Epidemiological Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes of Typhoid Fever in Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the epidemiological profile, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic outcomes of typhoid fever in children aged 2–12 years in an endemic region of South India.
Methods: A prospective, hospital-based study was conducted at the Institute of Social Pediatrics, Government Stanley Medical College, Chennai, India. Seventy children aged 2–12 years with clinically suspected typhoid fever, confirmed by serological tests (Widal or Typhidot-M) or blood culture, were enrolled. Exclusion criteria included children under 2 years, those with other febrile illnesses, or chronic malnutrition. Data on demographics, clinical features, socioeconomic factors, and laboratory results were collected using a structured proforma. Blood samples underwent complete hemogram, liver function tests, ultrasonography, blood culture, Widal, and Typhidot-M tests.
Results: The mean age was 5.74 ± 2.11 years, with 55.7% males. All patients presented with fever, 51.4% had abdominal pain, and 60% reported anorexia. Hepatomegaly was observed in 42.9%, splenomegaly in 27.1%, and hepatosplenomegaly in 22.9%. Blood culture was positive in 1.4%, while Widal and Typhidot-M were positive in 100% of the 70 analyzed cases. No complications were noted, and all patients recovered. Socioeconomic factors included 52.9% from upper-lower class and 72.9% consuming roadside food.
Conclusions: Typhoid fever in children is associated with poor hygiene and sanitation, with fever and gastrointestinal symptoms being predominant. Early diagnosis using serological tests like Typhidot-M is effective in resource-limited settings. Public health interventions targeting sanitation and food hygiene are crucial.