Ventilator-associated pneumonia

Template:Ventilator-associated pneumonia Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, M.D. [2]

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Prognosis predictor scores: CURB-65 | Pneumonia severity index | Criteria for severe community acquired pneumonia

Diagnosis

Diagnostic criteria | History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Chest X Ray

Treatment

Medical Therapy Prevention

Epidemiology and prognosis

VAP occurs in up to 25% of all people who require mechanical ventilation. VAP can develop at any time during ventilation, but occurs more often in the first few days after intubation. This is because the intubation process itself contributes to the development of VAP. VAP occurring early after intubation typically involves fewer resistant organisms and is thus associated with a more favorable outcome. Because respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation is itself associated with a high mortality, determination of the exact contribution of VAP to mortality has been difficult. As of 2006, estimates range from 33% to 50% death in patients who develop VAP. Mortality is more likely when VAP is associated with certain microorganisms (Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter), blood stream infections, and ineffective initial antibiotics. VAP is especially common in people who have acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

See also

• Pneumonia
• Nosocomial infection

References

• American Thoracic Society and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. (2005). "ATS/IDSA Guidelines: Guidelines for the management of adults with HAP, VAP, and HCAP". Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 171: 388.

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