Review: antibiotics active against atypical pathogens do not improve community acquired pneumonia more than β lactam antibiotics

Marrie, Thomas J MD (commentator)

University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Mills GD, Oehley MR, Arroll B. Effectiveness of β lactam antibiotics compared with antibiotics active against atypical pathogens in non-severe community acquired pneumonia: meta-analysis. BMJ 2005;330:456.Q In patients with community acquired pneumonia (CAP), how do antibiotics active against atypical pathogens (AAAAPs) compare with β lactam antibiotics for effectiveness?

For correspondence: Dr G D Mills, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand. [email protected]

Source of funding: Waikato District Health Board.

Evidence Based Medicine 10(4):p 115, August 2005.

Clinical impact ratings GP/FP/Primary care ★★★★★★☆ Internal medicine ★★★★★★☆ Infectious disease ★★★★★★☆