Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis of COVID-19 in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

This retrospective study explores the clinical manifestations and diagnosis of COVID-19 in pediatric patients, focusing on the presentation of mild symptoms. The study was conducted at a tertiary care center and included a cohort of 200 pediatric patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Analysis of the data revealed distinct age distribution patterns, with the highest proportion of cases observed in the 0-1 age group, followed by patients aged 1-2 years. The most prevalent symptoms at the onset of the disease included mild manifestations such as fever, upper respiratory symptomatology, and digestive symptoms. Additionally, a smaller subset of patients exhibited neurological symptoms, lower respiratory symptoms, and renal manifestations in the form of oliguria. Diagnostic methods employed encompassed RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen tests, with notable differences in their effectiveness. Notably, patients presenting with fever experienced a longer duration of hospitalization compared to those without fever. These findings contribute to our understanding of the clinical characteristics of mild COVID-19 cases in pediatric patients and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.