Clipp Flashcards
Adam is a 2-hour-old infant born at 32 weeks’ gestational age via spontaneous vaginal delivery to a healthy mother with negative group B streptococcus status. There was no premature rupture of membranes and no meconium in the amniotic fluid. His Apgars were 8 at one minute and 9 at five minutes. Over the last two hours he has become progressively tachypneic. On physical examination he is large for gestational age. His vital signs are respiratory rate 75, temperature 36.5 C and heart rate is 130 beats per minute. His lung exam is remarkable for intercostal and subcostal retractions, grunting, and equal breath sounds. His heart exam reveals normal rhythm, normal S1 and S2, no murmurs, and normal peripheral pulses and capillary refill. Which of the following is the most likely cause of the patient’s condition?
Single Choice Answer: A Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) B Pneumothorax C Congestive heart failure D Respiratory distress syndrome E Sepsis
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is much more common in infants born to diabetic mothers. TTN is unlikely because he is 32 weeks, very premature, and was born via NSVD. RDS is much more likely, although TTN is still a possibility and would need to evaluated with a CXR.
B. Pneumothoraces are uncommon, but should always be considered in an infant with respiratory distress. Good bilateral air entry argues against this diagnosis.
C. Congestive heart failure is an important cause of tachypnea. Adam has a normal cardiovascular exam, with no murmur, normal pulses, and good capillary refill. Infants with congestive heart failure usually present with the triad of tachypnea, tachycardia, and hepatomengaly.
D. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) causes tachypnea and is therefore an important consideration in this case. RDS is more common in premature infants. Given the lack of history of maternal diabetes, an NSVD birth, and few risk factors for sepsis other than prematurity, Adam is likely to have RDS.
E. Infants may present with respiratory distress from sepsis or from pneumonia. In this case, Baby Adam has a normal temperature, good blood pressure, and normal perfusion. While less likely, this diagnosis should always be considered in infants with respiratory distress.
A 3-hour-old infant boy, born by C-section at 36 weeks to a 30-year-old G1P1 with Apgars of 8 and 9 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively, is found to be tachypneic in the newborn nursery. His mother has a history of Type II diabetes that was poorly controlled during her pregnancy. She was compliant with prenatal vitamins and took no other drugs during her pregnancy. Prenatal labs, including GBS, were negative. The mother’s membranes ruptured 9 hours prior to delivery, she was afebrile, and the amniotic fluid had no meconium. On physical exam, the infant is large for gestational age. He has good air movement through the lungs bilaterally, without retractions or nasal flaring. He appears well perfused with normal cardiac exam. He is not in a flexed posture and has a weak suck reflex. A screening test at 3 hours of life reveals blood glucose of 39 mg/dL. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A Hypoglycemia B Transposition of the great arteries C Transient tachypnea of the newborn D Neonatal sepsis E Pneumothorax
A has been selected by the expert.
A. Hypoglycemia is a common presentation in an infant born to a diabetic mother with poor glucose control during her pregnancy. The increase in maternal serum glucose stimulates fetal pancreatic beta cells to increase insulin production, and this hyperinsulinemic state leads to hypoglycemia when the placental glucose supply is discontinued after delivery. At 18 hours prior to delivery), preterm delivery, and chorioamnionitis. Infants may present with fever, trouble breathing, jaundice, and lethargy. Our infant is premature and tachypneic, but he is afebrile with normal Apgars and no evidence of altered level of alertness. Furthermore, mother was GBS negative, afebrile (no chorioamnionitis), with no premature rupture of membranes, making this diagnosis less likely.
E. Pneumothorax is collapse of lung tissue secondary to air accumulation in the pleural space. Risk factors for pneumothorax in an infant include previous intubation or underlying lung disease (such as severe respiratory distress syndrome). Characteristic physical exam findings include asymmetric breath sounds or decrease in breath sounds on one side. This infant has good air movement in bilateral lung fields, making this diagnosis less likely.
A male infant weighing 3200 grams is born to a G1P1 female at 39 weeks gestational age via planned C-section. Maternal PMH is unremarkable, and GBS status is unknown. Apgars are 7 and 8 at 1 and 5 minutes of life, respectively. The delivery is uncomplicated, and the infant initially appeared in good condition. However, one hour following delivery the infant develops increasing respiratory distress. RR is assessed as 90 bpm. All other vital signs are within normal limits. On exam, the infant is acyanotic with rapid respirations and robust capillary refill. Chest x-ray shows bilateral lung fields with the appearance of “a radio-opaque line of fluid in the horizontal fissure of the right lung.” No air bronchograms are noted. What is the most likely etiology of the infant’s respiratory distress?
Single Choice Answer: A Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) B Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) C Neonatal sepsis D Meconium aspiration
A has been selected by the expert.
A. Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is the most likely underlying etiology. This condition is caused by residual fluid in the infant’s lungs following delivery, and usually resolves within several days. It is more common in babies delivered via C-section, as the normal mechanical force of labor that helps expel fluid from the lungs is lacking. Babies with TTN and other forms of respiratory distress are often unable to nurse and require feeding via NG tube until respiratory status stabilizes.
B. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is less likely than TTN in this case. RDS is more common in premature infants and infants born to diabetic mothers. On chest x-ray, RDS is characterized by a ground-glass appearance and air bronchograms.
C. Neonatal sepsis is possible, especially given the mother’s unknown GBS status, but relatively unlikely compared to the other options, especially given the mode of delivery. Sepsis can certainly cause respiratory distress, and if suspected, should be promptly evaluated with screening labs and blood cultures. Neonatal sepsis is also more common with prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM) > 18 hours prior to delivery.
D. Meconium aspiration can lead to respiratory distress, but seems less likely in this case given the infant’s delivery via C-section. Additionally, meconium aspiration is more common when meconium is found in the amniotic fluid and/or products of conception. No mention of this was made in the above case description.
Adam is a newborn male who was just born to a G2P1 mother at 36.2 weeks’ gestation via a vaginal delivery. The mother reports that she did not receive prenatal care because she did not have insurance. She says that she thinks her “water broke” about two days ago, but she did not have any contractions after that, so she decided not to come to the hospital. She did not start having contractions until 19 hours before she delivered. After delivery, Adam did not cry vigorously, was tachypneic, cyanotic, and febrile to 100.5 F. Amniotic fluid did not contain meconium. His chest x-ray is normal. Given Adam’s birth history, what is the most likely cause of his symptoms?
Single Choice Answer:
A Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN)
B Sepsis secondary to prolonged rupture of membranes
C Meconium aspiration syndrome
D Hypothermia
E Pneumothorax
B has been selected by the expert.
A. Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a benign, self-limited condition caused by delayed clearance of lung fluid after birth. Patients with TTN usually have a classic chest x-ray that shows coarse fluffy densities that represent fluid-filled alveoli and/or fluid in the pleural space and a small amount of fluid in the fissures on the lateral view. Given Adam’s normal chest x-ray and fever, it is unlikely that Adam has TTN.
B. Prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM) is when the chorioamniotic membrane ruptures before the onset of labor. The main risks associated with PROM are preterm labor and delivery and neonatal sepsis. Adam’s mom said that her “water broke” two days ago, which indicates that she had PROM. Adam’s mother also did not receive prenatal care; therefore, she did not receive any of the prenatal screening tests that she should have, which increases the likelihood that she has an infection that could have potentially been transferred to Adam after the rupture of her membranes. Adam’s history of PROM along with his fever and respiratory distress make this answer choice the best choice.
C. Meconium aspiration syndrome occurs when the baby passes meconium in utero and aspirates the meconium either in utero or at the time of delivery. Since it was noted that the amniotic fluid did not contain meconium, it is less likely that Adam is suffering from meconium aspiration syndrome, even though he has symptoms of respiratory distress that can often be seen in meconium aspiration syndrome.
D. Hypothermia can cause tachypnea of the newborn, especially premature newborns. However, hypothermia is less likely in Adam given his fever of 100.5 F.
E. Pneumothorax is less likely in this case because of Adam’s normal chest x-ray, but is important to consider in a tachypneic newborn. The presence of Adam’s fever also makes pneumothorax less likely to be the sole cause of his symptoms.
A newborn baby boy is born at 30 5/7 weeks’ gestation after induction of labor for the severe maternal preeclampsia. He is noted to have subcostal and intercostal retractions, grunting, nasal flaring, persistent cyanosis, and tachypnea 30 minutes after delivery. Apgars were 6 (–2 for color, –1 for breathing and –1 for tone) and 7 (–2 for color and –1 for breathing) at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. Due to lack of prenatal care and the mother’s presentation with severe preeclampsia, betamethasone x 1 was given during induction, but she did not receive a second dose prior to delivery. A chest x-ray is obtained, which reveals diffuse ground-glass appearance and air bronchograms bilaterally. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Multiple Choice Answer:
A Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS)
B Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
C Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN)
D Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN)
E Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)
B has been selected by the expert.
A. This choice is incorrect. Although the presence or absence of meconium was not noted in the case, it is known that from 20 to 34 weeks’ gestation, the fetus will pass meconium infrequently. Most cases of MAS are in term or post-term infants. On chest x-ray, we might see overdistention of the lung or other sequelae, such as pneumothorax.
B. This choice is correct. The baby boy is preterm, and his mother received only one dose of betamethasone, which puts him at increased risk for developing infant RDS, which is caused by insufficient surfactant. His physical exam and chest x-ray findings are consistent with RDS.
C. This choice is incorrect. PPHN generally occurs in babies born after 34 weeks. There are several causes for PPHN: underdevelopment, maldevelopment, and maladaptation. Underdevelopment of the lungs can be secondary to congenital diaphragmatic hernia, oligohydramnios in utero, IUGR, or renal agenesis. The underdevelopment causes increased pulmonary vascular resistance and has a poor prognosis. Maldevelopment involves remodeling of pulmonary vasculature and is associated with post-term delivery and meconium aspiration syndrome. Maladaptation can be caused by infection with GBS. Vasoactive mediators are activated by bacterial phospholipids, causing an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance.
D. This choice is incorrect. TTN is a disorder of delayed reabsorption of fluid in the newborn’s lungs. Prematurity, delivery by C-section, being large or small for gestational age, or having a diabetic mother are all risks. In order to be diagnosed with TTN, the baby would need to show improvement within several hours. Although this is on the differential for the newborn baby’s condition based on clinical presentation, a chest x-ray should have shown perihilar streaking and other evidence of interstitial fluid.
E. This choice is incorrect, because BPD is the result of prolonged mechanical ventilation. Our patient is at risk for developing this syndrome if he requires intubation. Chest x-ray may show atelectasis, inflammation, or pulmonary edema. With severe disease, the chest x-ray may reveal fibrosis and hyperinflation.
You are called down to the nursery to evaluate a newborn girl who is ready to be discharged. The mom is concerned because this 3-day-old has become lethargic and doesn’t want to feed. She has vomited twice and is showing no interest in feeding. On physical exam you note a lethargic infant with an enlarged liver and worry about an inborn error of metabolism. Which test would be diagnostic for an ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency?
Single Choice Answer: A Hypoglycemia B Hyperammonemia and elevated urine orotic acid C Elevated 17-OH progesterone D Elevated TSH E Hyponatremia
B has been selected by the expert.
A. Although infants with an inborn error of metabolism may have hypoglycemia, it is not diagnostic of OTC.
B. Both hyperammonemia and elevated urine orotic acid are diagnostic of OTC deficiency, an x-linked condition, the most common urea cycle disorder.
C. Elevated 17-OH progesterone would be expected and diagnostic of a patient with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and would likely be associated with virilization in a female infant.
D. Elevated TSH is diagnostic of congenital hypothyroism, not OTC.
E. Infants with congenital adrenal hyperplasia may have low sodium, but not patients with OTC deficiency.
Jade is a 2-week-old female who was born at home and received no newborn screenings for congenital disease. Her mother brought her to the pediatrician’s office concerned that her daughter appeared to be jaundiced and was constipated, tired, and not feeding well most of the time. Physical exam was notable for enlarged fontanels, jaundice without bruising, hypotonia without tremor or clonus, and an umbilical hernia. There was no sign of virilization, no abnormal facies, and no history of vomiting. Review of systems was otherwise negative except as stated above. Which of the following is the most important next step in Jade’s management?
Single Choice Answer:
A Glucose and electrolyte supplementation
B Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid supplementation
C No treatment needed
D Consult with pediatric endocrinologist and start treatment with 10 to 15 mcg/kg/day of crushed levothyroxine in liquid, and follow up every 12 months
E Empiric antibiotics after collection of blood, urine, and CSF cultures.
D has been selected by the expert.
A. This choice is incorrect because this is the treatment of choice for acutely ill children with dehydration, hypoglycemia, and perhaps infants with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, not congenital hypothyroidism as is most likely in this infant.
B. This is the recommended treatment for corticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency as seen in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Clinical evaluation of this patient does not show virilization of this female infant, commonly seen in congenital adrenal hyperplasia. However, it would still be important for our patient in this case to undergo newborn screening, which includes screening for this disorder.
C. This choice is incorrect because congenital hypothyroidism requires treatment within 2 weeks of onset of symptoms to mitigate severe brain damage and cognitive impairment. No treatment is needed for children born with hypothyroxemia of prematurity without TSH elevation.
D. This choice is correct because the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this treatment regimen for infants age 0 to 6 months old. Dosing is based upon age and weight. It would also be important to consult with a pediatric endocrinologist to evaluate the short and long-term treatment plan. In addition, the specialist could also recommend screening for other autoimmune disorders.
E. This choice is incorrect. Although sepsis must always be considered in a neonate with jaundice, there is no indication of bacterial infection in this infant with other signs and symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism.
