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[Haemophilus influenzae cellulitis of the hand: report of one case]
1Department of Pediatrics, Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Insights
Haemophilus influenzae type b cellulitis of the extremities is rare in young children. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications like meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Cellulitis of the extremities caused by Haemophilus influenzae is uncommon in pediatric populations.
- Typically affects children aged 6–24 months, presenting with distinctive skin discoloration and systemic symptoms.
Observation:
- A case of an 8-month-old infant with Haemophilus influenzae type b cellulitis of the right hand is presented.
- Symptoms included high fever, painful swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected hand.
Findings:
- Diagnostic procedures revealed gram-negative bacilli on needle aspirate smear.
- Blood cultures confirmed the presence of beta-lactamase-negative Haemophilus influenzae type b.
Implications:
- Prompt identification and management of Haemophilus influenzae cellulitis are vital due to potential bacteremia and severe sequelae.
- Successful treatment with ampicillin highlights the importance of timely antimicrobial therapy in pediatric cases.
Abstract:
Cellulitis of extremities due to Haemophilus influenzae is rare in children. Only 60 cases of Haemophilus influenzae cellulitis of the extremities have been reported. It usually affects young children between the ages of six and 24 months. The lesion often presents with a red-to-bluish-purple discoloration overlying the involved area. High fever and leukocytosis are commonly found. Culture of needle aspirate and blood with appropriate media is necessary for diagnosis. Early diagnosis is especially important because of associated bacteremia and the subsequent possibility of life-threatening complications such as meningitis. We reported a 8-month-old female infant with Haemophilus influenzae type b cellulitis over the right hand. She was admitted due to high fever and painful swelling of the right hand. Edematous right hand with dusky erythematous skin over the dorsum and swelling of the palm with limitation of range of motion were noted on admission. Smear of needle aspirate revealed gram negative bacilli and beta-lactamase(-) Haemophilus influenzae type b was cultivated in the blood culture. She was successfully treated with ampicillin and discharged with stable condition.