[Invasive Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Ecthyma gangrenosum infection in a child without risk factors].

BACKGROUND

Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis, well known in immunocompromised patients, is rare in previously healthy children.

CASE REPORT: A previously healthy 4 month-old boy was admitted with the suspicion of meningococcal septicemia. Three days prior to admission, he had developed high fever and two 4 cm-diameter skin lesions on his right leg, with dark red colour and a central haemorrhagic blister. He subsequently developed generalized seizures; meningitis and urinary tract infection were excluded. Despite topical therapy with an antistaphylococcal drug skin lesions extended, particularly at the level of the head. The patient was given oral amoxicillin-clavulanate, but his condition worsened; he was transferred to our intensive care unit with septic shock and a diagnosis of meningococcemia. Blood cultures grew Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Despite intensive therapy and appropriate antibiotic therapy, the patient died.

CONCLUSION

To allow early diagnosis and adequate treatment, it is mandatory to diagnose Ecthyma gangrenosum as the most frequent manifestation of invasive infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.