Pediatrics Flashcards
pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- epidermal dysfunction due to improper synthesis of stratum corneum components. Allergens can enter the disrupted skin barrier and generate an inflammatory response
- excessive bathing, dry environments, stress, overheating, and irritating detergents can trigger flares
Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- in INFANCY presents w/ pruritis, and scaly erythematous lesions on the face, chest, and extensor surfaces of the extremities
- Flexural involvement is common in children and adults
- topical emollients are the first line treatment (+/- steroid ointment)
- risk factors: low humidity, relatives w/ eczema, allergies, or asthma
- complications: eczema herpeticum, cellulitis/abscess, discomfort interfering w/ daily activities and sleep
Contact dermatitis
- itchy red rash w/ indistinct margins and occur only in areas of direct allergen contact
- common in older children and adults after sensitization to an allergen (eg poison ivy resin, nickel, neomycin/bacitracin)
Eczema herpeticum
- potential complication of severe atopic dermatitis
- superinfection w/ herpes simplex virus can cause a vesicular eruption on preexisting inflamed skin
- these pts often have fever and pain
Erythroderma (exfoliative dermatitis)
- erythema and scaling in > 90% of the body
- bright red patches coalesce and gradually peel
Psoriasis
- characterized by well-demarcated erythematous plaques w/ silvery scales on the scalp, extensor surfaces, and back
- common in adults but not in children
Scabies
- caused by Sarcoptes scabiei infection
- small pruritic papules in a linear arrangement (burrows) favor the web spaces, wrists and ankles, genitals, nipples, and waistline
Seborrheic dermatitis (“cradle cap”)
-adherent greasy scales w/ a mildly erythematous base seen on the scalp
Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus)
- initially managed w/ stretching and manipulation of the foot, followed by serial plaster casts, malleable splints, or taping
- surgical treatment is indicated if conservative management gives unsatisfactory results, and is preferably performed between 3 and 6 months of age
- remember that the tx of clubfoot should be started IMMEDIATELY
- Equinus and varus of the calcaneum and talus, varus of the midfoot, and adduction of the forefoot
Meconium ileus
- virtually diagnostic for cystic fibrosis
- inspissated meconium is responsible for life-threatening obstruction at the level of the ileum
what two disorders must be considered in any infant who has delayed passage of meconium?
- Meconium ileus and Hirschsprung disease (congenital aganglionic megacolon)
- these conditions can be differentiated by the level of the intestinal obstruction and consistency of the meconium
- Hirschsprung: rectosigmoid obstruction, normal consistency
- Meconium ileus: Ileum obstruction, inspissated consistency
what is meconium ileus virtually diagnostic for?
- Cystic fibrosis
- although only 20% of pts w/ CF develop meconium ileus, almost all newborns w/ meconium ileus have CF
- should prompt SWEAT CHLORIDE TESTING to confirm diagnosis
long QT syndrome
- pts are at risk of syncope, ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death
- those w/ congenital QT prolongation should avoid electrolyte derangements and medications that block potassium channels
- beta blockers w/ pacemaker placement can prevent cardiac arrest
developmental milestones for 3 year olds
- throw a ball overhead
- build a 6-8 block tower
- copy a circle
- ride a tricycle
developmental milestones for 4 year olds
- hop on 1 foot
- copy a cross
- brush teeth
developmental milestones for 5 year olds
- tie a knot, copy squares
- mature pencil grasp, print some letters and numbers
- skip, draw a person w/ 6 or more body parts
Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency
- causes Beriberi or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
- neurologic and psychiatric symptoms, and are often seen in alcoholics or pts who have had weight loss surgery
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency
-cheilosis, glossitis, seborrheic dermatitis (often affecting the genital areas), pharyngitis, and edema and/or erythema of the mouth
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) deficiency
- irritability, depression, dermatitis, and stomatitis
- can cause elevated serum homocysteine concentration, which is a known risk factor for venous thromboembolic disease and atherosclerosis
Cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency
-macrocytic anemia and peripheral neuropathy
Niacin (vitamin B3) deficiency
-Pellagra (diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, death)
pyloric stenosis
- most commonly seen in boys age 1-2 months w/ NON-bilious projectile vomiting
- visible peristaltic waves and a palpable abdominal mass
- abdominal US is the preferred imaging modality
Hirschsprung disease and meconium ileus usually present w/ failure to pass meconium within the first 2 days of life and dilated loops of bowel on x-ray. These should be evaluated by CONTRAST ENEMA.
