Clinical and radiological characteristics of viral and non-viral pathogens in hospitalized patients with pneumonia:a retrospective analysis

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Introduction and Aim: Pneumonia is a major health concern due to high morbidity and mortality. Viral and bacterial pneumonias differ in clinical, laboratory, and radiological features. This study compares these characteristics and their impact on management to optimize treatment strategies. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included patients hospitalized at Gazi University between September 2022 and September 2024 with ICD codes J44 (COPD) and J15 (Pneumonia). Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were extracted from hospital records. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 23.0 (p<0.05 significant). Findings: A total of 69 patients were analyzed: 42 viral and 27 bacterial pneumonia cases. PCR-confirmed viral cases included COVID-19 (13), Rhinovirus (9), Influenza (5), and others. Bacterial infections were due to Pseudomonas (11), Acinetobacter (6), Klebsiella (4), and others. Significant differences were found in malignancy history (p=0.014), immunosuppression (p=0.011), ICU admission (p=0.041), and bronchiectasis (p=0.030). Non-viral pneumonia had higher severity scores (p<0.05) and longer hospital stays (p=0.002). Hemoglobin (p=0.011), albumin (p=0.004), and lymphocytes (p=0.035) were lower in bacterial pneumonia, while NLR (p=0.040), BUN (p=0.018), and troponin (p=0.040) were higher. Moreover, bacterial pneumonia cases required more aggressive treatment interventions. Conclusion: Early etiological identification is key in pneumonia management. Higher severity in bacterial pneumonia requires close monitoring. Proper differentiation reduces unnecessary antibiotics, improves outcomes, and optimizes healthcare resources.