Pneumonia - Hospital-Acquired Differential Diagnosis

Last updated: 19 February 2026

Differential Diagnosis

The following should be ruled out in diagnosing hospital-acquired pneumonia:

  • Chronic heart failure
  • Atelectasis
  • Pulmonary thromboembolism
  • Pulmonary drug reactions
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
  • Pulmonary hemorrhage
  • Chemical pneumonitis from aspiration