Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Viral pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by various viruses, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup in the alveoli. It often results in symptoms like cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Common viruses causing viral pneumonia include influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus.
Diagnosis typically involves chest X-rays, blood tests, and sometimes viral cultures or PCR tests.
Unlike bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics are not effective against viral pneumonia; treatment primarily focuses on supportive care.
Vaccination can prevent certain types of viral pneumonia, such as those caused by influenza and varicella-zoster virus.
Complications can include respiratory failure, secondary bacterial infections, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Review Questions
Related terms
Bacterial Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs caused by bacteria resulting in similar symptoms but treatable with antibiotics.
A common virus that causes infections of the respiratory tract and is a leading cause of viral pneumonia in infants.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A severe condition characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs often associated with severe cases of viral pneumonia.