Bacterial pneumonia in the HIV-infected patient.

The incidence of bacterial pneumonia is increased in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and bacteremia and recurrences occur frequently. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae are the most common pathogens, but several other organisms have now been identified as etiologies. Several abnormalities in B-cells and humoral immunity, and possibly neutropenia and white blood cell dysfunction, predispose to bacterial pneumonia. Despite the severity of pneumonia in HIV infection, most patients respond well to specific antimicrobial chemotherapy. Potential preventive measures include vaccines, immunoglobulin therapy, and antimicrobial prophylaxis.