Infections In Pediatric Population Research Articles

Therapeutic Potential of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis B8762 on Gut and Respiratory Health in Infant

Respiratory tract and gastrointestinal infections in pediatric populations are major public health concerns. Addressing these challenges necessitates effective preventative and therapeutic strategies. This study assessed the efficacy of the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis B8762 (0.5 × 1010 CFU) in reducing the duration and frequency of these infections in young children. In a randomized trial, 115 eligible children were assigned to either the probiotic (n = 57; 3.51 ± 0.48 months old) or placebo (n = 58; 2.78 ± 0.51 months old) group, with daily consumption for 4 weeks. The probiotic group demonstrated a lower duration of infections than the placebo group (p < 0.05). The probiotic group also showed fewer clinical visits due to respiratory and gastrointestinal problems as compared to the placebo group (p = 0.009 & p = 0.004, respectively). Oral swab samples revealed that the placebo group had higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α after 4 weeks (p = 0.033), while the probiotic group demonstrated a balanced cytokine response, indicating modulation of the immune system. Genomic analysis showed that B8762 harbors various genes for the synthesis of proteins and vitamins crucial for the gut health of children. Both the clinical and genomic findings suggested that B8762 offered a therapeutic effect on gut and respiratory health in children, highlighting its potential in managing common pediatric infections.

Drug Utilization Evaluation in Upper Respiratory Infection in Pediatric Population in North Indian Tertiary Hospital

Drug Utilization Evaluation in Upper Respiratory Infection in Pediatric Population in North Indian Tertiary Hospital

An overview of oral pediatric infectious diseases

Pediatric oral infectious diseases, caused by a range of viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens, represent a significant challenge in clinical practice. These infections, often influenced by age, immune status, and hygiene practices, can lead to pain, functional impairments, and systemic complications. Common viral infections such as herpetic gingivostomatitis, varicella-zoster virus (VZV) manifestations, and hand-foot-and-mouth disease present with characteristic oral lesions, often accompanied by systemic symptoms. Bacterial infections, including dental caries, gingivitis, and odontogenic infections, are primarily linked to microbial colonization, dietary habits, and poor oral hygiene. Advanced cases, such as necrotizing periodontal diseases, can have severe implications if not managed promptly. Fungal infections, predominantly caused by Candida species, occur frequently in neonates and immunocompromised children, manifesting as oral thrush or angular cheilitis, and require targeted antifungal therapy. Prevention strategies, including the use of fluoride, dietary counseling, and regular dental check-ups, play a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of these infections. Management approaches vary based on the pathogen and clinical severity, ranging from supportive care and antifungal agents to antibiotic therapy and surgical interventions in severe cases. Collaborative care between dental practitioners and other healthcare providers is essential for effective outcomes. Infection control measures within dental settings and public health initiatives, such as vaccination and oral health education, are crucial in minimizing transmission and recurrence. Addressing pediatric oral infectious diseases requires a multifaceted approach, incorporating individualized patient care, preventive measures, and public health strategies to promote optimal oral and systemic health outcomes. Continued research and innovation are vital to improving diagnostic tools and therapeutic options for managing these infections in pediatric populations.

The Impact of Bioactive Molecules from Probiotics on Child Health: A Comprehensive Review.

Background: This review investigates the impact of bioactive molecules produced by probiotics on child health, focusing on their roles in modulating gut microbiota, enhancing immune function, and supporting overall development. Key metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bacteriocins, exopolysaccharides (EPSs), vitamins, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), are highlighted for their ability to maintain gut health, regulate inflammation, and support neurodevelopment. Objectives: The aim of this review is to examine the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence supporting the use of probiotics and postbiotics in pediatric healthcare, with a focus on promoting optimal growth, development, and overall health in children. Methods: The review synthesizes findings from clinical studies that investigate the effects of probiotics and their metabolites on pediatric health. The focus is on specific probiotics and their ability to influence gut health, immune responses, and developmental outcomes. Results: Clinical studies demonstrate that specific probiotics and their metabolites can reduce gastrointestinal disorders, enhance immune responses, and decrease the incidence of allergies and respiratory infections in pediatric populations. Additionally, postbiotics-bioactive compounds from probiotic fermentation-offer promising benefits, such as improved gut barrier function, reduced inflammation, and enhanced nutrient absorption, while presenting fewer safety concerns compared to live probiotics. Conclusions: By examining the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence, this review underscores the potential of integrating probiotics and postbiotics into pediatric healthcare strategies to promote optimal growth, development, and overall health in children.

