Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to occupational pneumonia

ABSTRACT

We shall define occupational pneumonia as a diseaseof external origin, closely tied to the workplace setting andcaused by biological microorganisms. The main pathogens arebacteria, fungi and viruses. There are a number of occupationsspecifically prone to the possibility of acquiring pneumoniawhen performing work duties.In addition to the diagnostic methods and drug treatments current in infectious processes, a good clinical history,with avoidance and protection measures would be the mostimportant tools for the management of occupational pneumonia.Social and demographic changes in the last two decadeshave made zoonotic infections, and especially viruses, the maincause of new infections. Human health and animal health areclosely linked, so collaboration between veterinarians and doctors, together with the necessary environmental respect andconservation, plus the appropriate public policies are essentialto avoid these wide negative effects. (AU)