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PAEDIATRIC
PROTOCOLS
For Malaysian Hospitals
Hussain Imam Hj Muhammad Ismail
Ng Hoong Phak
Terrence Thomas
3rd Edition
Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia
i
PAEDIATRIC
PROTOCOLS
For Malaysian Hospitals
Hussain Imam Hj Muhammad Ismail
Ng Hoong Phak
Terrence Thomas
3rd Edition
Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia
Scan this QR code to
download the electronic
Paediatric Protocol 3rd Edition
ii
iii
FOREWORD BY THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF HEALTH
Malaysia like the rest of the world has 3 more years to achieve the Millennium
DevelopmentalGoals(MDG).MDG4isconcernedwithunder5mortality.Although
we have done very well since lndependence to reduce our infant and toddler
mortality rates, we are now faced with some last lap issues in achieving this goal.
Despiteurbanizationtherearestillmanychildrenintheruralareas.Thisconstitutes
a vulnerable group in many ways. Among the factors contributing to this vulner-
ability is the distance from specialist care.
There is a need to ensure that doctors in the frontline are well equipped to handle
common paediatric emergencies so that proper care can be instituted from the
very beginning.
Although all doctors are now required to do 4 months of pre-registration training in
Paediatrics, this is insufficient to prepare them for all the conditions they are likely
to meet as Medical Officers in district hospitals and health clinics. Hence the effort
made by the paediatricians to prepare a protocol book covering all the common
paediatric problems is laudable. I would also like to congratulate them for
bringing out a third edition within 4 years of the previous edition.
l am confident that this third edition will contribute to improving the care of
children attending the Ministry’s facilities throughout the country.
Dato’Sri Dr Hasan Bin Abdul Rahman
Director General of Health, Malavsia
iv
FOREWORD TO THE THIRD EDITION
It has been 7 years since we produced the first edition of a national protocol
book for Paediatrics. This effort was of course inspired by the Sarawak Paediatric
Protocols initiated by Dr Tan Poh Tin. The 2nd edition in 2008 has proven to be
very popular and we have had to recruit the services of the Malaysian Paediatric
Association (MPA) to produce extra copies for sale. It is now the standard
reference for House officers in Paediatrics.
In producing a third edition we have retained the size and style of the current ver-
sion, essentially only updating the contents. Again it is targeted at young doctors
in the service many of whom seem to have had a suboptimal exposure to
paediatrics in their undergraduate years. It is hoped that the protocol book will
help them fill in the gaps as they prepare to serve in district hospitals and health
clinics.
The Ministry of Health has once again agreed to sponsor the printing of 1000
books and 500 CDs for distribution to MOH facilities. We shall be soliciting the
help of the MPA in producing extra books to be sold to those who wish to have a
personal copy. As a result of the full PDF version being available on the MPA
website, we have had requests from as far away as Kenya and Egypt to download
and print the material for local distribution. We have gladly allowed this in the
hope that it will contribute to better care of ill children in those and other neigh-
bouring countries.
As previously this new edition is only possible because of the willingness of busy
clinicians to chip in and update the content for purely altruistic reasons and we
hope this spirit will persist in our fraternity. Prof Frank Shann has gracefully agreed
for the latest edition of his drug dosages handbook to be incorporated into the
new edition. The Director General of Health has also kindly provided a foreword
to this edition.
We wish to thank all who have made this new edition possible and hope this
combined effort will help in improving the wellbeing of the children entrusted to
our care.
Hussain Imam B. Hj Muhammad Ismail
Ng Hoong Phak
Terrence Thomas
v
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. Fazila Mohamed Kutty
Neonatologist
HospitalSerdang
Dr. Fong Siew Moy
PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant
SabahWomen&Children’sHospital,Kota
Kinabalu
Dr. Fuziah Md. Zain
ConsultantPaediatricEndocrinologist
&Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics
HospitalPutrajaya
Dr. Hasmawati Hassan
ConsultantNeonatologist,
HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII,
KotaBharu
Dr. Hishamshah b. Mohd Ibrahim
ConsultantPaediatricHaemato-Oncologist
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Hung Liang Choo
ConsultantPaediatricCardiologist
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dato’ Dr. Hussain Imam B. Hj Muhammad
Ismail
ConsultantPaediatricNeurologist&
Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Heng Hock Sin
PaediatricNeurologist
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Irene Cheah Guat Sim
ConsultantNeonatologist
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Janet Hong Yeow Hua
ConsultantPaediatricEndocrinologist
HospitalPutraJaya
Dr. Jeyaseelan Nachiappan
PediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant
HospitalRajaPerempuanBainun,Ipoh.
Dato’ Dr. Jimmy Lee Kok Foo
ConsultantPaediatrician&
Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics
HospitalSultanahNurZahirah,
KualaTerengganu
Dr Airena Mohamad Nor,
Paediatrician
Hospital Tuanku Jaafar, Seremban.
Dr. Alex Khoo Peng Chuan
Paediatric Neurologist
Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh.
Dr. Amar-Singh HSS
Consultant Community Paediatrician &
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh
Dr. Angeline Wan
Consultant Neonatologist
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Pakar Sultanah Fatimah, Muar
Ms. Anne John
Consultant Paediatric Surgeon
Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching
Dr. Bina Menon
Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Sessional)
Dr. Chan Lee Gaik
Consultant Neonatologist
& Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching
Dr. Chee Seok Chiong
Consultant Neonatologist
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Chin Choy Nyok
Consultant Neonatologist
& Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan
Dr. Chong Sze Yee
Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Fellow
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Eni Juraida
Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Farah Inaz Syed Abdullah
Consultant Neonatologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
vi
Dr. Nazrul Neezam Nordin
PaediatricGastroenterologist&Hepatologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Neoh Siew Hong
ConsultantNeonatologist
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Ng Hoong Phak
ConsultantinGeneralPaediatricsandChild
Health,
HospitalUmumSarawak,Kuching
Dr. Ngu Lock Hock
ConsultantinPaediatricMetabolicDiseases
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Nik Khairulddin
PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant&
Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics
HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII,KotaBharu
Dr Noor Khatijah Nurani
ConsultantinGeneralPaediatricsandChild
Health,
HospitalRajaPermaisuriBainun,Ipoh
Dr. Nor Azni bin Yahya
ConsultantPaediatricNeurologist,
HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII,KotaBharu.
Dr. Norzila Bt. Mohd Zainudin
Consultant,PaediatricRespiratoryDisease
HospitalKualaLumpur
Dr. Ong Gek Bee
ConsultantPaediatricHaemato-Oncologist
HospitalUmumSarawak,Kuching
Dr. Pauline Choo
Neonatologist
HospitalTuankuJaafar,Seremban
Dr Raja Aimee Raja Abdullah
PaediatricEndocrinologist
HospitalPutrajaya
Dr. Revathy Nallusamy
PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant&
Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics
HospitalPulauPinang
Dr. Rozitah Razman
Paediatrician
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Kamarul Razali
Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Kew Seih Teck
Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Fellow
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Khoo Teik Beng
Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Datuk Dr. Kuan Geok Lan
Consultant General Paediatrician
Hospital Melaka.
Dr. Lee Ming Lee
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist
Hospital Tuanku Ja’far, Seremban
Dr. Leow Poy Lee
Consultant Neonatologist
Hospital Melaka.
Dr. Lim Chooi Bee
Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Lim Yam Ngo
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Lynster Liaw
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist
Hospital Pulau Pinang
Dr Mahfuzah Mohamed
Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Maznisah Bt Mahmood
Pediatric Intensivist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Martin Wong
Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist
Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching
Dr. Mohd Nizam Mat Bah
Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bharu
vii
Dr Thahira Jamal Mohamed
Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. N. Thiyagar
Consultant, Adolescent Medicine &
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Setar
Dr. Terrence Thomas
Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Singapore
Dr. Vidya Natthondan
Neonatologist
Hospital Putrajaya
Dr. Vigneswari Ganesan
Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
Hospital Pulau Pinang
Dr. Wan Jazilah Wan Ismail
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist &
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Wong Ann Cheng
Paediatrician
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr Wong Ke Juin
Pediatrician
Sabah Women & Children’s Hospital,
Kota Kinabalu
Dr. Yap Yok Chin
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Yogeswery Sithamparanathan
Consultant Neonatologist
Hospital Tuanku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang
Dr Zainah Sheikh Hendra,
Consultant in General Paediatrics and Child
Health, Hospital Batu Pahat
Dr. Zuraidah Bt Abd Latif
Consultant Neonatologist & Head,
Dept. of Paediatrics, Hospital Ampang
Dr. Zurina Zainudin
Consultant Paediatrician
Universiti Putra Malaysia
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Sabeera Begum Bt Kader Ibrahim
Consultant Paediatric Dermatologist
Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. See Kwee Ching
Neonatologist
Hospital Sungai Buloh
Dr. Sharifah Ainon Bt Ismail Mokhtar
Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist,
Hospital Pulau Pinang
Dr. Sheila Gopal Krishnan
Specialist in General Paediatrics and
Child Health
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Kulim
Dr. Siti Aishah Bt Saidin
Adolescent Medicine Specialist
Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh
Dr. Soo Thian Lian
Consultant Neonatologist & Head,
Dept. of Pediatrics
Sabah Women &Children’s Hospital,
Kota Kinabalu
Dr. Susan Pee
Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist &
Head, Dept. of Paediatrics,
Hosp Sultan Ismail, Pandan
Dr. Tan Kah Kee
Paediatric Infectious Disease
Consultant & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics
Hospital Tuanku Ja’far, Seremban
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tang Swee Fong
Consultant Paediatric Intensivist
Hospital University Kebangsaan Malaysia
Dr. Tang Swee Ping
Consultant Paediatric Rheumatologist
Hospital Selayang
Dr. Teh Chee Ming
Paediatric Neurologist
Hospital Pulau Pinang
Dato’ Dr. Teh Keng Hwang
Consultant Paediatric Intensivist
Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Star
viii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 General Paediatrics
Chapter 1: Normal Values in Children 1
Chapter 2: Immunisations 5
Chapter 3: Paediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Guidelines 19
Chapter 4: Developmental Milestones in Normal Children 27
Chapter 5: Developmental Assessment 31
Chapter 6: Developmental Dyslexia 37
Chapter 7: The H.E.A.D.S.S. Assessment 45
Chapter 8: End of Life Care in Children 49
Section 2 Neonatalogy
Chapter 9: Principles of Transport of the Sick Newborn 55
Chapter 10: The Premature Infant 63
Chapter 11: Enteral Feeding in Neonates 67
Chapter 12: Total Parenteral Nutrition for Neonates 71
Chapter 13: NICU - General Pointers for Care and Review of Newborn Infants 77
Chapter 14: Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis 85
Chapter 15: Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant  91
Chapter 16: The Newborn and Acid Base Balance 93
Chapter 17: Neonatal Encephalopathy 97
Chapter 18: Neonatal Seizures 101
Chapter 19: Neonatal Hypoglycemia 107
Chapter 20: Neonatal Jaundice 111
Chapter 21: Exchange Transfusion 117
Chapter 22: Prolonged Jaundice in Newborn Infants 121
Chapter 23: Apnoea in the Newborn 125
Chapter 24: Neonatal Sepsis 127
Chapter 25: Congenital Syphilis 129
Chapter 26: Ophthalmia Neonatorum 131
Chapter 27: Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm 133
Chapter 28: Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension oftheNewborn  135
Chapter 29: Perinatally Acquired Varicella 139
Section 3 Respiratory Medicine
Chapter 30: Asthma 149
Chapter 31: Viral Bronchiolitis 161
Chapter 32: Viral Croup 163
Chapter 33: Pneumonia 165
ix
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 4 Cardiology
Chapter 34: Paediatric Electrocardiography 171
Chapter 35: Congenital Heart Disease in the Newborn 173
Chapter 36: Hypercyanotic Spell 181
Chapter 37: Heart Failure 183
Chapter 38: Acute Rheumatic Failure 185
Chapter 39: Infective Endocarditis 187
Chapter 40: Kawasaki Disease 191
Chapter 41: Viral Myocarditis 195
Chapter 42: Paediatric Arrhythmias 197
Section 5 Neurology
Chapter 43: Status Epilepticus 205
Chapter 44: Epilepsy 207
Chapter 45: Febrile Seizures 213
Chapter 46: Meningitis 215
Chapter 47: Acute CNS Demyelination 219
Chapter 48: Acute Flaccid Paralysis 221
Chapter 49: Guillain Barré Syndrome 223
Chapter 50: Approach to The Child With Altered Consciousness 225
Chapter 51: Childhood Stroke 227
Chapter 52: Brain Death 231
Section 6 Endocrinology
Chapter 53: Approach to A Child with Short Stature 237
Chapter 54: Congenital Hypothyroidism 241
Chapter 55: Diabetes Mellitus 245
Chapter 56: Diabetic Ketoacidosis 255
Chapter 57: Disorders of Sexual Development 263
Section 7 Nephrology
Chapter 58: Post-Infectious Glomerulonephritis 275
Chapter 59: Nephrotic Syndrome 279
Chapter 60: Acute Kidney Injury 285
Chapter 61: Acute Peritoneal Dialysis 293
Chapter 62: Neurogenic Bladder 299
Chapter 63: Urinary Tract Infection 305
Chapter 64: Antenatal Hydronephrosis 313
x
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 8 Haematology and Oncology
Chapter 65: Approach to a Child with Anaemia 321
Chapter 66: Thalassaemia 325
Chapter 67: Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura 331
Chapter 68: Haemophilia 337
Chapter 69: Oncology Emergencies 343
Chapter 70: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia 353
Section 9 Gastroenterology
Chapter 71: Acute Gastroenteritis 359
Chapter 72: Chronic Diarrhoea 365
Chapter 73: Approach to Severely Malnourished Children 373
Chapter 74: Gastro-oesophageal Reflux 377
Chapter 75: Acute Hepatic Failure in Children 383
Chapter 76: Approach to Gastrointestinal Bleeding 387
Section 10 Infectious Disease
Chapter 77: Sepsis and Septic Shock 391
Chapter 78: Pediatric HIV 397
Chapter 79: Malaria 413
Chapter 80: Tuberculosis 419
Chapter 81: BCG Lymphadenitis 425
Chapter 82: Dengue and Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever with Shock 427
Chapter 83: Diphteria 439
Section 11 Dermatology
Chapter 84: Atopic Dermatitis 445
Chapter 85: Infantile Hemangioma 451
Chapter 86: Scabies 455
Chapter 87: Steven Johnson Syndrome 457
Section 12 Metabolic Disorders
Chapter 88: Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to
Diagnosis and Early Management in a Sick Child  461
Chapter 89: Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM)
in a Child with Chronic Symptoms 471
Chapter 90: Approach to Recurrent Hypoglycemia 483
Chapter 91: Down Syndrome 489
xi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 13 Paediatric Surgery
Chapter 92: Appendicitis 495
Chapter 93: Vomiting in the Neonate and Child 497
Chapter 94: Intussusception 507
Chapter 95: Inguinal hernias, Hydrocoele 511
Chapter 96: Undescended Testis 513
Chapter 97: The Acute Scrotum 515
Chapter 98: Penile Conditions 519
Chapter 99: Neonatal Surgery 521
Section 14 Rheumatology
Chapter 100: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) 535
Section 15 Poisons and Toxins
Chapter 101: Snake Bite 543
Chapter 102: Common Poisons 549
Chapter 103: Anaphylaxis 559
Section 16 Sedation and Procedures
Chapter 104: Recognition and Assessment of Pain 565
Chapter 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic
and Therapeutic Procedures 567
Chapter 108: Practical Procedures 571
xii
Acknowledgements
Again, to Dr Koh Chong Tuan, Consultant Paediatrician at Island Hospital, Penang
for his excellent work in proof reading the manuscript.
1
VITAL SIGNS
Respiratory (Breath) Rate
Normal, Breath rate at rest Abnormal
Age (years) Rate/min These values defineTachypnoea
1 30-40 Age Rate/min
1-2 25-35  2 months  60
2-5 25-30 2 mths - 1 year  50
5-12 20-25 1-5 years  40
Heart (Pulse) Rate
Abnormal Normal Abnormal
Age (years) Low (Bradycardia) Average High (Tachycardia)
Newborn  70/min 125/min  190/min
1-11 months  80/min 120/min  160/min
2 years  80/min 110/min  130/min
4 years  80/min 100/min  120/min
6 years  75/min 100/min  115/min
8 years  70/min 90/min  110/min
10 years  70/min 90/min  110/min
Ref: NelsonTextbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition
Blood Pressure
Hypotension if below Normal (average)
Age (years) 5th centile for age 50th centile for age
 1 year 65 - 75 mmHg 80 - 90 mmHg
1-2 years 70 - 75 mmHg 85 - 95 mmHg
2-5 years 70 - 80 mmHg 85 - 100 mmHg
5-12 years 80 - 90 mmHg 90 - 110 mmHg
 12 years 90 - 105 mmHg 100-120 mmHg
Calculation for Expected Systolic Blood Pressure
= 85 + (2 x age in years) mmHg for 50th centile - Median Blood Pressure
= 65 + (2 x age in years) mmHg for 5th centile - Hypotension if below this value
Ref:Advanced Paediatric Life Support:The Practical Approach, Fifth Edition 2011
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Chapter 1: NormalValues in Children
2
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Blood Pressure in Hypertension
Age Significant Hypertension Severe Hypertension
1 week Systolic 96 mmHg Systolic 106 mmHg
1 wk - 1 mth Systolic 104 mHg Systolic 110 mmHg
Infant Systolic 112 mmHg Systolic 118 mmHg
Diastolic 74 mmHg Diastolic 82 mmHg
3-5 years Systolic 116 mmHg Systolic 124 mmHg
Diastolic 76 mmHg Diastolic 86 mmHg
6-9 years Systolic 122 mmHg Systolic 130 mmHg
Diastolic 78 mmHg Diastolic 86 mmHg
10-12 years Systolic 126 mmHg Systolic 134 mmHg
Diastolic 82 mmHg Diastolic 90 mmHg
13-15 years Systolic 136 mmHg Systolic 144 mmHg
Diastolic 86 mmHg Diastolic 92 mmHg
16-18 years Systolic 142 mmHg Systolic 150 mmHg
Diastolic 92 mmHg Diastolic 98 mmHg
3
ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS
Age Weight Height Head size
birth 3.5 kg 50 cm 35 cm
6 months 7 kg 68 cm 42 cm
1 year 10 kg 75 cm 47 cm
2 years 12 kg 85 cm 49 cm
3 years 14 kg 95 cm 49.5 cm
4 years 100 cm 50 cm
5-12 years 5 cm/year 0.33 cm/year
Points to Note
Weight
• In the first 7 - 10 days of life, babies lose 10 - 15% of their birth weight.
• In the first 3 months of life, the rate of weight gain is 25 gm/day
• Babies regain their birth weight by the 2nd week, double this by 5 months
age, and triple the birth weight by 1 year of age
• Weight estimation for children (in Kg):
	 Infants: (Age in months X 0.5) + 4
	 Children 1 – 10 years: (Age in yrs + 4) X 2
Head circumference
• Rate of growth in preterm infants is 1 cm/week, but reduces with age.
Head growth follows that of term infants when chronological age reaches term
• Head circumference increases by 12 cm in the 1st year of life (6 cm in first 3
months, then 3 cm in second 3 months, and 3 cm in last 6 months)
Other normal values are found in the relevant chapters of the book.
References:
1. Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The Practical Approach Textbook,
5th Edition 2011
2. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
4
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
HAEMATOLOGICALPARAMETERS
AgeHbPCVReticsMCVflMCHpgTWBCNeutrophilLymphocyte
g/dL%%LowestLowestx1000MeanMean
CordBlood13-7-20.145-655.0110-9-306131
2weeks13.0-20.042-661.0-295-214063
3months9.5-14.531-411.0-276-183048
6mths-6yrs10.5-14.033-421.070-7425-316-154538
7-12years11.0-16.034-401.076-8026-324.5-13.55538
Adultmale14.0-18.042-521.68027-325-105535
Adultfemale12.0-16.037-471.68026-345-105535
DifferentialcountsPointstonote
7daysageneutrophilslymphocytes•DifferentialWBC:eosinophils:2-3%;monocytes:6-9%
•Plateletscountsarelowerinfirstmonthsofage;
butnormalrangeby6months
•Erythrocytesedimentationrate(ESR)is16mm/hrin
children,providedPCVisatleast35%.
1wk-4yearslymphocytesneutrophils
4-7yearsneutrophils=lymphocytes
7yearsneutrophilslymphocytes
5
NationalImmunisationScheduleforMalaysia(MinistryofHealth,Malaysia)
Age(months)Schoolyears
Vaccinebirth1235691012187yrs13yrs15yrs
BCG1ifnoscar
HepatitisB123
DTaP123DTB+
TB+
IPV123B+
Hib123B+
MeaslesSabah
MMR1
JE(Sarawak)12B*
HPV3doses
Legend:B+
,Boosterdoses;B*,Boosterat4yearsage;BCG,BacilleCalmette-Guerin;DTaP,Diphhteria,Tetanus,acellularPertussis;
DT,Diphtheria,Tetanus;T,TetanusIPV,InactivatedPolioVaccine;Hib,HaemophilusinfluenzaetypeB;
MMR,Measles,Mumps,Rubella;JE,JapaneseEncephalitis,HPV,HumanPapillomaVirus;
Chapter 2: Immunisations
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
6
General Notes
• Many vaccines (inactivated or live) can be given together simultaneously (does
not impair antibody response or increase adverse effect). But they are to be
given at different sites unless given in combined preparations. Vaccines are now
packaged in combinations to avoid multiple injections to the child.
• sites of administration
- oral – rotavirus, live typhoid vaccines
- intradermal (ID) - BCG. Left deltoid area (proximal to insertion deltoid muscle)
- deep SC, IM injections. (ALL vaccines except the above)	
• anterolateral aspect of thigh – preferred site in children
• upper arm – preferred site in adults
• upperouterquadrantofbuttock-associatedwithlowerantibodylevelproduction
Immunisation : General contraindications
• Absolute contraindication for any vaccine: severe anaphylaxis reactions to
previous dose of the vaccine or to a component of the vaccine.
• Postponement during acute febrile illness: Minor infection without fever or
systemic upset is NOT a contraindication.
• A relative contraindication: avoid a vaccine within 2 weeks of elective surgery.
• Live vaccine: Absolute contraindications
- Immunosuppressed children -malignancy; irradiation, leukaemia, lymphoma,
primary immunodeficiency syndromes (but NOT asymptomatic HIV).
- On chemotherapy or  6 months after last dose.
- On High dose steroids, i.e. Prednisolone ≥ 2 mg/kg/day for  7 days or low
dose systemic  2 weeks: delay vaccination for 3 months.
- If topical or inhaled steroids OR low dose systemic  2 weeks or EOD for  2
weeks, can administer live vaccine.
- If given another LIVE vaccine including BCG  4 weeks ago.
(Give live vaccines simultaneously. If unable to then give separately with
a 4 week interval).
- Within 3 months following IV Immunoglobulin (11 months if given high
dose IV Immunoglobulins, e.g. in Kawasaki disease).
3 weeks 3 months
Live Vaccine HNIG Live vaccine
(Human Normal Immunoglobulin)
- Pregnancy (live vaccine - theoretical risk to foetus) UNLESS there is
significant exposure to serious conditions like polio or yellow fever in
which case the importance of vaccination outweighs the risk to the foetus.
• Killed vaccines are generally safe. The only absolute contraindications are
SEVERE local (induration involving  2/3 of the limbs) or severe generalised
reactions in the previous dose.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
7
The following are not contraindications to vaccination
• Mild illness without fever e.g. mild diarrhoea, cough, runny nose.
• Asthma, eczema, hay fever, impetigo, heat rash (avoidinjectioninaffectedarea).
• Treatment with antibiotics or locally acting steroids.
• Child’s mother is pregnant.
• Breastfed child (does not affect polio uptake).
• Neonatal jaundice.
• Underweight or malnourished.
• Over the recommended age.
• Past history of pertussis, measles or rubella (unless confirmed medically)
• Non progressive, stable neurological conditions like cerebral palsy, Down
syndrome, simple febrile convulsions, controlled epilepsy, mental retardation.
• Family history of convulsions.
• History of heart disease, acquired or congenital.
• Prematurity (immuniseaccordingtoscheduleirrespectiveofgestationalage)
Vaccination: Special Circumstances
• Measures to protect inpatients exposed to another inpatient with measles:
- Protect all immunocompromised children with Immunoglobulin (HNIG)
0.25-0.5 mls/kg. (Measles may be fatal in children in remission from
leukaemia)
- Check status of measles immunisation in the other children. Give measles
monocomponent vaccine to unimmunised children within 24 hrs of exposure.
Vaccination within 72 hours aborts clinical measles in 75% of contacts
- Discharge the inpatient child with uncomplicated measles.
- Do not forget to notify the Health Office.
• Immunisation in children with HIV (Please refer to Paediatric HIV section)
• In patients with past history or family history of febrile seizures, neurological
or developmental abnormalities that would predispose to febrile seizures:-
- Febrile seizures may occur 5 – 10 days after measles (or MMR) vaccination
or within the first 72 hours following pertussis immunisation.	
- Give Paracetamol (120 mg or ¼ tablet) prophylaxis after immunisation
(esp. DPT) 4-6 hourly for 48 hours regardless of whether the child is febrile.
This reduces the incidence of high fever, fretfulness, crying, anorexia and
local inflammation.
• Maternal Chicken Pox during perinatal period. (Please refer to Perinatally
acquired varicella section)
• Close contacts of immunodeficient children and adults must be immunized,
particularly against measles and polio (use IPV).
• In contacts of a patient with invasive Haemophilus influenzae B disease:
- Immunise all household, nursery or kindergarden contacts  4 years of age.
- Household contacts should receive Rifampicin prophylaxis at 20 mg/kg
once daily (Maximum 600 mg) for 4 days (except pregnant women
- give one IM dose of ceftriaxone )
- Index case should be immunised irrespective of age.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
8
• Children with Asplenia (Elective or emergency splenectomy; asplenic
syndromes; sickle cell anaemia) are susceptible to encapsulated bacteria
and malaria.
- Pneumococcal, Meningococcal A, C, Y  W-135, Haemophilus influenza b
vaccines should be given.
- For elective splenectomy (and also chemotherapy or radiotherapy): give
the vaccines preferably 2 or more weeks before the procedure. However,
they can be given even after the procedure.
- Penicillin prophylaxis should continue ideally for life. If not until 16 years
old for children or 5 years post splenectomy in adults.
• Babies born to mothers who are HbeAg OR HbsAg positive should be given
Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (200 IU) and vaccinated with the Hepatitis B
vaccine within 12 hours and not later than 48 hours. Given in different
syringes and at different sites.
• Premature infants may be immunised at the same chronological age as term
infants. (Please refer section on The premature infants for more discussion)
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
9
Vaccines,indications,contraindications,dosesandsideeffects
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
BCGTobegivenatbirth
andtoberepeated
ifnoscarispresent
Nottobegiventosympto-
maticHIVinfectedchildren.
Canbegiventonewborns
ofHIVinfectedmotheras
theinfantisusuallyasymp-
tomaticatbirth.
BCGadenitismayoccur.Intradermal.
Localreaction:apapuleat
vaccinationsitemayoccur
in2-6weeks.Thisgrows
andflattenswithscaling
andcrusting.Occasionallya
dischargingulcermayoccur.
Thishealsleavingascarof
atleast4mminsuccessful
vaccination.
HepatitisBAllinfants,
includingthoseborn
toHBsAgpositive
mothers
Allhealthcare
personnel.
Severehypersensitivityto
aluminium.Thevaccineis
alsonotindicatedforHBV
carrierorimmunedpatient
(i.e.HBsAgorAbpositive)
Localreactions.Feverand
flu-likesymptomsinfirst
48hours.Rarely,erythema
multiformeorurticaria.
Intramuscular.
GivewithHepBimmuno-
globulinforinfantsofHBsAg
positivemothers.
