Pleuritis in children is commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections, as well as other underlying medical conditions. The disease not only affects the respiratory system but may also lead to serious complications if it is not detected and treated in a timely manner.
What is pleuritis in children?
The pleura is a double-layered membrane consisting of the parietal pleura, which lines the inside of the chest wall and diaphragm, and the visceral pleura, which covers the outer surface of the lungs. Between these two layers lies the pleural cavity, which normally contains a small amount of lubricating fluid that reduces friction during breathing.
Pleuritis is a condition in which the pleura becomes irritated, inflamed, or infected. It may be accompanied by pleural effusion, the accumulation of fluid within the pleural cavity. The disease often causes sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing and can significantly impair a child’s respiratory function.
Causes of pleuritis in children
Bacterial infections
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus): The most common cause of pneumonia and purulent pleuritis.
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus): Associated with empyema.
Gram-negative bacteria: Klebsiella pneumoniae Haemophilus influenzae type B (previously common but now significantly reduced due to Hib vaccination) Escherichia coli (especially in neonates and immunocompromised children)
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A major cause of pleuritis in regions with high tuberculosis prevalence.
Fungi: Candida spp., Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidioides immitis (most commonly seen in immunocompromised children). Parasites (rare): Paragonimus westermani (lung fluke).
Other causes of pleuritis in children. Some cases of pleuritis are associated with underlying diseases or abnormal conditions:
Autoimmune disorders: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can cause noninfectious pleuritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Trauma or surgery: Chest trauma due to accidents, postoperative complications following thoracic surgery, or pleural puncture procedures.
Malignancies: Malignant tumors of the lung or mediastinum, or pleural involvement secondary to metastatic cancers.
Metabolic disorders and noninfectious inflammation: Uremia (secondary to renal failure), pulmonary embolism or infarction, and Dressler’s syndrome (pleuritis following cardiac surgery or myocardial injury).
Pleuritis in children is primarily caused by bacterial and viral infections.
Symptoms of pleuritis in children
Chest pain: Sharp or dull pain on one side of the chest, which worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or chest movements. The pain is usually localized but may radiate to the shoulder or back.
Shortness of breath: Common when pleural effusion is present or when severe inflammation reduces lung expansion. In young children, this may present as rapid breathing, chest retractions, or cyanosis.
Rapid, shallow breathing
Children may try to limit chest wall movement to reduce pain.
Cough: Often dry in the early stages, later becoming productive if pleuritis is associated with pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infection.
Fever: High fever, sometimes accompanied by chills, is common in infectious pleuritis. In young children, fever may be less pronounced, especially in pleuritis caused by tuberculosis or in malnourished children.
Fatigue and loss of appetite: Children often appear tired, irritable, fussy, or refuse to eat.
Respiratory failure: Excessive fluid or pus in the pleural cavity reduces the functional lung volume. In severe cases, or when associated with pneumothorax, the child may be unable to maintain adequate oxygenation, leading to respiratory failure.
Atelectasis: Compression of the lung by pleural secretions may cause partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in airway obstruction.
Lung abscess: Infection may spread from the pleura into the lung parenchyma, forming a localized collection of pus.
Sepsis: Bacteria from the pleural space can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic infection.
Pericarditis: Inflammatory spread from the pleura to the pericardium may lead to fluid or pus accumulation around the heart.
Five serious complications of pleuritis in children
Where to diagnose and treat pleuritis in children
With a team of pediatric specialists boasting over 20 years of clinical experience and a commitment to the principles of safe, modern, and patient-centered care, the Pediatrics Department of Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted address for the diagnosis and treatment of pleuritis in children.
One-on-one consultation with experts: Children are examined directly by pediatric specialists with more than 20 years of experience, ensuring accurate identification of the underlying cause in a single visit and close follow-up throughout treatment.
State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging: Advanced X-ray and CT scanners provide high-resolution, detailed images to detect deep-seated lesions and support precise clinical assessment.
WHO-standard treatment protocols: Antibiotics are used judiciously—only in cases of secondary infection or acute respiratory failure—to minimize antibiotic resistance and recurrence. Respiratory physiotherapy is prioritized to shorten treatment duration and enhance recovery.
Strict infection control measures: Comprehensive sterilization protocols and separate patient flow management in both outpatient and inpatient areas ensure maximum safety, reducing the risk of secondary or cross-infection.
Streamlined insurance procedures: Fast, simple processes help minimize waiting times for families.
Five-star inpatient amenities: High-quality hospital rooms, spacious play areas for children, and complimentary buffet vouchers provide comfort and convenience throughout the hospital stay.
Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is intended for reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. For an accurate evaluation of your child’s condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination and an individualized treatment plan from a qualified physician.
With the guiding principles of safe pediatric care, prevention of cross-infection, rational use of antibiotics, and reduction of recurrence, the Pediatrics Department at Hong Ngoc takes pride in being a trusted destination for parents seeking medical consultation and treatment for their children.
Two Hong Ngoc General Hospital campuses
55 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
No. 8 Chau Van Liem, Tu Liem, Hanoi
Five Hong Ngoc General Polyclinics
No. 7 & 9 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Viet Hung, Hanoi
1st Floor, HPC Landmark 105, Ha Dong, Hanoi
1st Floor, Autumn Building – Gold Season Complex, 47 Nguyen Tuan, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi
1st & 2nd Floors, NoVo Building, Kosmo Apartment Complex, 161 Xuan La, Xuan Dinh, Hanoi
10th Floor, Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower, Yen Hoa, Hanoi
Free consultation and appointment hotline: 0947.616.006
Pleuritis in children is commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections, as well as other underlying medical conditions. The disease not only affects the respiratory system but may also lead to serious complications if it is not detected and treated in a timely manner.
