Pneumonia: Diagnosis

To diagnose pneumonia, the healthcare provider begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam.

The healthcare provider may order several tests to help diagnose the pneumonia. 

• Chest x-rays can often find out if a person has pneumonia. 

• A CT scan may also be done.

• Blood tests and sputum tests are very helpful to find out the cause of pneumonia. 

• A biopsy (taking a lung tissue sample via needle, tube, or surgery) may be done in more severe cases.