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Sweet's syndrome as an initial manifestation of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection
R C Brady1, J Morris, B L Connelly
1Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA.
Insights
Sweet's syndrome, a rare condition in infants, can signal pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection. This case highlights the importance of investigating underlying systemic diseases when Sweet's syndrome presents in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Sweet's syndrome, also known as acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, is a rare inflammatory condition.
- While commonly associated with infections and malignancies in adults, its presentation in pediatric populations is less frequent.
- Early identification of underlying causes is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- A 3-month-old infant presented with clinical manifestations consistent with Sweet's syndrome.
- This dermatological condition served as an initial indicator of a more significant underlying health issue.
- The infant was subsequently diagnosed with pediatric human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a rare association between Sweet's syndrome and pediatric HIV infection.
- It underscores that Sweet's syndrome in children can be a presenting sign of serious systemic diseases, including infections.
- Prompt dermatological diagnosis can lead to the early detection of critical underlying conditions.
Implications:
- Pediatricians and dermatologists should consider Sweet's syndrome in the differential diagnosis of infants presenting with unexplained skin lesions.
- A diagnosis of Sweet's syndrome in a child warrants a comprehensive workup for associated systemic diseases, particularly infections like HIV.
- This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness of rare disease presentations in pediatric populations to ensure timely and appropriate medical intervention.
Abstract:
We report a 3-month-old infant in whom Sweet's syndrome was a presenting manifestation of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus infection. Although rare in children, Sweet's syndrome may be associated with certain infections and malignancies. The diagnosis of Sweet's syndrome in a child should always prompt a thorough evaluation to assess for an associated systemic disease.