Risk Factors, Diagnosis and Prevention of Pneumonia in Children: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in children under 10 years of age, especially in Latin America. In countries such as Argentina, CAP represents a significant burden on child health, being the third leading cause of mortality in children under 5 years of age. Pneumonia can be fatal if not properly diagnosed and treated, and its incidence has increased in recent years due to socioeconomic and health factors. Development: CAP is a pulmonary infection caused by community-acquired pathogens and occurs predominantly in winter. Risk factors include chronic diseases, malnutrition, overcrowding, passive smoking and lack of breastfeeding. The diagnosis of CAP is based on clinical evaluation, physical findings and, in some cases, complementary tests such as chest X-rays. The most common symptoms are fever, cough and tachypnea, although in young children they may be nonspecific. Chest X-ray is the most reliable diagnostic standard, although it is not always essential. Antibiotic treatments should be initiated empirically, prioritizing common pathogens such as pneumococcus. CAP is a serious disease in childhood that requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Prevention strategies, such as vaccination and breastfeeding, are essential. Regarding treatment, rational use of antibiotics and early identification of complications are essential to reduce mortality. It is crucial that health systems implement efficient protocols for the management of CAP, especially in areas with limited resources