Pseudomonas pneumonia is caused by a pathogen which is opportunistic. This pathogen called pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram negative organism that is aerobic and rod like in its appearance. These pathogens thrive in moist conditions and therefore infection can build up in suitable areas like mechanical ventilators along with nebulizer equipments. Pseudomonas are the second most common cause of a condition like hospital acquired pneumonia following klebsiella and these pathogen account for around 12% of all the cases.

Pseudomonas pneumonia is particularly observed among individuals whose immune systems have been compromised following extensive hospital stay. In some cases this can result in necrotizing pneumonia that affects one of both lungs and pleural effusion is also quite common. The symptoms associated with this condition include breathing problems, productive cough, fever, chills along with bluish skin.

Some other symptoms associated with pseudomonas pneumonia include chest pain and bluish skin. The mucus coughed from the lungs may have a distinctive foul smell and the phlegm may have pus or blood. The patient may experience rapid breathing and rapid pulse rate. Loss of appetite, fatigue, clammy skin, anxiety along with stress and tension may also be experienced.

Abdominal pain, stress, tension and mental confusion may also be experienced by those suffering from pseudomonas pneumonia. Some predisposing factors that contribute towards development of this condition include cardiac diseases, nebulisation breathing devices and lowered immunity. The diagnosis of this condition can be done through observation of the symptoms along with some tests.

The diagnosis of pseudomonas pneumonia can be done through a blood test measuring the white blood cell count. X-ray can reveal signs of pneumonia and arterial blood gas levels are also measured for the diagnosis. Sputum cultures may be done and this may point towards growth of the pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogens.

Once a patient is suspected to suffer from pseudomonas pneumonia the physician may perform transtracheal aspiration. The treatment of this condition may include a combination of drugs like carbenicillin and gentamicin which is an aminoglycoside. Cirpofloxacin may also be prescribed. Oxygenation can be improved through removal of the excess tracheobronchial secretions. Many patients suffering from pseudomonas pneumonia need tracheostopmy or tracheal intubation. This infection is responsible for maximum mortality in the gram negative pneumonia.