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[A case with acute suppurative thyroiditis due to Eikenella corrodens and alpha-Streptococcus]
T Kawashita1, R Masuda, Y Kiyoshi
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kagoshima University.
Summary
A rare case of acute suppurative thyroiditis in a child is presented. Recurrent infections involved E. corrodens and alpha-streptococcus, requiring surgical drainage despite antibiotic sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Acute suppurative thyroiditis is a rare bacterial infection of the thyroid gland, often presenting with neck pain and fever.
- While typically associated with immunocompromised individuals or anatomical abnormalities, it can occur in otherwise healthy children.
- Recurrent episodes suggest potential underlying predisposing factors, even if not immediately apparent.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old girl experienced two distinct episodes of acute suppurative thyroiditis.
- Both episodes yielded abscesses from which Eikenella corrodens and alpha-streptococcus were cultured.
- Despite antibiotic sensitivity, surgical drainage was required to resolve the inflammation in both instances.
Findings:
- Eikenella corrodens, alone or with other bacteria, is a potential causative agent in pediatric suppurative thyroiditis, particularly in patients with compromised health or anatomical variations.
- The patient's recurrent infections, despite initial lack of detected anatomical abnormalities like a piriform sinus fistula, highlight diagnostic challenges.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering E. corrodens in the differential diagnosis of pediatric thyroid abscesses.
- Recurrent suppurative thyroiditis warrants thorough investigation for subtle or intermittent anatomical abnormalities.
- Prompt surgical intervention may be crucial for managing severe or recurrent thyroid infections, even with sensitive organisms.