Histopathologic and immunohistochemical features of fatal influenza virus infection in children during the 2003-2004 season.

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention enhanced national surveillance for influenza-associated deaths among children because of early reports of pediatric deaths during the 2003-2004 influenza season.

Methods: We studied lung and upper airway specimens from 47 case patients who died who had at least 1 positive result for influenza virus tests using hematoxylin and eosin, special stains for bacteria and fungi, and immunohistochemical (IHC) assays for influenza A and B viruses and other potential viral and bacterial respiratory pathogens.

Results: Nineteen (40%) of the 47 patients were
Conclusions: IHC assays are useful for the diagnosis of influenza and bacterial pneumonia. This study underscores the importance of performing autopsies to identify the causes of death in patients with influenza infection.