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Information

Sinusitis and otitis media are the two most common noninvasive syndromes caused by S. pneumoniae; the latter is the most common pneumococcal syndrome and most often affects young children. See Chap. 58. Sore Throat, Earache, and Upper Respiratory Symptoms for more detail.

Treatment: Pneumococcal Infections

  • Penicillin remains the cornerstone of treatment for pneumococcal disease caused by sensitive isolates, with daily doses ranging from 50,000 U/kg for minor infections to 300,000 U/kg for meningitis. Macrolides and cephalosporins are alternatives for penicillin-allergic pts but otherwise offer no advantage over penicillin.
  • Strains resistant to β-lactam drugs are increasing in frequency, and antibiotic recommendations are typically based on the minimal inhibitory concentration against the isolate, particularly in cases of invasive disease.

Outline

Section 7. Infectious Diseases