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Mycobacterium genavense invasive infection in two children with AIDS: long-term followup
D Reymond1, P Birrer, U B Schaad
1Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital, Inselspital, Berne, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Mycobacterium genavense is a rare cause of opportunistic infection in immunocompromised hosts. Follow up of two cases of M. genavense invasive infection in children with haemophilia A and AIDS are presented. One patient died 18 months after diagnosis of M. genavense infection of an indirectly related cause, probably of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. The second patient still attends our outpatient clinic and the infection is under control. Both presented with abdominal lymphomas and pain and a wasting syndrome. A combination of several drugs against atypical mycobacteria is used for treatment.
Insights
Mycobacterium genavense is a rare opportunistic infection in immunocompromised children, presenting with abdominal lymphomas and wasting. Treatment involves a combination of atypical mycobacterial drugs, with one patient recovering and another succumbing to a related illness.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Mycobacterium genavense is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Immunocompromised individuals are susceptible to invasive infections.
- Haemophilia A and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) compromise the immune system.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of invasive Mycobacterium genavense infection are presented.
- Both patients had haemophilia A and AIDS.
- Clinical presentation included abdominal lymphomas, pain, and wasting syndrome.
Findings:
- One patient died 18 months post-diagnosis, likely from Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
- The second patient's infection is currently under control with outpatient management.
- Treatment utilized a combination of drugs targeting atypical mycobacteria.
Implications:
- Highlights Mycobacterium genavense as a significant opportunistic pathogen in pediatric immunocompromised hosts.
- Demonstrates the challenges in managing invasive mycobacterial infections in patients with complex comorbidities.
- Emphasizes the need for multi-drug regimens and ongoing monitoring for treatment efficacy.