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Malrotation w/ midgut volvulus
- usually presents in neonates w/ BILIOUS vomiting and abdominal distension
- untreated volvulus can progress to frank bowel ischemia, bloody stools, and perforation
- an upper GI contrast study is the gold standard for diagnosing malrotation
The finding of the ligament of Treitz on the right side of the abdomen reflects MALROTATION, while contrast in a “corkscrew” pattern indicates VOLVULUS on upper GI series.
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what is generally the normal duration of crying in an infant?
1-2 hours per day
Colic
- excessive crying for 3 or more hrs a day, 3 or more days a week, over a period of 3 or more weeks in an otherwise healthy infant
- usually presents in the first few weeks of life and resolves spontaneously by age 4 months
- crying generally occurs at same time of day, usually early evening
- cause is unknown, but may be overstimulation and parental unfamiliarity w/ alternate soothing methods
- calming techniques include an infant swing, swaddling, minimizing environmental stimuli, and holding and rocking the baby
- feeding patterns should also be reviewed to assess if there is overfeeding, underfeeding, or an inadequate burping technique
Intussusception
- typically occurs at age 3-36 months and presents w/ recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain
- poor appetite and vomiting are common
GERD in infants
- usually presents w/ excessive spitting up and crying after feedings
- may arch back during or after feeding
- meds are generally reserved for infants who are not gaining weight appropriately
Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
- most common in first born boys age 3-5 weeks
- protracted projectile, NONbilious vomiting causes a hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis
- abdominal US confirms the diagnosis
- tx is pyloromyotomy
Milk protein allergy
- can present w/ vomiting, poor weight gain, and bloody stools
- affected infants should be switched to a hydrolyzed formula and avoid cow’s milk-based and soy-based formulas
Bilious vomiting in the first 2 days of life and a “double bubble” sign on abdominal x-ray
- Duodenal obstruction
- duodenal atresia is strongly associated w/ Down syndrome
infants w/ biliary atresia
- most are asymptomatic at birth and initially seem healthy
- jaundice and acholic (pale) stools typically develop by age 2 months
meconium ileus
- pathognomonic for cystic fibrosis and typically presents as delayed passage of meconium (> 48 hrs), marked abdominal distension, and sometimes bilious emesis
- obstruction is typically at the level of the terminal ileum, and abdominal x-ray shows multiple dilated loops of small bowel
pyloric stenosis
-postprandial NONbilious emesis at ages 3-6 weeks
Sigmoid volvulus
- abdominal pain, distention, and constipation due to torsion of the sigmoid colon
- x-ray shows an inverted U-shaped appearance of the distended sigmoid loop (“coffee bean sign”)
- typically occurs in elderly pts and is exceptionally rare in children
Gastroesophageal reflux (mild, NOT GERD) is common in infants due to their shorter esophagus, incomplete closure of the lower esophageal sphincter, and greater time spent in the supine position. Parents should be reassured about adequate weight gain and advised to hold the infant upright after feeds.
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In contrast to physiologic reflux, pathologic features of GERD include failure to thrive or Sandifer syndrome (intermittent opisthotonic posturing). Thickened feeds and antacid therapy are the first steps in management of GERD.
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Regurgitation caused by milk protein allergy is associated w/ eczema, poor weight gain, and bloody stools. Infants w/ milk protein allergy should be switched to a hydrolyzed formula. Hydrolyzed formulas are very expensive and unnecessary when no other symptoms are present.
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Goat milk is deficient in folate and could result in macrocytic anemia.
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Gastroschisis
- usually an ISOLATED defect lateral (right) to the umbilical cord w/ uncovered bowel herniating through the abdominal wall
- maternal serum a-fetoprotein is typically elevated during pregnancy
- after delivery, the exposed bowel should be covered w/ sterile saline dressings and plastic wrap. Immediate surgery is required.
Omphalocele
- commonly has other major malformations associated w/ it such as cardiac disease, neural tube defects, or trisomy syndromes
- have a covering sac of peritoneum over healthy bowel
- need immediate surgery after birth by staged closure w/ a SILASTIC SILO
Increased gastric residual volume, vomiting, and abdominal distention in a premature neonate
- Necrotizing enterocolitis
- hallmark findings on x-ray include PNEUMATOSIS INTESTINALIS (intramural air) and portal venous air
- leukocytosis and metabolic acidosis are common
Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis presents w/ projectile, NONbilious emesis and an olive-shaped mass in RUQ. Prolonged vomiting causes a hypochloremic, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis. Tx consists of IV rehydration and normalization of electrolytes prior to pyloromyotomy to decrease the risk of post-op apnea.