A 6-week-old infant girl whose family recently immigrated from Mexico is brought to clinic for “excessive sleepiness.” The mother states the infant is not easily aroused for feedings and is not as active as she was previously. She is also concerned about her daughter’s large “outtie” belly button. On exam, the patient is afebrile and jaundiced, with a puffy myxedematous face. The fontanels are large but flat. There is a large umbilical hernia. When asked about the results of a newborn screening exam, mom states that the screening was never performed. What would be an expected abnormal lab value(s) associated with her condition?
Single Choice Answer:
A Low sodium, high potassium
B Glucose
D has been selected by the expert.
A. A low sodium and high potassium in a lethargic infant would suggest the diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), characterized by a decreased production of cortisol and aldosterone. Low aldosterone results in decreased stimulation of the H/K exchange in the collecting duct, hence loss of sodium, retention of potassium, and dehydration. In combination with low cortisol levels, patients in adrenal crisis may progress to shock, and death is not treated. The usual age of presentation is 1 to 2 weeks of age. Initial laboratory studies would include serum electrolytes, renin, cortisol and cortisol precursors, androgens, and glucose levels. Note that low cortisol will also impact gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. This diagnosis would be less likely in a non-viralized female.
B. Symptoms of hypoglycemia in the neonate may include jitteriness, tremors, hypotonia, poor feeding and seizures. Management includes STAT glucose levels and intervention with parenteral or oral glucose, as indicated. The work up will include laboratory studies to rule out hyperinsulinism (IDM, insulinoma, prematurity), increased metabolic demand (polycythemia, sepsis, asphyxia), and inborn errors of metabolism (galactosemia, glycogen storage diseases, maple syrup urine disease). This patient did not present with jitteriness, tremors, or seizures.
C. Sepsis should always be considered in lethargic neonates. While septic infants may present with fever or hypothermia, they may also be afebrile. This child did not appear to be acutely ill or toxic in appearance.
D. Congenital hypothyroidism may present with poor feeding, constipation, jaundice (longer and more persistent than physiologic jaundice of newborn), mottled skin, large fontanels, hypotonia, hypothermia and an umbilical hernia. Later findings include a hoarse cry, macroglossia, and myxedematous facies. Patients usually remain asymptomatic until after 6 weeks of age, as maternal thyroid hormones may still be in younger infants. Patients with primary hypothyroidism will have high TSH and low T4 levels. The most common cause of primary hypothyroidism will be aplasia or hypoplasia of the thyroid gland, and—much less commonly—inborn errors of metabolism. Secondary or tertiary hypothyroidism (HPA dysfunction) will have both low TSH and low T4, and are relatively rare causes of hypothyroidism in infants.
A 45-day-old infant is brought in by his mother due to lethargy, constipation, and yellow skin color noted since birth. The mother and the baby moved to the U.S. from a foreign country that does not screen its newborns. The baby has been fed only formula since birth. Physical exam of the neonate reveals additional findings of large fontanelles, umbilical hernia, a large tongue, and abdominal distension. What is the next best step in diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A Phototherapy B Exchange transfusion C TSH D Head ultrasound E Obtain a family history of jaundice to rule in or out a defect in bilirubin metabolism
C has been selected by the expert.
A. Phototherapy is the treatment for physiologic jaundice, which peaks at three to four days and resolves by the fourth or fifth day of life. Lethargy, macroglossia, and umbilical hernia are not known to be caused by or associated with physiologic jaundice. This constellation of physical exam findings is more consistent with untreated congenital hypothyroidism.
B. This choice is incorrect because this is the management of infants with hyperbilirubinemia approaching levels of concern for kernicterus.
C. This choice is correct because the constellation of baby’s problems is best accounted for by untreated congenital hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, severe mental retardation is unavoidable at this point because this condition should have been treated since birth. In the U.S., it would have been detected on the newborn screen.
D. This choice is incorrect as there is no indication of hydrocephalus or concern for bleeding.
E. This choice is incorrect because—although defects in biliary metabolism such as Gilbert’s syndrome, seen in 5% of the population, can cause harmless jaundice—this patient has many other findings in addition to jaundice. Of the answer choices given, only congenital hypothyroidism fully accounts for the entire constellation of findings.
A two-month-old female presents to clinic for a well-baby checkup. Mom has been happy because the “baby rarely cries and sleeps all the time.” On exam, the baby has yellowing of the skin, decreased activity, appears to have decreased tone, and a large anterior fontanel. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A Sepsis B Congenital adrenal hyperplasia C Congenital hypothyroidism D Shaken baby syndrome E Neonatal lupus
C has been selected by the expert.
A. Sepsis is a blood infection of the infant. Signs and symptoms may include body temperature change, changes in respiration, increased or decreased heart rate, reduced movement, reduced feeding, low blood sugar, seizures, and jaundice.
B. Infants with congenital adrenal hyperplasia often have abnormal genitalia (females), poor feeding, vomiting, dehydration, and electrolyte changes.
C. Congenital hypothyroidism may not be clinically evident until 6 weeks of age due to circulating maternal thyroid hormone transmitted from the placenta. Signs and symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism include feeding problems, large fontanels, hypotonia, large tongue, coarse cry, and frequently an umbilical hernia. Congenital hypothyroidism should be picked up on routine neonatal screening.
D. Shaken baby syndrome may result in significant head trauma, including subdural hemorrhage, hypoxic/ischemic brain injury, and retinal hemorrhage.
E. Neonatal lupus should be considered when the infant’s mother has lupus. Cutaneous findings may be present at birth or may develop within the first 2 to 5 months of life. These findings include erythematous plaques, telangiectasias, or atrophic lesions. Affected infants may have cardiac abnormalities or conduction deficits. Hematologic disturbances may occur within the first 2 weeks of life.
The parents of 5-month-old Tiffany are concerned about Tiffany’s decreasing oral intake over the past 4 days. They report that she has been sleeping more but seems to tire out when feeding; in fact, mom’s breasts have become quite engorged and she needs to pump to relieve the pressure. In addition to the sleepiness and poor feeding they report that she has not had a bowel movement in 3 days. She has no fever or respiratory symptoms. You note a weak cry on your exam, and a floppy baby when you try to sit her up. What additional finding are you likely to find on your exam?
Single Choice Answer: A Vesicular rash on her scalp B Large tongue and umbilical hernia C III/VI systolic murmur D Absent deep tendon reflexes E Cataracts and hepatosplenomegaly
D has been selected by the expert.
A. A vesicular rash may be seen in neonatal HSV infection, which can be a cause of encephalitis. It is less likely in this older age group and would most likely present with fever and possibly seizure.
B. Although congenital hypothyroidism can present with lethargy, constipation, and poor feeding, the infant would be less likely to present with these symptoms as late as 5 months of age.
C. Congenital heart disease may present with poor feeding, but a large VSD would likely present earlier and would not be associated with constipation and hypotonia.
D. This infant likely has infant botulism which usually presents in the first year of life with hypotonia, lethargy, constipation, weak cry and can eventually lead to respiratory failure. These infants will have absent DTRs.
E. An inborn error of metabolism can present with lethargy and poor feeding—and hepatosplenomegaly and eye findings may also be present—but this infant presented more acutely and at an older age than would be expected for a metabolic disorder.
