The role of anaerobic bacteria in nosocomial pneumonia.

Considering the high concentration of anaerobic bacteria in the oral cavity : and the pathophysiological mechanism for nosocomial pneumonia in mechanic ally ventilated patients isolation of anaerobes in patients with nosocomial pneumonia can be considered logical. However, anaerobic isolation requires specific methods, from sampling to laboratory techniques. The most frequen tly identified anaerobes are Prevotella spp. There are few clinical particu larities for nosocomial pneumonia with isolation of anaerobic bacteria. The y can occur early as well as later; after initiation of mechanical ventilat ion. Experimental, clinical, immunologic and therapeutic arguments underlin e the pathogenic role of anaerobic bacteria in this situation. (C) 2000 Edi tions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.