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US is the first-line modality for diagnosing intussusception. A positive “target sign” should prompt reduction w/ air or water-soluble contrast enema.
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Intussusception
- telescoping of one bowel segment into another
- most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children 6-36 months
- ileocolic junction is most frequently involved
- most children have no identifiable lead point (75%)
- possible lead points: Peyer patches (inflammation from viral infection), Meckel’s diverticulum, polyps, hematomas (from Henoch-Schonlein purpura)
- intermittent pain
- currant jelly stools are preceded by mucosal ischemia, occult bleeding
- palpable tubular “sausage shaped” mass in RUQ
- US is test of choice (“target sign”)
- tx is w/ AIR ENEMA
Atopic dermatitis
- presents in INFANCY w/ pruritis, and scaly erythematous lesions on the face, chest, and extensor surfaces of the extremities
- FLEXURAL involvement is common in children and adults
- topical emollients are the first-line treatment
Meconium ileus is virtually diagnostic of what?
- Cystic fibrosis
- Inspissated meconium is responsible for life-threatening obstruction at the level of the ileum
family hx of sudden death, congenital sensorineural deafness, and QT interval prolongation
- Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome
- autosomal recessive long QT syndrome caused by defects in potassium channels
Pts w/ prolonged QT intervals are at risk for syncope, ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Those w/ congenital QT prolongation should avoid electrolyte derangements and medications that block potassium channels. Beta blockers w/ pacemaker placement can prevent cardiac arrest.
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Tay-Sachs disease
- progressive autosomal recessive condition
- B-hexosaminidase A deficiency
- Like Niemann-Pick disease, Tay-Sachs also presents w/ loss of motor milestones, hypotonia, and a “cherry-red” macula. However, pts w/ Tay-Sachs have HYPERREFLEXIA and NO hepatosplenomegaly
Galactocerebrosidase deficiency
- Krabbe disease
- autosomal recessive LYSOSOMAL storage disorder that presents in early infancy w/ developmental regression, hypotonia, and areflexia
Gaucher disease
- Glucocerebrosidase deficiency
- anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hepatosplenomegaly
Hurler syndrome
- one of the mucopolysaccharidoses
- LYSOSOMAL storage disease due to lysosomal HYDROLASE deficiency
- presents at age 6 months- 2 years w/ coarse facial features, inguinal or umbilical hernias, corneal clouding, and hepatosplenomegaly
Niemann-Pick disease type A
- due to SPHINGOMYELINASE deficiency
- presents at age 2-6 months w/ areflexia, hepatosplenomegaly, a “cherry-red” macula, and developmental milestone regression
- Although Tay-Sachs disease presents in a similar manner, hepatosplenomegaly and areflexia are NOT seen
Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
- hypotonia, flat face, upward and slanted palpebral fissures, epicanthal folds, Brushfield spots, dysplasia of the pelvis, cardiac malformations, simian crease, short and broad hands, hypoplasia of the middle phalanx of the 5th finger, intestinal atresia, and high arched palate
- most common trisomy
Patau’s syndrome (trisomy 13)
-cleft lip, flexed fingers w/ polydactyly, ocular hypotelorism, bulbous nose, low-set malformed ears, small abnormal skull, cerebral malformation, microphthalmia, cardiac malformations, scalp defects, hypoplastic or absent ribs, visceral and genital anomalies
Wolf-Hirschhorn’s syndrome
- very low yield for USMLE
- chromosome 4p deletion
- “greek helmet” facies w/ ocular hypertelorism, prominent glabella and frontal bossing, ptosis, and strabismus
Cri-du-chat syndrome
- microcephaly w/ protruding metopic suture
- cat-like cry
- hypotonia, short stature, moonlike face, hypertelorism, bilateral epicanthic folds, high arched palate, wide and flat nasal bridge
- 5p deletion
Edwards’ syndrome (trisomy 18)
-low birth weight, clenched fists w/ index finger overlapping the 3rd digit and the 5th digit overlapping the 4th, microcephaly, prominent occiput, micrognathia, rocker-bottom feet
The diagnosis of ADHD is based on clinical evaluation of symptoms and associated impairment in 2 different settings. Teacher evaluations are an important tool for assessing behavior in the school environment.
