Radiological and pulmonary function outcomes of children with SARS

We examined the radiological and pulmonary function outcomes of children affected with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) at 6 months from diagnosis. Twenty‐one female and 26 male Chinese patients (median age, 13.6 years; interquartile range, 9.9–16.0) were studied. In each subject, high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the thorax and pulmonary function were assessed. All children were asymptomatic and had a normal clinical examination. Mild pulmonary abnormalities were detected on HRCT in 16 (34.0%) subjects, including residual ground‐glass opacification (n = 5), air trapping (n = 8), and a combination of ground‐glass changes and air trapping (n = 3). The need for oxygen supplementation (P = 0.02) and lymphopenia during the course of illness (P = 0.012) were significant risk factors in predicting abnormal HRCT. There were no significant lung function differences between those with and without HRCT abnormalities. Despite complete clinical resolution, a considerable proportion of children affected with SARS had abnormal HRCT findings at 6 months. These abnormalities were more prevalent in those with severe disease. It is important that careful follow‐up be carried out to assess the clinical significance and persistence of such abnormalities. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 38:427–433. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.