Clinical analysis of 4430 cases of lobar pneumonia in children

Objective: To explore the epidemiological characteristics, clinical manifestations, and pathogens of lobar pneumonia in children in recent years so as to provide reference for its diagnosis and treatment. Methods: We made a statistical analysis of the clinical data, laboratory and imaging findings of 4 430 cases of lobar pneumonia in children hospitalized in Xi'an Children's Hospital between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2011 to explore the outbreak season, gender-age correlation, pathogens, and imaging features of children lobar pneumonia. Results: The incidence of children lobar pneumonia was significantly higher in winter than in the other seasons, in 0-3 age group than the other groups, and in boys than in girls (all P<0.05). Serum virus antibodies were detected in 72.78% of the children and positive Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibodies were detected in 47.13%. Chest CT examination showed a higher incidence of bilateral lesions than that of unilateral ones (P<0.05). Conclusion: Lobar pneumonia in children occurs more often in winter, in children aged 0-3 years old, and in boys. Viral infection accounts for the largest proportion of the etiology, followed by Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Lung imaging shows that bilateral lesions are the most common.