Pediatric infectious emergencies-from febrile seizure to purpura fulminans

Abstract

Febrile seizures, which are relatively common in young children, are often triggered by an infection and resolve quickly. Prompt presentation to a pediatric department is mandatory after any first seizure and every time for children ≤ 12months. Central nervous system (CNS) diseases in childhood are able to cause seizures or other neurological disorders. Even the slightest suspicion of aseizure with CNS involvement must be promptly treated. In case of doubt, both an antiviral and an antibacterial treatment are started in parallel, which can be stopped after detecting the pathogen. Lumbar puncture is strictly indicated unless there are contraindications. Meningococcal sepsis is asevere clinical feature comprising high fever, chills and disorders of consciousness. The first skin symptoms are petechiae as ared flag sign. With progression, potentially lethal purpura fulminans may develop. Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome is asevere complication of acute bacterial meningitis. Lethality rate is 35%. The pediatric assessment triangle and the ABCDE algorithm help to identify critically ill children in a standardized, structured, and rapid manner.