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Complete AV canal defect
- strongly associated w/ Down syndrome
- aka endocardial cushion defect
- chest x-ray findings include increased pulmonary markings and cardiomegaly from excessive pulmonary blood flow and biventricular volume overload
Ebstein’s anomaly
- associated w/ maternal lithium use during pregnancy
- displacement of a malformed tricuspid valve into the right ventricle
- the droopy tricuspid valve results in severe tricuspid regurgitation and right atrial enlargement, resulting in tall P waves and right axis deviation on ECG
- extreme cardiomegaly from heart failure can be seen on chest x-ray
Tetralogy of Fallot
- can have paucity of vascular marking on CXR due to pulmonary outflow tract obstruction
- “boot-shaped heart”
- right axis deviation on ECG
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return
- defect in which all 4 pulmonary veins fail to make their normal connection to the left atrium
- the right atrium receives blood from both the pulmonary and systemic venous systems, resulting in right atrial and ventricular enlargement
- ECG can show right ventricular hypertrophy and right axis deviation
- CXR can show increased pulmonary markings due to pulmonary overcirculation
Truncus arteriosus
- strongly associated w/ DiGeorge syndrome
- ECG can be normal in neonate
- CXR typically shows cardiomegaly and increased pulmonary vascular markings from heart failure and pulmonary overcirculation
Left axis deviation on neonatal ECG is NEVER NORMAL.
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Tricuspid valve atresia
-cyanotic congenital heart defect characterized by left axis deviation on ECG and decreased pulmonary markings on CXR due to hypoplasia of the right ventricle and pulmonary outflow tract
IgA deficiency
- consider in pts w/ mild immunodeficiency consisting of recurrent sinopulmonary and GI infections, and anaphylactic transfusion reaction
- Diagnosis may be confirmed by measurement of a low serum IgA concentration w/ normal serum IgM and IgG levels
- Pts may form antibodies to IgA, predisposing them to anaphylactic transfusion reactions
DiGeorge syndrome
- thymic aplasia and consequent T cell deficiency
- susceptible to fungal infections
- hypoparathyroidism w/ hypocalcemia, cleft palate, and congenital heart disease (truncus arteriosis) are also associated
X-linked agammaglobulinemia (Bruton’s)
- affects males
- pts lack B cells and all classes of Ig
- sinopulmonary infections and Pseudomonas are common
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome
- X-linked combined B and T cell disorder
- pts present w/ recurrent otitis media, eczema, and thrombocytopenia
Cystic fibrosis
-recurrent respiratory infections, sinus disease, pancreatic insufficiency, meconium ileus, and infertility
Hyper-IgM syndrome
- pts have elevated IgM and depressed IgG and IgA
- they are susceptible to both Giardia and recurrent sinopulmonary infection
- Lymphoid hyperplasia is common
Osteogenesis imperfecta
-associated w/ blue sclerae, hearing loss, recurrent fractures, and OPALESCENT teeth (dentinogenesis imperfecta; due to discolored dentin shining through the translucent and weak enamel; both primary and permanent teeth are affected)
Osteogenesis imperfecta
- associated w/ blue sclera, hearing loss, recurrent fractures, and opalescent teeth
- Pts w/ OI have normal intelligence
Full term infants are born w/ adequate iron stores to prevent anemia for the first 4-6 months of life regardless of dietary intake. Preterm infants are at significantly increased risk for iron deficiency anemia. Iron supplementation should be started at birth in exclusively breastfed preterm infants and continued until age 1 year. All exclusively breastfed infants should be started on Vitamin D 400 IU daily.
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what factors increase risk of iron deficiency anemia in infants
- maternal iron deficiency
- prematurity
- early introduction of cow’s milk before age 12 months
what is the first step in management of a newborn w/ respiratory compromise and suspected congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)?
- Endotracheal intubation!
- note that bag-and-mask ventilation can exacerbate respiratory decline
- a gastric tube should be placed immediately to decompress the stomach and bowel.
Bilateral choanal atresia
-presents w/ cyanosis and respiratory distress during feeding that improve when the infant cries
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
- cyanosis w/ respiratory distress immediately after birth
- polyhydramnios can occur as a result of esophageal compression
- deviation of abdominal viscera into the thorax results in a scaphoid-appearing abdomen
- x-ray shows a displaced cardiac silhouette, bowel in the thorax, and a gasless abdomen
Duodenal atresia
- can cause polyhydramnios and vomiting w/ initial feeds but not respiratory distress
- the abdomen would NOT be distended and intestinal gas would be absent on x-ray as air cannot pass the duodenum
- gastric tubes can be inserted without resistance and x-ray would show air in the stomach and proximal duodenum (“double-bubble sign”)
Esophageal atresia without fistulous connection to the trachea is rare and would not cause sudden respiratory distress w/ feeding.
