Hyponatremia and other potential markers of ultrasound abnormalities after a first febrile urinary tract infection in children.

Urinary tract infections are the initial manifestation in 30% of urinary tract malformations. Identifying these patients, who could benefit from a specific treatment, is still challenging. Hyponatremia during urinary tract infection has been proposed as a urinary tract malformation marker. We evaluate the prevalence of hyponatremia during febrile urinary tract infections and its association with subjacent urinary tract malformations. We performed a retrospective study of healthy patients under 16 years, diagnosed with a first episode of febrile urinary tract infection, who had undergone blood testing in the acute episode and at least one renal ultrasound during follow-up (January 2014-November 2020). Hyponatremia was defined as (serum sodium ≤ 130 mEq/L). According to imaging findings, we classified patients into three groups: normal kidney ultrasound, mild pelviectasis, and significant urinary tract malformation. We performed logistic regression models to identify independent risk factors for urinary tract malformation and mild pelviectasis. We included 492 patients and 2.8% presented hyponatremia. We identified normal ultrasound in 77%, mild pelviectasis in 10.8%, and urinary tract malformation in 12% of patients. We found an association between mild pelviectasis and hyponatremia [OR 6.6 (CI95% 1.6-26.6)]. However, we found no association between hyponatremia and urinary tract malformation. The parameters that were associated with malformations were presenting a non-E. coli infection, C-reactive-protein levels over 80 mg/L, and bacteremia. CONCLUSION: Hyponatremia during the first episode of febrile urinary tract infection is present in 2.8% of patients and is associated with mild pelviectasis in imaging. However, hyponatremia does not indicate a greater need for complementary tests to screen for urinary tract malformations. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Urinary tract infection is the first manifestation in 30% of children with urinary tract malformation. • Hyponatremia could be a marker to identify these children and guide the imaging approach. WHAT IS NEW: • Around 12% of children with a first episode of febrile urinary tract infection have a urinary tract malformation. • Non-E. coli infection, C-reactive protein levels over 80 mg/L, and bacteremia are markers for malformations to guide diagnostic imaging tests, but hyponatremia (Na ≤ 130 mEq/l) is not a reliable marker.

Pediatric Emergency Department Management of C1 Inhibitor Deficiency.

INTRODUCTION: C1 inhibitor deficiency is a rare, potentially life-threatening syndrome. Acute attacks of angioedema may occur at any time, so the emergency department (ED) constitutes an indispensable component of its care. AIM: To describe the reasons for consultation by children with C1 inhibitor deficiency at the ED, as well as its management and complications. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a longitudinal retrospective study conducted in a pediatric ED of a tertiary care hospital in Madrid. The study includes children with C1 inhibitor deficiency, aged 0 to 16 years, who had consulted the ED for whatever reason, over a span of 9 years (2011-2020). Analyzed data include the following: age, sex, type of disease, reason for query, complementary examinations, established diagnosis, treatment, number of visits to the ED, length of ED stay, and admissions. RESULTS: Sixteen patients, amounting a total of 83 ED visits, were analyzed. Fifty-six percent were boys, and the median age was 6.9 years (5 months to 15.9 years). The median and mean of number of visits to the ED per patient was 2 (1-22) and 5.2 ± 6.11, respectively. There were 85.5% of the ED visits initially attributed to acute angioedema attacks. Additional tests were conducted in 30.1%, and 31.3% required C1 inhibitor concentrate. Three episodes required hospital admission (3.6%), and there were no complications. The stay in the ED was longer for patients who needed specific intravenous treatment. CONCLUSIONS: C1 inhibitor deficiency is a rare disease that may require ED care. The main reasons for ED visits were respiratory problems, and the main location of the acute attacks of angioedema were abdominal and cutaneous. Almost one third of the ED visits needed specific treatment, resulting in longer stays. A proper management in the ED and the specific treatment with C1 inhibitor concentrate were effective in 96.2% of the acute attacks of angioedema. Knowledge of this disease in the ED is key to prevent complications.

Handlebar Hernia: An Uncommon Traumatic Abdominal Hernia.

ABSTRACT: Handlebar hernia is a type of traumatic abdominal wall hernia caused by the impact of a bicycle handlebar against the abdominal wall. A good anamnesis and physical examination are important for the correct diagnosis, and ultrasonography is an accessible tool in the emergency department for imaging confirmation. We describe a case of an 11-year-old girl who presented to the emergency department after an abdominal trauma caused by a handlebar. Ultrasonography revealed an abdominal wall defect with herniation of omentum and bowel loops. Conservative management was initially established, followed by surgical treatment due to persistent symptoms.