Diphtheria,
Tetanus
(DT)
Allinfantsshould
receive5doses
includingbooster
dosesat18months
andStandard1
Severehypersensitivityto
aluminiumandthiomersal
Swelling,rednessandpain
Asmallpainlessnodulemay
developatinjectionsite–
harmless.
Transientfever,headaches,
malaise,rarelyanaphylaxis.
Neurologicalreactionsrare.
Intramuscular
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
10
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
PertussisAllinfantsshould
receive4doses
includingboosterat
18months
Itisrecommended
thatboosterdoses
begivenatStd1
andatForm3due
toincreasedcases
ofPertussisamongst
adolescentsin
recentyears
Anaphylaxistoprevious
dose;encephalopathy
developswithin7daysof
vaccination
Precautions:severereaction
topreviousdose(systemic
orlocal)andprogressive
neurologicaldiseases.
Localreaction.Severeif
involve2/3limbs
Severesystemicreaction:
Anaphylaxis(2per100000
doses),encephalopathy(0–
10.5permilliondoses),high
fever(fever40.5),fitswithin
72hours,persistentincon-
solablecrying(0.1to6%),
hyporesponsivestate.
AcellularPertussisvaccine
associatedwithlessside
effects
Intramuscular.
Staticneurologicaldiseases,
developmentaldelay,personal
orfamilyhistoryoffitsare
NOTcontraindications.
Inactivated
PolioVaccine
(IPV)
Allinfantstobe
given4doses
includingboosterat
18months.
Allergiestoneomycin,poly-
myxinandstreptomycin
Previoussevereanaphylactic
reaction
Localreactions.Intramuscular.
Haemophilus
Influenzae
typeB(Hib)
Allinfantsshould
receive4doses
includingboosterat
18months.
Patientswithsplenic
dysfunction,and
postsplenectomy.
Confirmedanaphylaxisto
previousHibandallergies
toneomycin,polymyxinand
streptomycin
Localswelling,rednessand
painsoonaftervaccination
andlastupto24hoursin
10%ofvaccinees
Malaise,headaches,fever,ir-
ritability,inconsolablecrying.
Veryrarelyseizures.
Intramuscular
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
11
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
MeaslesSabah,OrangAsli
populationat6mths.
Notusuallygivento
children12mth.If
thereisameasles
outbreak,canbe
giventochildren6
-11mthsage.This
islaterfollowedby
MMRat12mths
and4-6yearsage.
Avoidinpatientswith
hypersensitivitytoeggs,
neomycinandpolymyxin.
Pregnancy.
Childrenwithuntreated
leukemia,TBandother
cancers.
Immunodeficiency.
Transientrashin5%.
MayhavefeverbetweenD5-
D12postvaccination.
URTIsymptoms.
Febrileconvulsions(D6-D14)
in1:1000–9000dosesofvac-
cine.(Naturalinfection1:200)
Encephalopathywithin30days
in1:1,000,000doses.(Natural
infection1:1000-5000)
Intramuscular.
**Longtermprospectivestud-
ieshavefoundnoassociation
betweenmeaslesorMMRvac-
cineandinflammatorybowel
diseases,autismorSSPE.
Measles,
Mumps,Ru-
bella(MMR)
Allchildrenfrom
12to15months.
Boosterat4-6yrs
(oratStd1).
Severereactiontohen’s
eggsandneomycin.
Pregnancy
Measles:AsaboveIntramuscular.
Canbegivenirrespectiveof
previoushistoryofmeasles,
mumpsorrubellainfection.
MumpsRarelytransientrash,pruri-
tisandpurpura.
Parotitisin1%ofvaccinees,
3weeksaftervaccination.
Orchitisandretrobulbar
neuritisveryrare.
Meningoencephalitisismild
andrare.(1:800,000doses).
(naturalinfection1:400).
Intramuscular
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
12
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
RubellaRash,fever,lymphadenopa-
thy,thrombocytopenia,
transientperipheralneuritis.
Arthritisandarthralgiaoc-
cursinupto3%ofchildren
and20%ofadults.
GivenasMMR
Japanese
Encephalitis
(JE)
GiveninSarawakat
9,10and18months
Boosterat4years.
Immunodeficiencyand
malignancy,diabetes,acute
exacerbationofcardiac,
hepaticandrenalconditions
Localredness,swelling,
pain,fever,chills,headache,
lassitude..
Inactivatedvaccine.
Subcutaneous.
Protectiveefficacy95%.
HumanPap-
illomaVirus
(HPV)
Indicatedfor
femalesaged9-45
years.
Notrecommendedin
pregnantpatients.
Headache,myalgia,injec-
tionsitereactions,fatigue,
nausea,vomiting,diarrhoea,
abdominalpain,pruritus,
rash,urticaria,myalgia,
arthralgia,fever.
2vaccinesavailable:
Cervarix(GSK):bivalent.
Gardasil(MSD):quadrivalent.
-3dosescheduleIM(0,
1-2month,6month).
Recombinantvaccine.
Protectiveefficacyalmost
100%inpreventingvaccine
typecervicalcancerinfirst
5years.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
13
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
Pneumo-
coccal
(conjugate)
vaccine:PCV
13/PCV7
Dosage:
Infants2-6mthage.
3-doseprimary
seriesatleast1mth
apartfrom6wks
ofage.
Booster:1dose
between12-15mths
ofage.
Unvaccinated:
infants7-11mths
2doses1month
apart,followedbya
3rddoseat12-15
months;children12-
23months2doses
atleast2months
apart;healthy
children2-5years:
Singledose
Unvaccinatedhigh
riskchildren2-5yrs
agemaybegiven
2doses(6-8wks
apart)
Childrenwhohavesevere
allergicreactiontoprevious
pneumococcalvaccine
Healthychildrenunder6
weeksandmorethan59
monthsofage
Decreasedappetite,
irritability,drowsiness,
restlesssleep,fever,injsite
erythema,indurationor
pain,rash.
NotinBlueBook
Immunogenicinchildren
2years
Inactivatedvaccine.
Intramuscular
Highriskchildren:
immunosuppression(includ-
ingasymptomaticHIV),
asplenia,nephroticsyndrome
andchroniclungorheart
disease.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
14
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
Pneumococ-
cal(polysac-
charide
vaccine)
Recommendedfor
childrenathighrisk.
2yearsold.
Singledose.
Boosterat3-5years
onlyforhighrisk
patients.
Age2yearsold.
Revaccinationwithin3years
hashighriskofadverse
reaction;
Avoidduringchemotherapy
orradiotherapyandless
than10dayspriortocom-
mencementofsuchtherapy
–antibodyresponseispoor.
Pregnancy.
Hypersensitivityreactions.ListedinBlueBook.
Intramuscular,Subcutaneous
Immunogenicinchildren≥2
yrs.Against23serotypes.
Highrisk:immunosuppression,
asymptomaticHIV,asplenia,
nephroticsyndrome,chronic
lungdisease.Ifthesechildren
are2yrsold,theyshould
firstreceivepneumococcal
conjugatevaccine;when2
yrs,thenthepolysaccharide
vaccineisused.
RotavirusFirstdosegivento
infants≥6wksold.
Rotateq(3doses)
Subsequentdoses
givenat4-10wksin-
terval.3rddosegiven
≤32weeksage.
Rotarix(2doses).2nd
dosetobegivenby
24weeksage.Inter-
valbetweendoses
shouldbe4wks.
Priorhypersensitivitytoany
vaccinecomponent.
UncorrectedcongenitalGIT
malformation,e.g.Meckel’s
diverticulum
Severecombinedimmuno-
deficiencydisease(reported
prolongedsheddingofvac-
cinevirusreportedininfants
whohadliveRotavirus
vaccine)
Lossofappetite,irritability,
fever,fatigue,diarrhoea,
vomiting,flatulence,ab-
dominalpain,regurgitation
offood.
Orallive-attenuatedvaccine.
Protectiveefficacy88-91%
foranyrotavirusgastroen-
teritisepisode;63-79%forall
causesofgastroenteritis.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
15
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
Varicella
Zoster
12mthsto12yrs:
Singledose
12yrs:
2doses≥4wksapart.
Nonimmunesus-
ceptiblehealthcare
workerswhoregu-
larlycomeincontact
withVZVinfection
Asymptomatic/mildly
symptomaticchildren
withHIV(withCD4%
15%);2dosesat3
mthsinterval.
Childreninremission
fromleukemiafor≥1
yr,have700/mlcir-
culatinglymphocytes
mayreceivevaccine
underpaediatrician
supervision(2doses).
Pregnantpatients.
Patientsreceivinghighdose
systemicimmunosuppres-
siontherapy.
Patientswithmalignancy
especiallyhaematologi-
calmalignanciesorblood
dyscrasias.
Hypersensitivitytoneomycin.
Occasionally,papulovesicu-
lareruptions,injectionsite
reactions,headache,fever,
paresthesia,fatigue
Liveattenuatedvaccine.
Subcutaneous.
70–90%effectiveness.
HepatitisAForchildren1yr.
2doses.,given6-12
monthsapart.
Severehypersensitivityto
aluminiumhydroxide,phe-
noxyethanol,neomycin
Localreactions.Flu-like
symptomslasting2daysin
10%ofrecipients
Intramuscular.
Inactivatedvaccine.
Protectiveefficacy94%.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
16
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
CholeraChildren2-6yrs:
3dosesat1-6wk
interval.
Children6yrs:
2dosesat1-6wks
interval.
Boosterdose2yrs.
GastroenteritisOralinactivatedvaccine.
Protectiveefficacy80-90%
after6mthswaningto60%
after3yrs.
InfluenzaSingledose.
Minage6mths.
Unprimedindividuals
require2nddose4-
6wksafter1stdose.
Recommendedfor
childrenwith:
chronicdecompen-
satedrespiratoryor
cardiacdisorders,
e.g.cyanoticheart
diseaseschroniclung
disease,HIVinfection.
Inadvanceddisease,
vaccinationmaynot
induceprotective
antibodylevels.
Hypersensitivitytoeggor
chickenprotein,neomycin,
formaldehyde.
Febrileillness,acuteinfec-
tion.
Transientswelling,redness,
painandindurationlocally.
Myalgia,malaiseand
feverfor1–2daysstarting
withinafewhourspost
vaccination.Veryrarely,
neurological(Guillain-Barre),
glomerulonephritis,ITPor
anaphylacticreactionoccurs.
Intramuscular.
Inactivatedvaccine.
Protectiveefficacy70-90%
Requireyearlyrevaccination
forcontinuingprotection.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
17
VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes
RabiesPre-exposure:3dosesatDay0,
7,28.Boosterevery2-3yrs.
Post-exposuretreatment:
Fullyimmunised:2dosesat
Day0,Day3.RabiesImmune
Globulin(RIG)unnecessary.
Unimmunised:5dosesatDay
0,3,7,14and28.RIG(20IU/
kggivenhalfaroundthewound
andtherestIM.
Headache,dizziness,malaise,
abdominalpain,nausea,my-
algia.Injectionsitereactions
suchasitching,swelling,pain.
Inactivatedvaccine.
(AvailableinMalay-
siaasPurifiedVero
CellRabiesVaccine
(PVRV).
Intramuscular.
Meningococ-
cusA,C,Y
W-135
Singledose.
Immunityupto3yrs.
Localreactions.Irritability,
feverandrigorsfor1-2days.
Veryrarely,anaphylaxis.
Intramuscular.
Typhoid
(TyphimVi)
Singledose.Seroconversionin
85-95%ofrecipients;confers
60-80%protectionbeginning
2wksaftervaccination.
Boostersevery3yrs.
Children2yrs.
(Immunogenicity2yrsof
agehasnotbeenestab-
lished)
Localreactions.Myalgia,
malaise,nausea,headaches
andfeverin3%ofrecipients.
Intramuscular.
Polysaccharide
vaccine
Typhoid
(Ty21avac-
cine)
Threedosestwodaysapart.
Effective7daysafterlast
dose.Boosterevery3years.
Infant6mth.
Congenitaloracquired
immunodeficiency.Acute
febrileillnessacuteintes-
tinalinfection.
Veryrarely:mildGIT
disturbancesoratransitory
exanthema.
Oral.Liveattenu-
atedvaccine.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
18
Recommended Immunisation Schedule for Infants and Children
Not Immunised at the Recommended Time
Time of Immunisation Ageatfirstvisit
Between 6 wks -12 mths 12 months and older
1st visit BCG, DPT/DTaP, Hib1,
IPV1, HBV1
BCG, DPT/DTaP1, Hib1,
IPV1, HBV1, measles
(footnote2)at6 or 9
mths,
MMR at 12 mths of age
2nd visit (1 mth later) DPT/DTaP2, IPV2, HBV2,
Hib2
3rd visit (1 mth later) DPT/DTaP2,Hib2, IPV2,
HBV2
DPT/DTaP3, IPV3,
4th visit (4mthsafter
3rdvisit)
DPT/DTaP3,Hib3, IPV3, HBV3, DPT/DTaP4, IPV4,
2-8 mths later HBV3, DTaP4, Hib4 
IPV4 (booster), measles
in Sabah at 9 mths age,
MMR at 12 mths age
Polio, DT/DTaP, MMR (at
school entry)
Footnotes:
1. For infants  6 wks age, use “Recommended Immunisation Schedule for
Infants  Children”.
2. Measles vaccine should be given only after 9 mths. (exception - given at 6
months in Sabah)
3. For special groups of children with no regular contact with Health Services
and with no immunisation records, BCG, HBV, DTaP- Hib-IPV and MMR can
be given simultaneously at different sites at first contact.
4. It is not necessary to restart a primary course of immunisation
regardless of the period that has elapsed since the last dose was given.
Only the subsequent course that has been missed need be given. (Example.
An infant who has been given IPV1 and then 9 months later comes for
follow-up, the IPV1 need not be repeated. Go on to IPV2.). Only exception
is Hepatitis A vaccine.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
19
Well children with Normal hydration
Very few well children require intravenous fluids (IV). Whenever possible use
an enteral (oral) route for fluids.
These guidelines apply to children who are unable to tolerate enteral fluids.
The safe use of IV fluid therapy in children requires accurate prescribing of
fluids and careful monitoring because incorrectly prescribed or administered
fluids are hazardous.
If IV fluid therapy is required then maintenance fluid requirements should be
calculated using the Holliday and Segar formula based on weight.
However this should be only be used as a starting point and the individuals’
response to fluid therapy should be monitored closely by clinical observation,
fluid balance, weight and a minimum daily electrolyte profile.
Prescribing Intravenous fluids
Fluids are given intravenously for the following reasons:
• Circulatory support in resuscitating vascular collapse.
• Replacement of previous fluid and electrolyte deficit.
• Maintenance of daily fluid requirement.
• Replacement of ongoing losses.
• Severe dehydration with failed nasogastric tube fluid replacement
(e.g. on-going profuse losses, diarrhoea or abdominal pain).
• Certain co-morbidities, particularly GIT conditions (e.g. short gut or
previous gut surgery)
Resuscitation
Fluids appropriate for bolus administration are:
Crystalloids 0.9% Normal Saline
Ringer’s Lactate @ Hartmann’s solution
Colloids Gelafundin,Voluven
4.5% albumin solution
Blood products Whole blood, blood components
• Fluid deficit sufficient cause impaired tissue oxygenation (i.e. clinical shock)
should be corrected with a fluid bolus of 10-20mls/kg.
• Always reassess circulation - give repeat boluses as necessary.
• Look for the cause of circulatory collapse - blood loss, sepsis, etc.
This helps decide on the appropriate alternative resuscitation fluid.
• Fluid boluses of 10mls/kg in selected situations - e.g. diabetic ketoacidosis,
intracranial pathology or trauma.
• Avoid low sodium-containing (hypotonic) solutions for resuscitation as this
may cause hyponatremia.
• Check blood glucose: treat hypoglycemia with 2mls/kg of 10% Dextrose
solution.
Chapter 3: Paediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Guidelines
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
20
• Measure Na, K and glucose at the outset and at least 24hourly from then on.
More frequent testing is indicated in ill patients or those with co-morbidities.
Rapid results of electrolytes can be done with blood gases measurements.
• Consider septic work-up or surgical consult in severely unwell patients with
abdominal symptoms (i.e. gastroenteritis).
Maintenance
• Maintenance fluid is the volume of daily fluid intake. It includes insensible
losses (from breathing, perspiration, and in the stool), and allows for
excretion of the daily production of excess solute load (urea, creatinine,
electrolytes) in the urine.
• Most children can safely be managed with solution of 0.45% saline with
added glucose (i.e. 0.45% saline in 5% glucose or 0.45% saline in
10% glucose) depending on glucose requirement.
• Sodium chloride 0.18 saline with glucose 5% should not be used as a
maintenance fluid and is restricted to specialist area to replace ongoing
loses of hypotonic fluids. These areas include high dependency, renal, liver
and intensive care.
• Most children will tolerate standard fluid requirements. However some
acutely ill children with inappropriately increased anti-diuretic hormone
secretion (SIADH) may benefit from their maintenance fluid requirement
being restricted to two-thirds of the normal recommended volume.
• Children who are at high risk of hyponatremia should be given isotonic
solutions (i.e. 0.9% saline ± glucose) with careful monitoring to avoid
iatrogenic hyponatremia in hospital.
These include children with the following conditions:
	 • Peri-or post-operative
	 • Require replacement of ongoing losses
	 • A plasma Na at lower normal range of normal (definitely if  135mmol/L)
	 • Intravascular volume depletion
	 • Hypotension
	 • Central nervous system (CNS) infection
	 • Head injury
	 • Bronchiolitis
	 • Sepsis
	 • Excessive gastric or diarrhoeal losses
	 • Salt-wasting syndromes
	 • Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis and pituitary deficits.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
21
Calculation of Maintanence Fluid Requirements
The following calculations approximate the maintenance fluid requirement of
well children according to weight in kg. (Holliday-Segar calculator)
Weight Total fluids Infusion rate
First 10 Kgs 100 ml/kg 4 mls/kg/hour
Subsequent 10 Kgs 50 ml/kg 2 mls/kg/hour
All additional Kg 20 ml/kg 1 mls/kg/hour
Example: A Child of 29 kg will require:
100mls/kg for first 10kg of weight 10 x 100 = 1000 mls
50mls/kg for second 10kg of weight 10 x 50 = 500 mls
20mls/kg for all additional weight 9 x 20 = 180 mls
Total = 1680 mls
Rate
= 1680/24
= 70mls/hour
Composition of commonly used intravenous solution
Osmolality Na content Osmolality Tonicity
Fluid (mOsm/l) (mmol/l) compared to
plasma
with ref to cell
membrane
Na chloride 0.9% 308 154 IsoOsmolar Isotonic
Na chloride 0.45% 154 77 HypoOsmolar Hypotonic
Na chloride 0.9%
+ Glucose 5%
586 150 HyperOsmolar Isotonic
Na chloride 0.45%
+ Glucose 5%
432 75 HyperOsmolar Hypotonic
Na chloride 0.18%
+ Glucose 5%
284 31 IsoOsmolar Hypotonic
Dextrose 5% 278 Nil IsoOsmolar Hypotonic
Dextrose 10% 555 Nil HyperOsmolar Hypotonic
Hartmann’s 278 131 IsoOsmolar Isotonic
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
22
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Deficit
• A child’s water deficit in mls can be calculated following an estimation of the
degree of dehydration expressed as % of body weight.
Example: A 10kg child who is 5% dehydration has a water deficit of 500mls.
Maintenance
100mls/kg for first 10 kg = 10 × 100 = 1000mls
Infusion rate/hour = 1000mls/24 hr = 42mls/hr
Deficit (give over 24hours)
5% dehydration (5% of body water): 5/100 × 10kg × 1000mls = 500mls
Infusion rate/hour (given over 24 hrs) = 500mls/24 hr = 21mls/hr
• The deficit is replaced over a time period that varies according to the
child’s condition. Precise calculations (e.g. 4.5%) are not necessary.
The rate of rehydration should be adjusted with ongoing clinical assessment.
• Use an isotonic solution for replacement of the deficit, e.g. 0.9% saline.
• Reassess clinical status and weight at 4-6hours, and if satisfactory continue.
If child is losing weight, increase the fluid and if weight gain is excessive
decrease the fluid rate.
• Replacement may be rapid in most cases of gastroenteritis (best achieved
by oral or nasogastric fluids), but should be slower in diabetic ketoacidosis
and meningitis, and much slower in hypernatremic states (aim to rehydrate
over 48-72 hours, the serum Na should not fall by 0.5mmol/l/hr).
Ongoing losses (e.g. from drains, ileostomy, profuse diarrhoea)
• These are best measured and replaced. Any fluid losses  0.5ml/kg/hr needs
to be replaced.
• Calculation may be based on each previous hour, or each 4 hour period
depending on the situation. For example; a 200mls loss over the previous 4
hours will be replaced with a rate of 50mls/hr for the next 4 hours).
• Ongoing losses can be replaced with 0.9% Normal Saline or Hartmann’s
solution. Fluid loss with high protein content leading to low serum albumin
(e.g. burns) can be replaced with 5% Human Albumin.
23
SODIUM DISORDERS
• The daily sodium requirement is 2-3mmol/kg/day.
• Normal serum sodium is between 135-145mmol/l.
Hypernatremia
• Hypernatremia is defined as serum Na+
 150mmol/l,
moderate hypernatremia is when serum Na+
is 150-160mmol/l, and
severe hypernatremia is when serum Na+
 160mmol/l.
• It can be due to:
	 • water loss in excess of sodium
(e.g. diarrhoea)
	 • water deficit
(e.g. diabetes insipidus)
	 • sodium gain
(e.g. large amount of NaHCO3
infusion or salt poisoning).
• If the cause of the hypernatremia is central diabetes insipidus, it is advisable
to consult Endocrinology team regarding management.
• In hypernatremia the child appears sicker than expected for the degree of
dehydration.
• Shock occurs late because intravascular volume is relatively preserved.
Signs of hypernatremic dehydration tend to be predominantly that of
intracellular dehydration and neurological dysfunction.
Management
This will depend on the cause of hypernatremia.
For hypernatremic dehydration with Na+
 150mmol/l
• If the patient is in shock, give volume resuscitation with 0.9% Normal saline
as required with bolus/es.
• Avoid rapid correction as this may cause cerebral oedema, convulsion and
death.
• Aim for correction of deficit over 48-72 hours and a fall of serum sodium
concentration not more than 0.5mmol/l/hour.
• Give 0.9% saline to ensure the drop in sodium is not too rapid.
• Remember to also give maintenance and replace ongoing losses following
the recommendation above.
• Repeat blood urea and electrolytes every 6 hours until stable.
Special considerations
• A slower rate will be required for children with chronic hypernatremia
(present for more than 5 days).
• Calcium and glucose need to be checked as hypernatremia can be
associated with hypocalcaemia and hyperglycemia, these conditions need to
be corrected concurrently.
Clinical signs of Hypernatremic dehydration
Irritability
Skin feels “doughy”
Ataxia, tremor, hyperreflexia
Seizure
Reduced awareness, coma
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
24
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Hyponatremia
• Hyponatremia is defined when serum Na+
 135mmol/l.
• Hyponatremic encephalopathy is a medical emergency that requires rapid
recognition and treatment to prevent poor outcome.
• As part of the general resuscitative measures, bolus of 4ml/kg of 3% sodium
chloride should be administered over 30 minutes. This will raised the serum
sodium by 3mmol/l and will usually help stop hyponatremic seizures.
• Gradual serum sodium correction should not be more than 8mmol/day to
prevent osmotic demyelination syndrome.
Calculating sodium correction in acute hyponatremia
mmol of sodium required = (135-present Na level)× 0.6 × weight(kg)
The calculated requirements can then be given from the following available
solutions dependent on the availability and hydration status:
0.9% sodium chloride contains 154 mmol/l
3% sodium chloride contains 513mmol/l
• Children with asymptomatic hyponatremia do not require 3% sodium
chloride treatment and if dehydrated may be managed with oral fluids or
intravenous rehydration with 0.9% sodium chloride.
• Children who are hyponatremic and have a normal or raised volume status
should be managed with fluid restriction.
• For Hyponatremia secondary to diabetic ketoacidosis; refer DKA protocol.
POTASSIUM DISORDERS
• The daily potassium requirement is 1-2mmol/kg/day.
• Normal values of potassium are:
	 • Birth - 2 weeks: 3.7 - 6.0mmol/l
	 • 2 weeks – 3 months: 3.7 - 5.7mmol/l
	 • 3 months and above: 3.5 - 5.0mmol/l
Hyperkalemia
• Causes are:
	 • Dehydration
	 • Acute renal failure
	 • Diabetic ketoacidosis
	 • Adrenal insufficiency
	 • Tumour lysis syndrome
	 • Drugs e.g. oral potassium supplement, K+
sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors.
Treatment: see algorithm on next page
25
Hyperkalemia Treatment Algorithm
Drug doses:
• IV Calcium 0.1 mmol/kg.
• Nebulised Salbutamol:
Age ≤2.5 yrs: 2.5 mg; Age 2.5-7.5 yrs: 5 mg; 7.5 yrs: 10 mg
• IV Insulin with Glucose:
Start with IV Glucose 10% 5ml/kg/hr (or 20% at 2.5 ml/kg/hr).
Once Blood sugar level 10mmol/l and the K+
level is not falling,
add IV Insulin 0.05 units/kg/hr and titrate according to glucose level.
• IV Sodium Bicarbonate: 1-2 mmol/kg.
• PO or Rectal Resonium : 1Gm/kg.
ECG changes in Hyperkalemia
Tall, tentedT waves
Prolonged PR interval
Prolonged QRS complex
Loss of P wave,
wide biphasic QRS
Stop all K+
supplementation
Stop medication causing hyperK+
Cardiac monitoring
Hyperkalemia K+
 5.5 mmol/l
Transfer to
tertiary centre?
Exclude pseudo hyperkalemia
Recheck with venous sample
Child stable,
asymptomatic
Normal ECG
K+
≥ 5.5, ≤ 6.0 mmol/L
Child unstable
or symptomatic
Abnormal ECG
K+
 7.0 mmol/l
Child stable,
asymptomatic
Normal ECG
K+
6, ≤ 7 mmol/L
Discuss for dialysis
IV Calcium
Neb Salbutamol
IV Insulin
with glucose
IV Bicarbonate
± PR/PO Resonium
Neb Salbutamol
IV Insulin
with glucose
± IV Bicarbonate
if acidosis
± PR/PO Resonium
Consider treatment ?
± Neb Salbutamol
± IV Bicarbonate
if acidosis
± PR/PO Resonium GENERALPAEDIATRICS
26
Hypokalemia
• Hypokalemia is defined as serum Na+
 3.4 mmol/l
(Treat if  3.0mmol/l or Clinically Symptomatic  3.4 mmol/l)
• Causes are:
	 • Sepsis
	 • GIT losses - diarrhoea, vomiting
	 • Iatrogenic- e.g. diuretic therapy,
	 salbutamol, amphotericin B.
	 • Diabetic ketoacidosis
	 • Renal tubular acidosis
• Hypokalaemia is often seen
with chloride depletion
and metabolic alkalosis.
• Refractory hypokalaemia may occur with hypomagnesaemia.
Treatment
• Identify and treat the underlying condition.
• Unless symptomatic, a potassium level of 3.0 and 3.4 mmol/l is generally
not supplemented but rather monitored in the first instance.
• The treatment of hypokalaemia does not lend itself to be incorporated into a
protocol and as a result each patient will need to be treated individually.
Oral Supplementation
• Oral Potassium Chloride (KCL), to a maximum of 2 mmol/kg/day in divided
doses is common but more may be required in practice.
Intravenous Supplementation (1gram KCL = 13.3 mmol KCL)
• Potassium chloride is always given by IV infusion, NEVER by bolus injection.
• Maximum concentration via a peripheral vein is 40 mmol/l (concentrations
of up to 60 mmol/l can be used after discussion with senior medical staff).
• Maximum infusion rate is 0.2mmol/kg/hr (in non-intensive care setting).
