[Malignant pertussis in a three-week-old girl]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Hematology

Background:

• Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
• Infants, especially those under six months, are at high risk for severe complications.

Observation:

• A case report details a three-week-old infant girl diagnosed with malignant pertussis.
• The infant presented with severe respiratory insufficiency requiring mechanical ventilation.

Findings:

• The infant experienced severe leukocytosis (abnormally high white blood cell count).
• Exchange blood transfusion was administered to manage the severe leukocytosis.
• This intervention aimed to prevent complications like thrombosis and pulmonary hypertension.

Implications:

• Malignant pertussis can lead to life-threatening complications including circulatory failure.
• Exchange blood transfusion may be a viable treatment option for severe leukocytosis in pertussis.
• Effective vaccination programs remain crucial for pertussis prevention.