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Primary Hemophilus influenzae lung abscesses with bronchial obstruction
Abstract:
A primary lung abscess due to non type B Hemophilus influenzae was diagnosed in three children who failed to improve after prolonged antibiotic treatment for dense, pneumonic infiltrates. In each instance percutaneous aspiration yielded pure cultures of Hemophilus influenzae, one of which was ampicillin resistant. Because of bronchial obstruction, operative drainage was necessary to effect cure in each case. Hemophilus influenzae has not previously been recognized as a cause of primary pulmonary abscess in childhood.
Insights
Non type B Hemophilus influenzae can cause primary lung abscesses in children, even with prolonged antibiotic treatment. Surgical intervention was required for cure in these challenging pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pneumonic infiltrates in children often require antibiotic treatment.
- Primary lung abscess is a rare but serious condition in pediatric patients.
Observation:
- Three children with dense pneumonic infiltrates did not improve with prolonged antibiotics.
- Percutaneous aspiration revealed pure cultures of non type B Hemophilus influenzae in all three cases.
- One isolate of Hemophilus influenzae demonstrated ampicillin resistance.
Findings:
- Non type B Hemophilus influenzae was identified as the causative agent of primary lung abscess.
- Bronchial obstruction was a significant factor necessitating intervention.
- Operative drainage proved essential for successful treatment and cure.
Implications:
- This study highlights a previously unrecognized cause of pediatric primary pulmonary abscess.
- Clinicians should consider Hemophilus influenzae in refractory pediatric pneumonia cases.
- Antibiotic resistance patterns in Hemophilus influenzae warrant ongoing surveillance.