What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to describe the atypical presentations of pertussis in adolescents and the associated diagnostic challenges.

Pertussis in Adolescents: Nonspecific Findings and the Importance of Clinical Vigilance - A Single-Center Retrospective Study

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Retrospective study details diagnostic challenges of pertussis in adolescents, suggesting ongoing vigilance is crucial.

This study aims to describe the atypical presentations of pertussis in adolescents and the associated diagnostic challenges.
Retrospective review of electronic records from pediatric clinics between January 2019 and August 2025.
Included adolescents with multiplex respiratory panel positive for Bordetella pertussis.
Evaluated demographics, symptoms, examination findings, laboratory results, and treatment.
Forty-one adolescents were included; 73.2% presented with cough, but examination findings were often nonspecific.
Only 39% of chest radiographs were abnormal, with increased reticular markings being the most common finding.
Empiric antibiotics were initiated in 53% of cases; macrolides were prescribed post-confirmation.

Çelebier et al. (2026) studied this question.

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