Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Will the cough ever stop? Atypical pneumonia
Case presentation
A 12-year-old male with a history of autism presents with cough for the past 3 weeks. There was initially fever to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, but this lasted for 2–3 days, then resolved. He was seen by his primary care provider 2 weeks ago and was diagnosed with a viral upper respiratory infection. He has not had congestion, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. There is no report of choking or concern for foreign body ingestion. He has been eating and drinking well. Examination reveals a temperature of 99 degrees Fahrenheit, a heart rate of 90 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, a blood pressure of 110/75 mm Hg, and an oxygen saturation of 93% on room air. He appears comfortable and in no respiratory distress. He has no stigmata of allergies. His pulmonary examination reveals scattered rhonchi without crackles; there is slight bibasilar wheezing. He has no rash.
Imaging considerations
Imaging is often employed in the evaluation of children with respiratory complaints. The differential diagnosis can be broad, and the imaging modality that a clinician may employ is dependent on history and physical examination.
You're Reading a Preview
Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles
If you are a member. Log in here