Using Lung Ultrasound and Breathing Tests to Improve Care for Infants With Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

What this Trial Is About

Lower respiratory tract infections LRTIs are a leading cause of illness and hospitalization in infants worldwide, especially in low-income areas. In Norway, bronchiolitis, a common viral LRTI affecting small airways, causes breathing and feeding difficulties and can increase the risk of chronic lung disease such as asthma. This observational study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment by using lung ultrasonography LUS and tidal breathing flow volume loops TBFVL to better assess disease severity and predict long-term outcomes in infants with LRTIs. The study uses modern diagnostic tools including bedside lung ultrasound and tidal flow volume loops to objectively evaluate airway obstruction and lung involvement in hospitalized infants under two years old with LRTIs. Researchers will explore how these tools correlate with clinical symptoms, length of hospital stay, respiratory support needs, and intensive care admissions. The project also includes developing AI-driven scoring for ultrasound images and following patients for 12 months to assess post-infection symptoms and lung function. Participants will undergo lung ultrasound and tidal flow volume loop tests during hospitalization and follow-up visits. Researchers will monitor symptom duration, hospital readmissions, and lung function over a year. The study measures include number of readmissions, hospital stay length, and symptom duration after discharge. This research aims to identify infants at high risk for chronic lung disease to tailor treatments and improve long-term care, while providing caregivers with clearer information about symptom progression and risks.

Modern Technologies in Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Children