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Systemic blastomycosis in children
Insights
Systemic blastomycosis in children, a fungal infection, affects males and Black children more often. Early antifungal treatment, typically with amphotericin B, is crucial for survival and preventing chronic lung disease.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Public Health Epidemiology
Background:
- Blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis.
- Pediatric cases of blastomycosis are relatively rare, requiring specific clinical and epidemiological understanding.
- Arkansas has endemic regions for blastomycosis, necessitating awareness in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review pediatric cases of systemic blastomycosis in Arkansas.
- To identify epidemiological patterns and demographic predispositions in childhood blastomycosis.
- To assess outcomes and treatment efficacy in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of ten pediatric cases of systemic blastomycosis.
- Analysis of patient demographics, affected organ systems, and treatment regimens.
- Evaluation of case fatality rates and long-term outcomes.
Main Results:
- No specific age predisposition was observed in childhood blastomycosis.
- A higher incidence was noted in males (60%) and Black children (80%).
- Commonly affected organ systems included pulmonary, skeletal, and skin.
Conclusions:
- Systemic blastomycosis in children requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Amphotericin B remains a primary therapeutic agent with a case fatality rate below 10%.
- Early antifungal intervention is key to survival and preventing chronic pulmonary complications.
Abstract:
Ten pediatric patients with systemic blastomycosis in Arkansas are reviewed. No particular age predisposition in childhood is apparent and there has been no change in incidence over the previous 40 years. Six of the 10 cases were male and 8 were black. Organ systems most commonly involved were pulmonary, skeletal and skin. With current therapy, usually amphotericin B as a single agent, the case fatality rate is less than 10%. Early recognition and institution of appropriate antifungal treatment remain the most important factors for survival and prevention of chronic pulmonary disease.