Guidelines for the use of chest radiographs in community-acquired pneumonia in children and adolescents

© 2017, The Author(s). National guidance from the United Kingdom and the United States on community-acquired pneumonia in children states that chest radiographs are not recommended routinely in uncomplicated cases. The main reason in the ambulatory setting is that there is no evidence of a substantial impact on clinical outcomes. However clinical practice and adherence to guidance is multifactorial and includes the clinical context (developed vs. developing world), the confidence of the attending physician, the changing incidence of complications (according to the success of immunisation programs), the availability of alternative imaging (and its relationship to perceived risks of radiation) and the reliability of the interpretation of imaging. In practice, chest radiographs are performed frequently for suspected pneumonia in children. Time pressures facing clinicians at the front line, difficulties in distinguishing which children require admission, restricted bed numbers for admissions, imaging-resource limitations, perceptions regarding risk from procedures, novel imaging modalities and the probability of other causes for the child’s presentation all need to be factored into a guideline. Other drivers that often weigh in, depending on the setting, include cost-effectiveness and the fear of litigation. Not all guidelines designed for the developed world can therefore be applied to the developing world, and practice guidelines require regular review in the context of new information. In addition, radiologists must improve radiographic diagnosis of pneumonia, reach consensus on the interpretive terminology that clarifies their confidence regarding the presence of pneumonia and act to replace one imaging technique with another whenever there is proof of improved accuracy or reliability

Comorbidity of Kawasaki disease and group A streptococcal pleural effusion in a healthy child: a case report

Ahmed H Alhammadi, Mohamed A HendausGeneral Pediatrics Section, Department of Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, QatarBackground: Kawasaki disease is an acute self-limiting vasculitis that affects children. The most dreaded complication of Kawasaki disease reported in the literature over the years is coronary artery disease, which is considered as the main cause of acquired heart disease. However, pulmonary associations with Kawasaki disease have been overlooked. We present a rare, if not unique, case of Kawasaki disease associated with group A streptococcus pleural effusion in the English language literature. A search of the PubMed database was carried out, using a combination of the terms “Kawasaki disease”, “pneumonia”, and “group A streptococcus”. The majority of studies conducted in children with Kawasaki disease have concentrated on the coronary artery implications. Kawasaki disease is considered a self-limiting illness, but can have detrimental consequences if not diagnosed early. When there is a prolonged inflammatory reaction, with no infectious agent identified or remittent fever unresponsive to antibiotics, Kawasaki disease should be taken into consideration. Elevated Vβ2+ T cells compared with healthy controls suggest possible involvement of a superantigen in the etiology of Kawasaki disease, so it is wise that the health care provider concentrates not only on the cardiac consequences, but also on pulmonary associations.Keywords: Kawasaki disease, pneumonia, group A streptococcu

Intrapleural hemorrhage due to alteplase use in a 6-year-old boy with pleural effusion

Mohamed A Hendaus, Ahmad Abushahin Department of Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Background: Intrapleural fibrinolytics have been used successfully worldwide for the management of complicated pleural effusions and empyema. Bleeding complications are usually mentioned as rare side effects, but there is no clear information in the literature addressing the alarming outcome that might result following the use of alteplase as a fibrinolytic in the management of complicated parapneumonic effusions. We present a rare, if not unique, case of intrapleural hemorrhage requiring transfusion after alteplase use as a fibrinolytic in a 6-year-old male with complicated parapneumonic effusion. Methods: A search of the PubMed database was carried out, using a combination of the following terms: alteplase, fibrinolytic, intrapleural hemorrhage, and side effects. Results: The majority of studies found in the search concentrated on the efficacy of intrapleural fibrinolytics in the management of pleural effusion, but very few of the reports addressed the bleeding complications which may be caused by the treatment. Conclusion: Although intrapleural and systemic hemorrhage are rare side effects of intrapleural fibrinolytic use, the health care provider must be watchful for these potentially life-threatening complications. Further studies are needed to understand not only the efficacy of fibrinolytics but also their safety, especially in children. Keywords: alteplase, tPA, fibrinolytic, intrapleural hemorrhage, pleural effusio

