ABSTRACT
Background: Pediatric sepsis is a critical condition often encountered in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.
Aim: This retrospective research intended to examine epidemiological features of pediatric sepsis cases admitted to the PICU of a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: Medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with sepsis, aged 0-18 years, admitted to PICU between  October 2022 and October 2023, were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, clinical parameters, microbiological findings, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results: Ninety pediatric sepsis cases were involved in our research, comprising 55% males and 45% females. The mean age was 6.8 years (SD = 3.2). The most common comorbidities were respiratory disorders (32%) and congenital anomalies (21%). The predominant source of infection was respiratory (40%), followed by bloodstream (30%) and central nervous system (15%). Among the pathogens identified, bacteria accounted for 70% of cases, with Staphylococcus aureus (28%) being the most prevalent. The overall mortality rate was 18%, with younger age (<1 year) and presence of comorbidities suggestively related inside increased mortality (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: This research provides insights into epidemiology of pediatric sepsis in a tertiary care hospital’s PICU. Respiratory infections were the leading cause, with bacterial pathogens predominating. Early recognition and targeted interventions focusing on high-risk groups are essential for reducing morbidity and mortality associated with pediatric sepsis.
Keywords: Pediatric sepsis, epidemiology, intensive care unit, tertiary care hospital, retrospective study.