A-260 Mapping pediatric urinary tract infections: trends, prevalence and sensitivity to antimicrobials

Abstract Background Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank among the most prevalent bacterial infections in pediatric populations, with neonates being particularly susceptible. Moreover, UTIs have a propensity for recurrence, posing ongoing health challenges. Prompt diagnosis of pediatric UTIs is crucial for timely and effective treatment, averting potential long-term complications. While clinical signs often suggest UTI diagnosis, additional tests like urinalysis and urine culture are vital to identify the causative pathogen and its antibiotic sensitivity. This study aims to quantify microorganism prevalence in positive pediatric urine tests and assess their antimicrobial resistance profiles. The purpose is, therefore, to offer scientific basis so that there is greater agility in establishing the diagnosis of UTIs in children and indicating the best antibiotic to be used empirically to prevent late consequences. Methods Between January and December 2019, a cross-sectional study was carried out with urine samples from children and adolescents collected in the database of the Clinical Analysis Laboratory of Cuiabá - MT in 2019. Only records of samples collected in the study were included in the study. laboratory of patients of both sexes, age range 1 month to 15 years. Bacterial analyzes were classified according to Gram positive, Gram negative (glucose fermenters or non-fermenters) and the sensitivity profile was standardized according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (2019). The data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. Results Of the 532 positive urine samples from pediatric patients, enterobacteria were responsible for 435 (81.76%) with E. coli (64.1%) and Proteus mirabilis (15.8%) being the most isolated bacteria, in relation to Gram-positive bacteria 64 (12.03%) main bacteria was Enterococcus faecalis (81.2%) and non-glucose fermenters for 33 (6.2%) corresponding to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. E. coli, with 279 cases, was the most frequently isolated microorganism, representing (64.1%) of the cases. Females were the most affected, in 83.5% there was growth of Enterobacteria, in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa group, 51.5% of cases were female. and in Gram+ girls represented 56.2%. In those tested only for E. coli, the highest sensitivity was observed in fosfomycin (97.82%). Enterobacteriaceae showed high susceptibility to meropenem (99.8%), ertapenem (99.8%), ceftriaxone (93.8%), and ceftazidime (93.6%), but exhibited considerable resistance to sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (35.5%), amoxicillin (33.4%) and ampicillin (29.2%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa and gram positive bacteria were sensitive to all antibiotics tested. Conclusions The data indicate that E. coli continues to be the predominant agent in pediatric UTIs, particularly affecting females and the very young age group < 3 years. Regarding sensitivity profiles, bacteria were more sensitive to carbapenems and aminoglycosides. Early diagnosis is crucial to preventing long-term complications associated with UTIs in children. Consequently, this research provides a scientific basis for faster UTI diagnosis and empirical antibiotic selection in pediatrics, which may prevent late adverse outcomes.

Oral Cavity Microbiome Impact on Respiratory Infections Among Children.

The respiratory system, traditionally considered antiseptic, harbors a diverse and dynamic bacterial microbiome. Recent advancements in microbiome research have revealed its significant influence on both innate and adaptive immunity, particularly in the context of respiratory infections in children. This article also provides an overview of the types of bacteria that commonly affect the respiratory system, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Haemophilus influenzae. These bacteria are prevalent in pediatric populations and significantly contribute to the development and severity of respiratory tract infections (RTIs). This review aims to evaluate the impact of the oral cavity and upper respiratory microbiome on the susceptibility and severity of respiratory infections in pediatric populations. We specifically focus on how early colonization patterns of bacteria such as Moraxella and Streptococcus contribute to the development of respiratory tract infections in children from birth through adolescence. A thorough literature review was performed, focusing on studies publishing between 2004 and 2023. The review included research exploring the role of the upper respiratory microbiome in pediatric populations, with a specific focus on children aged birth to 18 years. Emphasis was placed on microbial characterization, the modulation of immune responses in respiratory tract infections, and the potential therapeutic applications of microbiome-targeted interventions. The findings suggest that the composition and disruption of the upper respiratory microbiome significantly influence clinical outcomes in children with respiratory infections. Notably, dysbiosis in the microbiome has been linked to increased susceptibility to repeated infections, highlighting the importance of maintaining microbial balance for optimal respiratory health. Understanding the impact of oral cavity and upper respiratory microbiome could lead to improved management and prevention strategies for respiratory infections in children. This review underscores the potential of microbiome modulation, including the use of probiotics as a therapeutic approach to enhance clinical outcomes in pediatric respiratory infections.

