Indications and Findings of Pediatric Chest X-Rays in a Secondary Referral Hospital in Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Chest radiography (CXR) remains a frontline imaging modality for evaluating thoracic pathology in children. However, international guidelines advise against its use in uncomplicated respiratory conditions, citing limited diagnostic value and risks from ionizing radiation. The aim of our study was to describe the indications and findings of pediatric chest radiography at Buea Regional Hospital (BRH), Cameroon.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over 18 months (January 2021–June 2022) using imaging department records. Data were collected for children aged 0–15 years who underwent chest radiography, excluding cases without radiologist interpretation. Sociodemographic characteristics, indications, and radiographic findings were analyzed descriptively.

Results: A total of 111 pediatric CXRs were reviewed. Males accounted for 56%, with a mean age of 4.3 years; infants aged 1 month to 1 year were most represented (37.8%). General practitioners and pediatricians requested most CXRs (47.3% and 45.5% respectively). Indications were not mentioned in 19.8% of cases. Among documented indications, cough (18.9%), cough with fever (15.3%), and suspected pneumonia (15.3%) were predominant. Overall, 35.1% of CXRs were normal. Bronchiolitis (33.3%) and pneumonia (19.8%) were the leading findings. In neonates, 66.7% of CXRs were normal.

Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of justified indications for CXRs to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure, especially in neonates and infants. This therefore raises the question of the relevance and necessity of applying the principles of radioprotection, particularly the principle of justification of procedures.