How to diagnose mycoplasma pneumonia in children

Mycoplasma pneumonia in children can be diagnosed by symptoms, signs, routine blood tests, chest X-rays, and etiological examinations.

1. Symptoms

Pediatric mycoplasma pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs caused by mycoplasma infection, and children may have symptoms such as fever, cough, sputum production, and chest pain. If your child has these symptoms, they may have mycoplasma pneumonia.

2. Signs

Pulmonary signs usually manifest as crackles on lung auscultation, and may be present if mycoplasma pneumonia is severe.

3. Routine blood examination

Routine blood tests usually show a normal or slightly elevated white blood cell count and an elevated neutrophil ratio. If the child has the above symptoms, and the white blood cell count and neutrophil ratio are elevated, the diagnosis of mycoplasma pneumonia can usually be confirmed.

4. Chest X-ray examination

A chest x-ray can show inflammatory lesions in the lungs and can be used as an adjunct. If a child has these symptoms and chest x-ray shows interstitial changes or patchy opacities in the lungs, mycoplasma pneumonia may be present.

5. Etiological examination

Etiological testing is the gold standard for diagnosing mycoplasma pneumonia, and mycoplasma culture and serology can be performed from specimens such as throat swabs and sputum, and if the test results are positive, the diagnosis of mycoplasma pneumonia can usually be confirmed.

In addition, if the child has the above symptoms, it is recommended to go to the hospital in time, and azithromycin, roxithromycin and other drugs can be used for treatment under the guidance of a doctor. In daily life, children also need to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, such as cabbage, apples, etc., which helps to improve the body's immunity.