Publication:

A study of predictors of occult bacteremia in febrile children 3 months to 36 months of age groups

Background The objective of the present study was to find out predictors of occult bacteremia in children, 3 months to 36 months of age group, with fever without focus and to find out most common bacteria causing occult bacteremia in the same group of children.

Methods A cross sectional study was done between January 2017 to January 2018 on hundered children between 3 months and 36 months of age group in Deccan College of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad Telangana State in all eligible children admitted in pediatric ward. A detailed history and physical examination completed as per Performa. Various blood samples were obtained for TLC, DLC including band form%, CRP, Micro –ESR and culture by standard methods. Urine sample taken in all cases for urine culture. LP and CSF analysis done in all cases.

Results Total 100 children enrolled in the study and 9 children excluded from the study. Out of 100 children included in study 25 (26%) found bacteremia positive. The study population included 60 male (60%) and 40 female (40%) children their mean and +SD age was 1997 +1.99 months.  There were 20 male and 5 female and their children in bacteremia positive group compared to 40 male and 20 females in bacteremia negative group.

Conclusions The study evaluated both clinical and laboratory predictors for the detection of occult bacteremia Total 8 laboratory parameters evaluated for their significance to detect occult bacteremia.