Bacterial infections of the respiratory tract and their pharmacological treatment

Bacterial infections of the respiratory tract contribute to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early recognition of lower respiratory tract infections is fundamental for the management and prevention of complications such a sepsis. Common respiratory infections such as community-acquired, hospital-acquired pneumonia, atypical bacterial infection, and acute infective exacerbations of chronic disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis are caused by a wide range of pathogens which can be treated in the community or in the hospital setting based on assessment of severity. Antibiotics are by far the most commonly used pharmacological intervention in the management of bacterial infections. Antibiotics have different and unique mechanisms of action against bacteria and several guidelines exist to direct treatment of chest infections. However, with inappropriate use of antibiotics, the resistance of bacteria to antimicrobials has seen significant growth globally, causing concern to the public health. Other pharmacological interventions for the management of infections and sepsis are in the development phase.