Evaluating the Usefulness of Lab-Based Test for the Diagnosis of Pneumonia in Children

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to determine the distribution of the results of routine laboratory tests for the diagnosis of pneumonia in children in Khorramabad. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study and was performed on 650 children with pneumonia who were referred to Shahid Madani Hospital. From patients’ test results, the following data were recorded: whether the results were normal or not, age, sex, serotype, history of diabetes mellitus, and the presence of urinary and digestive tract symptoms. RESULTS: There was no difference in the prevalence of pneumonia, gender-wise, whereas 40% of the patients were under 2 years. In addition, 53.7% of the patients were presented with leukocytosis. From the blood test, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, sodium, and potassium were normal in most of the patients. Stool examination, urine analysis, urine culture, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and blood sugar were also normal in these patients. CONCLUSION: Children under the age of 2 years are more susceptible to lung infections. Findings from blood tests such as leukocytosis are useful for making initial diagnosis other than computed tomography scan. Other lab tests might not give any useful results. In addition, a closer examination of the urinary system and digestive tract involvement is recommended, prior to urine or stool analysis.