clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
There is often a history of preceding viral infection. Clinical features include:
- more common in winter months and upper respiratory tract viral infections are a predisposing factor
- commonest cause of pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive airways disease
- sudden onset
- marked fever and rigors; febrile convulsions in preschool children
- pleuritic chest pain
- cough - initially dry but replaced by a productive cough with rusty-coloured sputum after 24 - 48 hours (1)
- breathing - rapid and shallow; diminished movement on the affected side
- may be signs of consolidation and a friction rub
- vesicles of Herpes simplex may occur around the mouth (1)
Reference:
- Harold SR et al (1994). Management of community acquired lower respiratory tract infection. BMJ, 308, 701-5.