Increase in Invasive Group a Streptococcal Infections in Children in the Netherlands, A Survey Among 7 Hospitals in 2022.

Following an increase in notifiable invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections in the Netherlands, we conducted a survey among 7 hospitals. Pediatric iGAS case numbers were 2-fold higher between July 2021 and June 2022 versus pre-COVID-19. A sharp increase occurred early 2022, most pronounced in <5 years old and for diagnoses empyema and necrotizing fasciitis. This recent pediatric iGAS surge warrants investigation and vigilance.

Citalopram intoxication in four week old infant.

BACKGROUND: In contrast to intoxications in toddlers which can be due to accidental ingestions, many intoxications in infants are due to medication errors. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a citalopram intoxication in an infant, and may offer new insight on possible screening methods for intoxication as well as pharmacokinetics of citalopram in small infants. CASE PRESENTATION: This case report describes an unintentional citalopram intoxication in a 4 week old infant due to a vitamin D drops 'look alike' error. The infant showed extreme jitteriness and opisthotonus at presentation, as well as prolonged signs of gastro-oesophageal reflux. No cardiac rhythm disturbances or convulsions were seen. The clinical course combined with Finnegan scores was correlated to and supported by pharmacokinetic and pharmacokinetic data of citalopram in the patient. CONCLUSIONS: Using Finnegan scores in general pediatric practice could help objectify follow-up of acute intoxications in young infants with neurological symptoms.

Migratory polyarthritis as an adverse effect of thiamazole use in a 13-year-old girl with Graves' disease.

Graves' disease is the most prevalent cause of hyperthyroidism in children. The treatment commonly involves antithyroid therapy using a thionamide. We present a case of a 13-year-old girl with the antithyroid arthritis syndrome, presenting as a migratory polyarthritis, after the initiation of thionamide treatment for Graves' disease. Antithyroid arthritis syndrome warranted immediate cessation of thionamide. Improvement of the arthritis was seen in subsequent days. As there are no other reversible treatment modalities for Graves' disease in children, definitive treatment with radioactive iodine was needed to control the hyperthyroidism in this child. Antithyroid arthritis syndrome presenting as a migratory polyarthritis is a severe adverse effect of a common pediatric disease and should therefore be recognized by pediatricians.