Q: Follow up CXR is usually not required to document resolution of pneumonia after discharge from hospital. Which group of patients should be considered for follow up CXR?


Answer: Follow up CXR is usually not required to document resolution of pneumonia after discharge from hospital. But, patients over 50 years of age, and in particular male and smokers should be considered for follow up CXR to rule out  malignancy or any other underlying diseases. 



References:

1. Bartlett JG, Dowell SF, Mandell LA, et al. Practice guidelines for the management of community-acquired pneumonia in adults. Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis 2000; 31:347.

2. Tang KL, Eurich DT, Minhas-Sandhu JK, et al. Incidence, correlates, and chest radiographic yield of new lung cancer diagnosis in 3398 patients with pneumonia. Arch Intern Med 2011; 171:1193.