Catastrophic ENT Complications of Pediatric Infectious Mononucleosis: Recent Experience at a Tertiary Pediatric

Lorenzo Gaini1,2, Anna Cozzi1, Gioia Piatti2

  • 1Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy.

Insights

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can cause severe pharyngotonsillitis in children, leading to life-threatening complications like airway obstruction or death. Prompt, multidisciplinary care is vital for managing these critical cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Otolaryngology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes infectious mononucleosis (IM), commonly presenting as acute pharyngotonsillitis in children and adolescents.
  • While typically benign, EBV-related pharyngotonsillitis can lead to severe, life-threatening complications.

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