Epidemiological trends and serological profiles of respiratory pathogens in Guangzhou: an 11-year retrospective study from 2013 to 2023
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Respiratory pathogens pose significant public health challenges globally, particularly in densely populated urban areas. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological trends of multiple respiratory pathogens in Guangzhou, China, from 2013 to 2023, and investigate associated serological profiles to inform clinical management and public health interventions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 96,927 cases with suspected respiratory infections (SRIs) (defined by fever >37.5 ℃, cough, dyspnea, and/or chest pain) at The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records, and immunofluorescence assays were used to detect immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against nine respiratory pathogens. Results: (MP) was the predominant pathogen (76.51% of serologically positive cases), followed by parainfluenza viruses (PIVS) (9.75%). The highest serologically positive rate was observed in the 5-14 age group (36.01%). Females exhibited a significantly higher overall serologically positive rate (21.30%) compared to males (15.97%, P<0.001). Serological analysis revealed profiles in confirmed infections, with significantly lower coagulation-related parameters (P<0.001) and some elevated inflammatory markers compared to suspected cases. Conclusions: This comprehensive study provides crucial insights into the changing landscape of respiratory pathogen infections in Guangzhou over an 11-year period. The predominance of MP, particularly among school-age children and females, highlights the need for targeted interventions. The unexpected coagulation profiles in confirmed infections suggest complex pathophysiological mechanisms that warrant further investigation. These findings have important implications for clinical management, diagnostic approaches, and public health strategies in urban settings.
Source: Journal of Thoracic Disease
DOI: 10.21037/jtd-24-1528
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408685206