Pneumococcal Infections
Diagnosing pneumococcal infections
Source: NHS
In this topic (6)
There are several ways to diagnose pneumococcal infections, and the tests you have will depend on your symptoms.
Physical examination
If a pneumococcal infection is suspected, your GP will listen to your chest with a stethoscope. The fluids produced during an invasive pneumococcal infection often cause a distinctive crackling sound.
Blood test
You may have a Blood tests to check for the presence of bacteria. A high number of infection-fighting white blood cells may indicate the presence of an infection. The blood sample can be sent to a laboratory so the bacteria that caused the infection can be identified.
Radiography
Several different types of imaging tests may be used, depending on your symptoms.
X-rays may be able to highlight the presence of fluid in the lungs, which would indicate a lung infection. An X-ray uses radiation to produce images of the inside of the body.
Other imaging tests that may be used to investigate a potential pneumococcal infection include:
Blood pressure test
Your blood pressure may bemeasured, as a serious infection can often lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
Lumbar puncture test
A lumbar puncture test involves taking a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid that surrounds the brain and spine) from the base of your spine and checking it for the presence of bacteria. A local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area.If the sample contains infection-fighting white blood cells and/or bacteria, it may indicate that you have meningitis .
Urinary antigen test
A urinary antigen test is a relatively new type of testused to help diagnose a pneumococcal infection.
It involves taking a urine sample, then carrying out a techniqueknown as an immunochromatographic assay. This can detect the distinctive protein molecules that make up the outer shell of the S. pneumoniae bacteria.
Articles for Pneumococcal Infections
Causes of pneumococcal infections
There are more than 90 different strains of S. pneumoniae, and some are much more likely to cause serious infection (virulent) than others.
Diagnosing pneumococcal infections
There are several ways to diagnose pneumococcal infections, and the tests you have will depend on your symptoms.
Introduction
Pneumococcal infections are caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, and range from mild to severe.
Preventing pneumococcal infections
Children under two should receive the PCV as part of their childhood immunisation schedule. Simple hygiene precautions can also help to prevent infection.
Symptoms of pneumococcal infections
Your symptoms will vary, depending on the type of pneumococcal infection you have. Symptoms include fever, chills and a headache.
Treating pneumococcal infections
The treatment you receive depends on whether you have an invasive or non-invasive pneumococcal infection. Antibiotics may be used to treat a serious infection.