Intravenous Correction (1gram KCL = 13.3 mmol KCL)
• K+
 2.5 mmol/L may be associated with significant cardiovascular
compromise. In the emergency situation, an IV infusion KCL may be given
• Dose: initially 0.4 mmol/kg/hr into a central vein, until K+
level is restored.
• Ideally this should occur in an intensive care setting.
ECG changes of Hypokalemia
These occur when K+
 2.5mmol/l
Prominent U wave
ST segment depression
Flat, low or diphasicT waves
Prolonged PR interval (severe hypoK+
)
Sinoatrial block (severe hypoK+
)
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
27
Chapter4:DevelopmentalMilestonesinNormalChildren
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
6wksPulltosit:Headlag,rounded
back
VentralSuspension:Head
brieflyinsameplaneasbody.
Prone:Pelvishigh,kneesno
longerunderabdomen.Chin
raisedoccasionally.
Fixatesandfollowsto90
degrees
Vocalisingby8weeks.Quiets
tosound.Startlestosound.
Smilesresponsively.
3mthsPulltosit:Slightheadlag.Head
occasionallybobsforward.
VentralSuspension:Headabove
planeofbody.
Prone:Pelvisflat.Liftsheadup
45°-90°.
Handregard.Followsobject
fromsidetoside(180°).Hands
heldloosely.Graspsobject
placedinhand.
Notreachingout.
Squealswithdelight.
Turnsheadtosound.
Laughs.
5mthsPulltosit:Noheadlagandsits
withstraightback.
Lyingsupine:Feettomouth.
Reachesforobjects.
Playswithtoes.
Mouthing.
6mthsPullstosit:Liftsheadinan-
ticipation.Sitswithsupport.
Bearsweightonlegs.Prone:
Supportsweightonhands;
chest,upperabdomenoff
couch.Rollspronetosupine.
Palmargraspofcube,ulnar
approach.Moveshead,eyesin
alldirections.Nosquint(after
4months).
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
28
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
18mthsGetsupanddownstairs
holdingontorailorwith
onehandheld.Pullstoy
orcarriesdoll.Throwsball
withoutfalling.
Sitsonachair.
Towerof3cubes.
Scribblesspontaneously.
Visualtest:Picturecharts.
Handedness
Pointsto2-3bodyparts.
PictureCards-identifyone.
Imitateshousework.
Toilettrained.Usesspoon
well.Castingstops.
2yrsGoesupanddownstairs
alone,2feetperstep.Walks
backwards(21months)
Runs.Picksuptoywithout
falling.
Throws,kickballwithout
falling.
Towerof6cubes.
Imitatescubesoftrainwith
nochimney.
Imitatesstraightline.
Visualtest:Snellen’schart.
2-3wordsentences.Uses
‘you’‘me’‘I’.names3
objects.Obeys4simple
commands.Pointsto4body
parts.
Putsonshoes,socks,pants.
Drybyday.
Playnearotherchildrenbut
notwiththem.
2.5yrsJumpsonbothfeet.
Walksontiptoes.
Towerof8.
Imitatestrainwith
chimney.
Holdspencilwell.
Imitatesand
Knowsfullnameandgender.
Namesonecolour.
3yrsGoesupstairsonefootper
step.
Downstairs2feetperstep.
Jumpsoffbottomstep.
Standson1footfor
seconds.
Ridestricycle.
Towerof9.
Imitatesbridgewithcubes:
Copies
OImitates
Drawamantest.(3-10y)
Cancountto10.Names2
colours.Nurseryrhymes.
Understands“on”,“in”,
“under”.
Dresses,undresseswith
help.Drybynight.
Playswithothers.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
29
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
4yrsGoesupanddownstairs
onefootperstep.
Skipsononefoot.
Hopsononefoot.
Imitatesgatewithcubes.
Copies
Goodenoughtest4.
Names3colours.Fluent
conversation.Understands
“infrontof”,“between”,
behind”.
Buttonsclothesfully.Attends
toowntoiletneeds.
4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes.
Copiessquare.
Drawsrecognisablemanand
house.
5yrsSkipsonbothfeet.
Runsontoes.
Copies‘X’(5years)
Copies(5½years)triangle.
Goodenoughtest8.
KnowsAGE.Names4
colours.
Tripleorderpreposition.
Tell’sthetime.
Tiesshoelaces.
Dressesandundresses
alone.
6yrsWalksheeltotoe
Kicking,throwing,climbing.
Copies:
Goodenoughtest12.
Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10
cubes
Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture).
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
4yrsGoesupanddownstairs
onefootperstep.
Skipsononefoot.
Hopsononefoot.
Imitatesgatewithcubes.
Copies
Goodenoughtest4.
Names3colours.Fluent
conversation.Understands
“infrontof”,“between”,
behind”.
Buttonsclothesfully.Attends
toowntoiletneeds.
4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes.
Copiessquare.
Drawsrecognisablemanand
house.
5yrsSkipsonbothfeet.
Runsontoes.
Copies‘X’(5years)
Copies(5½years)triangle.
Goodenoughtest8.
KnowsAGE.Names4
colours.
Tripleorderpreposition.
Tell’sthetime.
Tiesshoelaces.
Dressesandundresses
alone.
6yrsWalksheeltotoe
Kicking,throwing,climbing.
Copies:
Goodenoughtest12.
Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10
cubes
Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture).
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
4yrsGoesupanddownstairs
onefootperstep.
Skipsononefoot.
Hopsononefoot.
Imitatesgatewithcubes.
Copies
Goodenoughtest4.
Names3colours.Fluent
conversation.Understands
“infrontof”,“between”,
behind”.
Buttonsclothesfully.Attends
toowntoiletneeds.
4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes.
Copiessquare.
Drawsrecognisablemanand
house.
5yrsSkipsonbothfeet.
Runsontoes.
Copies‘X’(5years)
Copies(5½years)triangle.
Goodenoughtest8.
KnowsAGE.Names4
colours.
Tripleorderpreposition.
Tell’sthetime.
Tiesshoelaces.
Dressesandundresses
alone.
6yrsWalksheeltotoe
Kicking,throwing,climbing.
Copies:
Goodenoughtest12.
Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10
cubes
Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture).
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
30
AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial
7mthsSitswithhandsoncouchfor
support.
Rollsfromsupinetoprone.
Feedsselfwithbiscuits.
Transfersobjects-handto
hand.
Rakesatpea.
Babblinginsinglesyllables.
(combinedsyllablesat8
months).DistractionTest.
Strangeranxiety.
9mthsSitssteadily.Leansforward
butcannotpivot.
Standsholdingon.
Pullsselftosit.
Inferiorpincergrasp
(Scissorsgrasp)
Localisessoundat3feet,
aboveandbelowtheear
level.
Feedswithspoonoccasion-
ally.
Looksforfallentoys.
Understands“NO!”
10mthsCrawlsonabdomen.
Pullselftostand.
Indexapproach.Usesindex
fingertopokeatpea.
Letsgoofcubeinhand.
Waves“Byebye”
Plays“Pat-a-Cake”
11mthsCreepingonallfours.
Pivoting.Cruising.Walkswith
bothhandsheld.
Onewordwithmeaning.Plays“peek-a-boo”
1yearGetsfromlyingtosittingto
crawlingtostanding.
Walkslikeabear.Walkswith
onehandheld.
Walkswell(13months).
Standsalone
Neatpincergrasp.Bangs2
cubes.
Seesandpicksuphundreds
andthousands.
Understandsphases;2-3
wordswithmeaning.Localis-
ingsoundabovehead.
Casting(13months)
Lessmouthing.
Shy.
13mthsCreepsupstairs.
Stoopsfortoyandstandsup
withoutsupport.(bestat18
months)
Towerof2cubes.
Scribblesspontaneously(15-
18months)
Morewords.
Pointstoobjectshewants.
Continualjabberandjargon.
Takesoffshoe.
Feedsselfwithcupandspoon
(butspills).Mouthingstops
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
31
Chapter 5: Developmental Assessment
Development is the progressive, orderly, acquisition of skills and abilities as a
child grows. It is influenced by genetic, neurological, physical, environmental
and emotional factors.
Important points to note:
• child must be co-operative, not tired, fretful, hungry nor sick.
Remember that a child may behave differently in an unfamiliar environment
• allowance must be made for prematurity up to two years.
• take note of parental account of what child can or cannot do.
Note parental comments on abnormal gait, speech defects, etc.
• normal development is dependent on integrity of child’s hearing and vision.
• normal pattern of speech and language development is essential for a
normal social, intellectual and emotional development.
• delay in development may be global i.e. affecting all areas equally, or specific
areas only e.g. oro-motor dysfunction causing speech delay.
Key Developmental Warning Signs
1 Discrepant head size or crossing centile lines (too large or too small).
2 Persistence of primitive reflexes  6 months of age
3 No response to environment or parent by 12 months
4 Not walking by 18 months
5 No clear spoken words by 18 months
6 No two word sentences by 2 years
7 Problems with social interaction at 3 years
8 Congenital anomalies, odd facies
9 Any delay or failure to reach normal milestones
Note: Parental concerns must always be taken seriously
Assessment of children with suspected developmental delay
History
• consanguinity
• family history of developmental delay
• maternal drugs, alcohol, illness and infection in pregnancy
• prematurity, perinatal asphyxia
• severe neonatal jaundice, hypoglycaemia or seizures
• serious childhood infections, hospital admissions or trauma
• home environment conditions (environmental deprivation)
Physical examination
• head circumference, dysmorphic features
• neurocutaneous markers
• neurological abnormalities
• full developmental assessment
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
32
Investigations
(individualised according to
history and physical findings)
• Visual and auditory testing
• T4, TSH
• Chromosomal Analysis
• Consider
- Creatine kinase in boys
- MRI Brain
- Metabolic screen
- Specific genetic studies
(Fragile X, Prader Willi
or Angelman syndrome)
- Refer to a geneticist
- EEG if history of seizures
Assessment of Children with Suspected Hearing Impairment
or Speech Delay
History
• Congenital infection
• Perinatal medications
• Severe neonatal jaundice
• Family history of deafness
or speech delay
• Chronic ear infections
• Quality, quantity of speech
Physical examination
• Examine ears
• Dysmorphic features
• Distraction Test
• Assess expressive, receptive
speech
• Neurological / development
assessment
Management
• Formal hearing assessment
• Speech-language assessment and interventions
Consider
Hypothyroidism
Chromosomal anomaly
Cerebral palsy
Congenital intrauterine infection	
Congenital brain malformations
Inborn errors of metabolism
Autistic spectrum disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Prior brain injury, brain infections
Neuroctaneous disorders
Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy
Warning Signs for Hearing Impairment
1 Child appears not to hear
2 Child makes no attempt to listen.
3 Does not respond to name,“No” or
clue words e.g.“Shoe”, by 1 yr age
4 Any speech/language milestone delay
Consider
Congenital sensorineural deafness
Familial, genetic deafness
Congenital rubella infection
Oro-motor dysfunction
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
33
HearingTests at different ages
Age Test Comments
Newborn
screening
Automated Otoacoustic
Emission (OAE) test
Determines cochlear function.
Negative test in conductive
hearing loss, middle ear
infections, or in moderate to
severe sensorineural hearing
loss.
Any age Brainstem Auditory
Evoked Responses
(BAER)
Measures brainstem responses
to sound.
Negative test in sensorineural
hearing loss
7-9 months Infant DistractionTest
(IDT)
Determines response to
sound whilst presented during
a visual distraction.
Infants Behavioural Observation
Assessment (BOA) test
Audiologist identifies bod-
ily reactions to sound, i.e.
cessation of activity, body
movement, eye widening and
opening suckling rate.
 2.5 years Conditioned Play
Audiometry
Earphones placed on child and
various games are done when
test tone is heard.
Older Children PureTone Audiometry Patient presses a response
button or raises a hand when
the test tone is heard
Assessment of Children with SuspectedVisual Impairment
Children at risk
• Prematurity.
• Intrauterine Infection (TORCHES)
• Family history of cataracts,
retinoblastoma or squint.
• Previous meningitis, asphyxia
• Dysmorphic babies
Warning Signs forVisual Impairment
1 Does not fix on mother’s face by 6 wks
2 Wandering or roving eyes after 6 wks
3 Abnormal head postures
4 Leukocoria (white eye reflex)
5 Holds objects very close to eye.
6 Squint after 6 months of age.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
34
Assessment of Children with Suspected Learning Difficulties
It is sometimes a challenge to identify the primary cause of the learning
difficulty as conditions like dyslexia , ADHD and intellectual impairment share
common symptoms.
A. History (A thorough history is important)
• Antenatal perinatal and postnatal complications
• High risk behaviour like substance abuse in mother
• Family history of development delay, learning difficulties etc.
• Detailed developmental milestones
• When learning problems were first noted (preschool achievement, etc. as
children with dyslexia or ADHD will have symptoms in early childhood)
• Past and current education performance
• Areas of learning difficulties
• Specific: e.g. reading difficulties (dyslexia) , writing difficulties (dysgraphia)
but extremely good in tasks that require visual stimulation, e.g. art, music
• General : more commonly seen in children with some degree of intellectual
impairment or from an extremely understimulated environment
• Strength of the child perceived by parents and teachers
• Who is the main caregiver at home ?
• Social background of the family
B1. Review School concerns with the patient, parents  teachers
(always ask for teachers report). Common symptoms
• Apathy towards school
• Avoidance or poor performance in specific subject areas
• Disruptive or negative behaviour in certain classes
B2. Review all school workbooks (not only report card)
C. Basic Cognitive (intellectual functioning) screening tool in a Pediatric Clinic:
• Ask child to tell about a recent event : birthday, visit to grandparents etc.
(note whether language is fluent, coherent, organized)
• Ask parents whether child has difficulty taking retaining classroom
instructions or instructions at home (short term memory)
• Observe the child using a pencil to copy symbols and words
(visual perceptual motor disorder characterized by confusing symbol,
easy distractibility , inability to copy information)
• Ask the child to perform a 3-step command
(sequencing ability to communicate and understand information in a orderly
and meaningful manner)
• Ask the child to repeat four words , remember them and repeat them again
when asked in 5 -10 minutes (memory , attention)
• Ask the child to repeat three, then four digits forward then repeat three,
then four digits backward (concentration)
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
35
D. Physical Examination
• Anthropometric measurement
• General alertness and response to surrounding
(Children with dyslexia will be very alert and usually very enterprising)
• Dysmorphism
• Look for neurocutaneous stigmata
• Complete CNS examination including hand eye coordination
as children may have a associated motor difficulties like dyspraxia
• Complete developmental assessment.
• Ask child to draw something he or she likes (this can help to get a clearer
picture about intellect of the child)
Block and Pencil test (From Parry TS: Modern Medicine, 1998)
Age Block Test Pencil Test
3 - 3.5 yrs Build a bridge Draw a circle
3.5 - 4 yrs Draw a cross
3 - 4.5 yrs Build a gate Draw a square
5 - 6 yrs Build steps Draw a triangle
This test screens cognitive and perceptual development for age.
Block test: build the structure without child observing then ask the
child to copy the structure.
Pencil test: Draw the object without child observing then ask the
child to copy it.
E. Differential Diagnosis that need to be ruled out:
Common causes
• Autism
• ADHD or combination of both
• Specific learning difficulty like Dyslexia
• Limited environmental stimulation
Genetic or a chromosomal disorder
• Fragile X
• Hypothyroidism
• Intellectual impairment
• Tourette
• Neurofibromatosis
Neurological
• Seizures
• Neurodegenerative condition
O
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
36
Miscellanous causes
• Anaemia
• Auditory or visual impairment
• Toxins (fetal alcohol syndrome, prenatal cocaine exposure, lead poisoning)
F. Plan of Management
Dependent on the primary cause for learning difficulties
• Dyslexia screening test if available
• DSM 1V for ADHD or Autistic Spectrum Disorder
(Refer CPG for management of children and adolescents with ADHD :2008)
• Refer Occupational therapist for school preparedness (pencil grip, attention
span etc) or for associated problems like dyspraxia
• Refer speech therapist if indicated
• Assess vision and hearing as indicated by history and clinical examination
• Targeted and realistic goals set with child and parents
• One-to-one learning may be beneficial
• Registration as a Child with Special Needs as per clinical indication and after
discussion with parents
G. Investigations
Clinical impressions guides choice. Consider:
• DNA analysis for Fragile X syndrome for males with Intellectual impairment
• Genetic tests, e.g. Prader Willi, Angelman, DiGeorge, Williams syndromes
• Inborn errors of metabolism
• TSH if clinically indicated
• Creatine Kinase if clinically indicated
• MRI brain study abnormal neurological examination
• EEG only if clinically indicated
When is IQ Testing Indicated?
When diagnosis is unclear and there is a need to determine options for school
placement.
If unsure of diagnosis refer patient to a Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatri-
cian, Pediatric Neurologist, Child Psychiatrist and Child Psychologist depending
on availability of services in your area.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
37
Chapter 6: Developmental Dyslexia
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Some first signs suggestibe of dyslexia
Preschool and Kindergarten
Language • May have difficulty pronouncing words and
slow to add new vocabulary words
• May be unable to recall the right word
• Trouble learning nursery rhymes or playing rhyming
• Trouble learning to recognize letters of the alphabet
(important predictor of later reading skills: recognition
of letters of alphabets starts before decoding )
Memory • Difficulty remembering rote information (name,
phone number, address)
Fine motor skills • Fine motor skills may develop more slowly than in
other children
Lower Grades in School
Language • Delayed decoding abilities for reading
• Trouble following directions
• Poor spelling and using of pronouns, verbs
Memory • Slow recall of facts
• Organizational problems
• Slow acquisition of new skills
Attention • Impulsive, easily distractible and careless errors
Fine motor skills • Unstable pencil grip
• Trouble with letter formation
Visual skills • Confuses words, e.g. at –to, does –goes, etc
• Consistent reading and spelling errors
• Transposes number sequence, maths signs (+,- X/=)
Middle Grades of School
Language • Poor reading comprehension
• Trouble with word problems
• Lack of verbal participation in class
Memory • Slow or poor recall of math facts and failure of
automatic recall
Attention • Inconsistency and poor ability to discern relevant
details
Fine motor skills • Fist-like or tight pencil grip
• illegible, slow or inconsistent writing
Visual skills • May reverse sequences (e.g.: soiled for solid )
38
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Higher Grades in School
Language • Weak grasp of explanation
• Poor written expressions
• Trouble summarizing
Memory • Trouble studying for test
• Slow work pace
Attention • Memory problems due to poor attention
• Mental fatigue
Fine motor skills • Less significant
Visual skills • Misreads information
• Trouble taking multiple choice questions
• Difficulty with sequencing (maths, music and
science: physics)
Essentials in making a diagnosis of dyslexia
History (A thorough history is important)
• When reading problems was first noted
• What were the problems?
• What is the current reading problem faced by the child at school
• Neurodevelopment (esp speech delay)
• Family history (esp. speech delay and learning disability)
• Significant birth and medical history
• Assessment of school work (esp. exam papers and teacher’s report) .
• Strength of the child
• Any educational interventions or others attempted before
Physical Examination
Look for this, as some of these findings may be associated with features of
dyslexia:
• Microcephaly
• Vision and Hearing problems
• Syndromic facies
• Neurocutaneous stigmata
• Neurodevelopmental examination
Neurodevelopmental assessment
Look specifically for problems in the following areas:
Gross motor
• Coordination (some can be “clumsy”)
• Motor planning
• Visual motor  spatial functioning.
39
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Fine motor	
• Small muscle manipulation (dyspraxia)
Visual motor integration
• Spatial relationship
• Patterns in written material
• Meaning of maths symbols
Temporal sequential organization
• Auditory sequencing
• Understanding time
• Organization  planning
Language
• Receptive and Expressive language.
• Comprehension.
• Grammar
• Spoken and written instructions
Behavior
• Attention
• Adaptation
• Self monitoring
Investigations
Tailored to patients needs.
• IQ testing for those where diagnosis or underlying cause is unclear
e.g. Borderline intellectual impairment with dyslexic features.
Differential Diagnosis
• Hearing and visual problems.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Global developmental delay
• Intellectual impairment
Minimum Interventions that can be done:
• Advocate for the educational needs of the child
• Network for services that child may need out of the school,
e.g. one-to-one tuition
• Discuss with parents how to tackle child’s difficulties, best school
placements, registration as a child with special needs, etc.
• Refer to other disciplines e.g. Dyspraxia and Pencil grip: Occupational
therapist
• May need referral to speech therapist
40
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Suggestions for School Based Interventions
• A phonics-based reading program that teaches the link between spoken and
written sounds
• A multi-sensory approach to learning, which means using as many different
senses as possible such as seeing, listening, doing and speaking
• Arrangements with the child’s school - for example, for them to take oral
instead of written tests
• Learning via audiotape or videotape
• Arrange for extra time for exams
• Arrange for readers for UPSR students (need to write to JPN one year ahead
of the UPSR exams)
Features of Dyslexia that can be elicited in the General Pediatric Clinic Setting
(tables in following pages)
• Assessment needs to be done in accordance to the child’s cooperativeness
level (may require 2-3 visits for a thorough assessment)
• This is not a validated assessment checklist, when in doubt refer to a
Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatrician or an Educational Psychologist,
depending on services available at your hospital.
At the end of the assessment, please answer these 2 questions below, and tick
the appropriate column.
Question Yes No
1. Does the limitation in reading, spelling and writing cause
significant learning difficulty in school?
2. From your clinical assessment do you agree that the IQ of
the child is appropriate for age?
		
If the answer to the both the above questions is “yes” then the probable
diagnosis is Dyslexia.
If unsure about diagnosis please refer to Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatri-
cian or Educational Psychologist depending on services available in your area.
References
1.Shaywitz, NEJM 1998
2.Kenneth L.Grizzle Pedia N Am 54; 2007
3. Center for community child health
4. Dyslexia screening Test
5. Dr Khoo Teik Beng’s Dyslexia Clinic
41
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic
ReadingUnabletoreadappropriatelyforageGiveageappropriatepas-
sageorbooks
Listentothechildreadaloudfromhis
orherowngradelevelreader.(Keep
asetofgradedreadersavailablein
yourclinic)
Childmayappearvisiblytiredafter
readingforonlyashorttime
Readingwillbeslow,labored,inac-
curatereadingofevensinglewords
(ensurethatthereisnovisualcues
whiledoingthis)	
SingleWordReading
•Boy
•Chair
•Kite
•Hope	
Showsinglewordsassuggestedand
askchildtoread.
Unabletoreadunfamiliarwordsor
pseudowordsandusuallywilltryto
guessormakeupwordsbecauseof
somefamiliarity.
•Pilau=Pulau
•Karusi=Kerusi
•Maja=Meja
Phonological
processing/
awareness
Difficultyindifferentiatingwordsthat
soundsalike
•Mana
•Nama
•Mama
•Dapat
•Padat
Considertheeducationalbackground
ofthechild
Letter
Indentification
Difficultytonamelettersofthe
alphabet
A,B,C,D,E...Prepareatableofalphabetsandask
childtoreadout(ensureyoupointto
thealphabetsthatyouwantthechild
toread).Takenotethatchildmaybe
abletorecitefrommemory
42
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic
Letter-Sound
Association
Difficultyidentifyingwordsbeginning
withthesameletter
•Doll,Dog,etc
•Buku,buka,etc
SegmentationDifficultyinidentifyingwordthat
wouldremainifaparticularsound
wereremoved
•Whatremainsifthe/k/
soundwastakenaway
from“cat”=at
•Whatremainsifthe/Ta/
soundtakenawayfrom
“table”=ble	
•Whatremainsifthe/p/
soundwastakenaway
from“paku”=aku
•Whatremainsifthesound
/ma/soundtakenaway
from“mata”=mata
Shortterm
Verbalmemory
(eg,recallinga
sentenceora
storythatwas
justtold)
Difficultyrecallingasentenceora
storythatwasjusttold
Narratestorytothechild
thenaskquestionslike:
•ApanamakuchingAli?
•Tompoksukamakanapa?
•DimanaAlipergi
memancing?
Haveashortstorywhichgoeslike
this:“Aliadaseekorkuchingbernama
Tompok.Tompoksukamakanikan.Ali
pergimemancingikandisungaidan
memberikanikanitukepadaTompok.”
43
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic
RapidNamingDifficultyinrapidlynamingacontinu-
ousseriesoffamiliarobjects,digits,
letters,orcolors
Useflashcardswith
picturesonly,coloursor
numbers
Canusenumbersforrapidnamingor
totestabilityofrememberingnumbers
inareverseorder.
Askchildtonamecolours.Ifchildnot
beabletodosoaskchildtopointtoa
particularcolourinabook.Usuallythe
childwillnothavedifficultyindoingso.
Expressive
vocabularyor
wordretrieval
Difficultyinlistingoutnameofanimals
orobjects
Givemethenamesofanimalsyou
know
RotememoryDifficultyinmemorizingnon-meaning-
fulfacts(factsthatarenotpersonally
interestingandpersonallyrelevant)
•Multiplicationtables
•Daysoftheweekor
monthsoftheyearin
order
Askchildtorecitesimplemultiplica-
tiontableortosayoutdaysofthe
weekormonthsoftheyearinorder.
Sequencing
stepsinatask
Difficultyinperformingtaskthatneeds
sequencing
•Tyingshoelaces
•Printingletters:can’t
rememberthesequence
ofpencilstrokes
necessarytoformthat
letter.Maywriteainan
oddway
44
SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic
SpellingDifficultyinspellingevensimplewords
thatisageappropriate
•Buku,meja,mata,
sekolah,etc
Askchildtodosimplespellingwith2
syllablesfirstifabletodothen
proceedtomultisyllablewords
DirectionalityLeft-Rightconfusion
Up-Downconfusion
•Substitution:b-pord-q,
n-u,andm-w
•Confusionabout
directionalitywords:
First-last,before-after,
next-previous,over-under
DysgraphiaPoor,nearlyillegiblehandwritingor
difficultyinwritingonastraightline.
Difficultyindifferentiatingsmallorbig
letters.
Unusualspatialorganizationofthe
page.
•Wordsmaybewidely
spacedortightlypushed
together.
•Marginsareoften
ignored.
Observeschoolworkbookforwriting
problems.
CopyingDifficultyincopyingfromblackboard
Takesalongtimetocopyandcopied
workwillhavealotofmistakes
•Tyingshoelaces
•Printingletters:can’t
rememberthesequence
ofpencilstrokes
necessarytoformthat
letter.Maywriteainan
oddway
Observeschoolworkbookwhich
needscopying
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
45
A Psychosocial Interview for Adolescents
Introduction
Adolescence is the developmental phase between childhood and adulthood and
is marked by rapid changes in physical, psychosocial, sexual, moral and cognitive
growth.
Dr. Cohen refined a system for organizing the developmentally-appropriate
psychosocial history that was developed in 1972 by Dr. Harvey Berman.
The approach is known by the acronym HEADSS (Home, Education /employ-
ment, peer group Activities, Drugs, Sexuality, and Suicide/depression). It was
subsequently expanded to HEEADSSS by adding Eating and Safety.
Preparing for the Interview
Parents, family members, or other adults should not be present during the
HEADSS assessment unless the adolescent specifically gives permission, or asks
for it.
Starting the interview
1. Introduction
Set the stage by introducing yourself to the adolescent and parents. If the
parents are present before the interview, always introduce yourself to the
adolescent first.
2. Understanding of Confidentiality
Ask the adolescent to explain their understanding of confidentiality.
3. Confidentiality Statement
After the adolescent has given you his/her views, acknowledge his/her
response and add your views accordingly (confidentiality statement),
based on the particular situation.
The HEADSS assessment Items are in listed in the following pages
Suggestions for ending interviews with adolescents
• give them an opportunity to express any concerns you have not covered,
and ask for feedback about the interview.
• ask if there is any information you can provide on any of the topics you have
discussed. Try to provide whatever educational materials young people are
interested in.
Chapter 7:The H.E.A.D.S.S. Assessment
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
46
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
ItemExamplesofQuestions
Home•Wholivesathomewithyou?Wheredoyoulive?Doyouhaveyourownroom?
