Value of bedside lung ultrasound in the diagnosis of infectious pneumonia in premature infant

Objective To investigate the clinical value of lung ultrasound ( LUS) in the diagnosis of infectious pneumonia in premature infant. Methods 20 premature infants with infective pneumonia were selected and examined by high-frequency ultrasound. The results were compared with chest X-ray data. Pulmonary ultrasound was monitored on the 3rd to 5th, 8th to 10th days of treatment and before discharge. The total number and maximum depth of pulmonary consolidation were calculated and the changes of the above parameters with the progression of pulmonary diseases were compared. Results The LUS imaging of 20 cases showed: A-line disappearance and pulmonary interstitial syndrome (100%), lung consolidation (95%), abnormal pleural lines (55%), interstitial syndrome (100%) and pleural effusion (15%). The X-ray of 20 cases showed: increased lung texture(100%), patchy blurred glass shadow (40%), lung consolidation(40%). The maximum depth of lung consolidation and the total number of lung consolidation involving rib clearance are decreased after therapy. Conclusions LUS is of great value in diagnosis and monitor the progresses of infectious pneumonia in premature infant, and can be used as the preferred diagnostic method in imaging. Key words: Ultrasonography; Infant, premature; Pneumonia