Coccygodynia Due to a Sacrococcygeal Anomaly: A Rare Cause of Constipation.

ABSTRACT: We report a case of an uncommon sacrococcygeal anomaly in a healthy girl initially presenting to the emergency department with coccygodynia and a past history of longstanding constipation. The clinical evolution was satisfactory once the bony anomaly was removed (coccygectomy). This unusual case exemplifies the importance of the medical history and physical examination to make an accurate diagnosis. An inadequate intervention may result in persistent pain, worsening longstanding constipation, and psychosocial and medical consequences.

Streptococcus pyogenes infections in Spanish children before and after the COVID pandemic. Coming back to the previous incidence.

INTRODUCTION: Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes mild diseases, and unfrequently invasive infections (iGAS). Following the December 2022 alert from the United Kingdom regarding the unusual increase in GAS and iGAS infections, we analyzed the incidence of GAS infections in 2018-2022 in our hospital. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of patients seen in a pediatric emergency department (ED) diagnosed with streptococcal pharyngitis and scarlet fever and patients admitted for iGAS during last 5 years. RESULTS: The incidence of GAS infections was 6.43 and 12.38/1000 ED visits in 2018 and 2019, respectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic the figures were 5.33 and 2.14/1000 ED visits in 2020 and 2021, respectively, and increased to 10.2/1000 ED visits in 2022. The differences observed were not statistically significant (p=0.352). CONCLUSIONS: In our series, as in other countries, GAS infections decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and mild and severe cases increased considerably in 2022, but did not reach similar levels to those detected in other countries.

Retrospective study of acute mastoiditis in children in Spain attended in a Pediatric Emergency department.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the cases of acute mastoiditis, characteristics, management and complications in children attended in the emergency department. METHODS: Retrospective study of acute mastoiditis in a Spanish tertiary hospital over a 6-year period (2018-2023). RESULTS: One hundred two episodes of acute mastoiditis were analyzed (54% males, median age 1.8 years). Microorganisms were isolated in one third of cases, mainly Streptococcus pyogenes (64% of ear secretion cultures). Complications occurred in 27.5%, primarily subperiosteal abscess. A younger age, absence of vaccination schedule, previous history of otitis, cochlear implant carriers or white blood cell counts and C-reactive protein levels were not associated with complications. Complicated cases had longer hospitalizations. Treatment included antibiotics, corticosteroids, and surgery in 50% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows an increase of acute mastoiditis during 2023, with a relevant role of S. pyogenes. A younger age, absence of vaccination, personal history of otitis or cochlear implant, blood cell counts and C-reactive protein levels were not associated with complications.

The role of veterinarians in zoonosis prevention: Advising families of immunocompromised children with pets.

Background: Pet ownership is widespread, offering numerous benefits to individuals and families. However, the risk of zoonotic diseases must be carefully considered, especially for immunosuppressed patients. Knowledge gaps in preventive measures for zoonoses have been identified, underscoring the vital role of veterinarians in addressing this issue. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and recommendations of veterinarians regarding pet ownership by immunocompromised individuals. Additionally, we compared these insights with responses from European healthcare professionals specializing in pediatric transplant recipients. Methods: We conducted an observational, cross-sectional study involving small animal veterinarians in Spain. An online survey was administered to gather information on veterinarians' knowledge of zoonoses and their recommendations for immunocompromised pet owners. Results: A survey of 514 individuals was collected from experienced veterinarians mainly working in primary care clinics. Surprisingly, 63% of respondents did not routinely inquire about the presence of immunocompromised individuals among pet owners, although 54% offered specific recommendations for this group. Most respondents adhered to deworming guidelines for pets owned by immunocompromised individuals and demonstrated sound practices in Leishmania and Leptospira prevention, as well as the avoidance of raw food. However, gaps were noted concerning Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccination. Notably, veterinarians outperformed medical professionals in their knowledge of zoonotic cases and identification of zoonotic microorganisms. The presence of specific recommendations in veterinary clinics was viewed positively by nearly all respondents. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that veterinarians possess a superior understanding of zoonotic pathogens and exhibit greater proficiency in diagnosing zoonoses compared with physicians. They stay well-informed about recommendations outlined in established guidelines and are more likely to provide written recommendations in their clinics than physicians. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps among veterinarians emphasize the need for enhanced communication between medical and veterinary professionals. Reinforcing the "One Health" concept is imperative, with veterinarians playing a pivotal role in this collaborative effort.

Zoonosis screening in Spanish immunocompromised children and their pets.

