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Hemolytic-uremic syndrome associated with Coxiella burnetii infection

H C Maltezou1, C Kallergi, E Kavazarakis

  • 1Second Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|December 6, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Acute Q fever, a Coxiella burnetii infection, can cause severe hemolytic-uremic syndrome in children. This case highlights the importance of considering Q fever in pediatric patients presenting with this rare complication.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Q fever is typically a mild febrile illness, pneumonia, or hepatitis caused by Coxiella burnetii.
  • Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) is a severe condition characterized by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury.

Observation:

  • A 12-year-old child with known Coxiella burnetii exposure presented with symptoms consistent with HUS.
  • The child required hospitalization due to the severity of the HUS presentation.

Findings:

  • Serologic testing confirmed a diagnosis of acute Q fever in the pediatric patient.
  • This case demonstrates an unusual and severe manifestation of Q fever in a child.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for severe HUS as a presenting illness in pediatric Q fever.
  • Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and consideration of Q fever in children with HUS, especially after potential exposure.
  • Underscores the importance of diagnostic serology for Coxiella burnetii in complex pediatric cases.

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