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Hemophilus influenzae purulent pericarditis in children: diagnostic and therapeutic considerations

J E Cheatham, R N Grantham, M D Peyton

    The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
    |June 1, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    Early diagnosis and treatment of purulent pericarditis in infants, caused by Hemophilus influenzae type B, significantly improves survival. Combined antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage led to full recovery in all treated cases.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Cardiology
    • Infectious Diseases

    Background:

    • Purulent pericarditis is a rare but severe infant infection with high mortality.
    • Congestive heart failure is a common symptom in affected infants.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the effectiveness of combined antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage for purulent pericarditis in infants.
    • To assess outcomes in infants with purulent pericarditis caused by Hemophilus influenzae type B.

    Main Methods:

    • Echocardiography and pericardiocentesis were used for diagnosis.
    • Countercurrent immunoelectrophoresis identified Hemophilus influenzae type B.
    • Antibiotic sensitivity was determined using rapid beta-lactamase assay.
    • Treatment involved parenteral antibiotics and open surgical pericardial drainage.

    Main Results:

    • Nine infants with purulent pericarditis due to Hemophilus influenzae type B were treated.
    • All patients presented with congestive heart failure and pericardial effusion.
    • No deaths occurred, and all patients showed significant improvement post-surgery.
    • Follow-up echocardiography confirmed the absence of effusion or constriction.

    Conclusions:

    • Combined antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage are highly effective for purulent pericarditis in infants.
    • This approach dramatically improves survival rates for this serious condition.
    • Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.

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