sinusitis (group A) and CRS without sphenoid sinusitis (group B). The former group was divided into 2 categories according to their computed tomography scan/endoscopy findings: mucosal thickening and opacification (partial, complete, purulent sphenoid drainage on endoscopy). Posterior ethmoid disease was analyzed in the same fashion. Charts were then reviewed on whether the patients developed CAP within 2 years of their visit to the rhinologist.

Results

Six hundred forty-five of 1061 patients were included in the analysis. There were 178 (27.60%) patients in group A and 467 (72.40%) patients in group B. There were 40 total cases of pneumonia with 27 (67.50%) cases having chronic sphenoid sinusitis. Patients with sphenoid sinusitis were 6.77 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.36–13.66) times more likely to have pneumonia. Patients with partial/complete opacification of the sphenoid sinus were 19.76 (95% CI, 8.78–44.47) times more likely to have pneumonia. Patients with only mucosal thickening of the sphenoid sinus did not have significantly increased odds of having pneumonia. Posterior ethmoid disease did not have an association with CAP nor did it increase the risk of CAP in sphenoid sinusitis patients.

Conclusions

There is an association between chronic sphenoid rhinosinusitis and CAP. Partial/complete opacification of the sphenoid sinus had the highest association with pneumonia.

Serum IgM and C-Reactive Protein Binding to Phosphorylcholine of Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae Increases Complement-Mediated Killing

Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) colonizes the human upper respiratory tract without causing disease symptoms, but it is also a major cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections in children and elderly, respectively. NTHi synthesizes various molecules to decorate its lipooligosaccharide (LOS), which modulates the level of virulence. The presence of phosphorylcholine (PCho) on NTHi LOS increases adhesion to epithelial cells, which is an advantage for the bacterium enabling nasopharyngeal colonization. However, when PCho is incorporated on the LOS of NTHi, it is recognized by the acute-phase C-reactive protein (CRP) and PCho-specific antibodies, both potent initiators of the classical pathway of complement activation. We determined the presence of PCho and binding of IgG and IgM to the bacterial surface for 319 NTHi strains collected from the nasopharynx/oropharynx, middle ear, and lower respiratory tract. PCho detection was higher for NTHi strains collected from the nasopharynx/oropharynx, which was associated with increased binding of IgM and IgG to the bacterial surface. Binding of CRP and IgM to the bacterial surface of PCho^high NTHi strains increased complement-mediated killing, which was largely dependent on PCho-specific IgM. The levels of PCho-specific IgM varied in sera from 12 healthy individuals, and higher PCho-specific IgM levels were associated with increased complement-mediated killing of a PCho^high NTHi strain. In conclusion, incorporation of PCho on the LOS of NTHi marks the bacterium for binding of CRP and IgM, resulting in complement-mediated killing. Therefore, having a lower PCho might be beneficial in situations where sufficient PCho-specific antibodies and complement are present.

Lifestyle and comorbid conditions as risk factors for community-acquired pneumonia in outpatient adults (NEUMO-ES-RISK project)

Introduction

Information about community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) risk in primary care is limited. We assess different lifestyle and comorbid conditions as risk factors (RF) for CAP in adults in primary care.

Methods

A retrospective-observational-controlled study was designed. Adult CAP cases diagnosed at primary care in Spain between 2009 and 2013 were retrieved using the National Surveillance System of Primary Care Data (BiFAP). Age-matched and sex-matched controls were selected by incidence density sampling (ratio 2:1). Associations are presented as percentages and OR. Binomial regression models were constructed to avoid bias effects.

Results

51 139 patients and 102 372 controls were compared. Mean age (SD) was 61.4 (19.9) years. RF more significantly linked to CAP were: HIV (OR [95% CI]: 5.21 [4.35 to 6.27]), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (2.97 [2.84 to 3.12]), asthma (2.16 [2.07,2.26]), smoking (1.96 [1.91 to 2.02]) and poor dental hygiene (1.45 [1.41 to 1.49]). Average prevalence of any RF was 82.2% in cases and 69.2% in controls (2.05 [2.00 to 2.10]). CAP rate increased with the accumulation of RF and age: risk associated with 1RF was 1.42 (1.37 to 1.47) in 18–60-year-old individuals vs 1.57 (1.49 to 1.66) in >60 years of age, with 2RF 1.88 (1.80 to 1.97) vs 2.35 (2.23, 2.48) and with ≥ 3 RF 3.11 (2.95, 3.30) vs 4.34 (4.13 to 4.57).