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Anomalous vascular branches of the aortic arch (vascular rings)
-can cause stridor and dysphagia due to compression of the trachea and esophagus
Esophageal atresia w/ TE fistula
- should be suspected when a newborn chokes and coughs during the first feeding
- attempts at naso- or orogastric tube insertion will fail and x-ray will show the tube in the proximal esophageal pouch
- most common is a PROXIMAL atresia with a fistula between the trachea and DISTAL esophagus
- Polyhydramnios is typically seen
- aspiration pneumonia and distended abdomen is common
- half of pts have other anomalies; VACTERL (vertebral, anal atresia, cardiac, TE fistula, renal, limb)
genetic B-lymphocyte deficiency
- begin to develop recurrent infections AFTER passing 6 months of age due to the decline of passive immunity from mom’s Ig
- The deficient humoral immune response in these pts impairs the body’s ability to destroy ENCAPSULATED organisms (recurrent sinopulmonary infections w/ H. influenza and S. pneumo are common)
- lack of IgA also predisposes to Giardia infection
Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD)
- impaired oxidative metabolism
- a defect in the NADPH-oxidase system of phagocytic cells results in defective intracellular killing
- pts are prone to ABSCESSES secondary to catalase-producing organisms like ASPERGILLUS and STAPHYLOCOCCUS
Complement deficiency results in common infections with what?
-Gonococcal and meningococcal infections (due to Neisseria species)
Thymic hypoplasia associated w/ DiGeorge syndrome
-T-cell deficiency puts pts at high risk for viral and fungal infections
Adenosine deaminase deficiency
- commonly the genetic defect underlying severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
- pts w/ SCID have a deficiency of both B and T cells
- T cell deficiency predisposis to viral and fungal infections and the B cell deficiency predisposes to infection by bacteria
Meningococcal meningitis
- most common cause of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults
- typically presents w/ fever, headache, neck stiffness, altered mental status, and a PETECHIAL OR PURPURITIC RASH
- prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical given that it has a high morbidity and mortality rate even w/ appropriate treatment
Borrelia burgdorferia
- causes Lyme disease
- usually acquired in the late summer months after an Ixodes sp. tick bite
- presents w/ rash (ie erythema chronicum migrans), headaches, fevers, chills, and malaise
- skin rash is very characteristic and is large, annular, and erythematous, occassionally w/ central clearing
Cytomegalovirus
-can cause infectious mononucleosis like illness, which presents w/ high fevers, fatigue, malaise, splenomegaly, and pharyngitis
Group B strep
- most common cause of meningitis in infants
- usually acquired from the mother during childbirth
Haemophilus influenza
- may cause meningitis but typically does NOT present w/ a rash
- may also cause rhinorrea, fever, epiglottitis, and ear infections
- the rate of infection has decreased dramatically since the vaccine was introduced
Herpes simplex virus
-generally causes temporal lobe encephalitis in neonates and infants and typically presents w/ seizures
Listeria monocytogenes
- transmitted vaginally
- 1 of the 3 most common causes of meningitis in newborns but does NOT present w/ a rash
- another mode of transmission would be ingestion of unpasteurized milk or cheese from infected cows
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)
- suspect HUS in a child who recently recovered from a diarrheal illness and presents w/ acute renal failure, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, fever, thrombocytopenia and characteristic peripheral smear finding of schistocytes
- E. coli 0157:H7 is often the organism (can also be w/ Shigella, Salmonella, Yersinia, and Campylobacter)
Thalassemia presentation
- hepatosplenomegaly
- peripheral blood smear may reveal target cells, microcytosis, hypochromia, and anisopoikilocytosis, but NOT schistocytes
- BUN and creatinine levels are normal
B12/Folate deficiency
-macrocytosis and hypersegmented PMNs on blood smear
Lead poisoning
- causes a MICROCYTIC anemia, w/ BASOPHILIC STIPPLING of RBCs on peripheral smear
- pts typically also present with GI symptoms
PT and aPTT are prolonged in pts w/ DIC
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ITP
- characterized by an ISOLATED thrombocytopenia
- on peripheral smear, the morphology of red cells is normal
Bleeding in renal failure is usually due to dysfunctional platelets from uremia.
