Clinical Efficacy of Ulinastatin Combined with Azithromycin in the Treatment of Severe Pneumonia in Children and the Effects on Inflammatory Cytokines and Oxidative Stress: A Retrospective Cohort Study

PURPOSE: This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of ulinastatin (UTI) and azithromycin (AZM) combination therapy in treating severe pneumonia in children and its impact on inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 1, 2019, to January 1, 2021, involving pediatric patients diagnosed with severe mycoplasma pneumonia (SMPP). The pediatric patients were divided into two groups: those receiving UTI and AZM combination therapy (treatment group) and those receiving azithromycin alone (control group). We compared the two groups regarding clinical data, disease outcomes, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress levels. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics did not significantly differ between the two groups. UTI, in combination with AZM, significantly improved blood oxygen levels, inflammatory infection markers, and relevant clinical symptoms in patients with SMPP on the 3rd day of treatment. Additionally, it significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-10, as well as oxidative stress markers GSH and SOD. CONCLUSION: Combining UTI and AZM can rapidly alleviate clinical symptoms and effectively control the progression of patients with SMPP. Therefore, this treatment approach deserves consideration for clinical promotion and utilization.