Pattern and Presentation of Pneumonia in Children <18 Years of Age in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Introduction: Pneumonia remains a critical global health concern, especially among children under 18 years old. This acute respiratory infection causes lung inflammation and fluid accumulation, leading to breathing difficulties and high mortality rates in children. Aim of the Study: The aim of the study was to investigate the various patterns and presentations of pneumonia in children under 18 years old in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods: This observational study was conducted at the Millenium Hospital Limited, sutrapur, Dhaka, Bangladesh, over a period of one year from January 2022 to December 2022. A total of 110 participants aged 0-18 years, who visited the hospital during the study period, were included. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical software and obtaining approval from the institutional review board. Results: The study population consisted of 110 children under the age of 18. The demographic characteristics showed that the majority of participants were in the 1-5 years age group (27.27%), followed by those aged 11-18 years (31.82%). The gender distribution was almost equal, with 54.55% being male and 45.45% female. Regarding the clinical presentation of pneumonia, fever was the most common symptom (81.82%), followed by cough (90.91%) and difficulty breathing (63.64%). Radiological findings indicated that infiltrates were present in the majority of cases (72.73%), followed by consolidation (45.45%). Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most frequently identified pathogen (31.82%), followed by Haemophilus influenzae (22.73%). Antibiotics were the most commonly used treatment modality (95.45%), and hospitalization was required for 63.64% of the children. These findings provide insights into the patterns and presentation of pneumonia in children under 18 years of age. Conclusion: This study explores pneumonia patterns in children, revealing higher incidence among younger age groups and adolescents. Key findings include common symptoms like fever .....