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Human milk is the ideal form of nutrition for term infants. The major protein source is whey, which is more easily digested than casein and helps to improve gastric emptying.
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what is the most common type of brain tumor seen in pediatric patients?
- benign astrocytomas
- in the pediatric population, infratentorial tumors are more common than supratentorial tumors, and benign astrocytomas are the most common histologic type in both groups
Medulloblastoma
- second most common tumor of the posterior fossa in children
- approximately 90% of cases arise from the vermis
Glioblastoma multiforme
- highly malignant astrocytic tumor
- usually seen in adults
Pinealoma
- develops in the dorsal aspect of the midbrain
- symptoms consist of endocrine syndrome, intracranial hypertension, Parinaud’s sign (paralysis of vertical gaze), and Collier’s sign (retraction of the eyelid)
Craniopharyngioma
- arise in the sella turcica, and symptoms usually include visual field defects and an endocrine syndrome
- characterized by a cystic structure w/ calcifications
Pediatric OCD
- repetitive mental and physical rituals that interfere w/ social and occupational functioning
- Tx involves high-dose SSRI and psychotherapy
- onset may be associated w/ recent streptococcal infection (PANDAS)
Spondylolisthesis
- developmental disorder characterized by a forward slip of vertebrae (usually L5 over S1) that usually manifests in preadolescent children.
- in the typical clincial scenario, back pain, neurologic dysfunction (ie urinary incontinence), and a palpable “step-off” at the lumbosacral area are present if the disease is severe
Patients w/ sickle cell anemia
- anemia w/ a high reticulocyte count, previous admissions for pain, hematuria, african american
- become functionally asplenic at an early age due to splenic autoinfarction, thus more susceptible to encapsulated organisms
- pneumococcal vaccination plus penicillin prophylaxis (until 5 years of age; twice daily) can prevent almost all cases of pneumococcal sepsis in pts w/ sickle cell anemia
live attenuated virus vaccines
-measles, mumps, rubella, and chicken pox (varicella)
bacterial toxoid vaccines
-tetanus and diptheria
Sickle cell anemia
- associated w/ functional asplenia due to recurrent splenic infarction, which puts these pts at risk of dangerous infection w/ encapsulated organisms (S. pneumo, H. influenza type B, N. meningitides, and Salmonella species)
- Pneumococcus is the most common cause of sepsis in this population
- vaccination and penicillin prophylaxis are extremely important infection prevention measures
what vaccinations should sickle cell pts receive?
- both the 13 valent and 23 valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccines
- meningococcal conjugate vaccines
- H influenza type B vaccines
common cause of bacteremia in pts w/ burn wound and neutropenia?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
most common causes of osteomyelitis in sickle cell pts in the U.S.
-Salmonella species and Staph aureus
Brain abscess
- can present w/ fever, headache, focal neurologic deficits, and seizure
- congenital heart disease (right-to-left shunts bypass the lungs, an important filter) and recurrent sinusitis (direct spread to frontal lobe) are important predisposing factors
bacterial meningitis presentation
-headache, lethargy, fever, fast onset, photophobia, nuchal rigidity
Carotid artery dissection
-typically occurs after trauma or spontaneously in pts w/ connective tissue disorders
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- often associated w/ false positive RPR test resuts
- 1/5 of all SLE cases occur in children
- confirmatory tests are a positive ANTI-SMITH antibody and/or ANTI-DOUBLE STRANDED DNA antibodies (highly specific)
Neonatal abstinence syndrome
- caused by infant withdrawal to opiates and usually presents in the first few days of life
- characterized by irritability, a high-pitched cry, poor sleeping, tremors, seizures, sweating, sneezing, tachypnea, poor feeding, vomiting, and diarrhea
- tx is symptomatic care such as swaddling, providing small frequent feeds, and keeping the infant in a low stimulation environment
- pharmacologic tx should be used when supportive tx does not control the infant’s withdrawal symptoms. Morphine can be administered and systematically weaned to help control opiate withdrawal
fetal exposure to valproic acid
-risk of neural tube defects, may result in cardiac anomalies, and can produce dysmorphic facies, including a cleft lip, narrow bifrontal diameter, midface hypoplasia, broad and depressed nasal bridge, and long philtrum
prenatal exposure to phenytoin
- fetal hydantoin syndrome, which is characterized by nail and digit hypoplasia, dysmorphic facies, and mental retardation
- growth deficiency can also be seen
fetal alcohol syndrome
- growth deficiency, presence of a long, smooth philtrum, small palpebral fissures, and a thin upper lip in addition to CNS abnormalities such as mental retardation
- withdrawal symptoms are usually not seen unless the mother was drinking just prior to delivery
Prenatal exposure to cocaine
- jitteriness, excessive sucking, and a hyperactive Moro reflex
- withdrawal symptoms are usually not as severe as with opiates
- long term effects on behavior, attention level, and intelligence may be seen
Guillain-Barre syndrome
- most commonly presents w/ ASCENDING flaccid paralysis
- involvement of respiratory and bulbar muscles puts pts at high risk for respiratory failure
- serial measurements of FVC are the best means of monitoring respiratory function (use SPIROMETRY)
- severe autonomic dysfunction, flaccid quadriparesis, inability to hold the neck erect, and bulbar palsy are other indications for critical care
Botulism has DESCENDING progression of weakness!
