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Viridans streptococcal bacteremia-related encephalopathy in childhood with malignancy

Yuya Sato1, Mayuko Okuya, Susumu Hagisawa

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan. syuya@dokkyomed.ac.jp

Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
|January 21, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Viridans streptococcal bacteremia can cause serious brain complications like seizures in children with cancer. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for successful recovery without lasting effects.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Viridans streptococcal bacteremia is a known risk factor in pediatric cancer patients with neutropenia.
  • Encephalopathy is a serious complication that can arise from this bacteremia.
  • This study focuses on the neurological impact of viridans streptococcal bacteremia in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe cases of viridans streptococcal bacteremia-related encephalopathy in pediatric cancer patients.
  • To highlight the clinical presentation, complications, and treatment outcomes.
  • To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

Main Methods:

  • Case series of 4 pediatric patients with malignancy and viridans streptococcal bacteremia-related encephalopathy.
  • Review of treatment protocols for brain edema and seizures, including antimicrobial therapy.
  • Comparison of C-reaction protein levels between patients with and without encephalopathy.

Main Results:

  • Four patients experienced severe complications including seizures and loss of consciousness due to viridans streptococcal bacteremia-related encephalopathy.
  • Rapid treatment with midazolam, dexamethasone, mannitol, and antimicrobials was successful without sequelae.
  • Patients with encephalopathy had a higher peak serum C-reaction protein level compared to those without.

Conclusions:

  • Viridans streptococcal bacteremia can induce encephalopathy in pediatric patients with malignancy.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management.
  • Prompt initiation of appropriate therapy can lead to successful outcomes and prevent long-term complications.

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