Novel influenza A (H1N1) viral infection in pediatric patients with sickle-cell disease.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The 2009 novel influenza A (H1N1) pandemic has had profound public health implications all over the world. The majority of patients infected with the novel strain have recovered uneventfully. However, certain populations have been defined who appear to be at increased risk of complications due to H1N1 infections. This review summarizes the clinical course of five patients with sickle cell, four of whom had confirmed H1N1 infection, and one whom had a presumed H1N1 infection. PROCEDURE The clinical presentation, hospital course, and treatment of five pediatric patients with sickle-cell disease and H1N1 infection were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: In this case series, our patients experienced complications such as the acute chest syndrome, acute marrow suppression of red cell production, pain crisis, and hematuria. CONCLUSIONS: In this population, who are at increased risk for bacterial superinfection as well as complications from the influenza virus itself, vigilance toward diagnosis and aggressive treatment will continue to be important as long as the novel virus is in circulation.