A 6-month-old female with normal birth and developmental history presents with fever for the past two days, fussiness, and decreased appetite. ROS is negative. No abnormalities are noted on the physical examination. A urinalysis from a bag specimen is positive for leukocytes and nitrite, which suggests the presence of a UTI; a culture from this sample is pending. The patient is ill-appearing, dehydrated, and unable to retain oral intake. She is hospitalized, receives a 20 cc/kg NS bolus and is placed on maintenance IV fluids with clinical improvement. What is the best next step for management of this patient?
Single Choice Answer:
A Urinary catheterization
B Renal bladder ultrasound
C Begin parenteral antimicrobials
D Midstream clean catch urine collection
E Increase intravenous fluid administration rate to flush the kidneys
A has been selected by the expert.
A. Urinary catheterization is correct . It is the best method for obtaining a specimen for culture that has not been contaminated by perineal bacteria, and for this ill child, you must determine the cause of the fever with accuracy.
B. Renal ultrasound may be indicated if the infant is found to have a urinary tract infection but is not indicated as part of the initial work up.
C. With a bag culture pending, you may have a contaminated/confusing culture result and may have to rely solely on clinical criteria to treat this presumed UTI.
D. Midstream clean catch specimen is incorrect because it is not ideal in a patient who has not been toilet-trained and cannot void on demand.
E. While it is important to provide hydration, this patient has responded well to the initial fluid administration, and there is no evidence that increasing this beyond normal recommendations is helpful.
A 6-month-old infant arrives in the ED with a 12-hour history of poor feeding, emesis, and irritability. On exam, she is ill-appearing with T 39.2 C, P 160 bpm, R 40 bpm, BP 80/50 mmHg. CBC shows WBC 11.2, Hgb 13.5, Plt 250. Urinalysis shows > 100 WBC per hpf, positive leukocyte esterase, and positive nitrites. She has no history of prior urinary tract infection. Chest x-ray is negative. Urine and blood cultures are pending. After bringing her fever down, she was still uninterested in drinking, but her exam improved, and you were confident she did not have meningitis, so an LP was not performed. Which of the following is the best next step in management?
Single Choice Answer: A Oral ampicillin B Oral ampicillin + gentamicin C Intravenous ciprofloxacin D Intravenous ceftriaxone E Intravenous piperacillin + tazobactam
D has been selected by the expert.
A. This patient is too sick for oral treatment, so oral ampicillin would be insufficient. Also, there is rising resistance of E. Coli to ampicillin, so secondary coverage with gentamicin or some other aminoglycoside would be needed unless cultures proved the organism was sensitive to ampicillin alone.
B. Although parenteral and oral treatment produce similar outcomes in high quality RCTs, this patient is ill and refuses to drink and so requires parenteral antibiotics. IV ampicillin and gentamicin could be an appropriate choice for empiric coverage.
C. Ciprofloxacin could be used for complicated UTIs, but it has the potential for adverse reactions in young children so is reserved for patients > 1 year with complications such as resistant organisms or urinary tract anomalies
D. This patient’s presentation is suggestive of a UTI. Given the ill appearance, vital signs, and white count, Upper tract disease (pyelonephritis) should be strongly considered. A parenteral (IV/IM) third-generation cephalosporin is the best choice of those listed for pyelonephritis, given its excellent gram negative coverage (except for Pseudomonas).
E. IV piperacillin + tazobactam has excellent gram negative coverage with added Pseudomonas coverage, but it is highly expensive and Pseudomonas is unlikely to be the cause of a UTI in a child who is not regularly catheterized.
A 3-month-old male presents to the ED with a fever that started the previous day. Mother reports that he was fussy and had decreased oral intake. He had had five fewer diaper changes than usual. He had no vomiting, diarrhea, or respiratory difficulty. On physical exam his temperature is 101.6 F, pulse 110 bpm, RR 24 bpm, and BP 95/67 mmHg. The baby seems irritable and is not consolable by the parent. HEENT exam was significant for dry mucous membranes. Other than his irritability, the rest of the physical exam was unremarkable. CBC showed WBC 3.5, but was otherwise normal. BMP was within normal limits. Urinalysis showed positive leukocyte esterase, positive nitrite, and WBCs > 10/hpf. An LP was performed, and urine and CSF culture results are pending. The patient is placed on IV fluids and is started on cefotaxime. What is the next best step in evaluation?
Single Choice Answer: A Renal bladder ultrasound B Kidney-ureter-bladder (KUB) x-ray C Intravenous pyelogram D VCUG E Oral ampicillin
A has been selected by the expert.
A. This infant has a fever without other respiratory symptoms. Meningitis and UTI must be considered in patients with fever. The only way to rule out meningitis is by lumbar puncture. This patient has a low WBC, suspicious for sepsis, and a UA that is highly suggestive of UTI. Empiric therapy should be started to cover common organisms including E.coli, P. mirabilis, and Klebsiella. Cefotaxime is reasonable empiric therapy. Renal ultrasound is recommended for all infants with pyelonephritis to assess for renal structural abnormalities or signs of obstructive uropathy (hydronephrosis).
B. KUB is not recommended for UTI.
C. Intravenous pyelogram would expose the patient to radiation and would not be recommended to screen for renal abnormalities.
D. VCUG screening is recommended only for recurrent UTI or when there is abnormal renal ultrasound.
E. The patient is already on parenteral antibiotics, so oral antibiotics would not be necessary. Also, ampicillin would not provide empiric coverage.
A 10-day-old boy is brought to the ED by his mother because of “fever.” Mom describes that the baby has been “sleepy” and feeding less vigorously than in the previous two days. She believes his urine output has also decreased. His birth history is notable for prolonged membrane rupture (about 32 hours), and maternal fever at the time of delivery. Prenatal and neonatal ultrasound revealed bilateral hydronephrosis. On exam, the infant is sleepy with a temperature of 38.5 C. A blood sample is sent for CBC, BMP, and culture. Attempts are made to obtain CSF and urine for analysis and culture, but only very small volumes of these fluids are obtained. Volume resuscitation is begun. Chest x-ray is performed with indeterminate results. What is the most appropriate next step?
Single Choice Answer:
A Send samples for gram stains and begin parenteral empiric antibiotic treatment
B Send the urine for urinalysis and the CSF for cell count, glucose and protein and begin parenteral antibiotic therapy
C Admit for observation and continue supportive care
D Send samples for culture and begin parenteral antiobiotic treatment
E Attempt to obtain larger samples. Antibiotics should not be started until all needed results are pending.
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Although sending samples for gram stain may give an indication of whether an infection is present, it will not give the same degree of information as would a culture with sensitivities.
B. Urinalysis and CSF profiles may help us make the diagnosis, but if positive in the absence of cultures, will commit us to a prolonged course of broad-spectrum and non-specific therapy.
C. Delay of therapy would not be indicated. In an infant younger than one month, fever with any suspicion of sepsis, whatever the source, requires immediate evaluation and initiation of antibiotic treatment.