Introduction: Although pets provide several social-emotional benefits for children, the risk of zoonosis must be considered among immunocompromised individuals. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary hospital including immunocompromised patients younger than 20 years owning dogs and/or cats. Colonization and/or infection was evaluated by stool studies, bacterial swabs, blood polymerase chain reaction and serological studies in both patients and their pets, to evaluate potential zoonotic transmission occurrence. Results: We included 74 patients and their 92 pets (63 dogs, 29 cats). Up to 44.6% of the patients and 31.5% of the pets had at least 1 positive result. Up to 18.4% of pets' fecal samples were positive (bacteria, parasites or hepatitis E virus). No helminths were observed despite the high frequency of incorrect intestinal deworming practices. Among children, gastrointestinal microorganisms were found in 37.3% (primarily Clostridium difficile). Colonization by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was common among pets (8.0%) but not among children (0.0%). No shared colonization between owners and pets was observed, except in one case (Blastocystis in both patient and pet feces). Among patients, serologies were positive for Strongyloides stercoralis (14.8%), Toxocara canis (3.2%), Bartonella henselae (19.1%) and hepatitis E (5.6%). Serology was positive for Rickettsia spp. (22.6%) and Babesia spp. (6.5%) in dogs and for Leishmania spp. (14.3%) and Toxoplasma spp. (14.3%) in cats. Conclusion: Exposure to zoonotic agents was detected in both patients and pets; however, shared colonization events were almost nonexistent. In our cohort, dogs and cats do not appear to entail high zoonosis transmission risk for immunocompromised patients.

Seizures in Children With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection.

BACKGROUND: Although respiratory symptoms are the most prominent manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and especially the omicron variant, may cause neurological manifestations such as seizures. It remains unclear if specific variants of the virus increase the risk of seizures more than others. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective multicenter study of pediatric (zero to 16 years) patients with COVID-19 who attended five pediatric emergency departments in Madrid, Spain, between March 2020 and July 2022. An analysis of demographics, medical history, and seizure characteristics was conducted. The data obtained were correlated with the incidence of the different strains of SARS-CoV-2 in the Community of Madrid. RESULTS: A total of 2411 seizures (infectious and noninfectious) were recorded, and 35 of them (1.4%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2. Of those 35 patients, 18 (51.4%) reported a history of previous seizures. The highest percentage of cases occurred when the omicron variant was the most prevalent (28 [80%] vs 7 [20%] before omicron variant). Typical febrile seizures accounted for 52.9% of the cases. No treatment was required in more than half (57.1%) of the cases. CONCLUSION: during the emergence of the omicron variant, there has been an increase in the number of COVID-19-associated seizures. These findings highlight the need for SARS-CoV-2 screening in patients with febrile and afebrile seizures, in addition to other microbiological, biochemical, or neuroimaging tests, depending on the patient's age and clinical presentation.

Balancing the Risks and Benefits of Pet Ownership in Pediatric Transplant Recipients.

In recent decades, the number of pediatric transplantations and their survival rates have increased. Psychological problems and poorer quality of life are notable among children undergoing transplantation and can have long-lasting consequences and affect immunosuppressive therapy adherence. Pet ownership and animal contact have been associated with physical, mental, and social health benefits. Despite these potential benefits, however, companion animals are known to be a source of infection, which is one of the main concerns for clinicians. Because of immunosuppression, these children are particularly vulnerable to infections. Zoonoses comprise a long list of infectious diseases and represent a major public health problem. Nevertheless, many families and most healthcare providers are unaware of these potential risks, and there is a worrisome lack of recommendations to manage the risk-benefit balance, which could pose a risk for acquiring a zoonosis. Furthermore, no data are available on the number of transplanted patients with pets, and this risk-benefit balance is difficult to adequately evaluate. In this document, we review the currently available evidence regarding the epidemiology of zoonotic infections in patients undergoing transplantation, focusing on pediatric patients from a risk-benefit perspective, to help inform decision-making for clinicians. Families and healthcare professionals should be aware of the risks, and clinicians should actively screen for pets and offer comprehensive information as part of routine clinical practice. A multidisciplinary approach will ensure proper care of patients and pets and will establish preventive measures to ensure patients are safe living with their pets.

An Adolescent Female With Acute Abdominal Pain: A Rare Case in Pediatrics.

We present the case of a 13-year-old female with a 48-hour history of diffuse abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting, with worsening in the last few hours. On examination, she had signs of acute abdomen, and laboratory tests showed elevated acute phase reactants (APR). Abdominal ultrasound excluded acute appendicitis. A history of risky sexual behavior was reported, so pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) was considered. Although appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdomen in adolescents, PID should be suspected in adolescents with risk factors. Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid possible complications and sequelae.

