Introduction: Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) is recognized as a common problem that carries a substantial morbidity and mortality in preantibiotic era. With the advent of newer diagnositics and advanced antimicrobials there is reduction in morbidity and mortality, but in era of MDR pathogens its often difficult and challenging to manage CAP. However, pneumonia in younger individuals can be severe and fatal. Pneumonia in the pregnant patient is the most frequent cause of life threatening non-obstetric infection.
Aims and Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the pattern of community acquired pneumonia among pregnant women in tertiary care hospital.
Materials and Method: 32 pregnant ladies presented with signs, symptoms & radiological findings consistent with community acquired pneumonia were selected from out patient’s clinics of obstetrics and gynecology department.
Results: The present study included 32 pregnant ladies with community acquired pneumonia, who were selected from out patient’s clinics of obstetrics and gynecology department. Their ages ranged from 20–40 years old with mean age of 25.32 years old (±4.20 SD). Cough (90%) was the most common symptom followed by fever (70%) among the patients. Chest x ray done with abdominal shield showed pulmonary infiltrates in (65%). The most common radiological findings are consolidation (75%) nodular infiltrates (20%), cavity (3%), pleural effusion (2%). The most common organisms isolated were streptococcus pneumonia, hemophilus influenza, staphylococcus aureus mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Conclusion: Morbidity and mortality in pregnant patients with pneumonia continue to pose a significant challenge. Early recognition of the diseases process and appropriate antibiotic treatment are required to ascertain an optimal outcome. The treatments in the gravid patients generally follow standard guide lines for the treatment of pneumonia in adults. Concern for fetal outcome should not delay any treatment strategies as improvement in maternal oxygenation and status is the best way to ensure fetal protection.
Keywords: Pneumonia, Pregnancy.
