Neonatal malignant pertussis and exchange transfusion: A case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Neonatology

Background:

• Whooping cough (pertussis), caused by Bordetella pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
• Neonates are particularly vulnerable, with severe cases having a high mortality rate of approximately 70%.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the severity of malignant whooping cough in neonates.
• To evaluate the potential benefit of exchange transfusion in improving prognosis for severe pertussis.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 26-day-old infant with malignant whooping cough confirmed by PCR.
• Initial treatment included antibiotics (josamycin) and supportive care.
• Exchange transfusion was performed due to clinical deterioration.

Main Results:

• The infant presented with tachycardia, fever, dyspnea, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
• Despite initial treatment, the condition worsened, necessitating exchange transfusion.
• Following exchange transfusion, the infant showed clinical improvement and was discharged after 12 days.

Conclusions:

• Exchange transfusion may be a viable option for neonates with malignant whooping cough, leukocytosis, and acute respiratory failure.
• Enhancing pertussis vaccination coverage is the most effective strategy for preventing severe cases.