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Acute purulent pericarditis in children caused by haemophilus influenzae
M A St John1, P K Noah, T E Talma
1Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Barbados.
Insights
Acute purulent pericarditis caused by Haemophilus influenzae is rare in children. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, including pericardiocentesis, are crucial for successful outcomes in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Acute purulent pericarditis is an uncommon infection, particularly in young children.
- Haemophilus influenzae is an infrequent cause of pericarditis in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- This report details two cases of pericarditis caused by Haemophilus influenzae in children under two years old.
- Respiratory symptoms were the initial indicators in these cases.
Findings:
- Pericardiocentesis was performed in both pediatric patients.
- Prompt identification and intervention are key to managing this condition.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for Haemophilus influenzae in pediatric pericarditis.
- Emphasizes the importance of aggressive microbiological and cardiological evaluation for early diagnosis.
- Underscores that timely medical and surgical management is vital for a favorable prognosis in children.
Abstract:
Acute purulent pericarditis caused by Haemophilus influenzae is an unusual condition, especially in childhood. In most cases, respiratory symptoms are the presenting features, and children aged less than 4 years are most often affected. A high index of suspicion and aggressive microbiological and cardiological evaluation are often warranted to make an early diagnosis. We herein report two cases of pericarditis caused by H. influenzae in children aged less than two years. Pericardiocentesis was performed in each case. Early recognition, rapid diagnosis and aggressive medical and surgical therapy are paramount in the successful treatment of this condition.