Chlamydophila (Formerly Chlamydia) Pneumoniae Infection, Pediatric

Amanda C. Schondelmeyer, MD, MSc and Angela M. Statile, MD, MEd Reviewed 10/2018

BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular organisms classified as bacteria but which possess qualities of both bacteria and viruses. They cause a variety of infections from the respirato...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

C. pneumoniae incubation period is approximately 21 days.
Most commonly presents with prolonged cough (2 to 6 weeks), developing into atypical pneumonia
Sore throat may precede onset of...

TREATMENT

MEDICATION

1st-line therapy is recommended based on national guidelines, as antimicrobial therapy is usually initiated empirically when suspicion is high for atypical pathogens. Alternative t...

ONGOING CARE

PROGNOSIS

For C. pneumoniae, full recovery is expected in general.

COMPLICATIONS

Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease, can experience a ...

ADDITIONAL READING

Bradley JS, Byington CL, Shah SS, et al. Executive summary: the management of community-acquired pneumonia in infants and children older than 3 months of age: clinical practice guid...

CODES

ICD9

079.88 Other specified chlamydial infection

ICD10

A70 Chlamydia psittaci infections

SNOMED

429586004 Chlamydophila psittaci infection

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to diagnose C. pneumoniae in a patient with suspected atypical pneumonia?
A: Empiric treatment is recommended in patients with suspected atypical pneumonia. Confirmatory lab...

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