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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Serratia marcescens osteomyelitis in an infant
Chad W Mayer1, Shahid Bangash, Joseph A Bocchini
1Allergy/Immunology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana 71130-3932, USA.
Allergy and Asthma Proceedings
|December 21, 2006
Summary
This study reports a rare case of an infant with both glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). The combined conditions led to unusual, severe infections, highlighting the importance of thorough immunologic evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
Background:
- Neutrophil dysfunction can stem from oxidative burst defects or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
- Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by impaired neutrophil oxidative burst, leading to recurrent infections.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant with diagnosed G6PD deficiency presented with multifocal infections including osteomyelitis and abscesses caused by Serratia marcescens.
- The infant exhibited a markedly suppressed neutrophil oxidative burst, consistent with CGD.
- A family history revealed deceased maternal relatives with suspected chronic granulomatous disease.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with X-linked chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) despite also having G6PD deficiency.
- Genetic analysis confirmed the mother and maternal grandmother as carriers of the CGD mutation.
- Treatment with antibiotics and prophylactic agents significantly reduced infection frequency.
Implications:
- This case underscores the possibility of co-occurring genetic immune deficiencies.
- Early diagnosis and management of CGD are crucial for preventing severe, life-threatening infections.
- The study highlights the diagnostic challenges and importance of comprehensive immunologic workup in infants with recurrent infections and known genetic predispositions.
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