Discussion

Prevalence of RF in adult CAP in primary care is high. Main RFs associated are HIV, COPD, asthma, smoking and poor dental hygiene. Our risk stacking results could help clinicians identify patients at higher risk of pneumonia.

Decision-making for PCV in adults

Thirteen-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was licensed in adults to address the unmet medical need of vaccine-type community acquired pneumonia (CAP) and the limitations of previous plain-polysaccharide vaccines. Since then, some have questioned the utility of adult PCV13 use, arguing that: i) high PCV13 uptake in young children would provide indirect effects that, by themselves, would sufficiently protect unvaccinated adults and ii) no data describing the real-world effectiveness of PCV13 use in adults, especially with immunocompromising conditions, exist. Even in countries like the United States where PCV13 has been routinely recommended for all adults aged ≥ 65 years, the recommendation is contingent on a re-evaluation to determine if continued use is needed in the context of a mature PCV13 pediatric immunization program. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that i) a meaningful burden of PCV13-type pneumococcal pneumonia still persists in adults at increased risk for pneumococcal disease, despite indirect effects from long-standing pediatric PCV13 use, ii) adult PCV13 use is effective and has reduced pneumococcal CAP, even in the elderly and those with chronic medical or immunocompromising conditions – and disease could come back if PCV13 were removed, and iii) ethical and pragmatic vaccine policy considerations support continued adult PCV13 use in countries that have already introduced the vaccine (eg, disparities in adult PCV13 uptake, confusion stemming from removing a previously-recommended vaccine for a non-safety-related concern, and the reality that next-generation PCVs are only a few years away). Together, these findings suggest that continued PCV13 vaccination in adults is needed to control vaccine-type CAP.

Disease Burden and Etiologic Distribution of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Adults: Evolving Epidemiology in the Era of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines

Pneumonia is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in old adults. The incidence and etiologic distribution of community-acquired pneumonia is variable both geographically and temporally, and epidemiology might evolve with the change of population characteristics and vaccine uptake rates. With the increasing prevalence of chronic medical conditions, a wide spectrum of healthcare-associated pneumonia could also affect the epidemiology of community-acquired pneumonia. Here, we provide an overview of the epidemiological changes associated with community-acquired pneumonia over the decades since pneumococcal conjugate vaccine introduction.

Antipsychotic drug use and pneumonia: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of antipsychotic exposure to the incidence and mortality of pneumonia.

METHODS

The design of this study involved meta-analysis of observational studies identified from electronic databases.

RESULTS

In total, 19 studies were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta-analysis. Risk of pneumonia was increased by first-generation antipsychotics (risk ratio 1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.34-2.15; five studies), second-generation antipsychotics (risk ratio 1.93, 95% confidence interval 1.55-2.41; six studies) and all antipsychotics (risk ratio 1.83, 95% confidence interval 1.60-2.10; seven studies) compared with no antipsychotic use. Pneumonia risk did not differ in seven studies comparing first-generation antipsychotics with second-generation antipsychotics (risk ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval 0.85-1.35). Case fatality rate was not different in pneumonia cases associated with antipsychotic exposure versus cases without exposure (risk ratio 1.50; 95% confidence interval 0.76-2.96; two studies). All antipsychotics with data from ⩾2 studies allowing meta-analysis, were associated with a significantly increased pneumonia risk (i.e. haloperidol, olanzapine, clozapine, risperidone, quetiapine, zotepine).

CONCLUSION

Exposure to both first-generation antipsychotics and second-generation antipsychotics is associated with an increased pneumonia risk. Clinicians need to be vigilant for the occurrence of pneumonia in patients commencing antipsychotics, especially those with other risk factors for pneumonia including older age, chronic respiratory disease, cerebrovascular disease, dysphagia and smoking.

