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Mycoplasma pneumoniae induced popliteal artery thrombosis treated with urokinase
1Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Chonju, Korea. joocu@moak.chonbuk.ac.kr
Abstract:
A 5 year old boy with serological and clinical evidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, which was complicated by popliteal artery thrombosis, is described. Intra-arterial urokinase, in conjunction with medical treatment, resulted in clinical recovery and angiographic resolution of the thrombus. The variety of extrapulmonary complications associated with the M pneumoniae infections continues to broaden. Thrombolytic therapies should be considered when similar clinical circumstances arise.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can cause rare complications like popliteal artery thrombosis in children. Intra-arterial urokinase successfully treated this serious vascular complication, leading to recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common respiratory pathogen.
- Extrapulmonary manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae are increasingly recognized.
- Popliteal artery thrombosis is a rare but serious complication.
Observation:
- A 5-year-old boy presented with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
- The infection was complicated by acute popliteal artery thrombosis.
- The patient exhibited serological and clinical evidence of infection.
Findings:
- Intra-arterial urokinase therapy was administered in conjunction with medical management.
- The treatment resulted in complete clinical recovery.
- Angiographic imaging confirmed resolution of the popliteal artery thrombus.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare extrapulmonary complication of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
- Intra-arterial thrombolysis with urokinase is a viable treatment option for arterial thrombosis secondary to infection.
- Physicians should consider thrombolytic therapy in similar pediatric cases involving vascular complications.
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