A Brief Report of Infectious Profile of Childhood Pneumonia in a Sub-Urban Hospital

To study the clinicopathological and radiological profile of lower respiratory tract infection in children less than 12 years of age in hospital setting. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in a suburban hospital for a period of one and a half years and 56 cases were admitted with LRTI of less than 12 years of age. History was obtained, examination was done and signs and symptoms were noted. All necessary investigations were done and managed as per standard guidelines. Results: Among 56 children, 50% had high grade fever, 60% of which had bacterial pneumonia. Cough was present in 57% of cases. At the time of admission, 92% of cases had respiratory distress. Blood culture was positive for Strep. pneumoniae in 8.9% of cases. Atypical pneumonia infection was seen in 84% of children less than 5 years of age. Higher antibiotic was used in 46.6% children. Duration of hospital stay of more than 7 days was seen in cases positive for Streptococcus, Mycoplasma and Legionella infection. Conclusion: Our study highlights the various types of infectious agents and their clinicopathological and radiological presentation in LRTI. A clear knowledge of the etiology and bacterial pathogens provides guidance for further management.