Associations of Daily Walking Time With Pneumonia Mortality Among Elderly Individuals With or Without a Medical History of Myocardial Infarction or Stroke: Findings From the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study

Background

The association between daily walking and pneumonia mortality, stratified by the presence of disease conditions, such as myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke, was investigated.

Methods

The study participants were 22,280 Japanese individuals (9,067 men and 13,213 women) aged 65–79 years. Inverse propensity weighted competing risk model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for pneumonia mortality.

Results

After a median of 11.9 years of follow-up, 1,203 participants died of pneumonia. Participants who did not have a history of MI or stroke and who walked for 1 hour/day or more were less likely to die from pneumonia (HR 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82–0.98) than those walked for 0.5 hours/day. A similar inverse association of pneumonia and walking (0.5 hours/day) was observed among participants with a history of MI (HR 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48–0.90). Among the participants with a history of stroke, those who walked for 0.6–0.9 hours/day were less likely to die because of pneumonia (HR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.43–0.98).

Conclusions

Regular walking for ≥1 hour/day may reduce the risk of pneumonia mortality in elderly individuals with or without cardiovascular disease history.

Performance status and in-hospital mortality of elderly patients with community acquired pneumonia

To evaluate the role of performance status evaluated by the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score in predicting 30-day mortality in subjects hospitalized for community acquired pneumonia (CAP), this was a prospective study of patients consecutively hospitalized for CAP at a large University Hospital in Italy. Performance status was evaluated using the ECOG score that in a 0-5 point scale indicates progressive functional deterioration. The end-point of the study is the 30-day mortality. Two-hundred-sixteen patients were enrolled, 75.9% were aged > 70 years, 31.5% had severe pneumonia at CURB-65 score (3-4), and 27.5% of patients had severe disability (ECOG 3-4). Thirty-day mortality is 15.3%. Progression in ECOG score independently increases the probability of 30-day mortality at multivariable logistic regression analysis (HR 2.19, 95% CI 1.60-3.01, p < 0.0001). ECOG 3 or 4 determines a four-fold increase in 30-day mortality (HR 4.07, 95% CI 1.84-9.02, p < 0.001). ECOG score 3 or 4 is highly predictive of death in patients classified at low risk of mortality by CURB-65 (0-2 points) score. Functional status is directly related to outcome in elderly patients hospitalized for CAP. The use of a very simple and fast tool, such as the ECOG score, might help to better stratify the risk of short-term mortality, especially in patients otherwise classified at low risk of death by CURB-65 score.

Costs associated with community acquired pneumonia in France

OBJECTIVES

Pneumocost is a prospective study that aimed at documenting the costs of the management of patients hospitalized with a pneumococcal pneumonia and the post-discharge costs during a 6-month period in the French context.

METHODS

Billing data were used to document hospital costs. Resource use during the follow-up period was collected through phone interviews at month 1, 3 and 6. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analyses were performed. We used generalized linear models with log-link functions to estimate parameters associated with hospital and follow-up costs of patients.

RESULTS

Five hundred twenty-four patients were enrolled in 40 public centers from October 2011 to April 2014. Average age was 63 (SD 17); 55.0% of them were male. Average length of stay was 15 days (SD 23). Average cost of stay for the French Sickness Fund was €7293 (SD €7363). Average cost of follow-up was €1242 (SD €3000) and decreased steadily through time. When controlling for patient's socioeconomic characteristics, severity of disease and hospital stay, results showed a concave relationship between hospital costs and age. Obesity, the severity of the disease and comorbidities were associated with constantly increasing inpatient costs. Concerning follow-up costs, we found the same concave relationship with age, while gender, a history of pneumonia and severity of the disease were the most important predictors of high costs after discharge.

CONCLUSION

Pneumocost is the first French study providing a robust estimation of the cost of managing invasive pneumococcal pneumonia in the French context.

