Clinical Profile, Etiological Spectrum, and Outcomes of Acute Febrile Illness Among Children Admitted to a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Acute febrile illness (AFI) is one of the most common causes of pediatric hospital admissions in developing countries. Overlapping clinical features often make early diagnosis difficult, leading to increased risk of complications and mortality if not managed promptly.

Objectives: To study the clinical profile of acute febrile illness among hospitalized children, determine the etiological spectrum and laboratory findings, and assess treatment outcomes and complications associated with AFI.

Methodology: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among 130 children aged 1 month to 12 years admitted with fever of less than 14 days duration in a tertiary care hospital. Detailed clinical history, examination, and relevant laboratory investigations were performed.

Results: The majority of children belonged to the 1–5 years age group (41.5%) with male predominance (56.9%). Fever was present in all cases, while cough/cold (52.3%), vomiting (33.8%), and loose stools (21.5%) were common associated symptoms. Thrombocytopenia showed significant association with dengue fever (p <0.001). Complications were significantly higher among children with fever duration greater than five days (p = 0.001). Most children recovered successfully, while mortality was observed in 1.5% cases.

Conclusion: Acute febrile illness remains a major cause of pediatric hospitalization with diverse etiologies and overlapping presentations.