Allergic diseases among children: nutritional prevention and intervention

Mohamed A Hendaus,1,2 Fatima A Jomha,3 Mohammad Ehlayel2,4 1Department of Pediatrics, Section of Academic General Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, 2Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar; 3School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Khiara, Lebanon; 4Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Allergy-Immunology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Abstract: Allergic diseases comprise a genetically heterogeneous group of chronic, immunomediated diseases. It has been clearly reported that the prevalence of these diseases has been on the rise for the last few decades, but at different rates, in various areas of the world. This paper discusses the epidemiology of allergic diseases among children and their negative impact on affected patients, their families, and societies. These effects include the adverse effects on quality of life and economic costs. Medical interest has shifted from tertiary or secondary prevention to primary prevention of these chronic diseases among high-risk infants in early life. Being simple, practical, and cost-effective are mandatory features for any candidate methods delivering these strategies. Dietary therapy fits this model well, as it is simple, practical, and cost-effective, and involves diverse methods. The highest priority strategy is feeding these infants breast milk. For those who are not breast-fed, there should be a strategy to maintain beneficial gut flora that positively influences intestinal immunity. We review the current use of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, and safety and adverse effects. Other dietary modalities of possible potential in achieving this primary prevention, such as a Mediterranean diet, use of milk formula with modified (hydrolyzed) proteins, and the role of micronutrients, are also explored. Breast-feeding is effective in reducing the risk of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic eczema among children. In addition, breast milk constitutes a major source of support for gut microbe colonization, due to its bifidobacteria and galactooligosaccharide content. The literature lacks consensus in recommending the addition of probiotics to foods for prevention and treatment of allergic diseases, while prebiotics may prove to be effective in reducing atopy in healthy children. There is insufficient evidence to support soy formulas or amino acid formulas for prevention of allergic disease. A healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, may have a protective effect on the development of asthma and atopy in children. In children with asthma and allergic diseases, vitamin D deficiency correlates strongly with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and wheezing. Keywords: allergic, children, prebiotics, primary, probiotics, prevention, synbiotic

Alteration of liver function due to H1N1 infection: a case report

Ahmed H Alhammadi, Mohamed A Hendaus, Anas A Kayoum Department of Pediatrics, Section of General Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Abstract: H1N1 virus is known to affect the respiratory tract. The majority of healthcare providers focus on the respiratory complications attributed to H1N1 infection, overlooking possible multi-organ involvement. We present a rare case of abnormal liver function in a child who was admitted for respiratory illness due to the H1N1 virus. There was a marked elevation in liver function tests concurrent with the respiratory disease. Our patient was treated with oseltamavir for the H1N1 infection, and the liver function levels decreased dramatically in 72 hours. Keywords: H1N1 subtype influenza A virus, hepatic function impairmen

Virus-induced secondary bacterial infection: a concise review

Mohamed A Hendaus,1 Fatima A Jomha,2 Ahmed H Alhammadi3 1Department of Pediatrics, Academic General Pediatrics Division, Weill-Cornell Medical College, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; 2School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Khiara, Lebanon; 3Department of Pediatrics, Academic General Pediatrics Division, Weill-Cornell Medical College, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Abstract: Respiratory diseases are a very common source of morbidity and mortality among children. Health care providers often face a dilemma when encountering a febrile infant or child with respiratory tract infection. The reason expressed by many clinicians is the trouble to confirm whether the fever is caused by a virus or a bacterium. The aim of this review is to update the current evidence on the virus-induced bacterial infection. We present several clinical as well in vitro studies that support the correlation between virus and secondary bacterial infections. In addition, we discuss the pathophysiology and prevention modes of the virus–bacterium coexistence. A search of the PubMed and MEDLINE databases was carried out for published articles covering bacterial infections associated with respiratory viruses. This review should provide clinicians with a comprehensive idea of the range of bacterial and viral coinfections or secondary infections that could present with viral respiratory illness. Keywords: bacteria, infection, risk, viru

Lung ultrasound for the diagnosis of childhood pneumonia: a safe and accurate imaging mode

Mohamed Ata Hendaus,1,2 Fatima Ahmed Jomha,3 Ahmed Hassan Alhammadi1,2 1Department of Pediatrics, Academic General Pediatrics Division, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 2Weill Cornell Medical College-Qatar, Al Rayyan, Qatar; 3School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Khiara, Lebanon Abstract: Pneumonia is the most common infectious cause of mortality in children worldwide. Chest x-ray (CXR) has been used as a supplementary mode in the diagnosis of pneumonia in children, but its frequent use might expose children to unnecessary ionizing radiation. In this review, we present up-to-date data of an alternative mode of imaging other than CXR in the diagnosis of pneumonia in children. We found that lung ultrasound is a safe and accurate mode of imaging that can be used by a health care provider in the cases of suspected pneumonia. It is more sensitive than CXR in the diagnosis of pneumonia and obviates the need for irradiation. Keywords: lung ultrasound, children, pneumoni

Back pain: the sole of presentation of sickle cell disease

Samar Osman, Shabina Khan, Mohamed A HendausGeneral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, QatarAbstract: Diagnosing back pain in children and adolescents can be a challenge to health care providers. Although studies show that more than half of the cases of back pain in children are of non-organic cause, missing the right diagnosis could be detrimental. We present a case of lower back pain in a ten-year-old male whom we eventually diagnosed with hemoglobin SE mutation, which responded well to pain management. Hence, sickle cell disease with vaso-occlusive crisis should be incorporated into the list of differential diagnoses in children with back pain.Keywords: hemoglobin, HbSE, case report, paediatric

