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Pancreatitis with hypoglycemia-associated convulsions following rotavirus gastroenteritis
1III Pediatric Department of La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
Insights
A previously healthy child experienced acute pancreatitis and seizures linked to rotavirus gastroenteritis. This case highlights the potential for rotavirus to affect the pancreas, warranting further investigation into this viral link.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Rotavirus gastroenteritis is a common childhood illness.
- Acute pancreatitis is a rare but serious complication in children.
- Hypoglycemia-associated convulsions can occur in young children with metabolic disturbances.
Observation:
- A 2-year, 8-month-old girl presented with acute pancreatitis and hypoglycemia-associated convulsions following rotavirus gastroenteritis.
- Rotavirus infection was confirmed via electron microscopy, Rotazyme assay, and serological antibody detection (IgM, IgG).
- Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels, along with ultrasonographic findings, confirmed pancreatitis.
Findings:
- Transient islet cell antibodies were detected in the patient.
- The patient exhibited no abnormalities during clinical and laboratory follow-up.
- The case suggests a potential association between rotavirus infection and pancreatic involvement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering pancreatic complications in children with severe rotavirus gastroenteritis.
- Further research is recommended to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms linking rotavirus to pancreatitis.
- Early recognition and management of pancreatitis in the context of rotavirus infection may improve patient outcomes.
Abstract:
A case of acute pancreatitis and hypoglycemia-associated convulsions following rotavirus gastroenteritis, occurring in a previously healthy 2-year, 8-month-old girl, is reported. Rotavirus infection was demonstrated both by detection of virus particles in stools by electron microscopy and Rotazyme Abbott, and by detection of specific serum IgM and IgG antibodies. Pancreatitis was revealed by raised serum amylase and lipase levels and by ultrasonographic findings. Moreover, transient islet cell antibodies were found. No abnormalities were revealed by clinical and laboratory follow-up studies. As suggested by this case report, further investigations on the possible pancreatic involvement by rotavirus may be helpful.