D. Given the presentation of fever in a neonate who presents with sleepiness and poor feeding, samples should be sent for culture and the baby started on empiric antimicrobial therapy. This infant is likely to have a urinary tract infection, and urosepsis is certainly a possibility, especially given his known urinary tract anoamlies. We have no way of ruling out meningitis from this presentation, so antibiotics should be initiated at meningitic dosing. In an infant younger than one month, fever with any suspicion of sepsis, whatever the source, requires immediate evaluation and initiation of antibiotic treatment. Because infants at this age have immature immune systems, they do not localize infections as well as older children. An infection of the urinary tract may lead to bacteremia, which in turn may lead to CNS infection. Only cultures will give us the information required to determine the appropriate type length of antimicrobial therapy.
E. Given the consequences of significant bacterial infection in an infant this age, delaying therapy to obtain additional laboratory specimens is not appropriate.
A 6-month-old female is brought into the pediatrician’s office for three days of high fever, fussiness, and decreased appetite. The patient has not had any upper respiratory tract symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. On physical exam the patient is fussy, has a RR of 28 bpm and a pulse of 160 bpm. She is febrile to 102.8 F (rectal). The patient is alert and fully moving all extremities. Apart from her vital signs, no other significant exam findings are noted. A CBC demonstrates leukocytosis of 17.0 cells x 103 / µL with elevated bands. What diagnosis is most likely?
Single Choice Answer: A Measles B Bacterial meningitis C Acute otitis media D Urinary tract infection E Roseola
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Measles typically begins with a “prodrome” period featuring the “3 Cs” (cough, coryza, conjunctivitis)—none of which this patient has—along with high fever, often > 104 F, and general malaise and anorexia. On the 2nd to 4th day a maculopapular erythematous rash appears starting on the face/upper neck and spreading downward. Although infants receive their first vaccination against measles (the MMR) at 1 year of age, infants are generally protected unless they are exposed to older, unimmunized children who have the disease.
B. This answer is incorrect in this situation for several reasons. First, this patient is not toxic appearing, nor is her physical exam positive for any findings suggestive of meningitis (such as bulging fontanel or extreme irritability). Unlike older children or adults, classic meningeal signs will often not be present or will be difficult to appreciate on an infant. The patient’s CBC is significant for leukocytosis with elevated bands, suggesting a bacterial infection. On exam the patient is alert and responding well to her environment and does not demonstrate lethargy, respiratory distress or signs of ICP. A definitive lumbar puncture may be ordered if there is more suspicion for meningitis or if the patient’s status deteriorates in any way, and caretakers should be given a follow-up appointment as well as clear indications of when to seek care.
C. This answer is incorrect because while fever and fussiness can be possible signs of AOM in infants, there is no evidence of infection on physical exam such as inflamed, erythematous tympanic membranes, with bulging of the membrane indicating an effusion.
D. UTI, the most common bacterial illness in a female infant, is consistent with her high fever, fussiness, and decreased appetite. Her CBC suggests that she has a bacterial infection (leukocytosis and elevated bands). A sample of her urine should be obtained by catheterization and sent for urinalysis and culture.
E. Roseola often presents with a high fever, but also often with a viral prodrome. It is a diagnosis of exclusion at this point and should not preclude obtaining a urine sample in this child.
A 3-year old girl comes to the clinic with a chief complaint of fever (104F) for over a week. Her mom reports that she has been fussy and inconsolable since she became febrile. She has a red tongue, with large papillae, conjunctivitis, a palmar rash, unilateral cervical adenopathy, as well as swollen feet. Given the most likely diagnosis, what is the most important follow-up for this patient over the next few weeks?
Single Choice Answer:
A Ophthalmology follow-up to determine extent of eye damage and determine need for corticosteroids
B Physical therapy follow-up to help prevent long-term joint deformities and ensure long-term functionality
C Cardiology follow-up to rule out presence of rheumatic fever
D Echocardiogram to look for coronary artery aneurysm
E Neurology follow-up to evaluate partial paralysis of lower extremities
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Choice A is incorrect because the patient likely has Kawasaki disease. Early referral to an ophthalmologist is important for patients diagnosed with other conditions, including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) to determine the degree of eye involvement and if treatment with topical steroids is needed. SJS is a mucocutaneous disorder defined by fever, severe stomatitis (inflammation of the mucous lining of any of the structures in the mouth), conjunctivitis, and a blistering rash. It is typically caused precipitated by medications or infections. Early referral to an ophthalmologist would also be important for patients diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, because they can suffer from uveitis, which if left untreated, can lead to long-term problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, or blindness.
B. Choice B is incorrect because the patient in this case has Kawasaki disease. Early referral to physical therapy is important for patients diagnosed with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which is characterized by prolonged or spiking fever, rash, and arthritis. Early treatment and physical therapy can help prevent joint deformities and improve long-term functionality.
C. Choice C is incorrect because the patient in this case has Kawasaki disease. Patients who have scarlet fever could develop rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, among other problems. Scarlet fever is characterized by a “erythematous, blanching, sandpaper-like rash” with very fine papules secondary to infection with Group A streptococcus. It may start in the groin, axilla, or neck, before spreading rapidly over the trunk and extremities. Fever can be high, but generally resolves within five days.
D. Choice D is correct because children with Kawasaki disease are at high risk for coronary artery aneurysm formation and should receive an echocardiogram within four weeks of the onset of their illness. Use of IVIG for the treatment of Kawasaki disease has decreased the risk of coronary artery aneurysms significantly. Kawasaki disease is diagnosed when there is a fever plus four of the following: changes in oral mucosa (e.g., strawberry tongue), extremity swelling or redness, unilateral cervical adenopathy, conjunctivitis, and rash. Infectious and rheumatologic causes must be excluded in order to make the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease.
E. Choice E is incorrect because the patient in this case has Kawasaki disease. Neurologic issues such as paralysis of a lower limb can occur in severe cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which is characterized by fever, myalgias, headache, and petechial rash classically starting on wrists and ankles and progressing centrally.
A 5-year-old male comes to the clinic with a chief complaint of four days of progressively worsening fever and that has been minimally responsive to acetaminophen. The patient complains of sore throat and decreased appetite. His sister had a positive rapid strep test and is now being treated with amoxicillin. Your concern is for Group A strep. What is the next best step in management?
Single Choice Answer:
A Start antibiotic treatment
B Send blood cultures
C Advise parents to give patient acetaminophen with return precautions
D Rapid strep test with back-up culture if negative
E Chest x-ray
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Choice A is incorrect. Although you may empirically treat this child for infection with Group A strep, a test to diagnose infection should be done prior to initiation of antibiotics.
B. Choice B is incorrect. There is no indication for a blood culture at this time.
C. Choice C is incorrect. As the patient has a history of being exposed to a sick contact with Group A strep, being sent home with acetaminophen is also not sufficient because the patient has already been treated at home with acetaminophen with no improvement.
D. Choice D would provide confirmation of your clinical suspicion and allow for correct diagnosis prior to empiric antibiotic treatment.
E. Choice E is incorrect because there is no indication of respiratory symptoms.
A 3-year-old male presents with fever to 103 F for the past week, injected eyes, and a refusal to walk for the past two days. On physical exam, you note conjunctival injection without pus or exudates bilaterally, prominent papillae of his tongue with redness as well as redness of his hands, and feet. He also has a new non-diffuse maculopapular rash on his torso that gets worse with fever. On examination of the swollen extremities, you are unable to elicit any tenderness or effusions in any joints. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) B Bone or joint infection C Kawasaki disease (KD) D Scarlet fever E Systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis
C has been selected by the expert.
A. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a tick-borne disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii. This tick is commonly found in southeastern parts of the U.S., and patients will often come from or have a history of travel to that region. The disease is characterized by headache, fever, myalgia, and a centrally progressing petechial rash originating on the wrists and ankles. The maculopapular rash, and constellation of other symptoms, as well as lack of any recent travel history, makes this diagnosis less likely in this patient.
B. Bone or joint infection should be on the differential given the patient’s refusal to walk, as up to 80% of these infections are in the lower extremities. The fever associated with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis typically are not as elevated as the one presented in this case, and the lack of localized symptoms of warmth and tenderness associated with the lower extremity erythema and swelling make this diagnosis somewhat less likely in this patient.
C. Kawasaki disease (KD) is one of the most common vasculitides of childhood. For diagnosis, in addition to fever of > 5 days, patient must meet four of the following criteria: rash, conjunctivitis, unilateral cervical lymphadenopathy, changes in oral mucosa, or extremity changes (redness/swelling). Our patient does not have lymphadenopathy, but often this is the least common finding in KD. If children have fever with fewer than four of the five clinical findings, they can have “incomplete KD” if they meet certain laboratory criteria.
D. Scarlet fever is caused by erythrogenic toxin produced by Streptococcus pyogenes. Symptoms can include sore throat, fever, “strawberry tongue” and a blanching, erythematous rash with desquamation of the affected areas about six to seven days later as the rash begins to disappear. While our patient does have a “strawberry tongue,” fever, and rash, the description of the rash and other physical exam findings are more consistent with KD than with scarlet fever.
E. Systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, also known as Still’s disease, is a subset of JIA describing patients with intermittent rash, fever and arthritis. While our patient does present with rash and fever, as well as refusal to walk (potentially a sign of arthritis), systemic onset JIA tends to present with a history of spiking fevers and “salmon” rash occurring when the child is febrile, and disappearing as the fever fades. This is inconsistent with the description of the findings seen in our patient, who does not demonstrate tenderness or effusion in any joint.
A 2-year-old girl presents to the urgent care clinic with a 7-day history of high fever to 38.5 C, a maculopapular rash that began on the palms and soles of her feet, red eyes without discharge, and unilateral cervical adenopathy. What other symptom/sign might you discover on further history and exam?
Single Choice Answer: A Tonsillar exudates B Headache C Erythematous and edematous feet D White spots on buccal mucosa E Dysuria
C has been selected by the expert.
A. Tonsillar exudates would be present in strep pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Given the prolonged fever, rash, lymph node involvement, and conjunctivitis, the disease process is more widespread than a simple tonsillitis. You should recognize this constellation of symptoms as Kawasaki disease.
B. Headache would be present in Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. This seems reasonable, given the fever and rash that began on the palms and soles. However, the other findings suggest Kawasaki disease, so this is not the best answer.
C. The constellation of symptoms described suggests Kawasaki disease. The other two classic signs not mentioned are erythematous tongue (“strawberry tongue”), and erythema/edema of the extremities, which is the best answer here.
D. White spots on the buccal mucosa are also known as Koplik spots, which are pathognomonic for measles. The fever and conjunctivitis could be measles, but there is no cough or coryza. In addition, the rash typically starts at the head and moves downward, rather than starting on the hands and feet.
E. Although children with Kawasaki disease can have pyuria, it is not associated with dysuria, a symptom of a UTI, which would be highly unlikely given the other signs.
A 5-year-old female, previously healthy, presents with an erythematous, vesicular rash on the palms and soles and a high fever for several days. Upon examination, she is also found to have ulcers in her mouth. A few days later, the fever and rash resolve. What is the most likely pathogen?
Single Choice Answer: A Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) B HIV C Enterovirus D Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) E Group A strep
C has been selected by the expert.
A. HSV-1 causes gingivostomatitis and can sometimes be accompanied by fever and malaise, but lesions on the hands and feet would be uncommon.
B. HIV infection can increase the risk of oral lesions secondary to infections by HSV-1 or Candida albicans, but again would be unlikely to cause lesions on the hands and feet. Furthermore, at this patient’s age (5 years), she is unlikely to be HIV-positive unless it was vertically transmitted from her mother.
C. This presentation is consistent with infection by cocksackie A, an enterovirus. Following an incubation period of three to five days, patients have fever, tender vesicles on their hands and feet, and oral ulcers. Sometimes the rash also occurs on the buttocks and the genitals. The infection resolves spontaneously within three days, and is spread from person to person via saliva, fluid from the vesicles, stool, or nasal discharge.
D. HHV-6 is the virus that causes roseola, which manifests as fever followed by a macular or maculopapular rash, but this rash begins on the trunk, eventually spreading to the extremities, and does not cause oral lesions.
E. Group A strep infection could cause fever and a rash with scarlet fever, but this rash is described as “sandpaperlike” with small papules, not vesicular, and is also not confined to the hands and feet.
A 12-year-old male presents to the ED with complaints of anorexia, weight loss, and persistent cough, with nocturnal coughing fits that have been waking him from sleep for the past three weeks. He denies fever, chills, myalgia, sore throat, or rhinorrhea. The patient presented to his primary care physician one week prior with the same complaint, and was treated with amoxicillin and bronchodilator therapy. His chest x-ray was negative for infiltrates at that visit. The patient’s symptoms did not improve with this regimen. The cough became more frequent, sometimes causing emesis. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer:
A Reactive airway disease
B Infection with Bordetella pertussis in the catarrhal stage
C Infection with Bordetella pertussis in the paroxysmal stage
D Atypical pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae
E Laryngotracheobronchitis
C has been selected by the expert.
A. Reactive airway disease would most likely have improved with bronchodilator therapy. In addition, you would not expect to see anorexia or weight loss with reactive airway disease.
B. The catarrhal stage of pertussis lasts one to two weeks and is often indistinguishable from URI. In this patient the presenting symptoms have been an ongoing problem for more than three weeks.
C. The paroxysmal stage of pertussis lasts four to six weeks and is characterized by repetitive, forceful coughing episodes, followed by massive inspiratory effort. This massive inspiratory effort is what results in the characteristic “whoop”-sounding cough. This is consistent with the patient’s presentation and duration of illness. The forceful coughing fits in pertussis can even lead to conjunctival hemorrhages and pneumothoraces from the increased intrathoracic and intracranial pressures from Valsalva. The antimicrobial agents of choice for treatment of pertussis are azithromycin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin. Antibiotics given in the paroxysmal phase will reduce communicability but will not alter the clinical course.
D. Mycoplasma pneumonia would be expected to be associated with fevers and findings on chest x-ray and lung exam.
E. Croup (laryngotracheobronchitis) presents with difficulty breathing and a “seal bark” cough and usually lasts a week or less. Croup also is usually associated with fever.
A 12-month-old previously healthy girl presents with cough and mild subcostal retractions. She is afebrile, and physical exam reveals asymmetric wheezing. Chest x-ray demonstrates unilateral air trapping. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A Croup B Pneumonia C Acute bronchiolitis D Foreign body aspiration E Asthma
D has been selected by the expert.
A. Croup involves subglottic inflammation, typically presenting with inspiratory stridor and a “barky cough” (i.e., like a seal). This patient is not noted to have either, and also presents with asymmetric wheezing and air trapping that would not be expected in an individual with croup.
B. While this patient presents with cough and increased work of breathing, she is afebrile, and auscultation of the chest does not reveal crackles or decreased breath sounds/area of consolidation, which would be consistent with pneumonia. Additionally, chest x-ray findings are not consistent with a lobar or more diffuse pneumonia.
C. Acute bronchiolitis is a good thought, especially as this is the most common cause of wheezing in infant; however, if this were the diagnosis, the patient would most likely be febrile and chest x-ray would demonstrate scattered atelectasis and/or diffuse opacities from bronchial obstruction.
D. Features of foreign body aspiration include unexplained wheezing and asymmetric breath sounds, as well as air trapping in one lung indicating unilateral airway obstruction. The right main bronchus is the more commonly obstructed due to anatomy (it is wider and more vertical than the left). The most commonly aspirated foods are hot dogs, nuts, hard candy, grapes, and popcorn.
E. While the finding of wheezing is consistent with asthma, this patient has wheezing only on one side. Along those lines, chest x-ray in an asthmatic patient would demonstrate global air trapping with hyperinflated lungs, rather than unilateral findings.
A 10-month-old infant is brought to the Peds ED by her parents, who say she has been coughing persistently for the last three hours. The parents were watching a movie at home when they first noticed their daughter coughing. Patient is a vaccinated, well-nourished infant in moderate distress with retractions, nasal flaring, and grunting. On auscultation, you immediately notice diminished breath sounds in the right lung with normal breath sounds on the left. What other associated physical exam finding do you expect to hear?
Single Choice Answer: A Stridor B Asymmetric breath sounds and wheezing C Rhonchi D Crackles E Bronchial breath sounds
B has been selected by the expert.
A. Stridor is due to airway narrowing above the thoracic inlet and can be seen in URI such as epiglottitis. You might expect stridor in laryngomalacia, but this would not have suddenly appeared at 10 months of age. Also, epiglottitis is more rare now in a vaccinated child, and you wouldn’t expect to hear unilaterally diminished breath sounds.
B. This infant is in respiratory distress from foreign body aspiration, consistent with the history of acute onset of distress and asymmetric breath sounds. Common foreign bodies include peanuts, popcorn, grapes, hard candy and hot dogs. Respiratory distress from foreign body aspiration is usually accompanied by asymmetric breath sounds and wheezes on auscultation.
C. Rhonchi are coarse, low-pitched, rattling sounds due to secretions and airway narrowing and are typically heard in the setting of bronchitis or pneumonia.
D. Crackles are due to fluid in alveoli or opening and closing of stiff alveoli, not consistent with a foreign body aspiration. You would expect this in either pneumonia or CHF from pulmonary edema, both of which are unlikely in this patient given the abrupt onset and lack of history of cardiac problems.
E. Bronchial breath sounds are hollow-sounding and caused by air moving through areas of consolidated lung, such as in the setting of pneumonia.
Susie is a 3-year-old girl brought into the clinic by her mother because she has a gradually worsening cough and she has been having trouble breathing. Her mother says Susie sounds like she is barking when she coughs. Susie is up to date with her vaccinations. Susie’s mom always watches her when she’s playing. On physical exam, you note that Susie has inspiratory stridor. She does not have wheezing, there are no retractions, and she has symmetrical breath sounds. No pseudomembranes are appreciated on physical exam. What is Susie’s most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A Epiglottis B Croup (laryngotracheobronchitis) C Pertussis D Pneumonia E Foreign body aspiration
B has been selected by the expert.
A. Epiglottitis is a life-threatening emergency caused by an infection with H. influenzae type B. It is less common now with the advent of Hib vaccine, but in rare cases can occur due to staphylococcal or streptococcal infections. It most often occurs in children ages 2 to 5 years. Children with epiglottitis present with fever, stridor, drooling, dysphonia, dysphagia, and respiratory distress. They frequently appear toxic and sit in the “sniffing position” (sitting, leaning forward, neck hyperextended, chin protruding). A “thumb sign” (thickened epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds) appears on films. Susie is not exhibiting any of these characteristic symptoms and she is up to date with vaccines, making epiglottitis a less likely diagnosis for her cough.
B. Croup or laryngotracheobronchitis is due to a viral infection (Parainfluenza type 1). It is most common in the winter, and often occurs in children age 2 to 5 years. Croup can lead to non-specific URI symptoms with some degree of airway obstruction. A barky or seal-like cough and inspiratory stridor (which should be differentiated from expiratory wheezes) is common in croup.
C. Pertussis occurs in three phases: The catarrhal stage lasts one to two weeks when children present with URI symptoms. A paroxysmal stage follows and lasts four to six weeks. During this phase, children have repetitive forceful coughing with massive inspiratory effort (“whoops”). Finally, during the convalescent stage, children present with continued cough that may last up to three months. The acellular pertussis vaccine protects against pertussis, and, as Suzie is up to date with her immunizations, this diagnosis is less likely. Her barking cough is more suggestive of croup than the “whooping” cough of pertussis.
D. While retractions and cough are present with pneumonia, asymmetric breath sounds and tachypnea would be more specific for a diagnosis of pneumonia.
E. Symmetrical breath sounds and the gradual onset of Susie’s cough make foreign body aspiration less likely. One might also expect focal wheezing and tachypnea with foreign body aspiration.
Joe, a previously healthy 11-month-old male with 5-day history of a “cold,” is brought to the ED by mom for one day of acute worsening cough and intermittent wheezing. Per mom, the cough was initially dry but has become more “phlegmy,” making it difficult for Joe to breathe, particularly when he is feeding or more active. His immunizations are up to date, and he has no known allergies. His family history is significant for a 6-year old sister who was diagnosed with asthma four years ago. On exam, Joe is afebrile, mildly tachypneic with normal O2 saturation. He has prominent nasal flaring and mild subcostal retractions. He has clear rhinorrhea but no evidence of oropharyngeal erythema. Lung exam reveals decreased breath sounds and wheezes on the right. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Single Choice Answer: A RSV bronchiolitis B Epiglottitis C Viral URI D Asthma E Foreign body aspiration
E has been selected by the expert.