Characteristics and Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in the Era of Global Aging

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) can occur at any time of life, but its incidence and risk of death are linked to increasing age. CAP in the elderly is a major health problem associated with high rates of readmission, morbidity, and mortality. Since the clinical presentation of pneumonia in the elderly may be atypical, clinicians should suspect pneumonia in older patients presenting symptoms such as falls and altered mental status, fatigue, lethargy, delirium, anorexia, in order to avoid the complications associated with delayed diagnosis and therapy. Streptococcus pneumoniae remains the most frequently reported pathogen in this population. However, particular attention should be paid to patients with risk factors for multidrug resistant pathogens, because a large proportion of elderly persons present multimorbidity. Vaccination is one of the most important preventive approaches for CAP in the elderly. In addition, lifestyle-tailored interventions for different modifiable risk factors will help to reduce the risk of pneumonia in elderly persons. Surveillance of etiological pathogens may improve vaccination policies in this population.

Incidence of pneumonia in nursing home residents in Germany: results of a claims data analysis

Pneumonia is one of the most common infectious diseases with a high mortality, especially in the elderly population. To date, there have been only a few population-based studies dealing with the incidence of pneumonia in nursing homes (NHs). We conducted a cohort study using data from a large German statutory health insurance fund. Between 2010 and 2014, 127 227 NH residents 65 years and older were analysed. For the calculation of incidences per 100 person-years (PY) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), we assessed the first diagnosis of pneumonia during the time in NH. We compared the rates between sexes, age groups, care levels, and comorbidities and we performed a multivariate Cox regression analysis. The mean age in the cohort was 84.0 years (74.6% female). A total of 19 183 incident cases led to an overall 5-year-incidence of 11.8 per 100 PY (95% CI 11.7-12.0). The incidence in men was substantially higher than in women. Rates were highest in the first month after NH placement. Our study revealed that the incidence of pneumonia is high in German NH residents and especially in males. Due to demographic changes, pneumonia will likely be increasingly relevant in the health care of the elderly and institutionalised population.

[Community-acquired pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treated with inhaled corticosteroids or other bronchodilators. Study PNEUMOCORT]

Objetivos

Analizar el riesgo de neumonía y/o exacerbaciones en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) tratados con corticoides inhalados (CI) y no tratados con CI (NCI). Estimar el riesgo de neumonía según la dosis de CI.

Diseño

Estudio de cohortes de base poblacional.

Emplazamiento

Atención Primaria. Institut Català de la Salut.

Participantes

Pacientes ≥ 45 años diagnosticados de EPOC entre 2007 y 2009 en el Sistema de Información para el Desarrollo de la Investigación en Atención Primaria (SIDIAP).

Intervención

Dos cohortes; pacientes que inician CI y pacientes que inician broncodilatadores NCI después del diagnóstico de EPOC.

Mediciones principales

Sociodemográficas, tabaquismo, antecedentes patológicos, neumonías, exacerbaciones, vacunaciones y tratamientos farmacológicos.

Resultados

Se incluyeron 3.837 pacientes: el 58% en el grupo CI y el 42% en el grupo NCI. Se detectaron incidencias superiores de neumonía y exacerbaciones en el grupo CI respecto al NCI (2,18 vs. 1,37). El riesgo de neumonía y de exacerbaciones graves no fue significativamente diferente entre grupos: HR de 1,17 (IC 95%: 0,87-1,56) y de 1,06 (IC 95%: 0,87-1,31), respectivamente. En el grupo CI presentaron mayor riesgo de exacerbaciones leves, con HR de 1,28 (IC 95%: 1,10-1,50). Las variables asociadas a mayor riesgo de neumonías fueron: edad, diabetes, neumonías y bronquitis previas, EPOC muy grave, tratamiento con β₂-adrenérgicos o anticolinérgicos a dosis bajas, y tratamiento previo con corticoides orales.

Conclusiones

No hubo diferencias entre cohortes en el riesgo de NAC ni exacerbaciones graves. Las exacerbaciones leves fueron superiores en el grupo CI. Tanto NAC como exacerbaciones graves fueron más frecuentes en pacientes con EPOC grave y en pacientes tratados con dosis altas de CI.