Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP): advances in management and future directions

Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) is a major global health challenge, with high morbidity and mortality, especially among patients requiring intensive care. Despite advancements in antimicrobial therapies and supportive care, sCAP remains a significant threat, particularly for those needing invasive mechanical ventilation or vasopressor support. Recent progress in diagnostics, therapeutics and management strategies offers hope for improved outcomes. Pathogen-specific management is now central to sCAP care, with molecular diagnostics enhancing pathogen detection accuracy and enabling tailored antimicrobial therapy. These tools help combat antimicrobial resistance by reducing unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotic use. Host immune responses in sCAP vary widely and significantly impact outcomes. Some patients face an overwhelming pathogen burden, while others experience excessive immune responses, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome. This distinction is vital for guiding immunomodulatory therapies, as immunosuppression may benefit hyperinflammatory states but harm those overwhelmed by infection. Corticosteroids, though controversial, show potential benefits in select populations but carry risks like secondary infections and hyperglycaemia, requiring a nuanced approach. Non-invasive respiratory support strategies, such as high-flow nasal oxygen, have transformed care by improving oxygenation and reducing the need for invasive ventilation. However, their efficacy depends on timing, patient tolerance and disease severity, necessitating careful monitoring. Global disparities in sCAP management, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries, highlight the need for region-specific guidelines and scalable solutions. Limited access to advanced diagnostics and critical care resources exacerbates poor outcomes, underscoring the importance of investments in affordable diagnostics, infection control and multidisciplinary training. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and advanced imaging, promise to revolutionise sCAP management by enabling precision medicine and real-time insights into disease severity. A holistic, multidisciplinary approach integrating these advancements is essential to improving outcomes and advancing personalised care for this life-threatening condition.