Atypical pneumonia in active patients: clues, causes, and return to play.

Abstract

Atypical pneumonias can affect young, otherwise healthy individuals who have close contact with one another, such as athletes in team sports. Symptoms, which often progress gradually, may mimic an upper respiratory tract infection. Mycoplasma, chlamydia, and legionella organisms, along with certain viruses, are the usual atypical pneumonia agents, and antimicrobial therapies are recommended. Because complications, though rare, can be protracted, affect athletic performance, and result in sudden death, return-to-play guidelines should be cautious and patient- and sport-specific.