The importance of educating postgraduate pediatric physicians about food allergy

Mehdi Adeli,1–3 Mohamed A Hendaus,1,2 Lukman I Abdurrahim,1 Ahmed H Alhammadi,1,2 1Department of Pediatrics, Hamad Medical Corporation, 2Department of Clinical Pediatrics, Weill-Cornell Medical College, 3Department of Pediatrics, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar Background: Food allergy is an increasing public health burden, and is considered among the most common chronic noncommunicable diseases in children. Proper diagnosis and management of food allergy by a health care provider is crucial in keeping affected children safe while simultaneously averting unnecessary avoidance. Objective: The rationale of the study was to estimate the knowledge of pediatric residents and academic general pediatric fellows with regard to food allergies in children. Methods: A cross-sectional and prospective study was carried out at Hamad Medical Corporation, the only tertiary care, academic and teaching hospital in the State of Qatar. The study took place between January 1, 2015 and September 30, 2015. Results: Out of the 68 questionnaires distributed, 68 (100%) were returned by the end of the study. Among the participants, 15 (22%) were in post-graduate year-1 (PGY-1), 16 (23.5%) in PGY-2, 17 (25%) in PGY-3, 12 (16%) in PGY-4, and 8 (12%) were academic general pediatric fellows. Our trainees answered 60.14% of knowledge based questions correctly. In the section of treatment and management of food allergy in childhood, 23 (34%) of respondents’ main concern when taking care of a patient with food allergies was making sure the patient is not exposed to food allergen, while 22 (33%) reported no concerns. In the section of treatment and management of food allergy in childhood, 22 (33%) of participants reported no concerns in taking care of a child with food allergy, while 23 (34%) of respondents’ main concern was making sure the patient is not exposed to food allergen. In the teaching and training section, 56% of participants stated that they have not received formal education on how to recognize and treat food allergies, while 59% claimed not being trained on how to administer injectable epinephrine. Furthermore, approximately 60% of all participants expressed the need of additional information about recognizing and treating food allergies and recommended certification and regulation of food allergy training for all residents. Conclusion: There is an appreciable lack of knowledge in identifying food allergy and managing anaphylaxis reaction in children, among pediatric residents. Robust efforts should be implemented by attending immunologists to improve the lack of knowledge and improve the trainee’s confidence when facing such cases. Keywords: allergy, attitude, food, knowledge, training, management, residents, survey, diagnosis, Qata

Parental preference and perspectives on continuous pulse oximetry in infants and children with bronchiolitis

Mohamed A Hendaus,1,2 Suzan Nassar,3 Bassil A Leghrouz,3 Ahmed H Alhammadi,1,2 Mohammed Alamri4 1Department of Pediatrics, Section of Academic General Pediatrics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar; 2Department of Clinical Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar; 3Department of Pediatrics, Hamad General Corporation, Doha, Qatar; 4Pediatric Emergency Center, Hamad General Corporation, Doha, Qatar Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate parental preference of continuous pulse oximetry in infants and children with bronchiolitis. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar. Parents of infants and children <24 months old and hospitalized with bronchiolitis were offered an interview survey. Results: A total of 132 questionnaires were completed (response rate 100%). Approximately 90% of participants were 20–40 years of age, and 85% were females. The mean age of children was 7.2±5.8 months. Approximately eight in ten parents supported the idea of continuous pulse oximetry in children with bronchiolitis. Almost 43% of parents believed that continuous pulse-oximetry monitoring would delay their children’s hospital discharge. Interestingly, approximately 85% of caregivers agreed that continuous pulse oximetry had a good impact on their children’s health. In addition, around one in two of the participants stated that good bedside examinations can obviate the need for continuous pulse oximetry. Furthermore, 80% of parents believed that continuous pulse-oximetry monitoring would give the health-care provider a good sense of security regarding the child’s health. Finally, being a male parent was associated with significantly increased risk of reporting unnecessary fatigue, attributed to the sound of continuous pulse oximetry (P=0.031). Conclusion: Continuous pulse-oximetry monitoring in children with bronchiolitis was perceived as reassuring for parents. Involving parents in decision-making is considered essential in the better management of children with bronchiolitis or any other disease. The first step to decrease continuous pulse oximetry will require provider education and change as well. Furthermore, we recommend proper counseling for parents, emphasizing that medical technology is not always essential, but is a complementary mode of managing a disease. Keywords: bronchiolitis, parents, medical, technolog