Pediatric Sweet syndrome. A retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Rheumatology
• Hematology

Background:

• Sweet syndrome (SS) is a rare pediatric diagnosis.
• Characterized by tender erythematous plaques, nodules, and systemic inflammation.
• Fewer than 80 pediatric cases reported in literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical, laboratory, and pathological data of pediatric SS cases.
• To analyze associations and treatment outcomes in pediatric SS.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients diagnosed with SS (2000-2012).
• Analysis of clinical, laboratory, and pathological data.
• Evaluation of treatment responses and recurrences.

Main Results:

• Five pediatric patients diagnosed with SS were identified.
• Common symptoms included fever, elevated inflammatory markers, and skin lesions.
• Associated conditions included infections (2), malignancy (1), all-trans retinoic acid (1), and idiopathic (1).
• Three patients responded well to corticosteroids; two experienced recurrences requiring dapsone or potassium iodide.

Conclusions:

• Sweet syndrome is exceptionally rare in children.
• Pediatric SS is frequently associated with infections, more so than malignancies.
• Prognosis is generally favorable, but recurrences necessitate consideration of second-line therapies.