•Howmanybrothersandsistersdoyouhaveandwhataretheirages?
•Areyourbrothersandsistershealthy?
•Areyourparentshealthy?Whatdoyourparentsdoforaliving?
•Howdoyougetalongwithyourparents,yoursiblings?
•Isthereanythingyouwouldliketochangeaboutyourfamily?
Education•Whichschooldoyougoto?Whatgradeareyouin?Anyrecentchangesinschools?
•Whatdoyoulikebestandleastaboutschool?Favouritesubjects?Worstsubjects?
•Whatwereyourmostrecentgrades?Arethesethesameordifferentfromthepast?
•Howmuchschooldidyoumisslast/thisyear?Doyouskipclasses?Haveyouever
beensuspended?
•Whatdoyouwanttodowhenyoufinishschool?
•Howdoyougetalongwithteachers?Howdoyougetalongwithyourpeers?
•Inquireabout“bullying”.
Employment•Areyouinanyfulltimeorparttimejob?
Eating•Whatdoyoulikeandnotlikeaboutyourbody?
•Hastherebeenanyrecentchangeinyourweight?
•Haveyoudietedinthelastoneyear?How?Howoften?
•Howmuchexercisedoyougetonanaverageday?Week?
•Doyouworryaboutyourweight?Howoften?
•Doesiteverseemasthoughyoureatingisoutofcontrol?
•Haveyouevermadeyourselfthrow-uponpurposetocontrolyourweight?
47
ItemExamplesofQuestions
Activities•Aremostofyourfriendsfromschoolorsomewhereelse?Aretheythesameageasyou?
•Doyouhangoutwithmainlypeopleofyoursamesexoramixedcrowd?
•Doyouhavealotoffriends?
•Doyouseeyourfriendsatschoolandonweekends,too?
•Doyoudoanyregularsportorexercise?Hobbiesorinterests?
•HowmuchTVdoyouwatch?Whatareyourfavouriteshows?
•Daveyoueverbeeninvolvedwiththepolice?Doyoubelongtoagrouporgang?
Drugs•Whenyougooutwithyourfriends,domostofthepeoplethatyouhangoutwithdrinkorsmoke?
Doyou?Howmuchandhowoften?
•Haveyouoryourfriendsevertriedanyotherdrugs?Specifically,what?
•Doyouregularlyuseotherdrugs?Howmuchandhowoften?
Sexuality•Haveyoueverbeeninarelationship?When?
•Haveyouhadsex?Numberofpartners?Usingcontraception?
•Haveyoueverbeenpregnantorhadanabortion?
•Haveyoueverbeencheckedforasexuallytransmittedinfection(STI)?
•KnowledgeaboutSTIsandprevention?
•Forfemales:Askaboutmenarche,lastmenstrualperiod(LMP),andmenstrual
cycles.Alsoinquireaboutbreastselfexamination(BSE)practices.
•Formales:Askabouttesticularself-examination(TSE)practices.
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
48
ItemExamplesofQuestions
Suicide,
Depression
•Doyouhavedifficultiestosleep?Hastherebeenanychangeinyourappetiterecently?
•Doyoumixaroundwellothers?Doyouhavehopelessorhelplessfeelings?
•Haveyoueverattemptedsuicide?
Safety•Haveyoueverbeenseriouslyinjured?Doyoualwayswearaseatbeltinthecar?
•Doyouusesafetyequipmentforsportsandorotherphysicalactivities(forexample,helmetsforbiking)?
•Isthereanyviolenceinyourhome?Doestheviolenceevergetphysical?
•Haveyoueverbeenphysicallyorsexuallyabused?
•Haveyoueverbeenbullied?Isthatstillaproblem?
•Haveyougottenintophysicalfightsinschooloryourneighborhood?Areyoustillgettingintofights?
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
49
Introduction
Paediatric palliative care has been defined as ‘an active and total approach to
care embracing physical, emotional and spiritual elements. It focuses on qual-
ity of life for the child and support for the family and includes management
of distressing symptoms, provision of respite and care through death and
bereavement’. 1
Causes of Paediatric Mortality (Malaysian Public Hospitals)
• In paediatric departments at Malaysian public hospitals, 70% of deaths occur
in neonates and 30% are in older children. 2
• Under Five Mortality Study data shows that 76% are hospital deaths; 24%
are non hospital deaths.
• A third (33%) of hospital deaths were congenital malformations,
deformations and chromosomal abnormalities; 5% had oncology disorders.
It is difficult to ascertain the exact percentage who require palliative care in
the latter group.
The data suggests that there is plenty of work to be done in paediatric pallia-
tive medicine and end of life care. Why is this important?
Impact of the lost of a child
• The care of dying children is different from adults as the dying process of a
child affects many individuals with grief over the loss that is more intense,
long lasting and complicated.3
This is because children are generally expected
to outlive their parents.
• Parental grief is the most severe form of grief 4
; with an associated increase
in morbidity and mortality.5
It often intensifies in 2nd or 3rd year (when
friends and relatives expect them to be ‘over it’).
• For parents who have lost a child , there is an increased risk of psychiatric
hospitalisation. 6
This risk is higher in bereaved mothers than bereaved
fathers, the risk is highest in the 1st year following their child’s death, and
remains elevated for ≥ 5 years.7
• Care-related factors may influence parents’ psychological outcomes.8
Among factors that continued to affect parents 4-9 years following their
child’s death was the memory of the child having had unrelieved pain and
experienced a ‘difficult moment of death’. Interviews with 449 bereaved
parents suggest that the child’s physical pain and circumstances at the
moment of death contributed to parents’ long term distress.9
Quality of End of Life Care
Parents associated quality end of life care with physicians.10
• Giving clear information about what to expect in the End of Life period
• Communicating with care and sensitivity
• Communicating directly with child where appropriate
• Preparing the parent for circumstances surrounding the child’s death
As healthcare providers we have the unique opportunity to contribute towards
quality end of life care. A bereavement clinic follow up, or home visit, can be
arranged in 6-12 weeks after death.
Chapter 8: End of Life Care in Children
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
50
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
End of life Care for Paediatric Patients
When the disease trajectory of a patient has reached the final days, and the
family or caregivers understand the situation, the following steps can be taken
to help the patient and family. Existing medical orders and management strate-
gies should be reviewed with the goal of enhancing comfort and decreasing
noxious and invasive interventions.
Aspects of care that should be addressed are
• Discontinue parenteral nutrition. Enteral feeding reduced, discontinued or
offered as a comfort measure; breastfeeding may be offered if desired by
mother and baby; a lactation referral for breastfeeding mothers to stop milk
production.
• Discontinue tests and treatments to minimize noxious or painful procedures.
• Intravenous access maintained for medications to decrease pain, anxiety or
seizures. Alternatives to IV access are oral, sublingual or rectal medications.
• Discontinue antibiotics.
• Discontinue cardiac sustaining medications e.g. dopamine, adrenaline.
• Ventilator support: parents must be included in the decision to disconitnue
mechanical ventilation support and should be provided with information
about the expected sequence of events surrounding disconnection from the
ventilator as well as the infant’s physical response, including the possibility
that the infant may not die immediately. 12
• Moral and ethical issues e.g. do not resuscitate status; Do not resuscitate
(DNR) orders should be explicit and developed collaboratively with the family.
• Pain management; comfort measures e.g. discontinue non essential
investigations, observations for pain, agitation, nausea and vomiting;
appropriate management to improve the quality of life; give additional
morphine for breakthrough pain.
• Communication with care givers; their understanding of what to expect,
choice of place where they prefer the child to die; how the rest of the family
is coping or understands; patient’s desire or wish list ; organ donation.
• Religious and spiritual needs of the parents and family.
• For the child dying in hospital, whether the family wants to take the body
home, how will the body be transported; are there any specific religious
requirements, and does the family want symbolic memorials (e.g. hand
prints, hair lock).
• Transitional care, family support, sibling support, staff support, organ
donation, follow up support for family.
51
Neonatal Palliative Care Plan for the Infant with Lethal Anomalies
“The goal of palliative care is the best quality of life for patients and their
families”
The following is a list of lethal congenital anomalies:
• Genetic 	
Trisomy 13 or 18, triploidy, thanatophoric dwarfism or lethal forms of
osteogenesis imperfecta; inborn errors of metabolism that are lethal even
with available therapy.
• Renal (with oligo/anhydramnios and pulmonary hypoplasia)
Potter’s syndrome, renal agenesis, multicystic or dysplastic kidneys,
polycystic kidney disease, renal failure that requires dialysis.
• Central nervous system 	
Anencephaly, holoprosencephaly, complex, severe meningomyelocele, large
encephaloceles, hydranencephaly, congenital severe hydrocephalus with
absent or minimal brain growth; neurodegenerative diseases, e.g. spinal
muscular atrophy type 1.
• Cardiac
Acardia, Inoperable heart anomalies, hypoplastic left heart syndrome,
pentalogy of Cantrell (ectopia cordis).
• Other structural anomalies
Certain cases of giant omphalocoele, severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia
with hypoplastic lungs; inoperable conjoined twins.
Some of these conditions may be prenatally diagnosed – thus allowing the
paediatric palliative care team to be activated early.
Others may need further evaluation to ensure certainty – in these cases it is
advisable to do what is medically necessary to support the baby. The life
sustaining medical support can be withdrawn once a definitive diagnosis or
prognosis is established. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
52
Neonatal Palliative Care Plan for the Infant with Lethal Anomalies
Comfort measures for babies:
• dry and warm baby, provide warm blankets.
• provide a hat.
• allow mothers to room-in.
• minimize disruptions within medically safe practice for mother
• lower lights if desired.
• allow presence of parents and extended family as much as possible
without disruption to work flow in the unit.
• make siblings comfortable; they may wish to write letters or draw for the
baby.
• begin bereavement preparation and memory building, if indicated, to
include hand and footprints, pictures, videos, locks of hair.
• encourage parent/child bonding and interaction: bathe, dress baby; feeds,
diaper change.
Selected medical interventions
• Humidified oxygen ( _____________ % )
• Nasal cannula oxygen ( _____________ L/min)
• Suctioning of airway and secretions.
• Morphine sublingual 0.15 mg/kg or IV 0.05 mg/kg, as needed.
• Buccal midazolam or oral clonazepam as needed.
• Artificial hydration or nutrition : ________________________________
• natural hydration or nutrition : _________________________________
Note: Avoid distressing delays in treating symptoms by making medications
available in all available concentrations and doses.
Spiritual care
• religious preference: 	 __________________________________
• identified religious leader: 	 __________________________________
• religious ritual desired at or near time of death:
			 __________________________________
In the event of child’s death in hospital
• Diagnostic procedures:	 __________________________________
• Autopsy preference:	 __________________________________
• Tissue/organ procurement preferences:
			 __________________________________
• Funeral home chosen by family:__________________________________
• Rituals required for body care:	__________________________________
Please notify:__________________________________________________
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
53
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
References
Section 1 General Paediatrics
Chapter 1 Normal Values
1.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The Practical Approach Textbook, Fifth
Edition 2011.
2.Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition
Chapter 2 Immunisations
1.Ministry Of Health Malaysia.
2.Health Technology Assessment Expert Committee report on immunisation
(MOH Malaysia).
3.Malaysian Immunisation Manual 2nd Edition. College of Paediatrics,
Academy of Medicine of Malaysia. 2008.
4.AAP Red Book 2009.
5.Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP).
Chapter 3 Fluid and Electrolytes
1.Mohammed A et al. Normal saline is a safe rehydration fluid in children
with diarrhea-related hypernatremia. Eur J Pediatric 2012 171; 383-388
2.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The practical approach 5th Edition 2011
Wiley- Blackwell; 279-289
3.Manish Kori, Nameet Jerath. Choosing the right maintenance intravenous
fluid in children, Apollo Medicine 2011 December Volume 8, Number 4;
pp. 294-296
4.Corsino Rey, Marta Los-Arcos, Arturo Hernandez, Amelia Sanchez, Juan
Jse Diaz, Jesus Lopez Herce. Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids
in critically ill children: a multicenter prospective randomized study, Acta
Paediatrica 2011, 100; pp.1138-1143
5.Mark Terris, Peter Crean. Fluid and electrolyte balance in children, Anaes-
thesia and intensive care medicine 13.1 2011 Elsevier; pp. 15-19
6.Michael L. Moritz, Juan C Ayus. Intravenous fluid management for the
acutely ill child, Current opinion in Pediatrics 2011, 23; pp.186-193
7.Davinia EW. Perioperative Fluid Management.Basics. Anaesthesia, Intensive
Care and Pain in Neonates and Children Springer-Verlag Italia 2009; 135-
147
8.Michael Y, Steve K. Randomised controlled trial of intravenous maintenance
fluid. Journal of Paediatric and Child Health 2009 45; 9-14
9.Malcolm A Holliday, Patricio E ray, Aaron L Friedman. Fluid therapy for chil-
dren: facts, fashion and questions, Arch Dis Child 2007, 92; pp.546-550
10.B Wilkins. Fluid therapy in acute paediatric: a physiological approach. Cur-
rent Paediatrics 1999 9; 51-56
11.Anthony L. Paediatric fluid and electrolytes therapy guidelines. Surgery
2010 28. 8 369-372
12.Clinical practice guideline RCH. Intravenous fluid therapy.
54
GENERALPAEDIATRICS
Chapters 4 and 5 Developmental Milestones and Assessment
1.RS. Illingworth. The Development of the Infant and Young Child.
2.First L, Palfrey J. The infant or young child with developmental delay. NEJM
1994;330:478-483
3.Shevell M, et al. Practice parameter: Evaluation of the child with global devel-
opmental delay. Neurology 2003;60:367-380
4.Joint Committee on Infant Hearing Year 2000 Position Statement: Principles
and Guidelines for Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Programs. Pedi-
atrics. 2000; 106:798-817. http://www.infanthearing.org/jcih/
5.R.R. Anand: Neuropsychiatry of Learning Disabilities, 2007
6.Trevor S Parry Assessment of developmental learning and behavioural prob-
lems in children and young people. MJA 2005
7.Assessment and investigation of the child with disordered development .
Arch Dis Child Edu Practice 2011.
Chapter 8 End of Life Care
1.A Guide to the Development of Chidren’s Palliative Care Services, Update
of a Report by THE ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDREN WITH LIFE THREATENING
OR TERMINAL CONDITIONS AND THEIR FAMILIES. THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF
PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH. 2nd edition Sept 2003. ACT Promoting
Palliative Care for Children.
2.A study on the Under Five Mortality in Malaysia in the Year 2006 , Ministry of
Health Malaysia. Dr Wong Swee Lan et al p37/8
3.Papadatou D (1997) Training health professionals in caring for dying children
and grieving families. Death studies.21;6,575-600.
4.Li J, Laursen TM Precht DH et al Hospitalisation for mental illness among
parents after the death of a child. N E J Med 2005;352:1190-6
5.Li J, Precht DH, Mortenson PB et al Mortality in parents after death of a child
in Denmark: a nationwide follow up study. Lancet 2003; 361:363-7
6.Mack JW, Hilden JM, Watterson J et al. Parent and Physician perspective
on quality of life at the end of life care in children with cancer J Clin Oncol
2005;23:9155-61
7.Gay Gale, Alison Brooks Implementing a palliative care program in a new-
born intensive care unit. Advances in Neonatal Care; 2006;6(1):37.e1-37.e21
8.Malaysian CPG on withdrawal and withholding care in children.
9.Steven R Leuthner. Palliative Care of the infant with lethal anomalies. Pediat-
ric Clinics of North America 51(2004)749-759.
Chapter 6 Developmental Dyslexia
1.Shaywitz SE. Dyslexia. N Engl J Med. 1998;338:307-12.
2.Dyslexia screening Test
Chapter 7 HEADSS Assessment
1.Goldenring J, Cohen, E. Getting into adolescents heads. Contemporary Pedi-
atrics 1988: 75-80.
2.Goldenring JM, Rosen DS. Getting into Adolescent Heads: An essential up-
date. Contemporary Paediatrics 2004 21:64.
55
Chapter 9: Principles of Transport of the Sick Newborn
Introduction
• Transport of neonates involves pre-transport intensive care level
resuscitation and stabilisation and continuing intra-transport care to ensure
that the infant arrives in a stable state.
• Organized neonatal transport teams bring the intensive care environment to
critically ill infant before and during transport.
• Good communication and coordination between the referring and receiving
hospital is essential.
• There is rarely a need for haste.
• However, there must be a balance between the benefits of further
stabilization versus anticipated clinical complications that may arise due to
delay in the transport.
Special Considerations in Neonates
Apnoea
Premature and septic babies are especially prone to apnoea
Bradycardia
Hypoxia causes bradycardia followed by heart block and asystole
Oxygen toxicity to the lungs and retina
especially important in the premature infant
Reversal to fetal circulation (Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate,PPHN)
Precipitating factors: hypoxia, hypercarbia, acidosis and sepsis
Hypothermia
Thermoregulation is less developed, infant has a larger body surface area
to mass ratio. If bowels are exposed, heat and fluid loss are compounded
by evaporation.The effects of hypothermia are acidosis and subsequent
PPHN, impaired immune function and delayed wound healing.
Hypoglycemia
The neonate lacks glycogen stores in liver and fat deposits.
Mode of transport
Careful consideration must be made as to the mode of transport.
• The best mode of transfer is “in utero”, e.g. a mother in premature labour
should be managed in a centre with NICU facilities or for an antenatally
detected surgical, the mother should be advised to deliver at a centre with
paediatric surgical facilities.
• The advantages and disadvantages of road, air (helicopter / commercial
airlines) and riverine transport must be considered in each child
• Transport incubators with monitors, ventilators, oxygen and suction
equipment are ideal.
NEONATOLOGY
56
Air Transport
Patients can be transported by either commercial airlines with pressurised
cabins or by helicopters flying without pressurised cabins at lower altitudes.
There are special problems associated with air transport:
• Changes in altitude – Reduced atmospheric pressure causes decreased
oxygen concentration and expansion of gases. This may be important in
infants with pneumothorax, pneumoperitoneum, volvulus and intestinal
obstruction. These must be drained before setting off as the gases will
expand and cause respiratory distress. Infants requiring oxygen may have
increased requirements and become more tachypnoeic at the higher altitude
in non-pressurised cabins.
• Poor lighting - Can make assessment of child difficult .
• Noise and Vibration – May stress the infant and transport team; May also
cause interference with the monitors, e.g. pulse oximeters. Use ear muffs if
available. It is also impossible to perform any procedures during transport.
• Limited cabin space – Limits access to the infant especially in helicopters.
Commercial aircraft and helicopters are unable to accommodate transport
incubators. The infant is thus held in the arms of a team member.
• Weather conditions and availability of aircraft – Speed of transfer may be
compromised by unavailability of aircraft/flight or weather conditions.
Stress and safety to the infant and team during poor weather conditions
needs to be considered.
• Take off and landing areas – special areas are required and there will be
multiple transfers: hospital – ambulance – helicopter – ambulance - hospital.
• Finances – Air transport is costly but essential where time is of essence.
Pre-transport Stabilisation
Transport is a significant stress and the infant may easily deteriorate during the
journey. Hypothermia, hypotension and metabolic acidosis has a significant
negative impact on the eventual outcome. Procedures are difficult to do during
the actual transport. Therefore, pre-transport stabilization is critical.
The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate
(see tables on following pages)
Airway
Breathing
Circulation, Communication
Drugs, Documentation
Environment, Equipment
Fluids – electrolytes, glucose
Gastric decompression
NEONATALOGY
57
The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate
Airway
Establish a patent airway
Evaluate the need for oxygen, frequent suction (Oesophageal atresia) or
an artificial airway (potential splinting of diaphragm).
Security of the airway – The endotracheal tubes (ETT) must be secure to
prevent intra-transport dislodgement
Chest X-ray – to check position of the ETT
Breathing
Assess the need for intra-transport ventilation. Does the infant have:
• Requirement of FiO2 60% to maintain adequate oxygenation.
• ABG – PaCO2  60mmHg.
• Tachypnoea and expected respiratory fatigue.
• Recurrent apnoeic episodes.
• Expected increased abdominal/bowel distension during air transport.
If there is a possibility that the infant needs mechanical ventilation
during the transfer, it is safer to electively intubate and ventilate before
transport. Check the position of the Endotracheal tube before setting off.
In certain conditions it may be preferable not to ventilate, e.g. tracheo-
oesophageal fistula with distal obstruction. If in doubt, the receiving
surgeon/paediatrician should be consulted. If manual ventilation is to be
performed throughout the journey, possible fatigue and the erratic nature
of ventilation must be considered.
Circulation
Assess:
• Heart rate, Urine output, Current weight compared to birth weight - are
good indicators of hydration status of the newborn infant.
Also note that:
• Blood pressure in infants drops just before the infant decompensates.
• Minimum urine output should be 1-2 mls/kg /hr.
• The infant can be catheterised or the nappies weighed (1g = 1 ml urine)
• Ensure reliable intravenous access (at least 2 cannulae) before transport.
• If the infant is dehydrated, the infant must be rehydrated before leaving.
NEONATOLOGY
58
The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate
Communication
Good communication between referring doctor, transport team and
neonatologist / paediatric surgeon aids proper pre-transfer stabilization,
coordination, timing of transfer, and preparedness of receiving hospital.
• Inform receiving specialist, emergency department of receiving hospital.
• Provide Name and telephone contact of referring doctor and hospital
• Provide patient details
• Give a clear history, physical findings, provisional diagnosis, investigations
• Detail current management and status of the infant
• Discuss mode of transport, expected departure time, arrival at referral centre
• Decide on destination of the patient (e.g. AE, NICU, Ward)
Drugs as required
• Antibiotics – needed in most sick neonates
• Analgesia or Sedation – if infant has peritonitis or is intubated
• Inotropes
• Vitamin K
• Sodium bicarbonate
Documentation
• History including antenatal and birth history, physical findings, diagnosis
• Previous and current management
• Previous operative and histopathology notes, if any
• Input/output charts
• Investigation results, X-rays
• Consent – informed and signed by parents for high risk infants and
especially if parents are not accompanying child.
• Parents’ contact address, telephone numbers, if not accompanying infant.
• 10 mls of Mother’s blood for cross match, if she is not accompanying infant.
Environment
Maintain a Neutral Thermal Environment
Optimal temperature for the neonate (axilla) – 36.5 0
C– 37.0 0
C.
Prevention of heat loss involves maintaining an optimal ambient
temperature as well as covering the exposed surfaces.
• Transport Incubator – would be ideal.
• Wrap limbs of the infant with cotton, metal foil or plastic.
• Do not forget a cotton-lined cap for the head.
• Remove all wet linen as soon as possible.
• Care of exposed membranes. (See section on Abdominal Wall Defects)
• Warm intravenous fluids.
• ELBW placed in polyethylene bags for newborn infants to prevent heat
loss by evaporation.
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59
The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate
Environment (continued)
Special Consideration.
In Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy, therapeutic hypothermia may be
indicated. Please discuss with receiving neonatal team prior to transfer.
Equipment (see Table at end of chapter)
Check all equipment: completeness and function before leaving hospital.
• Monitors- Cardiorespiratory monitor/ Pulse oximeter for transport.
If unavailable or affected by vibration, a praecordial stethoscope and a
finger on the pulse and perfusion will be adequate.
• Syringe and/or infusion pumps with adequately charged batteries.
If unavailable, intravenous fluids prepared into 20 or 50ml syringes can
be administered manually during the journey via a long extension tubing
connected to the intravenous cannulae.
• Intubation and ventilation equipment; Endotracheal tubes of varying sizes.
• Oxygen tanks – ensure adequacy for the whole journey.
• Suction apparatus , catheters and tubings.
• Anticipated medication and water for dilution and injection.
• Intravenous fluids and tubings. Pre-draw fluids, medication into syringes
if required during the journey.
Fluid therapy
Resuscitation Fluid 	
• Give boluses of 10 - 20 mls/kg over up to 2 hours as per clinical status
• Use Normal Saline or Hartmann’s solution.
• If blood loss then use whole blood or pack red cells.
This fluid is also used to correct ongoing measured (e.g. orogastric) or
third space losses as required. The perfusion and heart rates are reliable
indicators of the hydration.
• If ongoing or anticipated losses in surgical neonates, e.g. gastroschisis,
intestinal obstruction, , then use 0.45% Saline + 10% Dextrose
• Watch out for hyponatraemia and hypoglycemia.
Gastric decompression
• An orogastric tube is required in most surgical neonates, especially in
intestinal obstruction, congenital diaphragmatic hernia or abdominal
wall defects.
• The oral route is preferred as a larger bore tube can be used without
compromising nasal passages (neonates are obligatory nasal breathers).
• As an orogastric tube is easily dislodged, check the position regularly.
• 4 hourly aspiration and free flow of gastric contents is recommended.
NEONATOLOGY
60
Immediately before Departure
• Check vital signs and condition of the infant.
• Check and secure all tubes.
• Check the equipment.
• Re-communicate with receiving doctor about current status
and expected time of arrival.
Intra-transport Care
• Transport Team. Ideally, there should be a specialised neonatal transport
team. Otherwise, a neonatal-trained doctor with/without a neonatal-trained
staff nurse should escort the infant. A minimum of 2 escorts will be required
for a ventilated/critically ill infant. The team should be familiar with
resuscitation and care of a neonate.
• Safety of the team must be a priority.
Insurance, life jackets and survival equipment should be available.
• Monitoring. Regular monitoring of vital signs, oxygenation and perfusion of
the infant should be performed.
• Fluids. Intravenous fluids must be given to the ill infant to prevent
dehydration and acidosis during the transport. Boluses need to be given as
necessary depending on the haemodynamic assessment . If catheterised, the
urine output can be monitored. The orogastric tube should be aspirated and
kept on free drainage. Losses are replaced as required.
• Temperature Regulation. Check temperature intermittently. Wet clothes
should be changed especially in the infant with abdominal wall defects.
Disposable diapers and one way nappy liners are useful.
Arrival at the Receiving Hospital
• Reassessment of the infant
• Handover to the resident team
Intrahospital Transport
• Use transport incubator if available.
• Ensure all parties concerned are ready before transfer.
• Send team member ahead to commandeer lifts, clear corridors.
• Ensure patient is stable before transport.
• Skilled medical and nursing staff should accompany patient.
• Ensure adequate supply of oxygen.
• Prepare essential equipment and monitors for transport.
• Ensure venous lines are patent, well secured.
• Infusion pumps should have charged batteries. To decrease bulk of
equipment, consider cessation of non-essential infusions.
NEONATALOGY
61
Pre-Departure Checklist
Equipment
Transport incubator (if available)
Airway and intubation equipment are all available and working
(ET tubes of appropriate size, laryngoscope, Magill forceps)
Batteries with spares
Manual resuscitation (Ambu) bags, masks of appropriate size
Suction apparatus
Oxygen cylinders-full and with a spare
Oxygen tubing
Nasal oxygen catheters and masks, including high-flow masks
Infusion pumps
Intravenous cannulae of various sizes
Needles of different sizes
Syringes and extension tubings
Suture material
Adhesive tape, scissors
Gloves, gauze, swabs (alcohol and dry)
Stethoscope, thermometer
Nasogastric tube of different sizes
Pulse oximeter
Cardiac monitor if indicated
PortableVentilator if indicated
Patient Status
Airway is secured and patent (do a post-intubation chest X-ray before
departure to make sure ET tube is at correct position.)
Venous access is adequate and patent (at least 2 IV lines ) and fluid is
flowing well.
Patient is safely secured in transport incubator or trolley.
Vital signs are charted.
Tubes - all drains (if present) are functioning and secured .
