Evaluation of Risk Factors and Clinical Profiles of Pediatric Patients with Bacterial Bloodstream Infections in a Tertiary Care Outpatient Setting

Background: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric populations. Hematological and biochemical markers, including total leukocyte count (TLC), neutrophil levels, and C-reactive protein (CRP), play a crucial role in assessing the severity of infections. This study investigates the clinical, demographic, and laboratory characteristics of pediatric patients with suspected infections, with a particular focus on blood culture results and the influence of gender and geographic factors. Material and Methods: This study included 30 pediatric patients (12 males, 18 females) aged 4 to 12 years. Clinical history, symptoms, and laboratory parameters (TLC, neutrophils, lymphocytes, CRP, and ESR) were recorded. Blood samples were collected for hematological and biochemical analysis, while blood cultures were performed to identify pathogens. An independent t-test used to compare parameters between groups based on blood culture results and geographic location. Results: The mean age of the participants was 7 years (3.27). Common symptoms included vomiting (23.3%) and respiratory distress (20%). Blood culture results showed a higher prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus (26.7%). Significant differences were observed in hematological and biochemical parameters between rural and urban populations (p < 0.05), with higher TLC, neutrophils, ESR, and CRP levels in rural patients. Gender-based variations were also noted in some parameters. These findings suggest a potential influence of geographic and demographic factors on infection profiles in pediatric patients. Conclusion: Geographic and demographic factors influenced hematological and biochemical parameters in pediatric infections, with higher TLC, neutrophils, ESR, and CRP levels in rural patients.Blood culture positivity showed no significant associations, highlighting the need for further research with larger samples.