What is pleuritis in children?
The pleura is a double-layered membrane consisting of the parietal pleura, which lines the inside of the chest wall and diaphragm, and the visceral pleura, which covers the outer surface of the lungs. Between these two layers lies the pleural cavity, which normally contains a small amount of lubricating fluid that reduces friction during breathing.
Pleuritis is a condition in which the pleura becomes irritated, inflamed, or infected. It may be accompanied by pleural effusion, the accumulation of fluid within the pleural cavity. The disease often causes sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing and can significantly impair a child’s respiratory function.
Causes of pleuritis in children
Bacterial infections
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus): The most common cause of pneumonia and purulent pleuritis.
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus): Associated with empyema.
Gram-negative bacteria: Klebsiella pneumoniae Haemophilus influenzae type B (previously common but now significantly reduced due to Hib vaccination) Escherichia coli (especially in neonates and immunocompromised children)
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A major cause of pleuritis in regions with high tuberculosis prevalence.
Fungi: Candida spp., Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidioides immitis (most commonly seen in immunocompromised children). Parasites (rare): Paragonimus westermani (lung fluke).
Other causes of pleuritis in children. Some cases of pleuritis are associated with underlying diseases or abnormal conditions:
Autoimmune disorders: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can cause noninfectious pleuritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Trauma or surgery: Chest trauma due to accidents, postoperative complications following thoracic surgery, or pleural puncture procedures.
Malignancies: Malignant tumors of the lung or mediastinum, or pleural involvement secondary to metastatic cancers.
Metabolic disorders and noninfectious inflammation: Uremia (secondary to renal failure), pulmonary embolism or infarction, and Dressler’s syndrome (pleuritis following cardiac surgery or myocardial injury).
Pleuritis in children is primarily caused by bacterial and viral infections.
Symptoms of pleuritis in children
Chest pain: Sharp or dull pain on one side of the chest, which worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or chest movements. The pain is usually localized but may radiate to the shoulder or back.
Shortness of breath: Common when pleural effusion is present or when severe inflammation reduces lung expansion. In young children, this may present as rapid breathing, chest retractions, or cyanosis.
Rapid, shallow breathing
Children may try to limit chest wall movement to reduce pain.
Cough: Often dry in the early stages, later becoming productive if pleuritis is associated with pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infection.
Fever: High fever, sometimes accompanied by chills, is common in infectious pleuritis. In young children, fever may be less pronounced, especially in pleuritis caused by tuberculosis or in malnourished children.
Fatigue and loss of appetite: Children often appear tired, irritable, fussy, or refuse to eat.
Respiratory failure: Excessive fluid or pus in the pleural cavity reduces the functional lung volume. In severe cases, or when associated with pneumothorax, the child may be unable to maintain adequate oxygenation, leading to respiratory failure.
Atelectasis: Compression of the lung by pleural secretions may cause partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in airway obstruction.
Lung abscess: Infection may spread from the pleura into the lung parenchyma, forming a localized collection of pus.
Sepsis: Bacteria from the pleural space can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic infection.
Pericarditis: Inflammatory spread from the pleura to the pericardium may lead to fluid or pus accumulation around the heart.
Five serious complications of pleuritis in children
Where to diagnose and treat pleuritis in children
With a team of pediatric specialists boasting over 20 years of clinical experience and a commitment to the principles of safe, modern, and patient-centered care, the Pediatrics Department of Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted address for the diagnosis and treatment of pleuritis in children.
One-on-one consultation with experts: Children are examined directly by pediatric specialists with more than 20 years of experience, ensuring accurate identification of the underlying cause in a single visit and close follow-up throughout treatment.
State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging: Advanced X-ray and CT scanners provide high-resolution, detailed images to detect deep-seated lesions and support precise clinical assessment.
WHO-standard treatment protocols: Antibiotics are used judiciously—only in cases of secondary infection or acute respiratory failure—to minimize antibiotic resistance and recurrence. Respiratory physiotherapy is prioritized to shorten treatment duration and enhance recovery.
Strict infection control measures: Comprehensive sterilization protocols and separate patient flow management in both outpatient and inpatient areas ensure maximum safety, reducing the risk of secondary or cross-infection.
Streamlined insurance procedures: Fast, simple processes help minimize waiting times for families.
Five-star inpatient amenities: High-quality hospital rooms, spacious play areas for children, and complimentary buffet vouchers provide comfort and convenience throughout the hospital stay.
Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is intended for reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. For an accurate evaluation of your child’s condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination and an individualized treatment plan from a qualified physician.
With the guiding principles of safe pediatric care, prevention of cross-infection, rational use of antibiotics, and reduction of recurrence, the Pediatrics Department at Hong Ngoc takes pride in being a trusted destination for parents seeking medical consultation and treatment for their children.
Two Hong Ngoc General Hospital campuses
55 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
No. 8 Chau Van Liem, Tu Liem, Hanoi
Five Hong Ngoc General Polyclinics
No. 7 & 9 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Viet Hung, Hanoi
1st Floor, HPC Landmark 105, Ha Dong, Hanoi
1st Floor, Autumn Building – Gold Season Complex, 47 Nguyen Tuan, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi
1st & 2nd Floors, NoVo Building, Kosmo Apartment Complex, 161 Xuan La, Xuan Dinh, Hanoi
10th Floor, Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower, Yen Hoa, Hanoi
Free consultation and appointment hotline: 0947.616.006
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