Children’s head and neck infections caused by Streptococcus intermedius in the Pediatric Otolaryngology Department of Warsaw Medical University

Abstract

Introduction. Streptococci are commonly known pathogens of the normal bacterial flora of the mouth, pharynx, gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system. The most common infections are beta-hemolyzing streptococci causing pharyngitis, streptococcal angina, otitis and paranasal sinusitis. But not all streptococcal infections are easy to treat. They are those that forming abscesses in the deep tissues of the body and caused life-treating complications. Aim. The aim of the study is to draw attention to the pathogen of the Streptococcus viridans group, i.e. Streptococcus intermedius, which, being a saprophyte of the upper respiratory tract, may cause life-threatening complications during an infection. Material and methods. The age, sex of children, underlying disease, complications, conservative and surgical treatment of children treated in the Pediatric Otolaryngology Department of the Medical University of Warsaw due Streptococcus intermedius infections were analyzed. Results. 6 children in age from 14 months to 15 years were treated in the ENT Department of Warsaw Medical University due to Streptococcus intermedius infections. There were 5 boys and 1 girl. All children were diagnosed with abscesses in deep tissue as a complication of acute sinusitis in 4 children, pharyngitis in 1 and post trauma nasal bone in 1 child. All children were immunocompetent. The treatment of choice was antibiotic therapy and drainage of abscesses. All children were successfully treated. Conclusions. The isolation of Streptococcus intermedius in cultures taken from infection’s site in the upper respiratory tract is associated with the risk of complications in the form of deep head and neck and central nervous system abscesses. Each patient with an infection of Streptococcus intermedius etiology requires CT or MRI imaging of the craniofacial and brain due to the possibility of deep abscesses. The treatment of choice is antibiotic therapy with ceftriaxone, clindamycin and together with surgical drainage of the abscess. The sensitivity of Streptococcus intermedius to popular antibiotics is the reason for effective treatment despite serious complications.