Infantile chronic subdural hematoma infected by Escherichia coli--case report

Yasushi Iimura1, Satoshi Tsutsumi, Yumiko Mitome

  • 1Department of Neurological Surgery, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan.

Insights

Infected subdural hematoma is a rare cause of fever and seizures in infants. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are crucial for complete recovery from this serious condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Subdural hemorrhage (SDH) in infants can have various causes, including trauma.
  • Infection of SDH is a rare but serious complication.
  • Bacteremia can lead to secondary infection of pre-existing hematomas.

Observation:

  • A 6-month-old boy presented with sustained fever and focal seizures.
  • Imaging revealed a right frontotemporal subdural fluid collection.
  • Burr-hole drainage yielded pus, identifying Escherichia coli infection.

Findings:

  • The patient had an infected subdural hematoma, likely secondary to a pre-existing SDH.
  • Cranial CT and MRI demonstrated characteristic features of the lesion.
  • Cultures confirmed Escherichia coli as the causative agent.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the possibility of infected subdural hematoma in infants with unexplained fever and neurological symptoms.
  • Prompt diagnosis through imaging and fluid analysis is essential.
  • Effective antibiotic therapy led to complete resolution, underscoring the importance of timely intervention.

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