A Cyanotic Infant: Infrequent Presentation of Cow's Milk Protein Allergy.

We report the case of a three-month-old boy who presented with poor weight gain, loose stools, and poor oral intake for three weeks. Physical examination revealed a pale infant with abdominal distension and cyanosis. Oxygen saturation was normal, but the laboratory showed important methemoglobinemia. The diagnosis of FPIES (food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome) in the context of cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) was suspected. Although CMPA is a common condition encountered in small children, chronic forms of FPIES can be difficult to diagnose. Maintaining clinical suspicion about the potential association between methemoglobinemia and gastrointestinal symptoms can lead to prompt recognition and intervention.

Amoxicillin overdose in the pediatric emergency department: A descriptive study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics of pediatric patients treated in the  emergency department due to amoxicillin overdosing. METHOD: A retrospective single-center observational study was conducted on  patients aged 0 to 16 years treated in a pediatric emergency department due  to amoxicillin overdosing between 2011 and 2021. Epidemiological and  anthropometric data was collected as well as information on the circumstances  of overdosing, clinical manifestations, emergency department management,  and discharge destination. RESULTS: The study comprised 15 patients, 66.6% of them male, with a median age of 3.8 years (interquartile range: 1.9). The most frequent cause  of overdosing was accidental ingestion (8/15; 53.3%). Amoxicillin was mainly ingested in liquid form, except for one case with autolytic attempt,  where it was ingested in the form of tablets. Eighty percent of subjects (12/15) received a single dose of the drug. The median time to presentation to  emergency department was 2.1 hours from ingestion (interquartile range: 2.7) and the median dose of amoxicillin was 219 mg/kg/dose (interquartile range:  148). All patients were asymptomatic, with a normal physical examination.  Blood tests were performed in 7 patients (46.6%) and urinary sediment  analysis in 2 (13.3%), all of them without alterations. Activated charcoal was  administered to 5 (33.3%), patients with a median time to administration of  one hour (interquartile range: 1.2). All patients were discharged to their  homes. Eleven cases (73.3%) required withdrawal of amoxicillin. CONCLUSIONS: Amoxicillin overdosing in this study did not appear to result in  adverse effects, despite the fact that the recommended doses were  significantly exceeded.

OBJETIVO: Describir las características de los pacientes pediátricos atendidos en urgencias por sobreingesta de amoxicilina.Método: Estudio unicéntrico observacional, retrospectivo, en pacientes de 0- 16 años atendidos en urgencias pediátricas por sobreingesta de amoxicilina  entre 2011 y 2021. Se analizaron datos epidemiológicos, antropométricos,  circunstancias de la sobreingesta, síntomas, manejo y destino. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 15 pacientes, 66,6% varones, mediana de edad de  3,8 años (rango intercuartílico 1,9). La causa más frecuente de sobreingesta  fue la ingesta accidental por el paciente (8/15; 53,3%). Fue administrada en  forma de suspensión en todos los casos, excepto en un paciente con intención  autolítica (comprimidos). El 80% (12/15) recibieron una única dosis. La  mediana de tiempo de llegada a urgencias desde la sobreingesta fue de 2,1  horas (rango intercuartílico 2,7) y la mediana de dosis de 219 mg/kg/dosis  (rango intercuartílico 148). Todos estaban asintomáticos con exploración  normal. Se realizó analítica sanguínea en 7 (46,6%) y sedimento urinario en 2 (13,3%), sin alteraciones. Cinco (33,3%) recibieron carbón activado, con una mediana de tiempo hasta la administración de 1 hora (rango intercuartílico  1,2). Todos fueron dados de alta, suspendiendo el tratamiento 11 (73,3%). CONCLUSIONES: En este estudio, la sobredosificación de amoxicilina no se  relacionó con efectos adversos, a pesar de exceder las dosis recomendadas.

Pets for pediatric transplant recipients: To have or not to have.

