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A human immunodeficiency virus-positive infant with probable congenital histoplasmosis in a nonendemic area

Brian Alverson1, Nicole Alexander, Mark P LeGolvan

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Hasbro Children's Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. balverson@lifespan.org

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|June 8, 2010
PubMed

Insights

A 5-week-old infant with congenital human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and histoplasmosis, likely vertically transmitted, was successfully treated. This case highlights a rare delayed presentation of congenital histoplasmosis in a non-endemic region.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Congenital human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and histoplasmosis are serious conditions that can be transmitted from mother to child.
  • Vertical transmission poses significant health risks to newborns, especially in non-endemic areas.

Observation:

  • A 5-week-old infant presented with fever and was diagnosed with both congenital HIV and histoplasmosis.
  • Both infections were presumed to be vertically transmitted from the mother.

Findings:

  • The infant received effective treatment with antifungal medications and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
  • This case is the first documented instance of delayed presentation of vertically transmitted histoplasmosis.
  • It is also the first reported case of this condition occurring in a non-endemic geographical area.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering rare infections in infants with congenital HIV, even in non-endemic regions.
  • Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, including antifungals and HAART, are crucial for managing vertically transmitted infections.
  • Further research may be needed to understand the epidemiology and risk factors for delayed presentation of congenital histoplasmosis in diverse settings.

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