Children with Cough and Fever: Up-to-date Imaging Evaluation and Management

Radiol Clin North Am. 2017 Jul;55(4):645-655. doi: 10.1016/j.rcl.2017.02.007. Epub 2017 Apr 6.

Abstract

Cough and fever in infants and children are frequent but nonspecific symptoms. Several usual differential diagnoses are under consideration and imaging is often necessary to help arrive at an accurate diagnosis and ensure proper management. A broad spectrum of underlying disorders may be present. Radiologists must remain cognizant of the potential for immune dysfunction and underlying structural abnormalities. A clear understanding of up-to-date imaging evaluation recommendations and characteristic imaging features can assist radiologists and clinicians in arriving at the most accurate diagnosis in a timely manner and help ensure proper management and necessary follow-up imaging assessment.

Keywords: Cough; Fever; Imaging management; Lung infection; Pediatric patients; Pneumonia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cough / diagnostic imaging*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Fever / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn