PNEUMONIA AS A GATEWAY TO SEPSIS: THE IMPACT OF MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT BACTERIAL PATHOGENS ON PROGNOSIS AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This article aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the available scientific evidence regarding pneumonia as a source of sepsis, with an emphasis on the clinical impact of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens and the challenges related to the therapeutic management of these infections. A narrative literature review was carried out, with a structured bibliographic search in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases, covering publications from 2010 to 2025. Original studies, reviews, and guidelines addressing clinical, microbiological, and epidemiological aspects, as well as prevention and control strategies, were included. The results showed that pneumonias caused by MDR pathogens are strongly associated with higher morbidity and mortality, increased need for intensive care, multiple organ failure, and unfavorable clinical outcomes. Furthermore, the emerging role of hypervirulent strains was highlighted, adding severity to the clinical presentations. Significant challenges were also identified regarding empirical therapy, early diagnosis, and infection control. It is concluded that the management of these infections requires an integrated approach and continuous epidemiological surveillance, aiming to mitigate the clinical impact, reduce resistance, and improve care protocols.