Investigating Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Infections, Characteristics and Microbiology in Pediatric Patients with Hydrocephalus: A Single-Center Experience in Tehran, Iran

Background: This study investigates the epidemiology of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt infections in pediatric patients with hydrocephalus, using data from 39 cases admitted to Loghman Hakim Hospital over a five-year period. Methods: This study was a case series involving a retrospective analysis of medical records, with a focus on demographic characteristics, etiological factors, and clinical outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed to explore associations between VP shunt infections and various variables. Results: The study identified a significant association between VP shunt infections and the presence of fever (P < 0.05) as well as the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from the VP shunt (P < 0.01). This association may be explained by the release of cytokines during VP shunt infections, which can lead to the development of fever. Additionally, the stimulation of the immune system in response to the infection may cause an influx of WBCs into the CSF surrounding the VP shunt. Conclusions: This investigation offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of VP shunt infections in pediatric patients with hydrocephalus. The observed associations between infection, fever, and WBC count enhance our understanding of the immunological responses triggered by VP shunt infections. These findings highlight the need for further research to elucidate these pathways, which could inform targeted interventions in the clinical management of VP shunt infections in pediatric populations.

Clinical and economic assessment of using IRS®19 for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory infections in children

Objective: to perform pharmacoeconomic analysis of the feasibility of using topical bacterial lysate in the form of nasal spray (IRS®19) for the treatment and prevention of upper respiratory tract infections in pediatric population in comparison with other drugs registered in Russia, belonging to the class of topical interferons.Material and methods. Based on the Rosstat data and information from open sources, the population of patients with acute respiratory infections (ARI) was calculated. Considering the Russian clinical recommendations “Acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI)” and “Acute tonsillitis and pharyngitis (acute tonsillopharyngitis)”, the direct medical costs of providing medical care to specialized patients were determined. Direct costs on the part of parents included all costs for purchasing medicines for basic or concomitant therapy. Direct costs on the part of the healthcare system and the state included the costs of providing medical care at the outpatient stage. Direct non-medical costs included payments for disability leaves, indirect costs – lost gross domestic product (GDP) due to absence from work.Results. The total costs of the healthcare system and the state for 1 AVI patient are 42,472 rubles in case of uncomplicated course and 70,649 rubles in case of complicated course. In case of IRS®19 application from the first day of the disease, it is possible to reduce its duration by more than two-fold. Thus, the costs of medical care amount to 2,078 rubles. Payments for disability leaves by the Social Fund of Russia will amount to 2,287 rubles, and the lost GDP – 9,148 rubles (total costs 13,513 rubles).Conclusion. For the first time in Russian economic conditions, the use of IRS®19 for ARI treatment and prevention in children was evaluated. IRS®19 application from the first symptoms of the disease allows refusing the use of topical interferons, reduces the duration of symptoms and the need for prescription of antitussives, vasoconstrictors, and antibiotics.

Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in Pediatric Populations of Slum Areas: Navigating Challenges and Dynamics of Immune Responses.

The study presents a thorough examination of immune responses in pediatric populations within slum areas, specifically addressing respiratory infections. It explores the impact of slum conditions on respiratory health, detailing the epidemiology of infections, including common pathogens and environmental factors. The review delves into the etiology, clinical manifestations, and challenges associated with viral respiratory infections, co-infections, and complications in slum environments. The discussion extends to immune responses in pediatric respiratory infections, emphasizing unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment within slum areas. Prevention and intervention strategies are highlighted, encompassing vaccination programs, health education, and improving living conditions. It underscores the importance of targeted interventions, accounting for socio-economic factors, community-based strategies, and culturally sensitive approaches. It proposes the exploration of novel approaches and the development of vaccines tailored to prevalent respiratory pathogens in slum settings. Furthermore, the feasibility and impact of routine immunization programs, emphasizing accessibility, acceptance, and long-term sustainability are explored. It advocates strengthening primary healthcare systems, investing in healthcare workforce training, and improving diagnostic facilities. The potential of digital health technologies in enhancing surveillance, early detection, and the development of mobile applications or telemedicine platforms is discussed. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the multifaceted challenges faced by children in slum areas regarding respiratory infections, necessitating informed, interdisciplinary interventions. Addressing healthcare disparities, improving living conditions, and enhancing vaccination coverage are deemed crucial for mitigating the burden of respiratory infections. This review calls for collaborative efforts among researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions for enhanced respiratory health in slum-dwelling pediatric populations.