NEONATOLOGY
62
Pre-Departure Checklist (continued)
Medications
Intravenous fluids
• 0.9% Normal Saline
• Hartmann’s solution
• 5% Albumin in Normal Saline
• 0.18% Saline with 10% Dextrose
• 0.45% Saline with10% Dextrose
• 10% Dextrose water
Inotropes
• Dopamine
• Dobutamine
• Adrenaline
Sedative/ Analgesia
• Morphine
• Midazolam
Blood product if indicated
Others
• Atropine
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Sterile water for injection
• Normal saline for injection
• Antibiotics if indicated
Documentation
Patient notes, referral letter
X-rays
Consent form
Vital signs chart
Input, Output charts
Maternal blood (for infant less than 6 months)
NEONATALOGY
63
Introduction
• The Premature infant:  37 weeks gestation
• Low Birth Weight (LBW):  2500 g
• Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW):  1500 g
• Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW):  1000 g
• Small for Gestational Age:  10th centile of birth weight for age.
Early and Late Complications in premature infants
Hypothermia
Respiratory distress syndrome, Apnoea
Hypotension, Patent ductus arteriosus
Intraventricular haemorrhage, Periventricular leukomalacia
Gastrointestinal: Paralytic ileus, Necrotizing enterocolitis
Hypoglycaemia, Hyperglycaemia
Neonatal Jaundice
Hypoprothrombinaemia
Fluid and Electrolyte disorders:
hyponatraemia, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis
Septicaemia
Anaemia
Osteopaenia of prematurity
Retinopathy of prematurity
Chronic lung disease
Neuro-developmental disability
Psychosocial problems
Management
Before and During Labour
• Prewarmed incubator and appropriate equipment for neonatal intensive
care should always be kept ready in the labour room or operating theatre.
Adequate Resuscitation
Transfer from Labour Room (LR) to NNU (Neonatal Unit)
• Use prewarmed transport incubator if available. If not the baby must be
wiped dry and wrapped in dry linen before transfer. For extremely low
birth weight infant, from birth, the infant should be wrapped up to the
neck with polyethylene plastic wrap or food plastic bag to prevent
evaporative heat loss.
Chapter 10: The Premature Infant
64
• If infant’s respiration is inadequate, keep the infant intubated with
manual bag ventilation with oxygen during the transfer.
• For those with mild respiratory distress, preferably initiate CPAP in labour
room, and if tolerated CPAP during transport. Use a pulse oxymeter where
available.
Admission Routine
• Ensure thermoneutral temperature for infant. An incubator or radiant
warmer is necessary for more premature and ill infants.
• Ventilation in NICU is often necessary if ventilated during transfer.
However, some infants take longer to adapt to extrauterine life and may
not require ventilation especially those with no risk factors and given a full
course of antenatal steroids. For the larger preterm infants above 1250
grams, review the required ventilation to maintain a satisfactory blood gas
and consider extubation if the ventilator requirements are low, patient has
good tone and good spontaneous respiration.
• Maintain SaO₂ between 89-92% for ELBW; 90-94% for the larger preterm
• Head circumference (OFC), length measurements, bathing can be omitted.
• Quickly and accurately examine and weigh the infant.
• Assess the gestational age with Dubowitz or Ballard score when stable
(see end of this section for score).
• Monitor temp, HR, RR, BP and SaO₂.
Immediate Care for Symptomatic infants
• Investigations are necessary as indicated and include:
• Blood gases.
• Blood glucose (dextrostix)
• Full blood count with differential WBC and IT ratio (if possible)
• Blood culture.
• CXR (if respiratory signs and symptoms are present)
• Start on 10% dextrose drip.
• Correct anaemia.
• Correct hypotension (keep mean arterial pressure (MAP)  gestational age
(GA) in wks). Ensure hyperventilation is not present (a cause of hypotension).
If the baby has good tone and is active, observe first as the BP may rise after
first few hours of life towards a MAP approximating GA in weeks.
• Correct hypovolaemia: Give 10 ml/kg of Normal Saline over 20-30 mins, or
packed cells if anaemic. Avoid repeat fluid boluses unless there is volume loss.
• Start inotrope infusion if hypotension persists after volume correction.
• Start antibiotics after taking cultures e.g. Penicillin and Gentamycin
• Start IV Aminophylline or caffeine in premature infants 32-34 weeks.
• Maintain SaO₂ at 89-92% and PaO₂ at 50 –70 mmHg.
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NEONATOLOGY
General Measures for Premature infants
• Monitor vitals signs (colour, temperature, apex beat, respiratory rate).
Look for signs of respiratory distress (cyanosis, grunting, tachypnoea, nasal
flaring, chest recessions, apnoea). In VLBL and ill infants pulse oximetry
and blood pressure monitoring are necessary.
• Check Blood Sugar (see Hypoglycaemia protocol).
• Keep warm in incubator at thermoneutral temperature for age and birth
weight. ELBW should preferably have humidified environment at least for
the first 3 days.
• Ensure adequate nutrition.
• Provide parental counselling and allow free parental access.
• Infection control: observe strict hand washing practices.
• Immunisation:
	 • Hep B vaccine at birth if infant stable and BW is 1.8 kg.
	 Otherwise give before discharge.
	 • Ensure BCG vaccine is given on discharge.
	 • For long stayers other immunisation should generally follow the schedule
	 according to chronological rather than corrected age.
	 • Defer immunisation in the presence of acute illnesses.
• Supplements:
	 • At birth: IM Vitamin K (0.5 mg for BW2.5 kg; 1 mg for BW ≥ 2.5 kg)
	 • Once on full feeding, give Infant Multivitamin drops 1 mls OD (continue
till fully established weaning diet). For preterm infants, use a
formulation with Vit D 400 IU, and Folic acid 1 mg OD.
	 • Starting at about 4 weeks of life: Elemental Iron 2-3 mg/kg/day – to be
	 continued for 3-4 months.
ICU care and Criteria for Replacement Transfusion in Neonates
See relevant chapter.
Discharge
• Cranial Ultrasound for premature infants ≤ 32 weeks is recommended at:
	 • Within first week of life to look for intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH).
	 • Around day 28 to look for periventricular leucomalacia (PVL).
	 • As clinically indicated.
• Screening for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) at 4-6 weeks of age
is recommended for
	 • All infants ≤ 32 weeks gestation at birth or birth weight 1500 g.
	 • All preterms  36 weeks who received oxygen therapy depending on
	 individual risk as assessed by the clinician.
• The infants are discharged once they are well, showing good weight gain,
established oral feeding and gestational age of at least 35 weeks.
66
Prognosis
• Mortality and morbidity are inversely related to gestation and birth weight.
• Complications include retinopathy of prematurity, chronic lung disease,
neurodevelopmental delay, growth failure, cerebral palsy, mental
retardation, epilepsy, blindness and deafness.
67
Chapter 11: Enteral Feeding in Neonates
Introduction
• The goal of nutrition is to achieve as near to normal weight gain and
growth as possible.
• Enteral feeding should be introduced as soon as possible. This means
starting in the labour room itself for the well infant.
• Breast milk is the milk of choice. All mothers should be encouraged to give
breast milk to their newborn babies.
• Normal caloric requirements in: Term infants: 110 kcal/kg/day
Preterm infants : 120 – 140 kcal/kg/day
• Babies who have had a more eventful course need up to 180kcal/kg/day
to have adequate weight gain.
Types of milk for Newborn feeding
There are three choices:
• expressed breast milk
• normal infant formula
• preterm infant formula
Breast Milk
Breast milk is preferred as studies have shown that breast fed babies had
low risk for necrotising enterocolitis and had better development quotients.
However, expressed breast milk (EBM) alone is not adequate for the
nutritional needs of the very preterm infant as it:
• Has insufficient calories and protein to for optimal early growth at
20 kcal/30mls.
• Has insufficient sodium to compensate for high renal sodium losses.
• Has insufficient calcium or phosphate - predisposes to osteopenia of
prematurity.
• Is low in vitamins and iron relative to the needs of a preterm infant.
Human Milk Fortifier (HMF)
• It is recommended to add HMF to EBM in babies  32 wks or  1500 grams.
• HMF will give extra calories, vitamins, calcium and phosphate.
• HMF should be added to EBM when the baby is feeding at 75 mls/kg/day.
• VLBW infants on exclusive breastmilk may require sodium
supplementation until 32-34 weeks corrected age.
Infant Formula
Infant formula should only be given if there is no supply of EBM. There are 2
types of infant formula: Preterm formula and Normal Term Formula.
• Preterm formula : for babies born  32 weeks or  1500 grams.
• Normal infant formula : for babies born ≥ 32 weeks or  1500 grams.
NEONATOLOGY
68
Strategies of administering enteral feeding
Orogastric Route
• Neonates are obligate nose breathers thus nasogastric tubes can obstruct
the nasal passage and compromise breathing. Thus the orogastric route is
preferable.
Continuous vs. intermittent bolus feeding
• Bolus fed babies tolerate feeds better and gained weight faster. Babies on
continuous feeding have been shown to take longer to reach full feeding
but there is no difference in days to discharge, somatic growth and
incidence of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC).
Cup feeding
• If the baby is able to suckle and mother is not with the baby, cup feeding is
preferable to bottle feeding to prevent nipple confusion.
When to start milk?
• As soon as possible for the well term babies
• However, in very preterm infants there may be an increased risk for NEC if
feeding is advanced too rapidly, although early feeds with EBM is to be
encouraged. Studies suggest that rapid increments in feeds has a higher
risk for NEC than the time at which feeding was started.
• Minimal enteral feeding (MEF) is recommended in very preterm infants.
The principle is to commence very low volume enteral feeds on day 1 - 3 of
life (i.e. 5 - 25 mls/kg/day) for both EBM and formula milk. MEF enhances
gut DNA synthesis hence promotes gastrointestinal growth. This approach
allows earlier establishment of full enteral feeds and shorter hospital
stays, without any concomitant increase in NEC.
How much to increase?
• Generally the rate of increment is about 20 to 30 mls/kg/day.
• Well term babies should be given breastfeeding on demand.
• Milk requirements for babies on full enteral feed from birth:
Day 1	 60 mls/kg/day
Day 2 – 3	 90 mls/kg/day
Day 4 – 6	 120 mls/kg/day
Day 7 onwards 150 mls/kg/day
Add 15% if the babies is under phototherapy
• In babies requiring IV fluids at birth: The rate of increment need to be
individualized to that baby. Babies should be observed for feeding
intolerance (vomit or large aspirate) and observe for any abdominal
distention before increasing the feed.
NEONATALOGY
69
What is the maximum volume?
• Target weight gain should be around 15g/kg/day (range 10-25g/kg/day).
Less weight gain than this suggests a need to increase calories especially
protein calories.. More weight gain than 30g/kg/day should raise the
possibility of fluid overload particularly in babies with chronic lung disease.
• Preterm infants
	 • Increase feed accordingly to 180 to 200 mls/kg/day. (This should only be
achieved by Day 10 to Day 14 respectively if baby had tolerated feeds
well from Day 1)
	 • If on EBM, when volume reaches 75 mls/kg/day: add HMF.
• Term infants: allow feeding on demand.
When to stop HMF or Preterm Formula?
• Consider changing preterm to standard formula and stop adding HMF
to EBM when babies are breastfeeding on demand or have reached their
expected growth curve.
• Preterm with poor weight gain can be given specially formulated post
discharge formula for preterm infants. Preterm formula meant for
newborn preterm infants should not be given to infants  2 months
post conceptual age in view of potential Vitamin A and D toxicity.
Vitamin and mineral supplementation
• Vitamins: a premature infant’s daily breast milk/ breast milk substitute
intake will not supply the daily vitamin requirement. Multivitamins can be
given after day 14 of life when on feeding of 150 ml/s kg/day.
Vitamin supplements at 0.5 mls daily to be continued for 3-4 months post
discharge.
• Iron: Premature infants have reduced intra uterine iron accumulation and
can become rapidly depleted of iron when active erythropoiesis resumes.
Therefore babies of birth weight  2000g should receive iron supplements.
Iron is given at a dose of 3 mg/kg elemental iron per day.
	 • Ferric Ammonium Citrate (400mg/5mls) contains 86 mg/5 mls of
elemental iron.
	 • Start on day 42, continue until 3-4 months post discharge or until review.
	 • Babies who have received multiple blood transfusions may not require as
much iron supplementation.
Special Cases
• IUGR babies with reversed end-diastolic flow on antenatal Doppler: Studies
have show that these babies are at risk of NEC. Thus feeds should be
introduced slowly and initially use only EBM.
NEONATOLOGY
70
CompositionofVariousMilk
ComponentCow’smilkStandardformulaMaturebreastmilkPretermformulaPretermbreastmilk
Carbohydrateg/100ml4.67.57.48.66.4
Fatg/100ml3.93.64.24.43.1
Proteing/100ml3.41.51.12.02.7
Casein:Lactalbuminratio4:12:32:32:32.3
CaloriesKCal/100ml6767708074
Sodiummmol/l236.46.41417
Potassiummmol/l4014151917
Calciummg%12446357729
Phosphatemg%9833154113
Ironmg%0.050.80.080.67
NEONATALOGY
71
Chapter 12: Total Parenteral Nutrition for Neonates
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
• Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is the intravenous infusion of all nutrients
necessary for metabolic requirements and growth.
• Earlier introduction and more aggressive advancement of TPN is safe
and effective, even in the smallest and most immature infants.
• Premature infants tolerate TPN from day 1 of post-natal life.
The goal of TPN is to
• Provide sufficient nutrients to prevent negative energy and nitrogen
balance and essential fatty acid deficiency.
• Support normal growth rates without increased significant morbidity.
Indication for TPN
• Birth weight  1000 gm
• Birth weight 1000-1500 gm and anticipated to be not on significant feeds
for 3 or more days.
• Birth weight  1500 gm and anticipated to be not on significant feeds for
5 or more days.
• Surgical conditions in neonates: necrotizing enterocolitis, gastroschisis,
omphalocoele, tracheo-esophageal fistula, intestinal atresia, malrotation,
short bowel syndrome, meconium ileus and diaphragmatic hernia.
Components of TPN
The essential components of parenteral nutrition are:
• Fluids
• Carbohydrate
• Protein	
• Lipids		
• Electrolytes						
• Vitamins				
• Trace minerals
Goal is to provide 120-130 KCal/kg/day.
• 10% dextrose solution provides 0.34 KCal/ml.
• 10% lipid solution gives 0.9 KCal/ml; 20% lipid solution gives 1.1 KCal/ml.
• Protein/Energy ratio: 3-4 gm/100 KCal is needed to promote protein
accretion. A baby given only glucose will lose 1.5 grams body protein/day.
Thus it is important to start TPN within the first 24 hours of life in the smaller
preterm infants 1250 grams birth weight.
Fluid
• Fluid is an essential component.
• Usually started at 60-80 ml/kg/day (if newborn), or at whatever stable
fluid intake the baby is already receiving.
• Postnatal weight loss of 5 - 15 % per day in the ELBW is acceptable.
Volumes are increased over the first 7 days in line with the fluids and
electrolytes protocol with the aim to deliver 120-150 ml/kg/day by day 7.
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NEONATALOGY
Amino acids
• Amino acids prevents catabolism; prompt introduction via TPN achieves an
early positive nitrogen balance.
• Decreases frequency and severity of neonatal hyperglycaemia by stimulating
endogenous insulin secretion and stimulates growth by enhancing the
secretion of insulin and insulin-like growth factors.
• Protein is usually started at 2g/kg/day of crystalline amino acids and
subsequently advanced, by 3rd to 4th postnatal day, to 3.0 g/kg/day of
protein in term and by 5th day 3.7 to 4.0 g/kg/day in the extremely low
birthweight (ELBW) infants.
• Reduction in dosage may be needed in critically ill, significant hypoxaemia,
suspected or proven infection and high dose steroids.
• Adverse effects of excess protein include a rise in urea and ammonia and
high levels of potentially toxic amino acids such as phenylalanine.
Glucose
• There is a relatively high energy requirement in the ELBW and continuous
source of glucose is required for energy metabolism.
• In the ELBW minimum supply rate is 6 mg/kg/min to maintain adequate
energy for cerebral function; additional 2-3 mg/kg/min (25 cal/kg) of
glucose per gram of protein intake is needed to support protein deposition.
Maximum rate: 12 - 13 mg/kg/min (lower if lipid also administered) but in
practice often limited by hyperglycaemia.
• Hyperglycaemia occurs in 20-80% of ELBW as a result of decreased insulin
secretion and insulin resistance, presumably due to to glucagon,
catecholamine and cortisol release.
• Hyperglycaemia in the ELBW managed by decreasing glucose administration,
administering intravenous amino acids and/or infusing exogenous insulin.
• Glucose administration is started at 6 mg/kg/min, advancing to
12-14 mg/kg/min and adjusted to maintain euglycaemia.
• If hyperglycaemia develops glucose infusion is decreased. Insulin infusion is
generally not required if sufficient proteins are given and less glucose is
administered during the often transient hyperglycaemia. Insulin infusion,
if used for persistent hyperglycaemia with glycosuria, should be titrated to
reduce risk of hypoglycaemia.
Lipid
• Lipids prevent essential fatty acid deficiency, provide energy substrates and
improve delivery of fat soluble vitamins.
• LBW infants may have immature mechanisms for fat metabolism. Some
conditions inhibit lipid clearance e.g. infection, stress, malnutrition.
• Start lipids at 1g/kg/day, at the same time as amino acids are started, to
prevent essential fatty acid deficiency; gradually increase dose up to
3 g/kg/day (3.5g/kg/day in ELBW infants). Use smaller doses in sepsis,
compromised pulmonary function, hyperbilirubinaemia.
• It is infused continuously over as much of the 24 hour period as practical.
• Avoid concentrations 2g/kg/day if infant has jaundice requiring
phototherapy.
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NEONATOLOGY
• Preparation of 20% emulsion is better than 10% as 20% solutions require
less fluid volume and provide a lower phospholipid-to-triglyceride ratio.
10% solution interferes with triglyceride (TG) clearance leading to higher
TG and cholesterol values. Use of preparations containing lipids from fish
oil and olive oil may reduce the risk of cholestasis with prolonged TPN.
• Heparin at 0.5 to 1 units/mL of TPN solutions (max 137 units/day) can
facilitate lipoprotein lipase activity to stabilize serum triglyceride values.
• Lipid clearance monitored by plasma triglyceride (TG) levels.
(Max TG concentration ranges from 150 mg/dl to 200 mg/dl).
• Exogenous lipid may interfere with respiratory function. Suggested
mechanisms include impaired gas exchange from pulmonary intravascular
accumulation or impaired lymph drainage resulting in oedema. Lipid may
also aggravate pulmonary hypertension in susceptible individuals.
• The syringe and infusion line should be shielded from ambient light.
Electrolytes
• The usual sodium need of the newborn infant is 2-3 mEq /kg/day in
term and 3-5 mEq/kg/day in preterm infants after the initial diuretic
phase(first 3-5 days). Sodium supplementation should be started after
initial diuresis(usually after the 48 hours), when serum sodium starts to
drop or at least at 5-6% weight loss. Failure to provide sufficient sodium
may be associated with poor weight gain.
• Potassium needs are 2-3 mEq/kg/day in both term and preterm infants.
Start when urine output improves after the first 2-3 days of life.
Minerals, Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P) And Magnesium
• In extrauterine conditions, intrauterine calcium accretion rates is difficult
to attain. Considering long-term appropriate mineralization and the fact
that calcium retention between 60 to 90 mg/kg/d suppresses the risk of
fracture and clinical symptoms of osteopenia, a mineral intake between
100 to 160 mg/kg/d of highly-absorbed calcium and 60 to 75 mg/kg/d of
phosphorus could be recommended.
• Monitoring for osteopaenia of prematurity is important especially if
prolonged PN.
• A normal magnesium level is a prerequisite for a normal calcaemia. In well
balanced formulations, however, magnesium level does not give rise to
major problems.
Trace Elements
• Indicated if PN is administered for ≥ 1 week. Commercial preparations are
available.
Vitamins
• Both fat and water soluble vitamins are essential. It should be added to
the fat infusion instead of amino-acid glucose mixture to reduce loss
during administration.
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NEONATALOGY
Administration
• TPN should be delivered where possible through central lines.
• Peripheral lines are only suitable for TPN ≤ 3 days duration and dextrose
concentration ≤ 12.5%.
• Peripheral lines are also limited by osmolality (600 mOsm/L) to prevent
phlebitis.
• Percutaneous central line: confirm catheter tip position on X-ray prior to use.
• Ensure strict aseptic technique in preparation and administration of TPN.
• Avoid breakage of the central line through which the TPN is infused,
though compatible drugs may be administered if necessary.
Caution
• Hyperkalaemia. Potassium is rarely required in first 3 days unless serum
potassium  4 mmol/l. Caution in renal impairment.
• Hypocalcaemia. May result from inadvertent use of excess phosphate.
Corrects with reduction of phosphate.
• Never add bicarbonate, as it precipitates calcium carbonate
• Never add extra calcium to the burette, as it will precipitate phosphates.
Complications
Delivery
The line delivering the TPN may be compromised by;
• Sepsis - minimized by maintaining strict sterility during and after insertion
• Malposition. X-ray mandatory before infusion commences
• Thrombophlebitis - with peripheral lines; requires close observation of
infusion sites.
• Extravasation into the soft tissue, with resulting tissue necrosis.
Metabolic complications
• Hyperglycaemia
• Hyperlipidaemia 	
• Cholestasis
Monitoring
Before starting an infant on parenteral nutrition, investigation required:
• Full blood count, haematocrit
• Renal profile
• Random blood sugar/dextrostix
• Liver function test, serum bilirubin
75
While on TPN, monitoring required :
Laboratory
• Full blood count, plasma sodium, potassium and creatinine.
Daily for 1 week then 2-3 times a week until stable.
• Plasma calcium, magnesium, phosphate. Twice/wk until stable then weekly.
• Triglyceride levels. After dose changes then weekly.
• Liver function test: If long term TPN ( 2 weeks duration).
Clinical
• Blood sugar / dextrostix, 4-6 hrly first 3 days, twice a day once stable.
• Daily weight
• Meticulous care of the catheter site and monitoring for infection.
Prevention of hospital acquired infection
• Aseptic precautions during preparation of PN.
• Use of laminar air flow.
• No compromise on disposables.
• Trained staff.
• No reuse of the PN solutions.
• No interruption of the venous line carrying PN.
• Use of bacterial filter in AA-glucose line.
NEONATOLOGY
76
NEONATALOGY
77
Chapter 13: NICU - General Pointers for Care and Review
of Newborn Infants
NEONATOLOGY
Checklist for Review of an infant in Intensive Care
• Age of infant
If 72 hours state in exact hours of age. Beyond this, state in completed days.
• Weight
Note birth weight and current weight. Initial drop in weight is expected for
newborn infants, term up to 10% BW in first 3-5 days, preterms up to 15% in
first 1 week. Less weight loss is expected with use of humidified incubators.
Abnormal weight gain/loss in the first days implies suboptimal fluid therapy.
• General condition.
Note: ill, unstable, handles poorly e.g. desaturates on handling, stable,
active, responsive to handling, improving, or good tone.
• Cardiopulmonary system
• Check for:
(i) Adequacy of the blood pressure – an estimate of normal BP for preterm
infant is that of the gestational age at birth. However, there is no
necessity to treat immediately if the baby is stable, responsive and of
good tone. Review after one hour to check for improvement in the BP.
(ii) Signs of poor perfusion (with poor peripheral pulses, rapid pulse, poor
capillary refilling and cold peripheries) – but these signs have not been
found to be very reliable for hypotension. Hypothermia can also be a
cause of poor perfusion.
(iii) Examine for presence of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm
infants.
• If BP is low and there has been a history of volume loss at birth or risk of
sepsis, infuse a fluid bolus of 10 ml/kg of Normal Saline. This may be
repeated if there is no improvement. After the 2nd dose of normal saline
5% albumin can be considered for volume expansion in severely
hypotensive infants. Caution: Risk of IVH in repeat doses especially in ELBW
or ill preterm infants – check first for volume loss or reduced vascular
volume due to extravascular fluid losses such as in sepsis or intestinal
obstruction. Albumin is required only in severe sepsis such as in NEC.
• Inotropic agents like adrenaline, dobutamine or dopamine may be needed.
Consider hydrocortisone in ill preterm infant at birth if no response to
volume or inotropes. Check that there is no iatrogenic hyperventilation as
a cause of hypotension.
• Fluids and Electrolytes
• Is the volume and type of fluid given to the child appropriate?
• Empiric fluid therapy for newborns:
0-24 hours : 	 60 ml/kg/day
24-48 hours : 	 90 ml/kg/day
48-72 hours : 	 120 ml/kg/day
 72 hours : 	 150 ml/kg/day
• Slower rates of increment for preterm infants, i.e. of 20 mls/kg/day.
More increments may be needed if evidence of dehydration,
i.e. excessive weight loss and hypernatraemia 145 mmol/l.
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NEONATALOGY
• Generally, 10% Dextrose fluid is given on the 1st day; and
Sodium and Potassium added on the second/third day.
• Total parenteral nutrition should be started as soon as possible for the
infant below 1000 -1250 grams, preferably within the first day of life.
Larger preterm infants may be started on parenteral nutrition if expected
to not able to be fed enterally for 5 or more days ( for eg congenital
diaphragmatic hernia, omphalocele/gastrochiasis) .
• Empirically:
- A preterm infant need 4-5 mmol/kg/day of sodium and 2-3 mmol/kg/day
of potassium, after the first few days of life.
- ELBW infants are prone for hyperkalaemia and adjustments should be
made based on serum electrolytes.
- Term infants need 2-3 mmol/kg/day of both sodium and potassium.
• Fluid and electrolyte therapy are influenced by underlying illness,
complications: make neccesary adjustments based on these conditions,
intake/output, weight, blood urea and electrolytes (BUSE).
- Monitor BUSE; correct any imbalances after considering underlying cause.
- Ensure the urine output is  1 ml/kg/hr after the first day of life.5
• Infection
• Is there a possibility of infection? Is the child on antibiotics?
• Fungal infection should be considered if the infant is a preterm infant
who has been on several courses of broad spectrum antibiotics and on
total parenteral nutrition. Consider discontinuing antibiotics if the blood
culture is negative and the patient improved “too quickly” after starting
antibiotics, probably responding to other measures to improve dehydration
or inadequate ventilatory support.
• Feeding
• Enteral feeds can be given via oro or nasogastric tube. Orogastric tube is
preferred in small infants as it prevents blockage of airway.
• Encourage expressed breast milk to be started within the first 2 days of life.
• Temperature Control
• Use of cling wrap/plastic wrap with cap for preterm infants soon after
delivery will help maintain normothermia.
• Under the radiant warmer, covering the open area of open hoods with
cling wrap and increasing water content with a humidifier will help in
temperature control and fluid regulation of the ELBW infant. Transfer
to a closed humidified incubator as soon as possible. Ensure thermoneutral
environment. Humidity is essential to maintain temperature in the
extremely preterm infants and reduce excessive weight loss in the first few
weeks of life. Below is a humidification guide for preterm infants.
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NEONATOLOGY
26 weeks gestation and below 27-30 weeks gestation
80% Humidity for at least 4 wks
(may require higher % to cope with
increased sodium)
80% Humidity for at least 2 wks
The infant’s skin should have keratinised fully at the end of this period,
therefore the humidity can be gradually reduced, as tolerated, to maintain
a satisfactory axillary temperature
Reduce the humidity gradually according to the infant’s temperature (70%
- 60% - 50%) until 20-30% is reached before discontinuing.
• Skin care
• A vital component of care especially for the premature infants.
• Avoid direct plastering onto skin and excessive punctures for blood taking
and setting up of infusion lines.
• Meticulous attention must be given to avoid extravasation of infusion fluid
and medication which can lead to phlebitis, ulceration and septicaemia.
• Group your blood taking together to minimise skin breaks/ breakage of
indwelling arterial lines.
• Observe limbs and buttocks prior to insertion of umbilical lines and at
regular intervals afterwards to look for areas of pallor or poor perfusion
due to vascular spasm.
• Central nervous system
• Check fontanelle tension and size, condition of sutures i.e. overriding or
separated, half-hourly to hourly head circumference monitoring (when
indicated e.g. infants with subaponeurotic haemorrhage).
