Diagnostic Utility of Chest X-rays in Neonatal Respiratory Distress: Determining the Sensitivity and Specificity

Introduction Chest radiography is one of the most usual diagnostic tools for respiratory distress. The aim of this study was to assess the specificity, sensitivity and clinical value of chest radiography of neonates with respiratory distress. Methods and Materials A descriptive- analytical study was conducted on 102 neonates that were in neonatal intensive care unit of Imam Reza and 22 Bahman Hospitals because of respiratory distress. After confirming the neonateʹs respiratory distress and taking chest radiography, the radiography was described by a radiologist and final diagnosis was confirmed. Results Most of the neonates (64.7%) were born with caesarian section and were premature (78.4%). Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) was the most common reason for respiratory distress (38.2%). Chest radiography had the most sensitivity and specificity in pneumothorax and hernia (100%). For pneumosepsis, radiography had 73% sensitivity and 87% specificity, for RDS the sensitivity and specificity were 35% and 82% respectively, for congenital heart disease sensitivity of zero and specificity of 98% and for Transient tachypnea of neonates (TTN) sensitivity of zero and specificity of 100%. The conformity of clinical and radiography was also calculated as 79.4% in respiratory distress. Conclusion Although chest radiography is used as one of the most usual and accessible diagnostic tools in respiratory distress syndrome, but inaccurate specificity and sensitivity in some disease must be considered, especially in neonates.