Chemotherapy
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Lower respiratory tract infections are the major cause of death due to infectious disease in the developed and developing world. Despite substantial progress in defining pathogens and in therapeutic options, there continues to be major controversies in the clinical management of these infections. This report reviews the guidelines for community-acquired pneumonia from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), updated from the initial publication. ⋯ Clinical trials have shown equivalence or superiority compared to other standard agents. They are well tolerated, and can be administered intravenously or orally, once daily. A recent retrospective review has shown superior outcome with fluoroquinolone treatment compared to cephalosporins, including a 36% reduction in mortality.