• Sensorium, tone, movement, responses to procedures e.g. oral suctioning,
and presence or absence of seizure should be noted.
• Ventilation
• Check if ventilation is adequate. Is the child maintaining the optimum
blood gases? Can we start weaning the child off the ventilator?
• Overventilation is to be avoided as it may worsen the infant’s condition.
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NEONATALOGY
Endotracheal tube (ETT) Care
Infant weight ETT size ETT position (oral)1,2,3
1000g 2.5
1000g-2000g 3.0 7 cm
2000g-3000g 3.5 8 cm
3000g 3.5-4.0 9 cm
Footnotes:
1. oral ETT “tip-to-lip” distance; 2. or weight in kg + 6
3. for nasal ETT: add 2 cm respectively; For 1 kg and below - add 1.5 cm
Note:
The length of ETT beyond the lips should be checked as to be just sufficient for
comfortable anchoring and not excessively long so as to reduce dead space.
Suction of ETT
• Performed only when needed, as it may be associated with desaturation and
bradycardia.
• During suctioning, the FiO2 may need to be increased as guided by the SaO₂
monitor during suctioning.
• Remember to reduce to the level needed to keep SaO₂ 89-95%.
Umbilical Arterial Catheter (UAC) and Umbilical Venous Catheter (UVC) care
• Do not use iodine to prepare the skin for UAC or UVC placement .
• Do not allow the solution to pool under the infant as it may burn the skin
particularly in the very low birthweight infant.
• Change any damp or wet linen under the infant immediately following the
procedure.
• Sterile procedure is required for inserting the lines.
• For other than the time of insertion, wash hands or use alcohol rub before
taking blood from the UAC.
• Ensure aseptic procedure when handling the hub or 3 way tap of the line to
withdraw blood.
• UAC position
• Length to be inserted measured from the abdominal wall is:
	 3 X BW(kg) + 9 cm.
• Confirm with X-ray to ensure that the tip of the UAC is between T6 to T9 or
between L3-L4.
• Reposition promptly if the tip is not in the appropriate position. The high
positioning of the UAC is associated with less thrombotic events than the
low position.
• The UAC is kept patent with a heparin infusion (1U/ml) at 1 ml/hr and can
be attached to the intra-arterial blood pressure monitor.
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NEONATOLOGY
• UVC position
• Length to be inserted measured from the abdominal wall is:
	 ½ UAC length as calculated above +1 cm.
• This usually put the tip above the diaphragm. However, this formula is
not as accurate as using catheter length based on shoulder umbilical
length. (Check available graph) . The shoulder umbilical length is taken as a
perpendicular line dropped from the shoulder to the level of the umbilicus.
• Placement of the catheter tip in the portal circulation or liver is not
acceptable and catheter should be removed and a new catheter inserted
under sterile technique. In an emergency situation, it can be withdrawn to
the level of the umbilical vein to be used for a short period until an
alternative venous access is available.
• Remember to add on the length of the umbilical stump for calculating the
length of both UAC and UVC.
Ventilation
• Initial ventilator setting (in most situations):
Total Flow: 	 8 - 10 litres/min
Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP): 	 20-25 mmHg (lower in ELBW infants
and those ventilated for
non-pulmonary cause,
i. e normal lungs)
Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP): 	4 - 5 mmHg
Inspiration Time:	 0.3- 0.35 sec
Ventilation rate:	 40- 60 / min
FiO₂: 	 60 to 70% or based on initial oxygen
requirement on manual positive
pressure ventilation.
When Volume Guarantee is used:	 VG = 4 – 6 ml/kg
• The ventilator setting is then adjusted according to the clinical picture, pulse
oximetry reading and ABG which is usually done within the 1st hour.
• Note:	
• The I:E ratio should not be inverted (i.e.  1) unless requested specifically
by a specialist.
• Tailor the ventilation settings to the baby’s ABG.
	 Keep: 	 pH 	 7.25 - 7.40
		 PaO₂	 50 - 70 mmHg for premature infants
			 60 - 80 mm Hg for term infants
		 PaCO₂ 	 40 - 60 (NB. the trend is not to ‘chase’ the
PaCO₂ by increasing ventilator settings
unless there is respiratory acidosis).	
		 SaO₂ 	 89 - 92% for preterm infants.
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NEONATALOGY
• Changing of ventilator settings:
• To produce an increase in PaO₂ either: -
- Increase FiO2 concentration.
- Increase PEEP.
- Increase PIP (increases minute volume).
- rarely, increase I/E ratio (prolong inspiration).
• To produce a decrease in PaCO₂ either: -
- Increase Rate (increases minute volume).
- Decrease I/E ratio (prolong expiration).
- Increase PEEP in worsening lung disease.
- Decrease PEEP in recovery phase.
- Increase Targeted Volume in Ventilation
• Do the opposite to decrease PaO₂ or to increase PaCO₂.
• Minute volume = tidal volume (volume per breath) x rate per minute.
Minute volume should be about 0.1 – 0.3L/kg/min
• With volume-limited settings, minute volume can be calculated
(use tidal volume = 4-6 ml/kg).
• With pressure-limited mode - increasing peak inspiratory pressure
results in increased minute volume.
Sedation and Ventilation
• Avoid the use of paralysing agents as far as possible. Paralysis has been shown
to result in poorer lung function, more dependent oedema and longer duration
of ventilation.
• Use morphine infusion as an analgesia and sedative, if required.
83
Consider the following if the child deteriorates on ventilation:
Worsening of primary condition, e.g. RDS or congenital pneumonia	
Mechanical problems :
• ETT Dislodged or Obstructed
• ETT displaced/ too deep
• Pneumothorax	
• Ventilator tubes disconnected
• Ventilator malfunction
Overventilation of the lung
Pneumonia such as nosocomial pneumonia
PDA or heart failure
Persistent pulmonary hypertension
High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation (HFOV)
Indications
• When conventional ventilation fails HFOV should be considered. This is to be
discussed with the specialist.
• Care should be taken not to overinflate the lungs as this can lead to further
deterioration of child’s condition – i.e. worsening saturation, hypotension.
Practical management
• Switching from conventional ventilation to HFOV :
- Initial setting
• Leave FiO₂ level at the same level as that on conventional ventilation.
• MAP - For RDS, start at 2 cmH2O above the MAP of conventional
ventilation. In cases of air trapping, start MAP at same level as
conventional ventilation and adjust according to CXR and blood gas.
• Amplitude - 50-100% (Draeger Babylog 8000), Amplitude in Sensor Medic
(start with twice MAP value); adjust until chest and upper abdomen
vibrates but not whole abdomen.
• Frequency - 10Hz.
• Tidal volume - about 2 to 2.5ml/kg. (VThf on Draeger Babylog 8000)
- Continuation of HFOV
• Chest X-ray after 30-60 minutes, aim for lung expansion to 8-9th rib level
• Hypoxia - increase MAP or FiO₂ if not already on FiO₂ of 1.0
• Hyperoxia - reduce FiO₂ or decrease MAP (MAP to be reduced first if CXR
shows diaphragm to be below T9 or flattened or hyperinflated lung fields)
• Hypercapnia
- Increase amplitude
- Decrease frequency
- Increase MAP (if persistent or lung volume still poor)
NEONATOLOGY
84
• Hypocapnia
- Decrease amplitude.
- Increase frequency.
- Decrease MAP.
• Overinflation
- Reduce MAP.
- Consider discontinuing HFOV.
- Weaning
• Reduce FiO2 to 0.3-0.5.
• Reduce MAP by 1 to 2 mbar per hour until 8 to 9 mbar.
• Reduce amplitude.
• Extubate to head box/CPAP or change to conventional ventilation.
Guidelines for packed red blood cells (PRBCs) transfusion thresholds for
preterm neonates.
 28 days age, and • Assisted ventilation with FiO2
 0.3: Hb 12.0 gm/dL
or PCV  40%
• Assisted ventilation with FiO2
 0.3: Hb 11.0 g/dL
or PCV  35%
• CPAP: Hb  10 gm/dL or PCV 30%
 28 days age, and • Assisted ventilation: Hb  10 gm/dL or PCV  30%
• CPAP: Hb  8 gm/dL or PCV  25%
Any age, breathing
spontaneously,
and
• On FiO2
 0.21: Hb  8 gm/dL or PCV  25%*
• On Room Air: Hb  7 gm/dL or PCV  20%*
*Consider transfusion if there is poor weight gain or
metabolic acidosis as an indication of tissue hypoxia.
Guidelines for platelet transfusions in non-immune thrombocytopaenic
neonates
Platelet count
 30,000/mm3
• Transfuse all neonates, even if asymptomatic
Platelet count
30,000/mm3
-
50,000/mm3
Consider transfusion in
• Sick or bleeding newborns
• Newborns 1000 gm or  1 week of age
• Previous major bleeding tendency (IVH grade 3-4)
• Newborns with concurrent coagulopathy
• Requiring surgery or exchange transfusion
Platelet count
30,000/mm3
-
99,000/mm3
• Transfuse only if actively bleeding.
NEONATALOGY
85
Chapter 14: Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis
NEONATOLOGY
Thromboembolism (TE) is being increasingly recognised as a significant
complication of intravascular catheters in sick newborn infants. Many factors
contribute to neonatal catheter-related thrombosis, including the small caliber
of the vessel, endothelial damage, abnormal blood flow, design and site,
duration of catheterisation and composition of the infusate, in addition to the
increased risk of thrombus formation in sick infants. Sepsis and catheters are
the most common correlates of thrombosis in the NICU.
Definitions
• Vascular spasm – transient, reversible arterial constriction, triggered by
intravascular catheterisation or arterial blood sampling. The clinical effects of
vascular spasm usually last  4 hours from onset, but the condition may be
difficult to differentiate from the more serious TE. The diagnosis of vascular
spasm may thus only be made retrospectively on documenting the transient
nature of the ischaemic changes and complete recovery of the circulation.
• Thrombosis – complete or partial occlusion of arteries or veins by blood
clot(s).
Assessment
Clinical diagnosis
• Peripheral arterial thrombosis/ vasospasm – pallor or cyanosis of the
involved extremity with diminished pulses or perfusion.
• Central venous line (CVL) associated venous thrombosis – CVL malfunction,
superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome, chylothorax, swelling and livid
discolouration of extremity.
• Aortic or renal artery thrombosis – systemic hypertension, haematuria,
oliguria.
Diagnostic imaging
• Contrast angiography is the “gold standard”, but difficult to perform in
critically ill neonates and requires infusion of radiocontrast material that may
be hypertonic or cause undesired increase in vascular volume.
• Doppler ultrasonagraphy – portable, non-invasive, useful to monitor
progress over time. False positive and false negative results may occur, as
compared to contrast angiography.
Additional diagnostic tests
• Obtain detailed family history in all cases of unusual or extensive TE.
• In the absence of predisposing risk factors for TE, consider investigations for
thrombophilic disorders: anticardiolipin, antithrombin III, protein C, protein
S deficiency.
Management of vascular spasm
• Immediate measures to be taken:
- Lie the affected limb in horizontal position
- If only one limb is affected, warm (using towel) opposite unaffected leg to
induce reflex vasodilatation of the affected leg.
- Maintain neutral thermal environment for the affected extremity, i.e. keep
heat lamps away from the area.
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NEONATALOGY
• Inform the paediatrician immediately.
• Consider removing the catheter. If mild cyanosis of the fingers or toes is
noted after insertion of an arterial catheter, but peripheral pulses are still
palpable, a trial of reflex vasodilatation with close observation is reasonable
– check continuously to see that the cyanosis is improving within a few
minutes. A white or “blanched” appearing extremity is an indication for
immediate removal of the catheter.
• Other risk factors contributing to thrombosis includes dehydration, sepsis,
and polycythaemia. These factors may need to be corrected immediately.
• Maintain good circulatory volume. If there is no immediate improvement
with removal of catheter, try volume expansion 10 mls/kg of normal saline.
• Topical nitroglycerine – using patch or topical 2% ointment at a dose of
4 mm/kg body weight, applied as a thin film over the affected body area;
may be repeated after 8 hours. Monitor for hypotension and be prepared to
treat immediately.
• If the limb ischaemia persists for  1 hour without any improvement, refer
urgently to the radiologist if available. An urgent doppler ultrasound scan is
needed to ascertain whether the limb ischaemia is caused by vasospasm or
thrombosis.
Management of catheter-related thromboembolism
• Management of vascular TE may involve one or more of the following:
supportive care, anticoagulation, fibrinolytic therapy, surgical intervention.
• Treatment for neonates is highly individualised and is determined by the
extent of thrombosis and the degree to which diminished perfusion to the
affected extremity or organ affects function.
• Consultation with a paediatric haematologist, orthopaedic or vascular
surgeon may be required.
• Initial management
• As for vascular spasm for peripheral arterial ischaemia
• Removal of catheter as soon as blanching is seen.
• Supportive care – correct volume depletion, electrolyte abnormalities,
anaemia and thrombocytopaenia; treat sepsis.
• Anticoagulant/ thrombolytic therapy
• The risk of serious bleeding associated with antithrombotic therapy in
neonates must be balanced against the possibility of organ or limb loss or
death without appropriate treatment. Adequate randomised trials to guide
therapy in neonates are not available.
• Contraindications:
- Major surgery within the preceding 10 days.
- Major bleeding: intracranial, pulmonary, gastrointestinal.
- Pre-existing cerebral ischaemic lesions.
- Known history of heparin induced thrombocytopaenia or allergy to
heparin.
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NEONATOLOGY
• Relative contraindications –
- Platelet count  50,000 x 10⁹ /L.
- Fibrinogen levels  100mg/dL.
- Severe coagulation factor deficiency.
- Hypertension.
Note: anticoagulation/thrombolytic therapy can be given after correcting
these abnormalities.
• Precautions:
- no arterial punctures
- no subcutaneous or IM injections
- no urinary catheterisations
- avoid aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs
- monitor serial ultrasound scans for intracranial haemorrhage
• Anticoagulants
• Standard or unfractionated heparin (UFH)
- Anticoagulant, antithrombotic effect limited by low plasma levels of
antithrombin in neonates. For dosage see Table below.
- Optimal duration is unknown but therapy is usually given for 5-14 days
- Monitor thrombus closely during and following treatment.
- Anti- Factor X activity (if available) aimed at 0.3-0.7 U/mL.
- Baseline aPTT is prolonged at birth and aPTT prolongation is not linear
with heparin anticoagulant effect. Therefore Anti factor X activity more
effectively monitors UFH use in newborn infants.
Stage Description aPTT
(s)
Bolus
(U/kg)
Hold
(min)
% Rate
change
Repeat
aPTT
I Loading dose 75 IV over 10 mins
II Initial maintainence dose 28/h
III Adjustment 50 50 0 +10 4 hrs
50-59 0 0 +10 4 hrs
60-85 0 0 0 next day
85-95 0 0 -10 4 hrs
96-120 0 30 -10 4 hrs
120 0 60 -15 4 hrs
• A loading dose of 75 U/kg over 10 min followed by a maintainence dose of
28 units/kg (infants  1 year) is recommended.
• An aPTT should be checked 4h after the heparin loading dose and 4h after
every change in infusion rate. Once aPTT is in therapeutic range, a complete
blood count and aPTT should be checked daily or as clinically indicated.
• For preterm infants, loading dose is 50U/kg.
• Initial maintenance dose for newborn  28 weeks: 15U/kg/hr, newborn
28-36 weeks : 20U/kg/hr
Abbreviations: aPTT, activated partial thromboplastin time.
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NEONATALOGY
- Complications: bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia.
- Antidote: Protamine sulphate – see Table below for dosage.
Heparin:Time since last dosing Protamine dose
 30 min 1 mg/100 u heparin received
30-60 min 0.5 - 0.75 mg/100 u heparin received
60-120 min 0.375 - 0.5 mg/100 u heparin received
120 min 0.25 - 0.375 mg/100 u heparin received
Maximum dose 50 mg
Infusion rate 10 mg/ml solution; rate  5 mg/min
• Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)
- Advantages: Subcutaneous administration. Heparin induced
thrombocytopaenia is rarely associated with LMWH.
- Antidote: Omit 2 doses if an invasive procedure is required. Protamine is
partially effective, dosage 1mg/100U heparin given within the last 3-4 hrs.
Age Initial treatment dose Prophylactic dose
 2 months 1.5 mg/kg q12h 0.75 mg/kg q12h
 2 months 1 mg/kg q12h 0.5 mg/kg q12h
Therapeutic dose range may vary from 0.95-3.5mg/kg/q12h.
Note :
- LMWH has specific anti-factor Xa activity.
-Therapy is monitored using anti-Factor Xa and not APTT
(aim for anti-Factor Xa levels of 0.5-1U/mL), monitoring 4 hours after
dosage adjustment; weekly once therapeutic level attained.
- Monitoring of anti-FXa levels may not be available in some laboratories.
• Thrombolytic agents
• Consider thrombolytic agents (r-tPA: recombinant tissue plasminogen
activator, streptokinase) if there is major vessel occlusion causing critical
compromise of organs or limbs.
• Supplemental plasminogen (in the form of FFP) enhances thrombolytic effect.
• Thrombi already present for several days may be resistant to thrombolysis
(failure rates ≈ 50%).
• Monitoring
- Monitor fibrinogen levels, thrombin time, plasminogen levels before
starting, 3-4 hrs after starting and 3-4 times daily thereafter. Stop if
fibrinogen  100 mg/dL.
- Imaging studies q4-12 hr to allow discontinuing treatment as soon as clot
lysis achieved.
- Complications: bleeding, embolisation.
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NEONATOLOGY
Thrombolytic regimen in neonates
Drug IV bolus dose IV Maintenance dose
Streptokinase 1000 units/kg 1000 units/kg/hr
Urokinase 4,400 U/kg over 20 mins 4,400 units/kg/hr for 6-12 hrs
Tissue plasminogen
activator
(dose for direct infu-
sion into thrombus)
0.5 mg/kg over 10 mins 0.015-0.2 mg/kg/hr
Recommendations for management of thrombolytic therapy
Before initiating therapy:
• Exclude contraindications.
• Monitor full blood count, including platelets, fibrinogen.
• Obtain blood type, cross match.
• Ensure adequate supply of blood products, cryoprecipitate,
aminocaproic acid.
• Obtain cranial ultrasound.
• Ensure adequate venous access for infusion and monitoring.
• Have compresses and topical thrombin available in case of localised bleeding.
During therapy:
• Post sign on bed that patient is receiving thrombolytic therapy.
• Monitor PT, PTT, fibrinogen level every 4 h during infusion and 4h and 12h
after infusion.
• Daily cranial ultrasound.
• Maintain fibrinogen  150 mg/dlL with cryoprecipitate (1 unit/5 kg);
expect 20-50% decrease.
• Maintain platelet count  100,000/ml.
• No IM injections.
• No urinary catheterisation, rectal temperatures or arterial puncture.
• Minimal manipulation of patient.
• Avoid warfarin, antiplatelet agents.
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NEONATALOGY
91
Chapter 15: Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant
NEONATOLOGY
• Surfactant therapy for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is standard care
for preterm infants, based on numerous randomised controlled trials
demonstrating decreased mortality.
• Surfactant therapy reduces mortality rates most effectively in infants  30
weeks and those of birthweight  1250 gm.
• The guideline below is to address how to optimally use surfactant and in
which subpopulation of preterm infants.
• The approach should be an individualised one based on clinical appraisal as
given in the guideline below.
• Not all preterm infants have RDS and many of them initially have sufficient
surfactant to establish relatively normal ventilation before other factors such
as hypothermia, atelectasis or ventilation trauma inactivates the surfactant.
• The use of antenatal steroids has also reduced the incidence of RDS.
Who to give surfactant to?
• Depressed preterm infants who have no spontaneous respiration after 30
seconds of ventilation with T-piece resuscitator or resuscitation bag with
CPAP attachment and pressure manometers, and thus require positive
pressure ventilation (PPV).
• Preterm infants below 28 weeks gestation who are given only CPAP from
birth in delivery room, i.e. the infant has spontaneous respiration and good
tone at birth. Surfactant to be given within 30 minutes after birth. Decision
as to whether to leave the patient intubated after surfactant depends on the
lung compliance, severity of RDS and degree of prematurity
• Preterm infants between 28-32 weeks – to have CPAP from birth in delivery
room. To assess requirement for surfactant in NICU based on oxygen
requirement of FiO2  30% and respiratory distress.
To consider INSURE technique – INtubate, SURfactant, Extubate to CPAP
• More mature or larger infants should also be given surfactant if the RDS
is severe i.e. arterial alveolar (a/A) PO2 ratio of 0.22 or Fraction of inspired
(FiO2)  0.5
Calculation for a/A PO2 ratio :
PaO2 (mmHg)
(760-47)FiO2 –PaCO2 (mmHg)
• To be considered in severe meconium aspiration syndrome with type II
respiratory failure – to be used prior to high frequency oscillatory ventilation
and nitric oxide to allow the lungs to “open” optimally.
Timing of therapy
• Attempts to treat with surfactant before the infant can breathe resulted in
more bronchopulmonary dysplasia than early treatment in delivery room
because it interferes with initial stabilisation of the infant. Therefore
surfactant delivery within the first minute of life is not indicated.
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NEONATALOGY
• The first dose has to be given as early as possible to the preterm infants
requiring mechanical ventilation for RDS. The repeat dose is given 4-6 hours
later if FiO2
is still  0.30 with optimal tidal volume settings forthose below
32 weeks and if FiO2
 0.40 and CXR still shows moderate to severe RDS
(“white” CXR) for those infants  32 weeks gestational age.
Types of surfactant and dosage
There are two types of surfactant currently available in Malaysia
• Survanta , a natural surfactant, bovine derived
Dose : 4 ml/kg per dose.
• Curosurf , a natural surfactant, porcine derived (not in Blue Book)
Dose: 1.25 mls/kg per dose.	
Method of administration
• Insert a 5 Fr feeding tube that has been cut to a suitable length so as not
to protrude beyond the tip of the ETT on insertion, through the ETT. If the
surfactant is given soon after birth, it will mix with foetal lung fluid and
gravity will not be a factor. Therefore no positional changes are required for
surfactant given in delivery room.
• Surfactant is delivered as a bolus as fast as it can be easily be pushed through
the catheter. Usually this takes 2 aliquots over a total of a few minutes.
Continue PPV in between doses and wait for recovery before the next
aliquot, with adjustments to settings if there is bradycardia or
desaturation. Administration over 15 minutes has been shown to have poor
surfactant distribution in the lung fields.
• Alternatively the surfactant can be delivered through the side port on ETT
adaptor without disconnecting the infant from the ventilator. There will be
more reflux of surfactant with this method.
Monitoring
• Infants should be monitored closely with a pulse oximeter and regular blood
gas measurements. An indwelling intra-arterial line wiould be useful.
Ventilator settings must be promptly wound down to reduce the risk of
pneumothorax and ventilator induced lung injury. Consider extubation to
CPAP if the oxygen requirement is less than 30% and there are minimal
pressure requirements.
93
Chapter 16: The Newborn and Acid Base Balance
NEONATOLOGY
The rate of metabolism in infants is twice as great in relation to body mass as
in adults, which means twice as much acid is formed which leads to a tendency
toward acidosis. Functional development of kidneys is not complete till the end
of the first month and hence renal regulation of acid base may not be optimal.
Causes of Acidosis
Metabolic acidosis Respiratory acidosis
Renal failure Asphyxia
(injury to respiratory centre)
Septicaemia
Hypoxia Obstruction to respiratory tract e.g.
secretions, blocked endotracheal tube
Hypothermia
Hypotension Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
Cardiac failure Pneumonia
Dehydration Pulmonary oedema
Hyperkalaemia Apnoea
Hyperglycaemia
Anaemia
Intraventricular haemorrhage
Drugs (e.g. acetazolamide)
Metabolic disorders
Causes of Alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis Respiratory alkalosis
Sodium bicarbonate Asphyxia
(overstimulation of respiratory centre)
Pyloric stenosis
Hypokalaemia Over-ventilation while on mechanical
ventilation
Drugs (e.g.thiazides and frusemide)
Effects of acidosis and alkalosis in the body
• Acidosis
- Depression of central nervous system (CNS)
- Disorientation and coma.
- Increased depth and rate of respiration in metabolic acidosis and depressed
respiration in respiratory acidosis.
- High PaCO₂ in respiratory acidosis increases cerebral blood flow and risk of
intraventricular haemorrhage.
94
NEONATALOGY
• Alkalosis
- Over-excitability of the central nervous system.
- Decreased cerebral blood flow - causing cerebral ischaemia, convulsions
Measurement of Acid Base Status
• Done by analyzing following parameters in an arterial blood gas sample:
	 Normal values:
	 pH	7.34-7.45
	 PaCO2
	 5.3-6.0 kpa (40-45 mmHg)
	 HCO3
-
	 20-25 mmol/L
	PaO2
	 8-10 kpa (60-75 mmHg)
	 BE	 ± 5 mmol/L
Interpretation of Blood Gases
• pH  7.34 : acidosis
- If PaCO₂ and HCO₃ are low and base deficit is high: metabolic acidosis.
- If PaCO₂ and HCO₃ are high and base excess is high: respiratory acidosis.
- If both PaCO₂ and base deficit are high: mixed metabolic and
repiratory acidosis.
• pH  7.45: alkalosis
- If PaCO₂ is low: respiratory alkalosis
- If HCO₃ and base excess are high: metabolic alkalosis
Acidosis and alkalosis may be partially or fully compensated by the opposite
mechanism.
• Low PaCO₂: hypocarbia; high PaCO₂: hypercarbia
Permissive hypercapnia (PCO2
45-55 mmHg) is an important ventilation
technique to reduce the risk of volume trauma and chronic lung disease.
• Low PaO₂: hypoxaemia; high PaO₂: hyperoxaemia
Management of Metabolic Acidosis and Alkalosis
• Treat underlying cause when possible.
• Do not treat acute metabolic acidosis by hyperventilation or by giving
bicarbonate. This may correct pH but has deleterious effects on cardiac
output and pulmonary blood flow. The use of sodium bicarbonate in acute
resuscitative conditions is not advocated by the current body of evidence.
• Volume expansion (i.e., bolus 10 mL/kg of 0.9% Normal Saline) should not
be used to treat acidosis unless there are signs of hypovolemia. A volume
load is poorly tolerated in severe acidosis because of decreased myocardial
contractility.
• NaHCO₃ should be used only in the bicarbonate-losing metabolic acidoses
such as diarrhea or renal tubular acidosis.
• Dose of NaHCO₃ for treatment of metabolic acidosis can be calculated by:
Dose in mmol of NaHCO3
= Base deficit (mEq) x Body weight (kg) x 0.3
• Do not give NaHCO₃ unless infant is receiving assisted ventilation that is
adequate. With inadequate ventilation, NaHCO₃ will worsen acidosis from
liberation of CO₂.
95
NEONATOLOGY
• For chronic mild metabolic acidosis in small premature infants on
hyperalimentation, maximize acetate and minimize chloride in the solution.
• Metabolic alkalosis: usually iatrogenic in premature infants - diuretic use,
gastrointestinal losses, and occurs in combination with contracted
intravascular and ECF volumes.
Treatment of respiratory acidosis and alkalosis
• A steadily rising PaCO₂ at any stage in the disease is an indication that
ventilatory assistance is likely to be needed.
• A sudden rise may be an indication of acute changes in the infant’s condition
e.g. pneumothorax, collapsed lobes, misplaced endotracheal tube. .
(DOPE mnemonic: Displacement, Obstruction, Pneumothorax and
Equipment Failure)
• A swift rise in PaCO₂ often accompanied by hypoxia following weaning is
often an indication that the infant is not ready for weaning.
• A gradual rise in PaCO₂ at the end of the first week in a LBW infant on
ventilator may be an indicator of the presence of a patent ductus arteriosus.
• Low PaCO₂ in a infant on a ventilator means overventilation, hence
treatment is to wean down the ventilation settings.
