Abdominal distension: an important feature in human parechovirus infection

Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2011 Mar;30(3):260-2. doi: 10.1097/INF.0b013e318207691c.

Abstract

A total of 8 infants presenting with sepsis-like illness were diagnosed to have human parechovirus (HPeV) infection; of which, 5 had abdominal distension and 6 had an erythematous rash. A combination of abdominal distension and erythematous rash was observed in 4 infants. The abdominal symptoms can be very prominent and signs could be confused with acute surgical conditions. Although fever and central nervous symptoms are important features, a red rash with abdominal distension and a low C-reactive protein value and lymphocyte count can be clues to recognize this infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen / pathology*
  • C-Reactive Protein / analysis
  • Exanthema / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Parechovirus / isolation & purification*
  • Picornaviridae Infections / diagnosis
  • Picornaviridae Infections / pathology*
  • Picornaviridae Infections / virology*

Substances

  • C-Reactive Protein