Plasma levels of neurogenic inflammation related neuropeptides in pediatric patients with community-acquired pneumonia and their potential diagnostic value in distinguishing viral and bacterial pneumonia.

• Plasma levels of neurogenic inflammation related neuropeptides calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide and neuropeptide Y are changed in pediatric community-acquired pneumonia. Calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P and neuropeptide Y are promising candidates in distinguishing viral and bacterial/mixed pneumonia.