Interpretation of Blood Gases
Examples of Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Interpretation
1. A 29 weeks’ gestation and 1.1 kg BW infant has RDS. He is 20 hours old and
is being nursed on nasal CPAP.
His ABG shows:	
	 Question (Q): What does the ABG show?
	 Answer (A): Mild respiratory acidosis due to
	 worsening Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
	Q: What is the next appropriate mode of therapy?
	A: Mechanical ventilation
	
2. Below is the ABG of a 10 hour old 28 weeks’ gestation infant :
	 Q: What does the ABG show?
	A: Mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis
	Q: Name a likely diagnosis
	A: Respiratory distress syndrome
pH 7.21
PaCO₂ 6.6 kPa
PaO₂ 7.5 kPa
HCO₃ 20 mmol/L
BE -4 mmol/L
pH 7.22
PaCO₂ 7.0 kPa
PaO₂ 10.0 kPa
HCO₃ 17 mmol/L
BE -8 mmol/L
96
NEONATALOGY
3. The following is the ABG of a 40 day old 26 weeks’ gestation baby:
	 Q: What does the ABG show?
	A: Compensated respiratory acidosis
	Q: What is a likely diagnosis?
	A: Chronic lung disease.
4. An infant of 30 weeks’ gestation and BW 1.3 kg is on a ventilator.
ABG shows:
	 Q: Interpret the ABG
	A: Compensated metabolic acidosis by
	 respiratory alkalosis and hyperoxaemia
	Q: What is your next course of action?
	A: Reduce FiO₂, treat any contributory cause of
	 acidosis and wean down ventilation settings.
5. A term infant is being ventilated for meconium aspiration.
His ABG is as follows :
	 Q: What is likely to have happened?
	A: Pneumothorax
	Q: What is your interpretation of the ABG
	A: Mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis
	 with hypoxaemia.
6. A 6 day old infant is being ventilated for a cyanotic heart disease.
ABG shows :
	 Q: What does the ABG show?
	A: Metabolic acidosis with severe hypoxaemia.
	Q: What is your next course of action ?
	A: Consider prostaglandin infusion, confirm heart
	 defect by Echocardiography, consider reducing
	 ventilation.
Pearls
Conversion of kPa to mmHg is a factor of 7.5.
pH 7.35
PaCO₂ 3.0 kPa
PaO₂ 15.0 kPa
HCO₃ 12 mmol/L
BE -12 mmol/L
pH 7.16
PaCO₂ 10.0 kPa
PaO₂ 6.0 kPa
HCO₃ 16 mmol/L
BE -10 mmol/L
pH 7.38
PaCO₂ 8.0 kPa
PaO₂ 8.0 kPa
HCO₃ 35 mmol/L
BE +10mmol/L
pH 7.2
PaCO₂ 4.5 kPa
PaO₂ 3.0 kPa
HCO₃ 8 mmol/L
BE -15mmol/L
97
Chapter 17: Neonatal Encephalopathy
NEONATOLOGY
• Neonatal Encephalopathy (NE) is a clinical syndrome of disturbed
neurological function, caused by failure to make a successful transition to
extrauterine gas exchange
• Manifests in a difficulty in initiating and maintaining spontaneous
respiration, depression of muscle tone and reflexes, depressed
consciousness and often seizures.
• Occurs in 3.5 - 6/1000 live births; usually affects full term infants.
• The terminology NE is preferred to Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
as it is not always possible to document a significant hypoxic-ischemic insult
and there are other aetiologies such as CNS malformation, infection, multiple
gestation, IUGR, maternal autoimmune disorders, metabolic disorders, drug
exposure, and neonatal stroke as possible causes of the encephalopathy.
• Risk factors for neonatal encephalopathy were mainly seen in the antenatal
period (69%) as compared to the intrapartum period (25%) in a large
Western Australian study. Only 4% were due to intrapartum hypoxia.
HIE in newborn requires the presence of all 3 of the following criteria:
1. Presence of a clinically recognized encephalopathy within 72 hrs of birth.
AND
2. Three or more supporting findings from the following list:
• Arterial cord pH  7.00
• Apgar score at 5 minutes of 3 or less
• Evidence of multiorgan system dysfunction within 72 hours of birth
• Evidence of foetal distress on antepartum monitoring: persistent late
decelerations, reversal of end-diastolic flow on Doppler flow studies of
the umbilical artery or a biophysical profile of 2 or less
• Evidence of CT, MRI, technetium or ultrasound brain scan performed
within 7 days of birth of diffuse or multifocal ischaemia or of cerebral
oedema.
• Abnormal EEG: low amplitude and frequency, periodic, paroxysmal or
isoelectric.
AND
3. The absence of an infectious cause, a congenital malformation of the
brain, an inborn error of metabolism or other condition, which could
explain the encephalopathy.
• In HIE, the brain injury is caused by a deficit in oxygen supply.
• This can occur by
• Hypoxemia - a decrease in oxygen saturation in the blood supply, or
• Ischaemia - a decrease in the amount of blood perfusing the brain
or both processes.
98
NEONATALOGY
Staging of Neonatal Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
This done using the Sarnat and Sarnat Staging system (facing page). This is
mainly used in term infants or infants  35 weeks gestation. It is not useful in
premature infants.
Management
• Adequate and effective resuscitation.
• Commence cooling therapy within 6 hours of life for moderate to severe
HIE in those more than or equal to 35 weeks gestation.
• Vital sign monitoring. Monitoring of blood gases, urine output, blood sugar
and electrolytes.
• Management is supportive.
• Avoid hyperthermia that may be associated with adverse outcome
• Maintain normoglycaemia, both hypo- and hyperglycemia can be harmful.
• Review infection risk and cover with antibiotics if necessary
• Maintain adequate hydration (do not dehydrate or over hydrate).
• Cerebral protection measures
• Maintain normal Blood Pressure. If necessary, consider use of inotrope
infusion rather volume expander unless there is hypovolaemia.
• Treat seizures (see chapter on Neonatal Seizures)
• Mechanical ventilation to maintain normocarbia.
• Treat other systemic complications that arise:
• Renal. Acute tubular necrosis.
If oliguria with urine output  1ml/kg/hr, check for prerenal cause and
treat accordingly. If in established renal failure, restrict fluid and maintain
normal electrolyte levels.
• Cardiac. Hypoxic damage to myocardium with cardiogenic shock and failure.
Use of inotropes and careful fluid balance.
• Lungs. Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN).
See relevant chapter on PPHN
• Gastrointestinal. Stress ulcers, feed intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis.
Enteral feeding is preferable to parenteral but avoid rapid increase in
volume of feeds to decrease risk of necrotizing enterocolitis.
• Haematology. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation.
Correct coagulopathy as indicated.
• Others. SIADH, hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia, and hypomagnesaemia
Restrict fluids in SIADH. Correct hypoglycaemia and electrolyte
imbalances.
99
NEONATOLOGY
Staging of Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
Only for term infants or  35 weeks gestation. Not for use in premature infants.
Variable Stage I Stage II Stage III
Level of consciousness Alert Lethargy Coma
Muscle tone Normal or
hypertonia
Hypotonia Flaccidity
Tendon reflexes Increased Increased Depressed or
absent
Myoclonus Present Present Absent
Seizures Absent Frequent Frequent,
then subsides
Complex reflexes
Suck
Moro
Grasp
Doll’s eyes
Poor
Exaggerated
Normal or
exaggerated
Normal
Weak
Incomplete
Exaggerated
Overactive
Absent
Absent
Absent
Reduced
or absent
Autonomic function
Pupils
Respirations
Heart rate
Salivation
	
Dilated, reactive
Regular
Normal
or tachycardia
Sparse
Constrictive,
reactive
Variation in rate,
depth; Periodic
Bradycardia
Profuse	
Variable or
fixed
Ataxic, apneic
Bradycardia
Variable
Electroencephalogram Normal Early
Low voltage-
continuous,
Later
Periodic,
paroxysmal
Early
Periodic, Burst
suppression
Later
Isoelectric
Outcome No impairment 25% Impaired 92% Impaired
100
NEONATALOGY
Investigations
Investigation Indication
Cranial Ultrasound To exclude haemorrhage and other intracerebral
abnormalities.
Doppler studies (done after 24 hours of life)
suggest that a resistive index of less than 0.5-0.6 is
consistent with the diagnosis of HIE.
Brain CT scan To exclude haemorrhage, cerebral oedema and
other intracerebral abnormalities. May assist with
prognosis. Extensive areas of low attenuation with
apparent brightness of basal ganglia are associated
with very poor prognosis (done after 1st week of
life).
Brain MRI MRI may provide prognostic information.
Thalamic, basal ganglia abnormalities are
associated with a risk of abnormal
neuro-developmental outcome. Superior to CT
scans.
Amplitude intergrated
Electroencephalogram
(aEEG)
Overall risks for death or disability were 95% for
a severely abnormal aEEG, 64% for a moderately
abnormal aEEG and 3 % for a normal or mildly
abnormal aEEG.
Follow up
• All infants with NE should be followed up to look for development and
neurological problems.
• Manage epilepsy (see Ch 44: Epilepsy), developmental delay, cerebral palsy,
learning difficulty as appropriate.
• To evaluate hearing and vision on follow-up and manage appropriately.
101
Chapter 18: Neonatal Seizures
NEONATOLOGY
Seizures are the most frequent manifestation of neonatal neurological diseases.
It is important to recognize seizures, determine aetiology and treat them as:
1. The seizures may be related to diseases that require specific treatment.
2. The seizures may interfere with supportive measures e.g. feeding and
assisted respiration for associated disorders.
3. The seizures per se may lead to brain injury.
Etiology
Determination of etiology is critical because it gives the opportunity to treat
specifically and also to make a meaningful prognosis.
Etiology
Onset1
Frequency2
0-3 days 3 days Preterm Term
Hypoxic - ischemic encephalopathy + +++ +++
Intracranial hemorrhage + + ++ +
Intracranial infections + + ++ ++
Brain malformations + + + ++
Hypoglycaemia + + +
Hypocalcaemia + + + +
Metabolic disturbances,inborn errors + +
Epileptic Syndromes + + +
Footnote: 1, Postnatal age; 2, Relative frequency of seizures among all etiologies:
+++ most common, ++ less common, + least common.
From JJVolpe: Neurology of the Newborn 4th edition. Page 190
Notes:
• Hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy
• Usually secondary to perinatal asphyxia.
• Most common cause of neonatal seizures (preterm and term)
• Seizures occur in the first day of life (DOL)
• Presents with subtle seizures; multifocal clonic or focal clonic seizures
• If focal clonic seizures may indicate associated focal cerebral infarction
• Intracranial haemorrhage (ICH)
• Principally germinal matrix-intraventricular (GM-IVH), often with
periventricular haemorrhagic (PVH) infarction in the premature infant
• Severe GM-IVH: onset of seizures in first 3 DOL (usually generalized tonic
type with subtle seizures).
• With associated PVH usually develop seizures after 3 DOL.
• In term infants ICH are principally subarachnoid (may occur with HIE) and
subdural (often associated with a traumatic event, usually presenting with
focal seizures in the first 2 DOL).
102
NEONATALOGY
ClassificationofNeonatalSeizures
ClinicalSeizureEEGseizureManifestation
SubtleCommon•Ocularphenomena
•Tonichorizontaldeviationofeyescommoninterminfants.
•Sustainedeyeopeningwithfixationcommoninpreterminfants.
•Blinking.
•Oral-buccal-lingualmovements
•Chewingcommoninpreterminfants.
•Lipsmacking,cry-grimace.
•Limbmovements
•Pedaling,stepping,rotaryarmmovements
•Apnoeicspellscommoninterminfants
Clonic
Focal
Multifocal
Common
Common
Welllocalizedclonicjerking,infantusuallynotunconscious
Multifocalclonicmovements;simultaneous,insequenceornon-ordered(non-Jacksonian)migration
Tonic
Focal
Generalized
Common
Uncommon
Sustainedposturingofalimb,asymmetricalposturingoftrunkorneck
•Tonicextensionofupperandlowerlimbs(mimicdecerebrateposturing)
•Tonicflexionofupperlimbsandextensionoflowerlimbs(mimicdecorticateposturing)
•ThosewithEEGcorrelates;autonomicphenomena,e.g.increasedBPareprominentfeatures.
Myoclonic
Focal,Multifocal
Generalized
Uncommon
Common
Welllocalized,singleormultiple,migratingjerksusuallyoflimbs
Single/severalbilateralsynchronousjerksorflexionmovementmoreinupperthanlowerlimbs.
103
NEONATOLOGY
• Intracranial Infection
• Common organisms are group B streptococci, E. coli., toxoplasmosis, herpes
simplex, coxsackie B, rubella and cytomegalovirus.
• Malformations of cortical development
• Neuronal migration disorder resulting in cerebral cortical dysgenesis
• Metabolic disorder
• Hypoglycemia. It may be difficult to establish hypoglycemia as the cause of
seizures because of associated hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy,
hypocalcaemia or hemorrhage.
• Hypocalcaemia has 2 major peaks of incidences:
- First 2 - 3 days of life, in low birth weight infants, infant of a diabetic
mother or history of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. A therapeutic
response to IV calcium will help in determe if low serum calcium is the
cause of the seizures. Early hypocalcaemia is more commonly an
associated factor rather than the cause of seizures.
- Later-onset hypocalcaemia is associated with endocrinopathy (maternal
hypoparathyroidism, neonatal hypoparathyroidism) and heart disease
(+/- Di George Syndrome); rarely with nutritional disorders (cow’s milk, high
phosphorus synthetic milk). Hypomagnesemia is a frequent accompaniment.
• Other metabolic disorders, e.g. intoxication with lidocaine, hypo- and
hyper-natraemia, hyperammonemia amino acidopathy, organic acidopathy,
non-ketotic hyperglycinemia, mitochondrial diosrders, pyridoxine
dependency (recalcitrant seizures cease with IV pyridoxine) and glucose
transporter defect (GLUT1 deficiency: low CSF glucose but normal blood
glucose - treated with a ketogenic diet).
Seizures versus Jitteriness and Other Non-epileptic Movements
Jitteriness and other normal movement during sleep (Myoclonic jerks as infant
wakes from sleep) or when awake/ drowsy (roving sometimes dysconjugate
eye movements, sucking not accompanied by ocular fixation or deviation) in
newborns may be mistaken for seizures.
Clinical Manifestation Jitteriness Seizure
Abnormality of gaze or eye movement 0 +
Movements exquisitely stimulus sensitive + 0
Predominant movement Tremors1
Clonic,
jerking2
Movements stop with passive flexion of affected limb + 0
Autonomic changes (tachycardia, high BP, apnoea,
salivation, cutaneous vasomotor phenomena)
0 +
Footnote:1,Tremors – alternating movements are rhythmical and of equal rate and
amplitude;2,Clonic,jerking – movements with a fast and slow component
Adapted from JJVolpe:Neurology in the Newborn 4th Edition.Page 188
104
NEONATALOGY
Management
• Ensure adequate respiratory effort and perfusion.
• Correct metabolic and electrolyte disorders.
• No consensus on the treatment of minimal or absent clinical manifestations.
• Anticonvulsant treatment prevents potential adverse effects on ventilatory
function, circulation and cerebral metabolism (threat of brain injury).
• Little evidence for use of any anticonvulsant drugs currently prescribed in
the neonatal period. Also lack of consensus on optimal treatment protocol.
• Controversy regarding identification of adequacy of treatment, elimination
of clinical seizures or electrophysiology seizures. Generally majority attempt
to eliminate all or nearly all clinical seizures.
• Anticonvulsant drugs may not treat electroencephalographic seizures even if
they are effective in reducing or eliminating the clinical manifestations
(electro-clinical dissociation).
• Uncertainty exists over when to commence anticonvulsant drugs.
Consider anticonvulsant drugs to treat seizures when seizures:
• Are prolonged – greater than 2-3 minutes.
• Are frequent– greater than 2-3 per hour.
• Disrupt of ventilation and/or blood pressure homeostasis.
• Administer anti convulsant drugs:
• Intravenously to achieve rapid onset of action and predictable blood levels.
• To achieve serum levels in the high therapeutic range.
• To maximum dosage before introducing a second drug.
• Requirement for maintenance and duration of therapy is not well defined.
Keep duration of anti convulsant drug treatment as short as possible.
However, this depends on diagnosis and likelihood of seizure recurrence.
• Maintenance therapy may not be required if loading doses of anticonvulsant
drugs control clinical seizures.
• Babies with prolonged or difficult to treat seizures and those with
abnormality on EEG may benefit from continuing anticonvulsant treatment.
Duration of Anticonvulsant Therapy- Guidelines
Duration of therapy depends on the probability of recurrence of seizures if
the drugs are discontinued and the risk of subsequent epilepsy. This can be
determined by considering the neonatal neurological examination, cause of the
seizure and the EEG.
Neonatal Period
• If neonatal neurological examination becomes normal, discontinue therapy
• If neonatal neurological examination is persistently abnormal,
• Consider etiology and obtain electroencephalogram (EEG).
• In most cases – continue phenobarbitone, discontinue phenytoin.
• And re-evaluate in one month.
105
One Month after Discharge
• If neurological examination has become normal, discontinue
phenobarbitone over 2 weeks.
• If neurological examination is persistently abnormal, obtain EEG.
• If no seizure activity or not overtly paroxysmal on EEG, discontinue
phenobarbitone over 2 weeks.
• If seizure activity is overtly paroxysmal continue phenobarbitone until
3 months of age and reassess in the same manner.
Prognosis
Prognosis according to aetiology of neonatal seizures
Neurological disorder Normal Development (%)1
Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy 50
Severe Intraventricular Haemorrhage with
periventricular hemorrhagic infarction
10
Hypocalcaemia
Early onset
(depends on prognosis of complicating
illness, if no neurological illness present
prognosis approaches that of later onset )
Later onset (nutritional type)
50
100
Hypoglycemia 50
Bacterial meningitis 50
Malformation of Cortical Development 0
Footnote:1, Prognosis based cases with the stated neurological disease when
seizures are a manifestation.This will differ from overall prognosis of the disease.
From JJVolpe: Neurology in the Newborn:4th edition. Page 202
NEONATOLOGY
106
Investigations to consider:
• Blood sugar, Ca, Mg, electrolytes
• Septic screen: FBC, Blood CS,
LP, TORCHES
• Metabolic screen:ABG,ammonia,
amino acids, organic acids
• Neuroimaging: US, CT, MRI Brain
• Electroencephalography (EEG)
Assess ABCs.
Ensure adequate
ventilation, perfusion
Infant with Clinical Seizures
No hypoglycemia
IV 10% Dextrose at 2 ml/kg
(200mg/kg)
Then IV Glucose infusion at
8 mg/kg/min infusion
Capillary Blood Sugar STAT
IV Phenobarbitone 20mg/kg
slow infusion over 30 mins
If seizures continue,
Give another 5-10mg/kg until
either seizures stop or a total
dose of 40mg/kg
Hypoglycemia !
Seizures still !
IV Phenytoin 10mg/kg slow
infusion (max rate 0.5mg/kg/min)
Repeat a 2nd loading dose if
fits recur.
Monitor Cardiac rate and
rhythm during infusion
Seizures still !
IV Diazepam 0.3mg/kg/h
infusion,OR
IV Midazolam 0.15mg/kg over
minimum of 5 minutes or as
an infusion 1-4mcg/kg/min
Seizures still !
Consider:
IV Calcium Gluconate,10% solution: 0.5 ml/kg
IV Magnesium sulfate, 50% solution: 0.2 ml/kg
IV Pyridoxine 50-100mg
Maintenance therapy:
IV or PO 3-5mg/kg/d q12h,
Given 12-24 h after loading
AE : Respiratory depression,
hypotension
Maintenance therapy:
4-8mg/kg/d q12h, IV
Given 12-24 h after loading
AE: Heart block, hypotension
Note: oral absorption erratic
Alert:
AE: Respiratory depression,
hypotension (if injected rapidly or
concomitant narcotic treatment),
myoclonus in preterm, urinary
retention
Management of Neonatal Seizures
NEONATALOGY
107
Chapter 19: Neonatal Hypoglycemia
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
The authors of several literature reviews have concluded that there is not a
specific plasma glucose concentration or duration of hypoglycemia that can
predict permanent neurologic injury in high-risk infants.
• Neonatal glucose concentrations decrease after birth, to as low as
30 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/dL) during the first 1 to 2 hours after birth, and then
increase to higher and relatively more stable concentrations, generally above
45 mg/dL (2.5 mmol/L) by 12 hours after birth.
• From birth to 4 hours, glucose level of above 25 mg/dL (1.5 mmol/L) is
acceptable if the infant is asymptomatic.
• Hypoglycaemia is defined as  2.6 mmol/L after first 4 hours of life.
• There is no specific plasma glucose concentration or duration of
hypoglycemia that predicts permanent neurologic injury in high-risk infants.
High Risk Infants
• Infants of Diabetic Mothers.
• Small for Gestational Age infants.
• Preterm infants including late preterm infants.
• Macrosomic infants / Large for gestational age infants  4.0kg.
• Ill infants including those with:
• Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
• Rhesus disease.
• Polycythaemia.
• Sepsis.
• Hypothermia.
Clinical Features
Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include:
• Jitteriness and irritability.
• Apnoea and cyanosis.
• Hypotonia and poor feeding.
• Convulsions.
Note: Hypoglycaemia may be asymptomatic therefore monitoring is important
for high risk cases.
Management
Prevention and Early Detection – at birth.
• Identify at risk infants.
• Well infants who are at risk:
• Immediate feeding – first feed can be given in Labour Room.
• Supplement feeding until breastfeeding established.
• Unwell infants:
• Set up dextrose 10% drip.
• Regular glucometer monitoring:
• On admission and at 1, 2 and 4 hours after admission.
• 3 -6 hourly just prior to feeding once stable for 24-48 hours.
108
NEONATALOGY
Hypoglycaemia
• Repeat the capillary blood sugar sampling and send RBS stat.
• Examine and document any symptoms.
• Note when the last feeding was given.
• If on IV drip, check that IV infusion of glucose is adequate and running well.
• Blood Sugar Level 1.5mmol/l or if the baby is symptomatic:
• GIve IV bolus Dextrose 10% at 2-3 ml/kg.
• Followed by dextrose 10% drip at 60-90ml/kg/day (for day 1 of life) to
maintain normal blood glucose.
• If baby is already on dextrose 10% drip, consider increasing the rate or the
glucose concentration (usually require 6-8 mg/kg/min of glucose delivery).
• If blood sugar level (BSL) 1.5 – 2.5 mmol/l and asymptomatic:
• Give supplementary feed (EBM or formula) as soon as possible.
• If BSL remains  2.6 mmol/l and baby refuses feeds, give dextrose 10% drip.
• If baby is on dextrose 10% drip, consider stepwise increment of glucose
infusion rate by 2 mg/kg/min until blood sugar is  2.6 mmol/L.
• Glucose monitoring (capillary blood sugar - dextrostix, glucometer):
• If blood sugar is  2.6 mmol/l, re-check glucometer 1
/2
hourly.
• If blood sugar  2.6 mmol/l for 2 readings: Monitor hourly x 2,
Then 2 hourly X 2, Then to 4-6 hourly if blood sugar remains normal.
• Start feeding when capillary blood sugar remains stable and increase as
tolerated. Reduce the IV infusion rate one hour after feeding increment.
Persistent Hypoglycaemia
If hypoglycaemia persists despite intravenous dextrose, consult MO/ specialist
and for district hospitals, consider early referral.
• Re-evaluate the infant
• Confirm hypoglycaemia with RBS but treat as such while awaiting RBS result.
• Increase volume by 30ml/kg/day and/or increase dextrose concentration to
12.5% or 15% . Concentrations 12.5% must be infused through a central line.
• If hypoglycaemia still persists despite glucose delivery 8-10 mg/kg/min,
consider glucagon 40 mcg/kg stat then 10-50mcg/kg/h. Glucagon is only
useful where there is sufficient liver stores, thus should not be used for SGA
babies or in adrenal insufficiency.
• In others especially SGA, give IV Hydrocortisone 2.5 -5 mg/kg /dose bd.
There may be hyperinsulinaemia in growth retarded babies as well.
Prescription to make up a 50mL solution of various dextrose infusions :
Infusion concentration Volume of 10% Dextrose Volume of 50% Dextrose
12.5 % 46.5 ml 3.5 ml
15 % 44.0 ml 6.0 ml
Glucose requirement (mg/kg/min) = % of dextrose x rate (ml/hr)
weight (kg) x 6
109
NEONATOLOGY
Recurrent or resistant hypoglycaemia
• Consider this if failure to maintain normal blood sugar levels despite a
glucose infusion of 15 mg/kg/min, or
• When stabilization is not achieved by 7 days of life. High levels of glucose
infusion may be needed in the infants to achieve euglycemia.
Differential diagnoses include:
• Hyperinsulinaemic states (e.g.Beckwith-Wiedemann syndr, Nesidioblastosis)
• Adrenal insufficiency.
• Galactosaemia.
• Metabolic (e.g. fatty acid oxidation disorders) and mitochondrial disorders.
Investigations
• Insulin , cortisol, growth hormone levels
• Serum ketones
• Urine for organic acids
Take blood investigations before an increase in rate of glucose infusion when
hypoglycaemia persists despite glucose infusion. Further investigation is
directed by the results of these tests and the differential diagnosis above.
Medical treatment
• As per protocol for Management of Persistent Hypoglycaemia.
• PO Diazoxide 10-25mg/kg/day in three divided doses
- Reduces insulin secretion, therefore useful in hyperinsulinaemia.
- Not to be used in SGA infants.
• SC Octreotide (synthetic somatostatin) 2-10 μg/kg/day bd/tds or as infusion.
Pearls and Pitfalls in Management
• Depending on severity of hypoglycaemia, maintain some oral feeds as milk
has more calories than 10% dextrose. Breastfeeding should be encouraged
as it is more ketogenic.
• Feed baby with as much milk as tolerated and infuse glucose at a sufficient
rate to prevent hypoglycaemia. The glucose infusion is then reduced slowly
while milk feeds is maintained or increased.
• Avoid giving multiple boluses as they can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose
concentration which may be harmful to neurological function and may be
followed by rebound hypoglycaemia.
• Any bolus given must be followed by a continuous infusion of glucose,
initially providing 4-8 mg/kg/ min. There is no place for treatment with
intermittent glucose boluses alone.
• Ensure volume of IV fluid is appropriate for patient, taking into consideration
concomitant problems like cardiac failure, cerebral oedema and renal failure.
If unable to increase volume further, increase dextrose concentration.
• RBS should be taken to correlate with low capillary blood sugar level as some
glucose monitors are not as accurate for neonatal blood which has a higher
haematocrit. Management can be instituted first whilst waiting for RBS
results to be available.
110
If glucose delivery  8 -10mg/kg/min and Persistent Hypoglycaemia:
• IV Glucagon 40 mcg/kg stat then 10-50mcg/kg/h.
Not to be used in SGA or adrenal insufficiency.
• IV Hydrocortisone 2.5 - 5 mg/kg/dose bd in others, esp. SGA.
• PO Diazoxide 10 – 25 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses
Useful in hyperinsulinaemia, not to be used in SGA.
• SC Octreotide 2 – 10 mcg/kg/day 2 - 3 times/day or as infusion.
BG  1.5 mmol/L
or symptomatic
Hypoglycaemia
Blood Glucose (BG)  2.6 mmol/L
IV 10% Dextrose 2-3 ml/kg bolus
IV Dextrose10% drip at 60 to
90 ml/kg/day
Repeat BG in 30 minutes
Management of Persistent Hypoglycaemia
NEONATALOGY
BG 1.5 –  2.6mmol/L
and asymptomatic
(0-4 hours of life)
Give supplement feeding ASAP
If refuses to feed,
IV Dextrose10% drip 60ml/kg/day
if still Hypoglycaemia:
Re-evaluate*
Increase Concentration to D12.5%-D15%#
if still Hypoglycaemia:
Re-evaluate*
Increase Volume by 30ml/kg/day
Repeat BG in 30 minutes
Repeat BG in 30 minutes
Consider further workup in Recurrent or Persistent Hypoglycaemia if:
• Failure to maintain normal BG despite Glucose infusion rate of
15mg/kg/min, or
•When stabilization is not achieved in 7 days of life.
