Imaging of pediatric pulmonary infections: A pictorial review

Abstract

Pulmonary infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and hospitalization in children. While the clinical presentation often guides diagnosis and treatment, imaging—particularly chest radiography—plays an essential adjunctive role. This is especially true when the diagnosis is uncertain or complications arise. This review synthesizes the characteristic imaging findings associated with common viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens in pediatric patients. Emphasis is placed on identifying overlapping radiographic features, recognizing patterns suggestive of specific etiologies, and understanding the implications of radiographic complications for clinical management. In addition to reviewing pathogen-specific manifestations, we discuss the evolving role of computed tomography and other advanced imaging modalities for the diagnosis and monitoring of complex pulmonary infections in the pediatric population.

Keywords: Pediatric; Chest imaging; Radiology; Pulmonary; Infections

Core Tip: Pulmonary infections are a leading cause of illness and hospitalization in children. While clinical evaluation is central, chest radiography remains a vital tool in cases with diagnostic uncertainty or complications. This review highlights key imaging patterns of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections in pediatrics, aiding in differentiation of overlapping features and guiding clinical management, while also exploring the expanding role of computed tomography and advanced imaging in complex cases.