Enteric fever in childhood

The Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|February 1, 1981
PubMed

Insights

Enteric fever in Nigerian children presents with fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting. High mortality (32%) is linked to delayed diagnosis and complications like intestinal bleeding and perforation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Tropical Medicine

Background:

  • Enteric fever poses a significant health challenge in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with limited sanitation.
  • Accurate diagnosis and timely management are crucial for improving outcomes in pediatric enteric fever cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the clinical presentation, associated conditions, and outcomes of enteric fever in Nigerian children.
  • To identify factors contributing to delayed diagnosis and complications.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 117 pediatric cases diagnosed with enteric fever.
  • Review of clinical features, diagnostic delays, complications, and mortality rates.

Main Results:

  • Fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea were the most common presenting symptoms.
  • Disorders of sensorium were observed in 50% of the cases.
  • High mortality rate of 32% was associated with delayed diagnosis and complications like intestinal hemorrhage and perforation.

Conclusions:

  • Enteric fever in Nigerian children presents with characteristic symptoms but is often complicated by associated conditions leading to diagnostic delays.
  • Intestinal hemorrhage and perforation significantly contribute to the high mortality rate.
  • Improved diagnostic strategies and prompt treatment are essential to reduce mortality in pediatric enteric fever.

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