Background Acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) (e.g. pneumonia) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality and management focuses on early treatment. Chest radiographs (X-rays) are one of the commonly used strategies. Although radiological facilities are easily accessible in high-income countries, access can be limited in low-income countries. The efficacy of chest radiographs as a tool in the management of acute LRTIs has not been determined. Although chest radiographs are used for both diagnosis and management, our review focuses only on management. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of chest radiographs in addition to clinical judgement, compared to clinical judgement alone, in the management of acute LRTIs in children and adults.

To assess the effectiveness of chest X-rays in addition to clinical judgement, compared to that of clinical judgement alone, in the treatment/management of acute lower respiratory tract infections in both children and adults through measuring clinical recovery, mortality and hospital admissions.