: Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has emerged as a possible first-step treatment to avoid invasive intubation in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) due to its advantages in reducing intubation-associated risks. However, the timely identification of NIV failure is crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. This study aims to identify predictors of first-attempt NIV failure in PICU patients by testing various machine learning techniques and comparing their predictive abilities.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: The first post-COVID-19 pandemic year demonstrated an unusual bronchiolitis epidemic in both hemispheres and has been attributed to the removal of barriers implemented during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Several countries reported an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis, with more hospitalizations and a greater need for respiratory support. We aimed to evaluate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the epidemiology and management of severe bronchiolitis in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in Italy.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSevere plasmodium falciparum infection can induce respiratory distress and clinical ARDS in children, requiring intensive care admission and respiratory support. We present 3 cases of imported malarial acute respiratory distress syndrome requiring noninvasive ventilation in the pediatric intensive care unit, in the absence of any cerebral involvement. Radiological features and their relationship with severe hematological complications are also illustrated.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most dramatic events in pediatric age and, despite advanced neuro-intensive care, the survival rate of these patients remains low. Children suffering from severe TBI show long-term sequelae, more pronounced in behavioral, neurological and neuropsychological functions leading to, in the most severe cases, an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS). Currently, no effective treatments can restore neuronal loss or produce significant improvement in these patients.
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