Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Children Under Five Years

medicine

Abstract Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite improvements in immunization coverage and access to healthcare, CAP continues to account for a substantial proportion of pediatric hospital admissions. Objective: To describe the clinical profile, severity, management practices, and outcomes of community-acquired pneumonia in children under five years of age. Methods: This hospital-based observational study was conducted over 12 months in the Department of Pediatrics of a tertiary care hospital. Children aged 2–59 months diagnosed with CAP according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were included. Demographic characteristics, nutritional and immunization status, clinical features, laboratory and radiological findings, treatment modalities, and outcomes were recorded. Pneumonia severity was classified using WHO guidelines. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results:A total of 120 children were enrolled, with a mean age of 18.6 ± 12.4 months; 58.3% were male. The most common presenting symptoms were cough (96.7%), fever (92.5%), and fast breathing (88.3%). Severe pneumonia was observed in 42.5% of cases. Malnutrition and incomplete immunization were significantly associated with severe pneumonia (p < 0.05). Oxygen therapy was required in 32% of children, and 8.3% required pediatric intensive care unit admission. The mean duration of hospital stay was 5.4 ± 2.1 days. Overall recovery was observed in 91.7% of cases, complications occurred in 6.7%, and mortality was 1.6%. Conclusion:Community-acquired pneumonia continues to be a major cause of hospitalization in under-five children. Early diagnosis, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and supportive care result in favorable outcomes. Preventive strategies, including adequate nutrition and complete immunization, are essential to reduce disease severity and mortality. Keywords: Community-acquired pneumonia; Under-five children; Clinical profile; Outcomes; Pediatrics

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