Role of transthoracic ultrasound in diagnosis and follow-up of pneumonia

Objectives: To assess the role of transthoracic ultrasound (TUS) in the diagnosis and follow-up of pneumonia compared to CXR and HRCT. Background: Pneumonia is a serious health problem. TUS is quickly becoming one of the most useful non-ionizing radiation diagnostic techniques for identifying various lung illnesses. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Menoufia University Hospitals' Chest Diseases Department. From December 2022 to June 2023, it covered 50 patients who were clinically suspected of having pneumonia. The diagnosis was based on symptoms, signs, and chest HRCT. TUS and chest X-ray (CXR) were done and follow-up TUS after 7, 14, and 30 days. Results: TUS was able to identify consolidations in 44 out of 45 cases with HRCT consolidation, in which an air-bronchogram appeared in 37 cases, and a shred sign was in 17 cases. In addition, TUS revealed increased B lines in 7 of the 9 interstitial pneumonia patients, and pleural effusion was found in 14 cases. TUS had a sensitivity and specificity of 97.8% and 100% in the diagnosis of consolidation, with an accuracy of 98%, PPV100%, and NPV 83.3%, compared to 70% and 100% in the diagnosis of interstitial pneumonia, with an accuracy of 94%, PPV100%, and NPV 93%. Conclusion: TUS is more reliable than CXR for diagnosing pneumonia patients. It might also be used as a secure follow-up instrument.