The aetiology of severe community-acquired pneumonia requiring intensive care unit admission in the Western Cape Province, South Africa.

Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common condition, with mortality increasing in patients who require intensive care unit (ICU) admission. A better understanding of the current aetiology of severe CAP will aid clinicians in requesting appropriate diagnostic tests and initiating appropriate empiric antimicrobials.

Objectives: To assess the comorbidities, aetiology and mortality associated with severe CAP in a tertiary ICU in Cape Town, South Africa.