What do perihilar interstitial infiltrates usually indicate in pediatrics?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 20, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Pergolas interstitial infiltrates in pediatric patients typically indicate a viral respiratory infection, such as pneumonia, which requires supportive treatment and close monitoring for potential complications. The presence of interstitial infiltrates on chest radiographs in children can be an indicator of various respiratory conditions, including pneumonia, as suggested by the American College of Radiology 1. When evaluating for pneumonia in children, chest radiographs, including frontal and lateral views, are essential for documenting the presence, size, and character of parenchymal infiltrates, as well as identifying potential complications that may require interventions beyond antimicrobial therapy and supportive care 1. Key considerations in the management of pediatric patients with interstitial infiltrates include:

  • Maintaining hydration and ensuring adequate oxygenation
  • Nasal suctioning to clear secretions
  • Potential use of bronchodilators, though their effectiveness may vary
  • Avoidance of antibiotics unless a bacterial co-infection is confirmed
  • Close monitoring for signs of respiratory distress or failure, which may necessitate hospitalization and more intensive respiratory support. It's also important to note that the clinical presentation and management may vary depending on the underlying cause of the interstitial infiltrates, with viral pneumonia, such as that caused by influenza, potentially leading to severe respiratory illness, as described in guidelines for managing patients with influenza-like illness during a pandemic 1.

From the Research

Pergolas Interstitial Infiltrates in Pediatrics

  • Pergolas interstitial infiltrates are not a commonly discussed term in pediatrics, however, interstitial infiltrates are a radiological feature that can be seen in various conditions.
  • According to the study 2, bilateral peribronchial and perivascular interstitial infiltrates were most frequently seen in children with mycoplasma pneumonia.
  • The presence of bilateral infiltrates can indicate a more severe condition, such as pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome, and is associated with a more intense early inflammatory response 3.
  • Interstitial infiltrates can also be seen in community-acquired pneumonia, and the treatment of this condition can lead to the normalization of chest X-ray findings 4.
  • In the context of acute lung injury, bilateral infiltrates on chest X-ray are a key feature, and the condition can originate from direct lung triggers such as pneumonia or aspiration 5.
  • The treatment of severe mycoplasma pneumonia with a combination of erythromycin sequential therapy and azithromycin can lead to improved lung function and reduced inflammatory factors, which may be associated with interstitial infiltrates 6.

Possible Indications

  • Mycoplasma pneumonia
  • Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome
  • Community-acquired pneumonia
  • Acute lung injury
  • Severe mycoplasma pneumonia

Radiological Features

  • Bilateral peribronchial and perivascular interstitial infiltrates
  • Airspace consolidations
  • Reticulonodular opacification
  • Nodular or mass-like opacification
  • Pleural effusion
  • Hilar lymphadenopathy

Related Questions

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.