RESUMO
A study of the occurrence of lipid aspiration pneumonia in young infants was conducted in a rural population of Northern Yemen, complicating the practice of feeding young infants with ghee, in the hope of making them grow fatter. A review of cases encountered during 15-month period was performed and the clinical findings [age and sex incidence], as well as the outcome, were analyzed. The radiological appearances and their evolution with time were discussed. A total of 71 cases were encountered during the period of the study with an average of 4-5 new cases a month. Male and female incidences were 45% and 55%, respectively. 40% of the infants were less than 15 days of age and 60% were between 15 days and 3 months. All presented with respiratory distress, usually very severe. 80% were also refusing to suck and 50% were febrile. A group which was previously healthy but with low birth weight was recognized. Another group which had a background of neonatal sepsis was also recognized. Duration of hospital stay ranged from 2 to 45 days. Addition of corticosteroids had a beneficial effect on the speed of improvement. 75% recovered, with a case fatality rate of 25%. Deaths occurred due to respiratory failure. Some related socioeconomic issues were also addressed