Predictors of Mortality among Under-five Children Hospitalized with Severe Community-acquired Pneumonia. A Retrospective Observational Study

Background Severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) remains a critical public health issue and a leading cause of childhood mortality and morbidity, especially in developing countries. Identifying predictors of death in children with SCAP and early recognition of high-risk patients could significantly improve survival rates. Objective This study aims to identify possible predictors of mortality in pediatric SCAP, facilitating the early recognition of high-risk children. Patients and Methods This retrospective observational study included 120 children under the age of five who were admitted with SCAP, based on World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and hospital outcomes were collected and analyzed to identify risk factors for mortality. Results Of the enrolled SCAP patients, the mortality rate was found to be 9.2%. Risk factors, including underweight status (P=0.044), altered consciousness level at admission (P=0.038), requirement for mechanical ventilation (P=0.016), and development of complications during hospitalization (P=0.034), were identified to be significant predictors for death among under-five children hospitalized with SCAP. Conclusion Under-five children with SCAP had low survival, particularly those who were underweight, had altered consciousness level upon admission, had complications, or required mechanical ventilation during hospitalization. Therefore, under-five children with SCAP require special attention, particularly those with identified predictors for death.