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[Acute epiglottitis due to group A β-hemolytic streptococcus in a child]

J Mazenq1, K Retornaz1, R Vialet2

  • 1Service de médecine infantile, hôpital Nord, chemin des Bourrely, 13915 Marseille cedex 20, France.

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|October 6, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Acute epiglottitis is rare in children today due to vaccines. This case highlights a rare instance of acute epiglottitis caused by group A Streptococcus in an infant.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • Acute epiglottitis was historically a common and serious pediatric illness.
  • The widespread use of Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine has dramatically reduced its incidence.
  • Hib vaccination has altered the causative agents and clinical presentation of epiglottitis.

Observation:

  • A case of acute epiglottitis in an 11-month-old infant is presented.
  • The infant presented with symptoms indicative of acute epiglottitis.
  • Cultures revealed the causative agent to be group A β-hemolytic streptococcus.

Findings:

  • Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus identified as the pathogen responsible for acute epiglottitis.
  • This contrasts with the typical causative agent, Haemophilus influenzae type B, in the pre-vaccine era.
  • The case underscores the emergence of alternative bacterial causes for epiglottitis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the need for considering non-Hib causes of acute epiglottitis in vaccinated populations.
  • Suggests potential shifts in the microbiology of pediatric upper airway infections.
  • Emphasizes the importance of accurate microbiological diagnosis for appropriate treatment and surveillance.

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