Background: Pediatric shock represents a critical medical emergency characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion and cellular oxygen delivery, with particularly high mortality in young children. The clinical presentation varies significantly across age groups, with infants and young children demonstrating subtle signs that may mask severity until sudden decompensation occurs.
Objectives: To evaluate the clinico-etiological profile, laboratory correlations, and clinical outcomes of shock in children aged 1 month to 5 years admitted to a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over 24 months (March 2023 to February 2025) involving 77 children aged 1 month to 5 years presenting with shock. Shock was identified by presence of tachycardia and/or hypotension with signs of systemic hypoperfusion. Detailed clinical assessment, laboratory investigations, and outcome monitoring were performed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.
Results: The study cohort comprised 77 children with mean age of 1.8±1.4 years and male predominance (51.9%). Septic shock was most prevalent (63.6%), followed by cardiogenic (20.8%) and distributive shock (15.6%). Fever was the commonest presentation (40.3%), followed by labored breathing (19.5%). Malnutrition was present in 14.3% of cases. All patients exhibited tachycardia and delayed capillary refill time, while hypotension was documented in 33.8%. Laboratory evaluation revealed elevated inflammatory markers (mean CRP 98.2 mg/L, procalcitonin 17.2 ng/mL, lactate 2.3 mmol/L). Respiratory infections constituted the leading cause of septic shock (32.7%), followed by acute gastroenteritis (18.4%). Mechanical ventilation was required in 54.5% of patients, with 63.6% needing multiple inotropes. The overall mortality rate was 24.7%, significantly associated with multiple inotrope use (p<0.001), altered sensorium on admission (p=0.002), and higher SOFA scores. Mean PICU and hospital stays were 8.9±7.8 and 15.6±11.2 days respectively.
Conclusion: Septic shock predominates in young children with significant mortality. Early recognition of compensated shock, prompt antimicrobial therapy, judicious fluid management, and appropriate inotropic support are essential for improved outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Keywords: Pediatric shock, septic shock, infants, young children, mortality, tertiary care, clinical outcomes, SOFA score, inotropes
How to cite this article: Chavan S, Rajput A, Verma S, Mane S, Clinical Profile And Outcomes Of Shock In Children Aged 1 Month To 5 Years At A Tertiary Care Hospital. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(4s): 169-176; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.169-176