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Systemic melioidosis presenting as suppurative parotitis

So Shivbalan1, Nisha Reddy, Vaidehi Tiru

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Sundaram Medical Foundation, Dr Rangarajan Memorial Hospital, Shanthi Colony, IV Avenue, Annanagar, Chennai 600 040, India. sivabalan.somu@gmail.com

Indian Pediatrics
|November 5, 2010
PubMed

Insights

A pediatric case of septicemic melioidosis with encephalopathy caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei was successfully treated. The child recovered fully with a combination of ceftazidime and oral antibiotics.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Bacteriology
  • Neuroinfectious Diseases

Background:

  • Melioidosis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, endemic in tropical regions.
  • Septicemic melioidosis can present with diverse clinical manifestations, including neurological involvement.
  • Early diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 3-year-old child presented with fever, parotid swelling, and altered sensorium.
  • Blood, pus, and throat cultures confirmed Burkholderia pseudomallei infection.
  • The clinical presentation suggested septicemic melioidosis with encephalopathy.

Findings:

  • The child was diagnosed with severe septicemic melioidosis complicated by encephalopathy.
  • Treatment involved intravenous ceftazidime followed by oral co-trimoxazole and amoxicillin-clavulanate.
  • Microbiological cultures confirmed the causative agent, Burkholderia pseudomallei.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering melioidosis in febrile children with neurological symptoms, especially in endemic areas.
  • Effective treatment regimens involving ceftazidime and combination oral therapy can lead to complete recovery.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management are critical to prevent severe complications and mortality associated with pediatric melioidosis.

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