Pneaumonia in Pediatric Emergency

Pneaumonia in Pediatric Emergency Thorax Xray

Pneumonia is common, but the cause may vary with age. The commonest bacterial causes are:

• Staphylococcus aureus in children <1 year

• Streptococcus pneumoniae in children <4 years

• Hemophilus influenzae in children <10 years

• Group A streptococcus in children >10 years

Viral infection with RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and parainfluenza occurs in children, especially in those under 2 years of age, and with influenza virus in older children. Mycoplasma infection is more common in older children. In a previously well child older than 1 month, consider pneumonia in infants and children with the following signs and symptoms.

Chest X-ray (AP) should be performed to confirm or exclude pneumonia. Patients with wheeze and air trapping most commonly have bronchiolitis or asthma. Neonates who are unwell, or have a temperature over 38°C, should have a chest X-ray as part of a septic work-up, especially if the respiratory rate is elevated or there are other signs of respiratory embarrassment.

Management of pneumonia

Pneumonia can be managed with inpatient or outpatient care depending on the severity of the condition.