[Neonatal pneumonia]

Abstract

Early neonatal pneumonia is mainly caused by bacteria, group B streptococcus, Escherichia coli and listeria being the most frequently involved; Herpes simplex is the main viral agent. These agents may also be responsible for late forms, besides Chlamydia trachomatis and the pathogen agents of community acquired pneumonia. Due to the severity of the bacterial pneumonias, treatment must be started with a large spectrum antibiotherapy, and later on adapted according to the results of bacteriological investigations. In addition, symptomatic treatment is mandatory in order to provide nutritional, hydroelectrolytic and hemodynamic equilibrium and efficient ventilation. Prevention must be directed toward Herpes simplex and group B streptococcus infections.