Acute lower respiratory tract infections caused by PCR-proven viruses in the NICU

Abstract

Background: In recent years, detection of viruses by multiplex real time polymerase chain reaction allowed the isolation of causative viral agents. Objectives: The primary objectives of this study were to determine the distribution of causative respiratory viruses in acute lower respiratory tract infections in the NICU and to compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of infants with RSV and non-RSV infections. The secondary aim was to determine risk factors requiring respiratory support. Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted between January 2016 and June 2019. The infants were divided into two groups as RSV and non-RSV, and compared. Risk factors for respiratory support by means of invasive/non-invasive ventilation were determined. Results: Two hundred forty-three infants were hospitalized with the diagnosis of viral lower respiratory tract infections and a total of 119 infants, in which a causative viral agent could be isolated, were included in the study. RSV was the most common isolated virus (n=93, 78%). The demographic characteristics of infants in RSV and non-RSV groups were similar, except postnatal age. Infants were hospitalized most frequently in between December and February. In multivariate analysis, apnea and RSV were found to be risk factors for respiratory support requirement. Conclusion: Since RSV-associated acute lower respiratory tract infections are the most common and require more respiratory support in the neonatal period, risk factors should be identified and preventive measures should be developed. Preventive strategies, raising awareness of families, careful and meticulous attitudes especially during high season might reduce the incidence and hospitalizations of the infants.