The potential role of statins in pneumonia

Pneumonia is the second leading cause of hospitalization in the United States, and along with influenza is the 8^th leading cause of death. The risk of death during a pneumonia-related hospitalization is significantly higher than from many other major causes of hospitalization, as in 2005 it caused 4.6 deaths per 100 discharges. Recent studies have suggested that the use of statins may lead to better outcomes for subjects hospitalized with pneumonia or other infectious diseases. In this article, we examine the possible underlying mechanisms that may result in a beneficial effect of statins on infectious diseases, and describe the existing research that has examined this association. Further studies are needed to determine whether the long-term use of statins for cardioprotective effects also provides protection for patients at risk for pneumonia, or may serve as an acute treatment for pneumonia patients who require hospitalization.