Bacterial pneumonia may be suspected based on radiographic findings; however, these findings are not highly specific. Pleu¬ral effusion on chest radiography is the most significant predictor of bacterial pneumo¬nia.5 Alveolar infiltrate is more suggestive of bacterial than viral infection, especially if the infiltrate is lobar.21 Interstitial infiltrates can occur in viral or bacterial infections.21 Positive radiographic findings may be absent in patients with early bacterial pneumonia.16