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Childhood visceral leishmaniasis complicated by bacterial infections
M R Kadivar1, T Z Kajbaf, A Karimi
1Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
Insights
Bacterial superinfections are common in children with visceral leishmaniasis, often leading to fatal outcomes. Early antibiotic treatment is crucial for managing these bacterial infections and improving patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Bacterial superinfection is a significant cause of mortality in visceral leishmaniasis patients.
- Understanding the frequency and types of bacterial infections is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and types of bacterial infections in pediatric patients with visceral leishmaniasis.
- To identify common bacterial pathogens and associated conditions.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted on 54 hospitalized children diagnosed with visceral leishmaniasis.
- Bacterial cultures were performed to identify causative agents in patients presenting with various infections.
Main Results:
- Bacterial infections were identified in 41% (22 out of 54) of the pediatric patients.
- Common infections included pneumonia, septicaemia, otitis media, urinary tract infections, and skin infections.
- Enterobacteriaceae were the most frequently isolated bacterial agents.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial infections are a frequent and serious complication in children with visceral leishmaniasis.
- Nonspecific signs in infants with visceral leishmaniasis may indicate fatal bacterial infections.
- Prompt initiation of antibiotic therapy is essential for improving outcomes.
Abstract:
Bacterial superinfection is one of the major complications leading to death in patients with visceral leishmaniasis. We studied the frequency and type of bacterial infection in 54 patients admitted to hospital with visceral leishmaniasis. The patients were children who ranged in age from 3 1/2 months to 7 years. Bacterial infections were found in 22 (41%) of the patients. Bacteria were isolated in patients with pneumonia, septicaemia, otitis media, urinary tract infections and skin infections. Enterobacteriaceae were the most common bacterial agents isolated. In infants with visceral leishmaniasis, fatal bacterial infections can be accompanied by nonspecific signs and symptoms. Thus, it is important to initiate antibiotic treatment early.