# Radiologic analysis of CT imaging patterns and clinical correlations in hospitalized pediatric COVID-19 patients

## TL;DR

This study examines CT scan patterns in hospitalized children with COVID-19 in Iran, finding that lung involvement is common and linked to worse outcomes.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into CT imaging patterns and clinical correlations in pediatric COVID-19 patients, particularly in Iran.

## Key findings

- Mixed patterns and consolidation were the most frequent CT findings in pediatric COVID-19 patients.
- Bilateral lung involvement was most common, with abnormal CT results linked to poorer prognosis.
- Clinical correlations showed ICU admission and intubation rates were notably high among the patients.

## Abstract

COVID-19 has emerged as a global pandemic affecting individuals of all ages. The disease can lead to severe complications and even death, particularly due to pulmonary involvement. Contrary to popular belief, children can also experience significant complications from COVID-19. To date, there have been limited studies focusing on pulmonary manifestations in pediatric patients with COVID-19. This study aims to investigate the imaging patterns (CT scans) in children diagnosed with COVID-19 in Iran.

This retrospective study analyzed data from hospitalized children with COVID-19 in Tehran from March 2020 to September 2020. Information collected included demographic details (sex and age), previous medical history, clinical manifestations, vital signs at admission, laboratory findings, and imaging results, including CT scan and chest x-ray.

252 patients were included, with a mean age of 71.2 ± 59.42 months; 58.3% were male. Fever was the most prevalent symptom, occurring in 67.4% of cases. The most common underlying condition was oncological disorders, present in 85% of patients. Notably, 52% required admission to the ICU, and 1.8% needed intubation. CT scans revealed that the most frequent lung involvement patterns were mixed patterns and consolidation, with bilateral involvement being the most common. The mean CT score was calculated at 3 ± 4. Abnormal CT findings were associated with a poorer prognosis, and correlations were observed between specific CT findings and clinical manifestations.

Chest CT manifestations offer valuable insights for assessing pediatric patients with COVID-19, especially in severe cases and those with pre-existing health conditions. Integrating clinical evaluations with radiological scoring systems facilitates early identification of disease severity.