Diarrhea in Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteremia

Insights

Diarrhea with fever is a notable symptom in children with Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteremia, particularly those with sickle cell disease. Prompt medical attention is crucial, as this symptom can indicate a severe infection with higher mortality risks.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) bacteremia poses a significant health risk in children.
  • Sickle cell disease (SSD) is a known risk factor for severe pneumococcal infections.

Observation:

  • Diarrhea with fever was observed in 9.3% of non-SSD children and 13% of SSD children with S. pneumoniae bacteremia.
  • Two children with sickle cell disease and S. pneumoniae bacteremia who developed diarrhea shortly after admission died, highlighting a potential severity indicator.

Findings:

  • The mortality rate for S. pneumoniae bacteremia without diarrhea in SSD patients was 12.5%.
  • Only one non-SSD patient with diarrhea and S. pneumoniae bacteremia died, suggesting diarrhea might not be as severe an indicator in non-SSD cases.
  • The seasonality and serotypes associated with diarrhea cases mirrored overall S. pneumoniae infection patterns.

Implications:

  • Diarrhea with fever in children with S. pneumoniae bacteremia, especially those with sickle cell disease, warrants urgent clinical evaluation.
  • Understanding the clinical presentation of S. pneumoniae bacteremia can aid in early diagnosis and management, potentially improving outcomes in vulnerable pediatric populations.

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