Lung abscess from Staphylococcus aureus after varicella infection in a 3-month-old infant

J Infect Public Health. 2017 Jan-Feb;10(1):129-132. doi: 10.1016/j.jiph.2016.05.013. Epub 2016 Jun 24.

Abstract

Varicella is a common, highly contagious viral infection of childhood. Varicella is a usually benign and self-limited disease, but it can be complicated by severe bacterial infections, especially in immunocompromised hosts. In this study, we describe a previously healthy 3-months-old infant who was admitted with high fever, cough, and respiratory distress, who had a history of varicella infection three weeks before, with exposure from her adolescent, unvaccinated sister. A lung abscess caused by Staphylococcus aureus complicating the varicella infection was discovered. The patient was aggressively treated with drainage of the abscess and intravenous antibiotics and had a good recovery.

Keywords: Infant; Lung abscess; Varicella.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chickenpox / complications*
  • Drainage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lung Abscess / diagnosis*
  • Lung Abscess / pathology*
  • Lung Abscess / therapy
  • Staphylococcal Infections / diagnosis*
  • Staphylococcal Infections / pathology*
  • Staphylococcal Infections / therapy
  • Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents