Infectious diseases Flashcards
What is the most prevalent malarial species in sub-Saharan Africa
Plasmodium falciparum
What are the gold standard investigations if concerned about malaria
Thick and thin blood film, however if a child is unwell a rapid dipstick antigen test would be the quickest way to establish a diagnosis
If the first blood film is negative at least 2 further should be done in the next 48 hours
What results may you see on blood tests ina child with malaria
- thrombocytopenia and anaemia (Leukocytosis)
- G6PD activity
- Abnormal LFTs
- hyponatraemia and raised Cr
- Hypoglycaemia (severe)
Symptoms of malaria
Fever, often recurring Chills Rigors Headache Cough Myalgia Gastrointestinal upset
Signs of malaria
Fever Splenomegaly Hepatomegaly Jaundice \+/- abdominal tenderness
Differential diagnoses of Malaria
Typhoid Hepatitis Dengue fever Influenza HIV Meningitis/encephalitis Viral haemorrhagic fevers
drug of choice for the treatment of all non-falciparum malaria
Chloroquine
What are the red flag symptoms of skin/lipstongue
pale
mottled
ashen
blue
What are the red flag resp symptoms
grunting
tachypnoea
RR >60
Moderate/severe chest indrawing
What are the red flag symptoms relating to activity in children
no response to social cies
Appears ill to HCP
Unrousable/drowsey
weak/high pitched or continuous crying
What is group B strep
common bacterium (bug) which is carried in the vagina and rectum in 2–4 in 20–40% woman
What is considered early onset group B strep infection
symptoms in the first 0-7 days
What is considered late onset group B infection
8-90 days
What are the symptoms of late onset group B strep
- irritable/high pitched/ whimpering cry
- Blank, staring or trance-like expression;
- Floppy, may dislike being handled,
- Tense or bulging fontanelle
- Turns away from bright light;
- Involuntary stiff body or jerking movements
- Pale, blotchy skin.
What is the management of Group B strep in infants
3-4 weeks systemic penicillin,
+/- clindamycin or vanc
Signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease
Non-blanching rash with >1
- Ill looking cgld
- purpura - lesions >2mm
- Cap refil >3s
- Neck stiffness
Signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis
Neck stiffness
Bulging fontanelle
Deceased level of conciousness
Convulsive status epilepticus
Signs and symptoms of herpes simplex encephalitis
Focal neurological signs
Focal seizres
Decreased level of conciousness