Abstract

TORRES, Fernando et al. Capacidad para predecir etiología con la radiografía de tórax en niños hospitalizados con neumonía. Arch. argent. pediatr. [online]. 2006, vol.104, n.2, pp.106-108. ISSN 0325-0075.

Introduction. Distinguishing bacterial from viral pneumonia on admission to the hospital could guide the decision of whether or not to use antibiotics. Objective. To evaluate the accuracy of chest radiograph to predict etiology (bacterial or viral) in 141 children aged under 10 years, hospitalized for pneumonia in whom bacterial (n= 24) or viral (n=117) etiology was identified. Methods. Chest radiograph evaluation was based on Khamapirad score (-3 to 7 points), and blinded with regard to etiology. Results. Radiographic score was higher in bacterial pneumonias than in viral pneumonias (3.9 ± 0.92 vs. -1.6 ± 1.3 points; p < 0.0001). Optimum cut-off value for the score was identified (ROC curve) at ≥ 2 points (sensitivity: 100%; specificity: 94%; positive predictive value: 77%; negative predictive value: 100%). Conclusion. The score tested is based on easily identifiable elements in the chest radiograph. It accurately identifies children who do not need antibiotics. It could be helpful in the management of community acquired pneumonia.

Keywords : Bacterial pneumonia; Viral pneumonia; Radiology.

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