ROLE OF CHEST XRAY IN ASSESSING THE SEVERITY IN H1N1 INFLUENZA CASES

Abstract

Introduction: Chest x-rays may play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of H1N1 influenza by predicting which patients are likely to become sicker-who may be treated on out patient basis; who may need short duration of hospitalization; -who may need Intensive critical care viz. ventilator support

Methodology: We retrospectively studied 130 patients with H1N1 influenza infection. The most common abnormality was consolidation in the lower zones (46/130) followed by multiple zonal involvement (41/130). Although a normal chest x-ray did not exclude the possibility of an adverse outcome, the study's findings can help physicians better identify high-risk H1N1 patients who require close monitoring.

Result: The most common abnormality was consolidation in the lower zones (46/130) followed by multiple zonal involvement (41/130). On follow up 18 patients expired. Seropositive patients had predominant lower zone involvement While Patients with unizonal involvement has better outcome.