Long-term sequelae after lung abscess in children - Two tertiary centers' experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Lung abscess is a severe complication of childhood pneumonia.
• Understanding its epidemiology and clinical course is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of pediatric lung abscess.
• To evaluate the long-term sequelae following lung abscess in children.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records from two tertiary centers.
• Inclusion of patients treated for pulmonary abscess.
• Follow-up assessments included pulmonary function tests and lung ultrasound.

Main Results:

• 0.95% of pediatric pneumonia admissions (49 cases) developed lung abscess.
• Antibiotics were the primary treatment (77.5%), with surgery in 16.3%.
• Complete radiological regression occurred in 51.21% of cases; mean regression time was 84 days. Long-term follow-up revealed minor abnormalities in 73.3% and abnormal pulmonary function tests (hyperinflation) in 53.3%.

Conclusions:

• Lung abscess is a rare but severe pediatric pneumonia complication.
• Most children achieve uneventful recovery.
• Significant long-term pulmonary sequelae are uncommon.