Pets have many health, emotional and social benefits for children, but the risk of zoonotic infections cannot be underestimated, especially for immunosuppressed patients. We report the recommendations given by health professionals working with pediatric transplant recipients to their families regarding pet ownership. An online survey addressing zoonosis knowledge and recommendations provided by health care practitioners regarding pets was distributed to clinicians treating pediatric transplant recipients. The European Society of Pediatric Infectious Disease (ESPID) and the European Reference Network ERN-TransplantChild, which works to improve the quality of life of transplanted children, allowed the online distribution of the survey. A total of 151 practitioners from 28 countries participated in the survey. Up to 29% of the respondents had treated at least one case of zoonosis. Overall, 58% of the respondents considered that the current available evidence regarding zoonotic risk for transplanted children of having a pet is too scarce. In addition, up to 23% of the surveyed professionals recognized to be unaware or outdated. Still, 27% of the respondents would advise against buying a pet. Practitioners already owning a pet less frequently advised patients against pet ownership, whereas non-pet-owners were more keen to advise against pet ownership (p = 0.058). 61% of the participants stated that there were no institutional recommendations regarding pets in their centers/units. However, 43% of them reported therapeutic initiatives that involved animals in their centers. Infectious disease specialists were more likely to identify zoonotic agents among a list of pathogens compared to other specialists (p < 0.05). We have observed a huge heterogeneity among the recommendations that health care providers offer to families in terms of risk related to pet ownership for transplant recipients. The lack of evidence regarding these recommendations results in practitioners' recommendations based on personal experience.

Oral saliva swab reverse transcription PCR for Covid-19 in the paediatric population.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the performance of oral saliva swab (OSS) reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) compared with RT-PCR and antigen rapid diagnostic test (Ag-RDT) on nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) for SARS-CoV-2 in children. DESIGN: Cross-sectional multicentre diagnostic study. SETTING: Study nested in a prospective, observational cohort (EPICO-AEP) performed between February and March 2021 including 10 hospitals in Spain. PATIENTS: Children from 0 to 18 years with symptoms compatible with Covid-19 of ≤5 days of duration were included. Two NPS samples (Ag-RDT and RT-PCR) and one OSS sample for RT-PCR were collected. MAIN OUTCOME: Performance of Ag-RDT and RT-PCR on NPS and RT-PCR on OSS sample for SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS: 1174 children were included, aged 3.8 years (IQR 1.7-9.0); 73/1174 (6.2%) patients tested positive by at least one of the techniques. Sensitivity and specificity of OSS RT-PCR were 72.1% (95% CI 59.7 to 81.9) and 99.6% (95% CI 99 to 99.9), respectively, versus 61.8% (95% CI 49.1 to 73) and 99.9% (95% CI 99.4 to 100) for the Ag-RDT. Kappa index was 0.79 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.88) for OSS RT-PCR and 0.74 (95% CI 0.65 to 0.84) for Ag-RDT versus NPS RT-PCR. CONCLUSIONS: RT-PCR on the OSS sample is an accurate option for SARS-CoV-2 testing in children. A less intrusive technique for younger patients, who usually are tested frequently, might increase the number of patients tested.

[Haemophilia: Reasons for visits to the paediatric emergency department]. / Hemofilia: naturaleza de las visitas a urgencias pediátricas.

INTRODUCTION: Haemophilia is a rare disease and its management can pose a challenge to Emergency Department paediatricians. AIM: To describe the frequency and reasons for consultation by haemophilic children in the ED. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Longitudinal retrospective study was conducted in a paediatric Emergency Department of a tertiary care hospital. The study included haemophiliacs A and B, ages 0 to 16 years old, and who had consulted the Emergency Department for whatever reason over a span of 6 years (2011-2016). The data analysed include: age, type and severity of haemophilia, reason for query, prophylactic status, complementary examinations, established diagnosis, treatment, and number of visits to the Emergency Department. RESULTS: The analysis included 116 males with a total of 604 Emergency Department visits. The mean age was 5.5 years, and the median age was 5.3 years. A total of 101 patients were categorised as haemophiliac A (38 mild, 4 moderate, 59 severe), and 15 as haemophiliac B (9 mild, 3 moderate, 3 severe). The main reasons for initial Emergency Department visits (ranked by triage) were: musculoskeletal problems/injury or bleeding (66.7%), causes unrelated to haemophilia (29%), suspected central venous catheter related infection (2.8%), and routine clotting factor infusion (1.5%). Additional tests were conducted during 335 visits (55.5%). Factor replacement was undertaken in 317 visits (52.5%). A total of 103 episodes (17.1%) required hospital admission, due to: head trauma (35.9%), central venous catheter -related infection (13.6%), haemarthrosis (8.7%), muscle haematoma (6.8%), and haematuria (5.8%). CONCLUSION: Haemophilic patients went to the Emergency Department for common paediatric causes, but also requested consultation on specific problems related to haemophilia, with musculoskeletal problems/injury or bleeding being the main issues. The paediatric Emergency Department is an indispensable component of haemophilia care.