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Congenital hypothyroidism
- infants initially appear normal at birth, but gradually develop apathy, weakness, hypotonia, large tongue, sluggish movement, abdominal bloating, and an umbilical hernia
- for this reason, screening newborns for hypothyroidism, along w/ PKU and galactosemia, is standardly performed in all states
- tx is levothyroxine
- most common cause is thyroid dysgenesis (ie aplasia, hypoplasia, or ectopic gland)
infant botulism
-occurs most commonly in infants whose diet includes honey or canned food
Werdnig-Hoffman syndrome
- autosomal recessive disorder that involves degeneration of the anterior horn cells and cranial nerve motor nuclei
- it is a cause of “floppy baby” syndrome (the other cause is infant botulism)
Myotonic congenital myopathy
-autosomal dominant disorder characterized by muscle weakness and atrophy (most predominant in the distal muscles of the upper and lower extremities), myotonia, testicular atrophy, and baldness
Myasthenia gravis
- presents w/ easy fatigability and weakness that improves w/ rest
- the pediatric form occurs in late childhood or adolescence
Galactosemia
- newborn or young infant w/ failure to thrive, bilateral cataracts, jaundice and hypoglycemia
- caused by galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase deficiency
- typically present w/ vomiting, poor weight gain, jaundice, hepatomegaly, convulsions, and cataracts
- other common manifestations include aminoaciduria, hepatic cirrhosis, hypoglycemia, and mental retardation. Pts are at increased risk of E. coli neonatal sepsis
- Early diagnosis and tx by elimination of galactose from the diet are mandatory
Galactokinase deficiency
-present w/ cataracts only, and are otherwise asymptomatic
Uridyl diphosphate galactose-4-epimerase deficiency
- rare disease compared to uridyl-transferase deficiency
- pts have hypotonia and nerve deafness
Malrotation with midgut volvulus
- usually presents in neonates w/ bilious vomiting and abdominal distension
- untreated volvulus can progress to frank bowel ischemia, bloody stools, and perforation
- an upper GI contrast study is the gold standard for diagnosing malrotation
- finding is Ligament of Treitz on the right side of the abdomen (malrotation) while contrast in a “corkscrew” pattern indicates volvulus
- Ladd procedure consists of fixing the bowel in a non-rotated position to minimize recurrent volvulus risk
Pyloric stenosis
- most commonly seen in boys age 1-2 months w/ NON-bilious projectile vomiting
- finding can include a visible peristaltic waves and a palpable abdominal mass
- abdominal US is the preferred imaging modality for pyloric stenosis
Hirschsprung disease and meconium ileus
- both usually present w/ failure to pass meconium within the first 2 days of life and dilated loops of bowel on x-ray
- these diagnoses should be evaluated by contrast enema
Serial abdominal x-rays are used in infants to follow the progression of non-surgical conditions, such as ileus or mild cases of necrotizing enterocolitis.
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Cri-du-chat syndrome
- due to 5p deletion and presents as microcephaly, hypotonia, short stature, and a cat-like cry
- other features: protruding metopic suture, moonlike face, hypertelorism, bilateral epicanthal folds, high arched palate, wide and flat nasal bridge, and mental retardation
Chronic constipation is a risk factor for what in toddlers?
- Recurrent cystitis
- impacted stool can cause rectal distension, which in turn compresses the bladder, prevents complete voiding, and leads to urinary stasis
any male adolescent who presents with epistaxis, a localized mass, and a bony erosion on the back of the nose has what?
