Yersiniosis complicated by tubulointerstitial nephropathy necessitating peritoneal dialysis in a young child

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Yersinia enterocolitica is a common cause of pediatric gastroenteritis.
• Tubulointerstitial nephritis is a rare cause of acute kidney injury with unclear mechanisms.
• Renal complications of Yersinia enterocolitica infection are not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis in a child secondary to Yersinia enterocolitica infection.
• To highlight the potential for Yersinia enterocolitica to cause severe renal damage.
• To emphasize the importance of monitoring renal function during Yersinia enterocolitica infections.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a pediatric patient with Yersinia enterocolitica infection.
• Clinical presentation including diarrhea, fever, and acute renal failure.
• Diagnostic workup: coproculture, abdominal ultrasound, renal biopsy.
• Treatment: antibiotics (cotrimoxazole, ceftriaxone), peritoneal dialysis, corticosteroids.

Main Results:

• Yersinia enterocolitica identified as the causative agent of gastroenteritis and colitis.
• Patient developed acute oligoanuric renal failure and oedemato-ascitic syndrome.
• Renal biopsy confirmed acute tubulointerstitial nephritis.
• Successful treatment with antibiotics, corticosteroids, and temporary peritoneal dialysis.

Conclusions:

• This case suggests a potential link between Yersinia enterocolitica infection and interstitial renal damage.
• Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis is a possible, albeit rare, renal complication of Yersinia enterocolitica.
• Vigilant renal function monitoring is recommended in pediatric patients with Yersinia enterocolitica infections.