What tests are done at the hospital for neonatal pneumonia?

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Newborns have immature tracheal functions and low immune function; once neonatal pneumonia occurs, hospitalization is definitely required. The usual tests needed include the following aspects:

First, imaging tests, typically including chest X-rays or a CT scan of the lungs, are necessary to understand the extent, severity, and specific details of the lung lesions.

Second, tests related to infection are needed. This generally includes complete blood counts, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, etc. In cases with significant throat phlegm, sputum culture and blood culture are also needed to identify the pathogen.

Third, an assessment of the child’s tracheal function and internal environmental status is required. This typically involves blood tests for liver function, kidney function, cardiac enzymes, electrolytes, etc., to enable a comprehensive assessment and accurate treatment.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Newborn pneumonia symptoms

If a newborn gets pneumonia, it can manifest as coughing, although some newborns may not cough at all, showing only symptoms like spitting white foam. Some may have a mild fever, while others may experience slightly rapid breathing. More severe cases can present with cyanosis of the lips, unhealthy-looking facial complexion, or a bluish purple facial color. These are signs of severe pneumonia. Additionally, there might be a decrease in urine output, poor responsiveness, etc. The symptoms of pneumonia in newborns are relatively less typical than those in older infants and toddlers.

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Written by Zeng Hai Jiang
Pediatrics
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Do newborns with pneumonia have a red complexion?

Neonatal pneumonia generally does not cause a flushed face; instead, it may lead to cyanosis or blueness. Neonatal pneumonia can present with fever, coughing, and shortness of breath, but these symptoms might not be typical and could merely show as rapid breathing and severe vomiting. The physical signs of neonatal pneumonia are also not obvious, and it is difficult to hear wet rales in the lungs. When a newborn has pneumonia, due to the obstruction of gas exchange in the lungs, the infant will breathe faster to improve the hypoxic condition, thus presenting shortness of breath and a tendency to vomit easily. When a baby has pneumonia, they are prone to hypoxia, and the face and lips may turn blue or cyanotic, rather than red.

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Written by Gao Shan Na
Neonatology
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How long is the treatment for neonatal pneumonia?

Neonatal pneumonia, commonly referred to here, is an infectious pneumonia and a prevalent disease among newborns, also a significant cause of neonatal mortality. Its causes include intrauterine infectious pneumonia, infections during the delivery process, and postnatal infections. Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the lung infection, the toxicity of the pathogen, and individual differences in the host response. For mild infections, the general treatment duration is seven to ten days, but for severe infections, it may extend to two to three weeks or even longer, particularly with specific pathogens.

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Written by Gao Shan Na
Neonatology
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Is the mortality rate of neonatal pneumonia high?

Neonatal pneumonia typically refers to infectious pneumonia, which is a common disease in newborns and a significant cause of neonatal mortality. It can occur in utero, during the birth process, or after birth, caused by bacteria, viruses, or protozoa. Approximately two million children die from neonatal pneumonia worldwide each year. Therefore, once signs and symptoms of pulmonary infection are detected in a child, it is essential to seek timely medical treatment at a hospital.

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Written by Hu Qi Feng
Pediatrics
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How to treat neonatal pneumonia?

Neonatal Pneumonia Treatment: 1. Manage the respiratory tract by nebulization inhalation, postural drainage, regular turning and back patting to keep the airway clear and clean the oral and nasal secretions. 2. For those with hypoxemia, provide oxygen therapy, which may include nasal cannula oxygen delivery, masks, or head masks. Mechanical ventilation may be necessary if required. 3. Choose appropriate antibiotics; for bacterial infections, select sensitive antibiotics based on the type of bacteria, while antiviral drugs can be used to support treatment of viral infections. 4. Correct circulatory disturbances and electrolyte balance, control infusion rate to prevent heart failure and pulmonary edema, and ensure the supply of energy and nutrients. Immunoglobulin can be used as appropriate to boost immunity.