Neurological and muscular manifestations associated with influenza B infection in children

Jin-Hwa Moon1, Jae-Yoon Na, Joo-Hwa Kim

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. jhmoon@hyumc.com

Pediatric Neurology
|July 18, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Influenza B can cause neurological and muscular symptoms in children, most commonly febrile seizures. While generally mild, rare severe complications may occur during outbreaks.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Influenza viruses are known to cause various neurological and muscular symptoms.
  • Understanding these manifestations in children is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the pediatric neurological and muscular manifestations associated with influenza B infection.
  • To analyze the frequency and types of these complications during a 5-month epidemic.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical records for 355 pediatric patients with confirmed influenza B.
  • Analysis of clinical symptoms, patient demographics, and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

  • 28 patients (7.9%) presented with neurological or muscular symptoms.
  • Febrile seizures were the most common (67.9%), followed by myositis (17.9%).
  • Most cases were mild, with no deaths or chronic sequelae reported.

Conclusions:

  • Neurological and muscular complications of influenza B in children are typically mild, with febrile seizures being the most frequent.
  • Clinicians should remain vigilant for potential rare, severe complications during influenza B outbreaks.

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