A. Bronchiolitis is a lower respiratory tract infection most commonly caused by RSV, which is characterized by bronchiolar obstruction secondary to mucus plugging, cellular debris, and edema. Patients generally present with fever and URI symptoms which progress to a worsening cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. Although this patient does have wheezing, the unilateral wheezing with decreased breath sounds is not consistent with bronchiolitis.
B. Epiglottitis was commonly caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B, but can also be caused by Staph and Strep species. Patients may present with fever, dysphagia, drooling, stridor and significant respiratory distress. Patients are generally seen sitting, leaning forward with the neck hyperextended. Epiglottitis has become less common due to immunization with Hib. This diagnosis is less likely in our patient, since his immunizations are up to date, he is afebrile and not in severe respiratory distress.
C. Our patient probably developed a viral URI five days ago. An upper respiratory tract infection in children can manifest as fever, rhinorrhea, cough, sore throat and myalgias, and may be accompanied by wheezing. However, our patient’s ausculatation findings cannot be explained solely by a viral URI.
D. Asthma is caused by inflammation of airway mucosa, mucus hypersecretion, mucosal edema and reversible bronchoconstriction. It generally presents as cough, wheezing, tachypnea and dyspnea worsened by cold air, exercise, allergies and URIs. The mainstay of treatment involves bronchodilators (beta-2 agonists) and inhaled steroids. Asthma is a possible diagnosis in Joe given the family history of asthma; however, it is less likely since he was previously healthy with no history of recurrent cough or wheezing. Furthermore, asthma does not generally present with focal wheezing as heard on Joe’s lung exam.
E. Given Joe’s age, foreign body aspiration should always be included in the differential diagnosis for acute onset wheezing. The lung findings of asymmetric breath sounds and wheezing support this diagnosis. Foreign body in the airway can be confirmed by bilateral decubitus or inspiratory/expiratory chest films, characterized by decreased deflation on the affected side. If complete obstruction, x-ray will generally reveal atelectasis (whiting out) and signs of volume loss (mediastinal shift towards affected side to compensate for loss of volume).
Johnny is a 25-month-old male who presents to the ED with a 2-day history of vomiting and diarrhea. Dad relays a history of abrupt onset of vomiting that started yesterday around 1 pm. Johnny has had 6 episodes of emesis since yesterday and 3 episodes of diarrhea. The emesis is non-bilious and the diarrhea is described as watery with specks of blood throughout the diarrhea. There are no sick contacts in the home. Vital signs: T 37.1, P 102, R 20, BP 90/60. Physical examination is normal and Johnny has still been tolerating some PO feeds without instant vomiting. What is the most immediate intervention for this patient?
Multiple Choice Answer: A IV bolus with D5W B IV bolus with 0.9% saline C CT scan and surgical consult D random glucose test E no immediate intervention is necessary
E has been selected by the expert.
A. An IV bolus with D5W is indicated in cases of confirmed hypoglycemia and is used for maintenance fluids. This is not indicated in this patient.
B. With his normal vitals and no obvious signs of dehydration, an IV bolus of 0.9% saline is not indicated in this patient. If there was evidence of dehydration on physical exam or with vitals, then IV fluids would be necessary.
C. This vignette does not seem like a surgical case. Physical examination was normal, which makes abdominal pathology less likely. While appendicitis might be in the differential diagnosis, other diagnoses are more likely, making the excessive radiation exposure from a CT scan not necessary.
D. With cases of dehydration one must always think about abnormalities in blood glucose levels. This clinical presentation does not suggest signs of hypo or hyperglycemia.
E. At this point the patient is most likely suffering from a case of viral gastroenteritis. Because he is still tolerating some PO feeds, has no obvious signs of dehydration, and has normal vital signs, there is no need for aggressive IV fluid administration or diagnostic work up. Strict return precautions should be given and it should be advised that Johnny maintains fluids as much as possible.
Rashid is a 5-week-old baby boy who presents to clinic with 4 days of repeated, forceful, non-bilious, non-bloody vomiting without diarrhea. He has 8 to 9 episodes of vomiting per day immediately following breastfeeding. The episodes started 2 weeks after the entire family suffered from severe viral gastroenteritis. His birth history is uncomplicated (full term, NSVD, unremarkable 30-week ultrasound) and birth weight was 3.6 kg (50th percentile). On exam, his vitals are: T 36.7°C, HR 185, BP 85/45, RR 36, Wt 4.1 kg (25th percentile). On exam, his eyes are moderately sunken without production of tears, his lips are cracked, and his throat is without erythema. His capillary refill is ~3 seconds, and his pulse is thready. What is your first step in management?
Multiple Choice Answer:
A Close observation in the office for 6 hours and encourage PO intake until vitals normalize.
B Intravenous lactated Ringer’s solution of 20mL/kg boluses until baseline clinical status is achieved, then 100 mL/kg oral rehydration solutions over next 4 hours.
C Intravenous 20 mL/kg boluses of ¼ normal saline solution until baseline clinical status is achieved, then closely monitor vitals for 6 hours while encouraging PO formula intake.
D Observe for 6 hours with normal PO intake and administer 60-120 mL of oral rehydration solution for every episode of vomiting.
E Administer 75 mL/kg of oral rehydration solution over 3-4 hours and 60-120 mL of oral rehydration solution for every episode of vomiting.
B has been selected by the expert.
A. Observing closely in the office for 6 hours and encouraging PO intake until vitals normalize are not appropriate measures for treating this child’s severe dehydration. Signs of severe dehydration include lethargy or unconsciousness on exam, poor PO intake, tachycardia, weak or nonpalpable pulses, deep breathing, deeply sunken eyes, parched mouth and tongue, reduced skin turgor, and cold/cyanotic extremities. In cases like this, the child must be placed on immediate IV fluids with 20 mL/kg boluses until vitals and mental status normalize.
B. Lactated Ringer’s solution or normal saline in 20 mL/kg boluses until urine output is established and mental status improves, then 100 mL/kg oral rehydration solutions over next 4 hours. This follows current CDC guidelines for treating a severely dehydrated child. Intravenous hydration with 5% dextrose ½ normal saline at twice maintenance fluid rates may be substituted for the oral rehydration solution if the child is not tolerating PO intake. To replace ongoing losses, the CDC recommends 60–120mL of oral rehydration solution per diarrheal/emetic episode (through a nasogastric tube, if necessary).
C. One quarter normal saline (1/4 NS) is a hypotonic solution, and would not be ideal for the treatment of dehydration due to emesis. The recommended therapy to correct severe dehydration is to give 20 mL/kg boluses of isotonic solution and to reassess for clinical improvement following each administration. Once the patient is stable and back to baseline, then continue IV hydration with 5% dextrose ½ normal saline at twice maintenance fluid rates OR give 100 mL/kg oral rehydration solution over 4 hours.
D. This would not be a recommended treatment for the severely dehydrated child since it relies on normal PO intake. However, the replacement of losses strategy is correct for all patients
