A study on pattern of lower respiratory tract infections in children below 12 years of age admitted to KIMS hospital, amalapuram.

Background: Acute respiratory infections (ARI) in children less than five years are the leadingcauses of mortality. A study was conducted to know the incidence of different types of LRTIs and thecommon causative organisms. Methods: Routine investigations were carried out on 824 hospitalizedchildren over 18 months and with special investigations like X-ray chest, USG chest, blood culture,pleural fluid analysis, tuberculin skin test, and CBNAAT for tuberculosis.the data were analyzed.Results: Out of 100 cases, 2 cases were diagnosed as tuberculosis. Others, i.e., 97 improved anddischarged. The minimum hospital stay was 3 days, and the maximum was 21 days. The incidenceof LRTI in children was maximum (48%) in 1 – 4 years age and Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM )was detected in 72% children. PEM I was maximum (35%) followed by PEM II (16%), PEM III(12%) and PEM IV (9%. Bronchopneumonia was diagnosed maximum (52%) followed bybronchiolitis (12%). Mantoux test was positive in 21%. Staphylococcus aureus was isolatedmaximum and no significant drug resistance was identified. Conclusion: Maximum incidence ofLRTIs were detected between the age group of 1 – 4 years, malnutrition was an associated factor.