Influenza%20(pediatric) Diagnosis

• Influenza may present as a mild respiratory illness similar to the common cold or it may present without characteristic signs and symptoms
• Diagnosis based on the above symptoms may be difficult because other pathogens cause similar symptoms
  • Identification is made easier when it is known that the influenza virus is present in the community

• Patient may appear flushed and have pain on eye movement
• Non-exudative pharyngitis, scattered rales or rhonchi may be present

• May be appropriate to confirm diagnosis
• Sensitivity of any test will depend on the laboratory that performs the test, the type of specimen used and the type of test used

Rapid Viral Tests

• Office-based tests which detect influenza A and B viruses can diagnose influenza A and B in 10-20 minutes
• Lack of sensitivity of these tests limit their use to the influenza season within a community
  • If result is negative, viral culture may be warranted to confirm diagnosis

Viral Culture

• Most accurate but impractical since antiviral therapy needs to be instated within 48 hours of symptoms
• Takes 2-10 days for results of viral culture and it can be costly
• Valuable for monitoring antiviral resistance, identifying strains that may possibly cause pandemics and formulating vaccine for the following year

• Pneumonia is the most common complication of influenza virus
  • Influenza may be followed by viral pneumonia and secondary bacterial pneumonia
• Other complications: Otitis media, tracheobronchitis, acute sinusitis, etc