Superficial suppurative thrombophlebitis in children, caused by anaerobic bacteria

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Published on: February 9, 2011

I Brook1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|August 29, 1998
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Anaerobic bacteria can cause superficial suppurative thrombophlebitis (SST) in children, often originating from the mouth or gut. This study reviewed six pediatric cases, emphasizing the need to consider anaerobic pathogens in SST diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Superficial suppurative thrombophlebitis (SST) is a localized infection.
  • The role of anaerobic bacteria in pediatric SST is not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the microbiology and clinical characteristics of pediatric SST caused by anaerobic bacteria.
  • To investigate the sources of anaerobic bacterial infections in children with SST.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of clinical and microbiological data.
  • Analysis of bacterial isolates from six pediatric patients with SST.

Main Results:

  • Anaerobic bacteria were the sole cause in four cases and mixed in two.
  • Common anaerobic isolates included Peptostreptococcus and Prevotella species.
  • Infections were associated with intravenous sites, trauma, and specific bacterial origins (oral, gastrointestinal).

Conclusions:

  • Anaerobic bacteria are significant pathogens in pediatric superficial suppurative thrombophlebitis.
  • Clinical suspicion should include anaerobic etiologies, especially in cases with specific risk factors.

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