Prescribing Practices in Pediatrics and Drug Utilization Studies Promoting Pediatric Health

Knowledge of drug administration in children and infants lags behind that of adults for many reasons. These include developmental differences that affect the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles of drugs, ethical and financial reasons, research capabilities, and regulatory guidelines and constraints. Most of the drugs prescribed for children have not been tested in the pediatric population due to the difficulties in carrying out clinical studies in children and ethical issues due to children not being able to make their own decisions to participate in a clinical trial. Epidemiological evaluation of medicine use in elderly is now a highly visible topic, but drug prescribing studies in pediatric patients have been limited. The higher incidence of infections in pediatric population as compared to adults leads to higher prescription of Antimicrobial Drugs (AMDs), at times more than two in single prescription. The use of antibiotics in children has been a major area of concern. . Periodic prescriptions analysis and effective feedback to clinician should be done based on results to ensure rational prescribing and effective health care management, which will ultimately lead to a better child health. In this review article, we will to analyze prescribing practices in pediatrics and drug utilization studies promoting pediatric health.

Efficacy of probiotic supplementation in preventing infections in pediatric populations

Efficacy of probiotic supplementation in preventing infections in pediatric populations

Etiologies of first time urinary tract infection in pediatric population in tertiary care hospital Karachi.

Etiologies of first time urinary tract infection in pediatric population in tertiary care hospital Karachi.

Chronic hepatitis B infection in pediatric population: a retrospective study from a tertiary center in North-Eastern Romania

Chronic hepatitis B infection in pediatric population: a retrospective study from a tertiary center in North-Eastern Romania

Severe disease during both primary and secondary dengue virus infections in pediatric populations.

Dengue is a global epidemic causing over 100 million cases annually. The clinical symptoms range from mild fever to severe hemorrhage and shock, including some fatalities. The current paradigm is that these severe dengue cases occur mostly during secondary infections due to antibody-dependent enhancement after infection with a different dengue virus serotype. India has the highest dengue burden worldwide, but little is known about disease severity and its association with primary and secondary dengue infections. To address this issue, we examined 619 children with febrile dengue-confirmed infection from three hospitals in different regions of India. We classified primary and secondary infections based on IgM:IgG ratios using a dengue-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay according to the World Health Organization guidelines. We found that primary dengue infections accounted for more than half of total clinical cases (344 of 619), severe dengue cases (112 of 202) and fatalities (5 of 7). Consistent with the classification based on binding antibody data, dengue neutralizing antibody titers were also significantly lower in primary infections compared to secondary infections (P ≤ 0.0001). Our findings question the currently widely held belief that severe dengue is associated predominantly with secondary infections and emphasizes the importance of developing vaccines or treatments to protect dengue-naive populations.

Seroprevalence of TORCH Infection in Paediatric Population and Women of Reproductive Age Group: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: The acronym ‘TORCH’ complex includes infections due to Toxoplasma gondii, as well as others such as Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), respectively. Primary infections due to these agents during pregnancy are associated with congenital malformations in newborns. Seroprevalence data is important to gather estimates of immunity levels, vaccination status, as well as levels of exposure, and will correlate with the risk of acquiring infections during pregnancy. Aim: To determine the seroprevalence of TORCH infections in paediatric populations with suspected clinical conditions and women of reproductive age group, and also to assess the associated risk factors in mothers and newborns, and evaluate their clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2019 and January 2022 in the Serology laboratory of the Department of Microbiology at the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. A total of 92 consecutive antenatal females for whom TORCH antibody levels were determined and 343 suspected neonatal/paediatric populations were included in the study. The serum samples were subjected to IgM and IgG TORCH Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Demographic data and clinical details of patients were analysed from the Hospital Information System (HIS) and data records maintained in the department. Categorical variables are expressed as numbers and percentages. Results: A total of 435 samples (343 paediatric and 92 women) were screened for TORCH infection in the laboratory. A total of 57 (13.1%) were seropositive for TORCH infection. The most commonly affected were infants (28 days- 1 year). Among the total screened population, the positive cases of CMV were 40 (9.1%), rubella 11 (2.5%), and toxoplasma 6 (1.3%). Biliary Atresia (BA) and neonatal cholestasis were the most common clinical conditions associated with CMV infection. Conclusion: A high seroprevalence of IgM-specific CMV (9.1%) was observed in the present study. BA and neonatal cholestasis were the common complications in neonates associated with CMV infection.

