Question 357 · LEK · Pneumonia

A 5-month-old infant is admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Department, presenting with symptoms of a respiratory infection which started a few days earlier, following a cold and cough for several days. The child had a fever of up to 39°C, rapid breathing rate (50/min) and difficulty breathing, with clearly detectable intercostal retractions. A physical examination revealed audible crackles in both lungs and tachycardia. A radiological study of the chest showed shadowing in the lungs, suggestive of an inflammation. Laboratory test results showed an elevated CRP level (132 mg/l) and elevated WBC count (17,000/µl). Indicate the false statement:

1. AA. given the age of the child, a confirmed pneumonia is an indication for hospital treatment.
2. BB. fluoroquinolones and 3rd generation cephalosporins, including ceftriaxone, are first-line drugs for children of <1 year of age.
3. CC. macrolides are rarely used due to the significant resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae.
4. DD. blood culture tests should be carried out in patients with severe pneumonia.
5. EE. bacterial causes of pneumonia in infants include, e.g., pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae, and staphylococci.