Atypical pneumonia is a type of infection of the lower respiratory tract caused by various bacteria and viruses. It can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to those of other types of pneumonia. The differential diagnosis of atypical pneumonia includes many other types of pneumonia, as well as other infectious and non-infectious diseases.
Differential Diagnosis of Atypical Pneumonia
Bacterial Pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by various bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia include fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Viral Pneumonia
Viral pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by a variety of viruses, such as influenza, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus. Symptoms of viral pneumonia can include fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Mycoplasma Pneumonia
Mycoplasma pneumonia is an infection caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Symptoms include cough, sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue, and body aches.
Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia is caused by the inhalation of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. Symptoms of aspiration pneumonia can include fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Pneumocystis Pneumonia
Pneumocystis pneumonia is an infection caused by the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. Symptoms of Pneumocystis pneumonia include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Non-Infectious Causes of Pneumonia
Non-infectious causes of pneumonia can include inhalation of smoke, chemical fumes, and dust. Symptoms of non-infectious causes of pneumonia can include fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Other Conditions
Other conditions that may present with similar symptoms as atypical pneumonia can include asthma, bronchitis, congestive heart failure, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).