Oral foci of infection in pediatric population during COVID-19 omicron pandemic era.

Caries is a multifactorial disease that involves a majority of the pediatric population. If not diagnosed and treated, it can lead to severe consequences affecting the permanent dentition. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of oral foci of infection in a multispeciality hospital during pandemic in Chennai, South India. Majority of the patients examined had caries.

Pediatric humoral immune responses and infection risk after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and two-dose vaccination during SARS-CoV-2 omicron BA.5 and BN.1 variants predominance in South Korea.

Humoral immune responses and infection risk after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination during the Omicron BA.5 and BN.1 variants predominant period remains unexplored in pediatric population. We examined anti-spike (anti-S) immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses in a total of 986 children aged 4-18 years who visited outpatient clinics between June 2022 and January 2023, with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection alone, completed two doses of COVID-19 vaccination alone, vaccine-breakthrough infection (i.e., infection after the single dose of vaccination), and no antigenic exposure. Furthermore, to determine SARS-CoV-2 infection risk, the incidence of newly developed SARS-CoV-2 infection was investigated up to March 2023. The anti-S IgG levels in the 'vaccine-breakthrough infection' group exceeded those in the 'infection alone' and 'vaccination alone' groups (both P <0.01). Furthermore, the 'vaccination alone' group experienced more rapid anti-S IgG waning than the 'infection alone' and 'vaccine-breakthrough infection' groups (both P <0.01). We could not identify newly developed SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 'vaccine-breakthrough infection' group. Our findings suggest that hybrid immunity, acquired from SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination, was a potentially higher and longer-lasting humoral immune response and protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric population during Omicron BA.5 and BN.1 variants predominant.

Adenovirus infections in paediatrics: Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Adenovirus infections in paediatrics present a significant health burden, causing various respiratory, gastrointestinal and ocular illnesses. Diagnosing adenovirus infections in pediatric patients can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other viral and bacterial infections. Molecular techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction, are highly sensitive and specific for adenovirus detection. Enhanced surveillance, accurate diagnosis, supportive management and preventive measures are crucial for reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with adenovirus infections in pediatric populations. Further research is needed to advance our understanding of adenovirus pathogenesis, develop effective antiviral therapies and improve vaccine strategies.

SARS-CoV-2 induced urinary tract infection in an infant: a rare case

BackgroundThe incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pediatric population is less than 7% that too when associated with a urinary tract infection, the presentation is very rare. There have been numerous case reports in adults and adolescent population but very few in pediatrics and none in our socioeconomic.Case presentationWe present here the case of a 1-year-old boy with SARS-CoV-2 induced urinary tract infection whose urine biochemistry showed severe urinary tract infection but no hematuria. His COVID-PCR was positive. His chest radiograph showed bilateral lung infiltrates with peri-hilar lymphadenopathy. His computerized tomography scan showed infiltrates with lung fibrosis. He was admitted to the isolation ward, successfully managed, and discharged home after 5 days of in-hospital treatment.ConclusionPediatricians and pediatric emergency physicians should be vigilant and well aware of the atypical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants and children, as they can present with both gastrointestinal and renal manifestations. And once missed, the patient may end up with devastating complications.

Central nervous system infection in a pediatric population in West Java.

Central nervous system (CNS) viral infections are critical causes of morbidity and mortality in children; however, comprehensive data on etiology is lacking in developing countries such as Indonesia. To study the etiology of CNS infections in a pediatric population, 50 children admitted to two hospitals in Bandung, West Java, during 2017-2018 were enrolled in a CNS infection study. Cerebrospinal fluid and serum specimens were tested using molecular, serological, and virus isolation platforms for a number of viral and bacteriological agents. Causal pathogens were identified in 10 out of 50 (20%) and included cytomegalovirus (n = 4), Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 2), tuberculosis (n = 2), Salmonella serotype Typhi (n = 1) and dengue virus (n = 1). Our study highlights the importance of using a wide range of molecular and serological detection methods to identify CNS pathogens, as well as the challenges of establishing the etiology of CNS infections in pediatric populations of countries with limited laboratory capacity.