Related Experiment Videos
Peritonitis in children with nephrotic syndrome
1Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, R.O.C.
Zhonghua Minguo Xiao Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi [Journal]. Zhonghua Minguo Xiao Er Ke Yi Xue Hui
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Peritonitis in children with nephrotic syndrome is often caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Early antibiotic treatment with penicillin and an aminoglycoside or cephalosporin is recommended for suspected peritonitis in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that can increase the risk of infections, including peritonitis.
- Peritonitis, an inflammation of the abdominal lining, is a serious complication in children with nephrotic syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes, clinical features, and outcomes of peritonitis in children with nephrotic syndrome.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for the management of peritonitis in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 300 children diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome between 1978 and 1990.
- Analysis of 20 episodes of peritonitis in 17 patients, including pathogen identification and clinical presentation.
Main Results:
- Gram-negative bacilli (E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae) were the most common pathogens (55%).
- Clinical signs included abdominal pain (100%), tenderness (100%), leukocytosis (85%), and fever (75%).
- A significant proportion of cases had negative cultures but responded to penicillin (15%) or had unknown causes (15%).
Conclusions:
- Peritonitis in nephrotic children is frequently caused by Gram-negative bacteria.
- Initiating prompt antimicrobial therapy with penicillin plus an aminoglycoside or broad-spectrum cephalosporin is crucial for suspected peritonitis.
- Treatment should continue until culture results guide further management.