LAUSR

Abstract Objective To assess the association of clinical and common laboratory parameters (haemoglobin, leukocyte and platelet count) with mortality in hospitalized cases with CAP. Methods A prospective observational study, conducted in a tertiary health institute in Lucknow, Northern India. Included were children between 2 to 59 months admitted with WHO defined severe pneumonia. Excluded were those illness of  ≥14 days, prior hospitalization for same illness and who were on anti-tubercular therapy and having fast breathing due to congenital heart disease. Results From August 2014 to July 2015, of 196 patients admitted, 152 were included of which 11 (7.2%) expired. On unconditional logistic regression analysis, controlling for abnormal sensorium, cyanosis, and severe acute malnutrition, platelet count Conclusion Since low platelet count is an independent predictor of mortality in children with severe CAP, it must be estimated routinely in all cases.