-an ANGIOFIBROMA until proven otherwise (juvenile angiofibroma)
Reactive nasal polyps
- normally do NOT cause bony erosions
- usually associated w/ chronic infections or allergies, and the main complaint is obstruction rather than bleeding
Fragile X syndrome
- characterized by low to normal IQ w/ learning disabilities, generalized language disability, short attention span, autism, large head, prominent jaw, large low set ears and macroorchidism
- results from full mutation in the FMR1 gene caused by an increased number of CGG trinucleotide repeats accompanied by aberrant methylation of the FMR1 gene
Fetal alcohol syndrome
mild to moderate mental retardation, hypo-plastic maxilla, long philtrum, and microcephaly
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
- should be suspected in children who develop isolated thrombocytopenia and petechia after a viral infection
- children usually spontaneously recover within 6 months and require only observation, regardless of platelet count
- children w/ bleeding should receive IVIG or glucocorticoids
Risk factors for renal calculi
-diet high in animal protein and sodium and low in calcium and fluid
risk factors for the development of renal cell carcinoma
-cigarette smoking, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)
- risk factor for recurrent UTIs, which can lead to progressive renal scarring
- all children w/ a first febrile UTI at age 2-24 months should undergo a renal US to evaluate for anatomic abnormalities
- those w/ recurrent UTIs should also undergo a voiding cystourethrogram to evaluate for VUR
almost all infants w/ congenital toxoplasmosis are asymptomatic until adulthood, when they develop chorioretinitis
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HIV infection in infants
- should be suspected when an infant has failure to thrive, lymphadenopathy, and thrush in the setting of maternal IV drug abuse
- Pregnant pts w/ risky behavior should undergo HIV antibody testing in the 1st and 3rd trimesters as it can take up to 3 months to develop detectable antibody
- diagnosis in infants consists of PCR testing
Friedreich Ataxia
- autosomal recessive condition and genetic counseling is recommended for prenatal diagnosis for parents with one affected child
- due to an excessive number of trinucleotide repeats, resulting in an abnormality of a tocopherol transfer protein
- the disorder is progressive w/ a poor prognosis; wheelchair bound by 25 and death by 30-35
- unsteady gait, weakness in lower limbs, decreased vibratory and position sense in lower extremities, high plantar arches, atrophy of cervical spinal cord and minimal cerebellar atrophy
Differential for T-wave inversion?
- Myocardial infarction
- Myocarditis
- Old pericarditis
- Myocardial contusion
- Digoxin toxicity
language development of a 2 year old
- vocabulary of several hundred words and be able to combine words into short sentences
- in addition, half of their speech should be understandable to a stranger
language development of a 1 year old
- “mama” and “dada”, and one other word
- should be able to follow simple commands w/ gestures
language development of 15 month old
- '’mama”, “dada”, and 3-5 other words
- can understand simple commands even without a gesture
language development of 18 month old
-vocabulary of approx. 5-20 words
language development of 3 year old
- vocab of close to 1000 words, and about 75% of child’s speech can be understood by a stranger
- they speak in 3-4 word sentences and use pronouns correctly
Pyloric stenosis
- presents at age 3-5 weeks w/ projectile, nonbilious vomiting that occurs after each feed
- protracted vomiting produces a hypochloremic, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis that should be corrected prior to pyloromyotomy to decrease risk of postoperative apnea
normal acid-base status
- pH of 7.35-7.45
- PaCO2 of 35-45
- Bicarb of 22-26
Nephrotic syndrome
- edema, fatigue, proteinuria, absence of hematuria, hypoalbuminemia
- MINIMAL CHANGE DISEASE in peds
- FSGS, Membranous nephropathy, Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in adults
Nephritic syndrome
- hypertension, oliguria, hematuria, proteinuria, casts
- HUS, Poststrep glomerulonephritis in peds
- IgA nephropathy, Crescentic glomerulonephritis, Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in adults
Membranous nephropathy
- common cause of nephrotic syndrome (edema, proteinuria, and hypoalbuminemia) in adolescents and adults
- active hepatitis B infection is an important risk factor, and vaccination reduces the risk
FSGS
- common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults and adolescents
- HIV is the most commonly associated infection
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis
-can cause Nephrotic syndrome or nephritic syndrome, most commonly in adults, and has been associated with hepatitis B infection. However, it is significantly less common than membranous nephropathy in hepatitis B infection