CLINICAL, BACTERIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, STUDY OF PNEUMONIA

Background: Pneumonia remains a significant cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries like India. This study explores the clinical, bacteriological, and radiological aspects of pediatric community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) to identify correlations and improve management outcomes. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at St. Philomena's Hospital from September 2018 to May 2020, involving 79 children aged 6 months to 18 years diagnosed with CAP. Data were collected on clinical presentations, laboratory findings, radiological features, and outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v22, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: CAP predominantly affected children under 1 year (49.4%), with a male-to-female ratio of 2.2:1. Common symptoms included cough (97.5%), hurried breathing (91.1%), and fever (88.6%). Radiological evidence of pneumonia was present in all cases, with bacterial etiology (63.3%) surpassing viral (36.7%). Neutrophilia (84%), elevated ESR (73.4%), and CRP (67.1%) were significantly associated with bacterial pneumonia (p<0.005). Blood culture identified pathogens in 5.1% of cases, with Streptococcus pneumoniae being the most common. Most patients (91.1%) had no complications, and all achieved favorable outcomes. Conclusion: Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic management are critical in preventing complications of pediatric pneumonia. Neutrophilia, elevated ESR, and CRP serve as reliable markers for bacterial CAP. Enhanced diagnostic approaches and immunization programs are vital to mitigating the disease burden.