* If BG  1.5mmol/L
or symptomatic :
Give IV D10% 2-3ml/kg bolus,
then proceed with flowchart.
#
Give via a
Central Line
Note: Once Blood Glucose level  2.6mmol/L for 2 readings,
monitor hourly x 2,then 2 hourly x 2,then 4 – 6 hourly.
111
Chapter 20: Neonatal Jaundice
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
Jaundice can be detected clinically when the level of bilirubin in the serum rises
above 85 μmol/l (5mg/dl).
Causes of neonatal jaundice
• Haemolysis due to ABO or
Rh-isoimmunisation, G6PD deficiency,
microspherocytosis, drugs.
• Physiological jaundice.
• Cephalhaematoma, subaponeurotic
haemorrhage.
• Polycythaemia.
• Sepsis septicaemia, meningitis, urinary
tract infection, intra-uterine infection.
• Breastfeeding and breastmilk jaundice.
• Gastrointestinal tract obstruction: increase in enterohepatic circulation.
Approach to an infant with jaundice
History
• Age of onset.
• Previous infants with NNJ, kernicterus, neonatal death, G6PD deficiency.
• Mother’s blood group (from antenatal history).
• Gestation: the incidence of hyperbilirubinaemia increases with prematurity.
• Presence of abnormal symptoms such as apnoea, difficulty in feeding, feed
intolerance and temperature instability.
Physical examination
• General condition, gestation and weight, signs of sepsis, hydration status.
• Signs of kernicterus: lethargy, hypotonia, seizure, opisthotonus, high pitch cry.
• Pallor, plethora, cephalhaematoma, subaponeurotic haemorrhage.
• Signs of intrauterine infection e.g. petechiae, hepatosplenomegaly.
• Cephalo-caudal progression of severity of jaundice.
Management
Indications for referral to hospital:
• Jaundice within 24 hours of life.
• Jaundice below umbilicus (corresponds to serum bilirubin 200-250 μmol/L).
• Jaundice extending to soles of feet:
Urgent referral, may need exchange transfusion !
• Family history of significant haemolytic disease or kernicterus.
• Any unwell infant with jaundice.
• Prolonged Jaundice of 14 days.
- Refer infants with conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia urgently to a hospital.
- Infants with unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia can be investigated and
referred only if the jaundice does not resolve or a definitive cause found.
(ref Ch 22: Prolonged Jaundice in the Newborn).
Risk factors for Bilirubin Encephalopathy
Preterm infants
Small for gestational age
Sepsis
Acidosis
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy
Hypoalbuminaemia
Jaundice  24 hours of age
112
NEONATALOGY
Investigations
• Total serum bilirubin
• G6PD status
• Others as indicated:
• Infant’s blood group, maternal blood group, Direct Coombs’ test (indicated
in Day 1 jaundice and severe jaundice).
• Full blood count, reticulocyte count, peripheral blood film
• Blood culture, urine microscopy and culture (if infection is suspected)
Clinical Assessment of Neonatal Jaundice
Zone Jaundice
(detected by blanching the skin with finger pressure)
Estimated Serum
Bilirubin (µmol/L)
1 Head and neck 68 -135
2 Over upper trunk above umbilicus 85 - 204
3 Lower trunk and thighs 136 - 272
4 Over arms,legs and below knee 187 - 306
5 Hands,feet  306
Note: This may be difficult in dark skinned infants
DO NOT rely onVisualAssessment of Skin alone to Estimate the Bilirubin Level
Treatment
Avoid sunlight exposure due to risk of dehydration and sunburn.
Phototherapy
• Phototherapy lights should have a minimum irradiance of 15 µW/cm2
/nm.
Measure intensity of phototherapy light periodically using irradiance meters.
“Intensive phototherapy” implies irradiance in the blue-green spectrum of
at least 30 μW/cm2
/nm measured at the infant’s skin directly below the
center of the phototherapy unit.
• Position light source 35-50 cm from top surface of the infant
(when conventional fluorescent photolights are used).
• Expose infant adequately; Cover infant’s eyes.
• Monitor serum bilirubin levels as indicated.
• Monitor infant’s temperature 4 hourly to avoid chilling or overheating.
• Ensure adequate hydration and good urine output. Monitor for weight loss.
Adjust fluid intake (preferably oral feeds) accordingly. Routine fluid
supplementation is not required with good temperature homeostasis.
• Allow parental-infant interaction.
• Discontinue phototherapy when serum bilirubin is below phototherapy level.
• Turn off photolights and remove eyepads during feeding and blood taking.
• Once the baby is on phototherapy, visual observation as a means of
monitoring is unreliable. Serum bilirubin levels must guide the management.
113
NEONATOLOGY
• In infants without haemolytic disease, the average increase of bilirubin
level in rebound jaundice after phototherapy is  1 mg/dl (17 µmol/L).
Hospital discharge need not be delayed to observe for rebound jaundice, and
in most cases, no further measurement of bilirubin is necessary.
Intensive phototherapy (KIV Exchange transfusion) indications:
Total bilirubin 300 umol/L
Early onset jaundice (First 24 hours)
Rapidly rising jaundice (more than 8.5µmol/L/hr)
If the total serum bilirubin does not decrease or continues to rise in an infant
receiving intensive phototherapy, this strongly suggests hemolysis.
Guidelines for Phototherapy and Exchange Transfusion (ET) in hospitalized
infants of ≥ 35 weeks’ gestation (derived from fig 1, next page)
Hours
ofLife
Total Serum Bilirubin levels mg/dL (μmol/L)
Low risk
≥ 38 wk and well
Medium risk
≥38wk+riskfactorsor
35to38wkandwell
High risk
35 to 38 wk
+ risk factors
Intensive
phototherapy
ET
Intensive
phototherapy
ET
Intensive
phototherapy
ET
 24 *
24 12(200) 19(325) 10(170) 17(290) 8(135) 15(255)
48 15(255) 22(375) 13(220) 19(325) 11(185) 17(290)
72 18(305) 24(410) 15(255) 21(360) 13(220) 18.5(315)
96 20(340) 25(425) 17(290) 22.5(380) 14(240) 19(325)
 96 21(360) 25(425) 18(305) 22.5(380) 15(255) 19(325)
Note:
• Start conventional phototherapy at TSB 3 mg/dL (50 μmol/L) below the
levels for intensive phototherapy.
• Risk factors – isoimmune hemolytic disease; G6PD deficiency, hypoxic-
ischemic encephalopathy, significant lethargy, temperature instability,
sepsis, acidosis or albumin  3.0 g/dL
* Infants jaundiced at  24 hours of life are not considered healthy and
require further evaluation.
114
NEONATALOGY
Notes:
1. The dashed lines for the first 24 hours indicate uncertainty due to a wide range
of clinical circumstances and a range of responses to phototherapy.
2. Do an Immediate exchange transfusion if infant shows signs of acute bilirubin
encephalopathy (hypertonia, retrocollis, ophisthotonus, fever, high pitched cry)
or if total serum bilirubin is ≥ 5 mg/dL (85 μmol/L) above these lines
3. For infants  35 weeks gestational age- refer NICE (National Institute for Clinical
Excellence) Guidelines 2010 for recommended levels of phototherapy and ET.
Figures 1  2 adapted from American Academy of Paediatrics. Pediatrics, 2004. 114:297-316
infants at lower risk ( ≥ 38 week and well)
infants at medium risk ( ≥ 38 week + risk factors or 35-37 completed weeks)
infants at higher risk ( 35-37 completed weeks)
24 hrbirth 72 hr48 hr 96 hr 5 days 6 days 7 days
513 μmol/L
342 μmol/L
257 μmol/L
428 μmol/L
171 μmol/L
Age
Fig 2: Guidelines for Exchange Transfusion in infants ≥ 35 wks gestation
Fig 1: Guidelines for Intensive Phototherapy in infants ≥ 35 wks gestation
115
NEONATOLOGY
Additional Notes
• Failure of phototherapy has been defined as an inability to observe a decline
in bilirubin of 1-2 mg/dl (17-34 µmol/L) after 4-6 hours and/or to keep the
bilirubin below the exchange transfusion level.
• Do an immediate exchange transfusion if infant shows signs of acute
bilirubin encephalopathy (hypertonia, retrocollis, opisthotonus, fever, high
pitch cry) or if TSB is ≥5 mg/dL (85 umol/L) above exchange levels stated above.
• Use total bilirubin level. Do not subtract direct or conjugated bilirubin.
• During birth hospitalisation, ET is recommended if the TSB rises to these
levels despite intensive phototherapy.
• Infants who are of lower gestation will require phototherapy and ET at lower
levels, (please check with your specialist).
Intravenous Immunoglobulins (IVIG)
• High dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) (0.5 - 1 gm/kg over 2 hours)
reduces the need for exchange transfusions in Rh and ABO hemolytic disease.
• Give as early as possible in hemolytic disease with positive Coombs test or
where the serum total bilirubin is increasing despite intensive phototherapy.
• Dose can be repeated in 12 hours if necessary. If exchange transfusion is
already indicated, IVIG should be given after ET.
Measures to prevent severe neonatal jaundice
• Inadequate breast milk flow in the first week may aggravate jaundice.
Supportive measures should be there to promote successful breastfeeding.
Supplementary feeds may be given to ensure adequate hydration, especially
if there is more than 10% weight loss from birth weight.
• Interruption of breastfeeding in healthy term newborns is discouraged and
frequent breast-feeding (at least 8-10 times/24 hours) should be continued.
Supplementing with water or dextrose water does not lower bilirubin level.
• G6PD status should be known before discharge. Observe infants with G6PD
deficiency, for 5 days if not jaundiced and longer with moderate jaundice.
• Infants of mothers with blood group “O” and with a sibling who had severe
neonatal jaundice should be observed for at least the first 24 hours of life.
• If phototherapy in infants with hemolytic diseases is initiated early and
discontinued before the infant is 3 - 4 days old, monitor for rebound jaundice
and adequacy of breast feeding within the next 24-48 hours.
Follow-up
• All infants discharged  48 hours after birth should be seen by a healthcare
professional in an ambulatory setting, or at home within 2-3 days of discharge.
• For infants with risk factors for severe neonatal jaundice, early follow up to
be arranged to detect rebound jaundice after discharge.
• Infants with serum bilirubin  20 mg/dl (340 µmol/L) and those who require
exchange transfusion should be followed for neurodevelopmental outcome.
Do a Hearing assessment (using BAER, not OAE) at 0-3 months of corrected age.
• Infants with hemolytic diseases not requiring ET should be closely followed
up for anaemia until the risk of ongoing hemolysis is minimal.
116
Agents to be avoided in Infants with G6PD Deficiency
Foods and Herbs to be avoided
Fava Beans (Kacang Parang)
Chinese herbs/medicine: Chuen Lin, San Chi, 13 herbs, 12 herbs
Avoid Other traditional herbs/medications unless with medical advice
Other Chemicals to be avoided
Naphthalene (moth balls)
Mosquito coils and insect repellants which contains pyrethium
Drugs to be avoided or contraindicated
Acetanilide Doxorubicin
Furazolidene Methylene Blue
Nalidixic acid Niridazole
Nitrofurantoin Phenozopyridine
Promaquine Sulfamethoxazole
Bactrim
Drugs that can be safely given in therapeutic doses
Paracetamol Ascorbic Acid
Aspirin Chloramphenicol
Chloroquine Colchicine
Diphendramine Isoniazid
Phenacetin Phenylbutazone
Phenytoin Probenecid
Procainamide Pyrimethamine
Quinidine Streptomycin
Sulfisoxazole Trimethoprim
Tripelennamine Vitamin K
Mefloquine
NEONATALOGY
117
Chapter 21: Exchange Transfusion
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
• Exchange transfusion (ET) is indicated for severe hyperbilirubinaemia.
• Kernicterus has a 10% mortality and 70% long term morbidity.
• Neonates with significant neonatal jaundice should be monitored closely and
treated with intensive phototherapy.
• Mortality within 6 hours of ET ranged from zero death to 3 - 4 per 1000
exchanged term infants. Causes of death includes kernicterus itself,
necrotising enterocolitis, infection and procedure related events.
Indications
• Double volume exchange
• Blood exchange transfusion to lower serum bilirubin level and reduce the
risk of brain damage associated with kernicterus.
• Hyperammonimia
• To remove bacterial toxins in septicaemia.
• To correct life-threatening electrolyte and fluid disorders in acute renal failure.
• Partial exchange transfusion
• To correct polycythaemia with hyperviscosity.
• To correct severe anaemia without hypovolaemia.
Preparation of infant
• Signed Informed Consent from parent.
• Ensure resuscitation equipment is ready and available.
• Stabilise and maintain temperature, pulse and respiration.
• Obtain peripheral venous access for maintenance IV fluids.
• Proper gentle restraint.
• Continue feeding the child; Omit only the LAST feed before ET.
If  4 hours from last feed, empty gastric contents by NG aspiration before ET.
Type of Blood to be used
• Rh isoimmunisation: ABO compatible, Rh negative blood.
• Other conditions: Cross-match with baby and mother’s blood.
• In Emergencies if Blood type unkown (rarely): ‘O’ Rh negative blood.
Procedure (Exchange Transfusion)
• Volume to be exchanged is 2x the infant’s total blood volume (2x80mls/kg).
• Use (preferably irradiated) Fresh Whole Blood preferably  5 days old or
reconstituted Packed Red Blood Cells and FFP in a ratio of 3:1.
• Connect baby to a cardiac monitor.
• Take baseline observations (either via monitor or manually) and record down
on the Neonatal Exchange Blood Transfusion Sheet.
The following observations are recorded every 15 minutes:
apex beat, respiration, oxygen saturation.
• Doctor performs the ET under aseptic technique using a gown and mask.
118
NEONATALOGY
• Cannulate the umbilical vein to a depth of NOT  5-7cm in a term infant
for catheter tip to be proximal to the portal sinus (for push-pull technique ET
through UVC). Refer to section on procedure for umbilical vein cannulation.
• Aliquot for removal and replacement – 5-6 mls/ kg (Not more than 5-8%
of blood volume) Maximum volume per cycle - 20 mls for term infants, not
to exceed 5 ml/kg for ill or preterm infants.
• At the same time the nurse keeps a record of the amount of blood given or
withdrawn, and medications given (see below).
Isovolumetric or continuous technique
• Indication: where UVC cannulation is not possible e.g. umbilical sepsis,
failed cannulation.
• Blood is replaced as a continuous infusion into a large peripheral vein while
simlutaneously removing small amount blood from an arterial catheter at
regular intervals, matching the rate of the infusion closely
- e.g. in a 1.5 kg baby, total volume to be exchanged is 240 mls.
Delivering 120mls an hour allowing 10 ml of blood to be removed
every 5 mins for 2 hours.
• Care and observation for good perfusion of the limb distal to the arterial
catheter should be performed as per arterial line care
Points to note
• Pre-warm blood to body temperature using a water bath.
Avoid other methods, e.g. placing under radiant warmer, massaging between
hands or placing under running hot water, to minimise preprocedure
hemolysis of donor blood. Shake blood bag gently every 5-10 cycles to
prevent settling of red blood cells.
• Rate of exchange: 3 -4 minutes per cycle (1 minute ‘out’, 1 minute ‘in’, 1-2
minute ‘pause’ excluding time to discard blood and draw from blood bag).
• Syringe should be held vertical during infusion ‘in’ to prevent air embolism.
• Total exchange duration should be 90-120 minutes utilising 30-35 cycles.
• Begin the Exchange with an initial removal of blood, so that there is always a
deficit to avoid cardiac overload.
• Routine administration of calcium gluconate is not recommended.
• Remove the UVC after procedure unless a second ET is anticipated and there
was difficulty inserting the UVC.
• Continue intensive phototherapy after the procedure.
• Repeat ET may be required in 6 hours for infants with high rebound SB.
• Feed after 4 hours if patient is well and a repeat ET not required.
• If child is anemic (pre-exchange Hb 12 g/dL) give an extra aliquot volume of
blood (10 mls/kg) at the end of exchange at a rate of 5 mls/kg/hr after the ET.
• If the infant is on any IV medication , to readminister the medication after ET.
119
NEONATOLOGY
Investigations
• Pre-exchange (1st volume of blood removed)
• Serum Bilirubin.
• FBC.
• Blood CS (via peripheral venous blood; UVC to reduce contamination).
• HIV, Hepatitis B (baseline).
• Others as indicated.
• Post-exchange
(Discard initial blood remaining in
UVC before sampling)
• Serum Bilirubin.
• FBC.
• Capillary blood sugar.
• Serum electrolytes and Calcium.
• Others as indicated.
Post ET Management
• Maintain intensive phototherapy.
• Monitor vital signs:
Hourly for 4 - 6 hours, and
4 hourly subsequently.
• Monitor capillary blood sugar:
Hourly for 2 hours following ET.
• Check serum Bilirubin:
4 - 6 hours after ET.
Follow-up
• Long term follow-up to monitor
hearing and neurodevelopmental
assessment.
Partial Exchange Transfusion
• To correct hyperviscosity due to polycythaemia.
Assuming whole blood volume is approximately 80 ml/kg
Volume exchanged (mL) = Blood volume x
(Initial PCV – Desired PCV)
Initial PCV
• To correct severe anemia without hypovolaemia
Packed Cell vol (ml)
required
= 80 ml x Bwt(kg) x
[Desired Hb – Initial Hb]
22g/dL – Hbw
Where Hbw is reflection of the Hb removed during partial exchange transfusion:
Hbw = [Hb desired + Hb initial]/2
Complications of ET
Catheter related
• Infection
• Haemorrhage
• Necrotising enterocolitis
• Air embolism
• Vascular events
• Portal, Splenic vein thrombosis (late)
Haemodynamic problems
• Overload cardiac failure
• Hypovolaemic shock
• Arrhythmia (catheter tip near sinus
node in right atrium)
Electrolyte/Metabolic disorders
Hyperkalemia
Hypocalcemia
Hypoglycaemia or Hyperglycaemia
120
NEONATALOGY
121
Chapter 22: Prolonged Jaundice in Newborn Infants
NEONATOLOGY
Definition
• Visible jaundice (or serum bilirubin SB 85 µmol/L) that persists beyond 14
days of life in a term infant or 21 days in a preterm infant.
Causes of Prolonged Jaundice
Unconjugated Hyperbilirubinaemia Conjugated Hyperbilirubinaemia
Septicaemia Biliary tree abnormalities:
Urinary tract infection • Biliary atresia - extra, intra-hepatic
Breast milk jaundice • Choledochal cyst
Hypothyroidism • Paucity of bile ducts
Hemolysis: • Alagille syndrome, non-syndromic
• G6PD deficiency Idiopathic neonatal hepatitis syndrome
• Congenital spherocytosis Septicaemia
Galactosaemia Urinary tract infection
Gilbert syndrome Congenital infection (TORCHES)
Metabolic disorders
• Citrin deficiency
• Galactosaemia
• Progressive familial intrahepatic
cholestasis (PFIC)
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Total Parenteral Nutrition
The early diagnosis and treatment of biliary atresia and hypothyroidism is impor-
tant for favourable long-term outcome of the patient.
Unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia
• Admit if infant is unwell. Otherwise follow-up until jaundice resolves.
• Important investigations: Thyroid function, urine FEME and CS, urine for
reducing sugar, FBC, reticulocyte count, peripheral blood film, G6PD screening.
• Exclude urinary tract infection and hypothyroidism.
• Congenital hypothyroidism is a Neonatal Emergency. (Check Screening TSH
result if done at birth). See Ch 54 Congenital Hypothyroidism.
• Where indicated, investigate for galactosaemia
• Breast milk Jaundice is a diagnosis of exclusion. Infant must be well, gaining
weight appropriately, breast-feeds well and stool is yellow. Management is
to continue breast-feeding.
122
NEONATALOGY
Conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia
• Defined as conjugated bilirubin  25 µmol/dL.
• Investigate for biliary atresia and neonatal hepatitis syndrome.
• Other tests : LFT, coagulation profile, lipid profile, Hepatitis B and C virus
status, TORCHES, VDRL tests, alpha-1 antitrypsin level.
• Admit and observe stool colour, for 3 consecutive days. If pale, biliary atresia
is a high possibility: consider an urgent referral to Paediatric Surgery.
• Other helpful investigations are:
• Serum gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) – Good discriminating test
between non obstructive and obstructive causes of neonatal hepatitis.
A significantly elevated GGT (few hundreds) with a pale stool strongly
favours biliary obstruction whereas, a low/normal GGT with significant
cholestasis suggests non obstructive causes of neonatal hepatitis.
• Ultrasound of liver – Must be done after at least 4 hours of fasting.
Dilated intrahepatic bile ducts (poor sensitivity for biliary atresia) and an
absent, small or contracted gall bladder even without dilated intrahepatic
ducts is highly suspicious of extra hepatic biliary atresia in combination
with elevated GGT and pale stool. A normal gall bladder usually excludes
biliary atresia BUT if in the presence of elevated GGT and pale stool, biliary
atresia is still a possibility. An experience sonographer would be able to
pick up Choledochal Cyst, another important cause of cholestasis.
Biliary atresia
• Biliary atresia can be treated successfully by the Kasai Procedure.
This procedure must be performed within the first 2 months of life.
• With early diagnosis and biliary drainage through a Kasai procedure by
4-6 weeks of age, successful long-term biliary drainage is achieved in 80%
of children. In later surgery good bile flow is achieved only in 20-30%.
• Liver transplantation is indicated if there is failure to achieve or maintain bile
drainage.
Further investigations
Aim to exclude other (especially treatable) causes of a Neonatal Hepatitis
Syndrome early which include:
Metabolic causes (see also Ch 88 Inborn Errors of Metabolism)
• Classical Galactosaemia
• Dried blood spots for total blood galactose and galactose-1-uridyl
transferase level (GALT). Usually sent in combination with acylcarnitine
profile in a single filter paper to IMR biochemistry.
• Urine reducing sugar may be positive in infants who are on lactose
containing formula or breastfeeding.
• A recent blood transfusion will affect GALT assay accuracy (false negative)
but not so much on the total blood galactose and urine reducing sugar.
• Treatable with lactose free formula.
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NEONATOLOGY
• Citrin deficiency
• An important treatable cause of neonatal hepatitis among Asians.
• Investigations MAY yield elevated total blood galactose but normal
galactose-1-uridyl transferase (GALT) (i.e. secondary Galactosemia).
• Elevated plasma citrulline (in plasma amino acids  acylcarnitine profile).
• Treatable with lactose free formula with medium chain triglyceride (MCT)
supplementation.
• Note: Use lithium heparin container to send plasma amino acids.
• Tyrosinaemia type I
• Treatable with NTBC (2-(2-nitro-4-trifluoromethylbenzoyl)-1,3-cyclohexanedione).
• Urine organic acids specifically looking for presence of succinylacetone is
highly specific. Take particular attention of sending urine organic acids
frozen and protected from light (i.e. covered plain urine container) to
maintain the accuracy of the test.
• Neonatal Haemochromatosis
• This needs to be excluded in infants presenting with liver failure within
first weeks of life.
• Significantly elevated serum ferritin (few thousands) is characteristic.
• Diagnosis is confirmed by presence of iron deposits in extra hepatic tissue,
e.g. lip tissue (iron deposits in minor salivary glands). Lip biopsy can be
safely performed even in severely coagulopathic infants where liver biopsy
is contraindicated.
• Treatment with combination of immunoglobulins, desferral and anti-
oxidant cocktails is potentially life saving (avoid liver transplant which at
present not an option for neonatal onset liver failure).
• Antenatal intravenous immunoglobulin prevents recurrence in subsequent
children.
• Primary bile acid synthesis disorder
• Suspect if cholestasis, low GGT and low cholesterol.
• Serum bile acids is a good screening tool (ensure patient is not on
ursodeoxycholic acid  1 week prior to sampling).
• Definite diagnosis requires urine bile acids analysis (available at specialized
laboratory in UK).
• Treatment with cholic acid (not ursodeoxycholic acid) confers excellent
outcome on all subtypes.
• Peroxisomal biogenesis disorders
• Cholestasis may be part of the manifestation.
• Plasma very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) is elevated.
• Mitochondrial depletion syndrome
• Suspect in presence of other neurological signs e.g. rotatory nystagmus,
hypotonia and elevated blood lactate. Metabolic/genetic consult for
further diagnostic evaluation.
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NEONATALOGY
Infective causes
• Septicaemia
• Urinary tract infection
• Herpes simplex virus infection
• Consider in infants with liver failure within first few weeks of life.
• IV Acyclovir therapy while waiting for Herpes IgM results in affected
infants may be justified.
• Hepatitis B virus infection
• Can potentially present as early infantile liver failure but incidence is rare.
• Presence of positive Hepatitis B surface antigen, positive Hepatitis B virus
envelope antigen and high viral load confirms the diagnosis.
Alagille syndrome
• Consider in infants who have cardiac murmurs or dysmorphism.
• One of the parents is usually affected (AD inheritance, variable penetrance)
• Affected infants might not have typical dysmorphic features at birth due to
evolving nature of the syndrome.
• Important screening tests include :
• Slit eye lamp examination: look for posterior embryotoxon.
May also help to rule out other aetiologies in neonatal hepatitis syndrome,
e.g. retinitis in congenital infection, cataract in galactosaemia.
• Vertebral x ray: To look for butterfly vertebrae.
• Echocardiography: look for branched pulmonary artery stenosis.
Other known abnormalities - ASD, valvular pulmonary stenosis.
• Gene test: JAG1 gene mutation which can be done at IMR (EDTA container)
(Consult Geneticist Prior to Testing)
Idiopathic Neonatal Hepatitis Syndrome
• Follow up with LFT fortnightly.
• Watch out for liver failure and bleeding tendency (vitamin K deficiency).
• Repeat Hepatitis B and C virus screening at 6 weeks.
• Most infants with idiopathic neonatal hepatitis in the absence of physical
signs of chronic liver disease usually make a complete recovery.
125
Chapter 23: Apnoea in the Newborn
NEONATOLOGY
Definition
• Apnea of prematurity is defined as sudden cessation of breathing that lasts
for at least 20 seconds or is accompanied by bradycardia or oxygen
desaturation (cyanosis) in an infant younger than 37 weeks’ gestational age.
• It usually ceases by 43 weeks’ postmenstrual age but may persist for several
weeks beyond term, especially in infants born before 28 weeks’ gestation
with this risk decreasing with time.
Classification
Types:
• Central: absence of respiratory effort with no gas flow and no evidence of
obstruction.
• Obstructive: continued ineffective respiratory effort with no gas flow
• Mixed central and obstructive: most common type
Aetiology
Symptomatic of underlying problems, commoner ones of which are:
• Respiratory conditions (RDS, pulmonary haemorrhage, pneumothorax,
upper airway obstruction, respiratory depression due to drugs).
• Sepsis
• Hypoxaemia
• Hypothermia
• CNS abnormality (e.g. IVH, asphyxia, increased ICP, seizures)
• Metabolic disturbances (hypoglycaemia, hyponatraemia, hypocalcaemia)
• Cardiac failure, congenital heart disease, anaemia
• Aspiration/ Gastro-oesophageal reflux
• Necrotising ennterocolitis, Abdominal distension
• Vagal reflex: Nasogastric tube insertion, suctioning, feeding
Differentiate from Periodic breathing
• Regular sequence of respiratory pauses of 10-20 sec interspersed with
periods of hyperventilation (4-15 sec) and occurring at least 3x/ minute,
not associated with cyanosis or bradycardia.
• Benign respiratory pattern for which no treatment is required.
• Respiratory pauses appear self-limited, and ventilation continues cyclically.
• Periodic breathing typically does not occur in neonates in the first 2 days of life
126
NEONATALOGY
Management
• Immediate resuscitation.
• Review possible causes (as above) and institute specific therapy,
e.g. septic workup if sepsis suspected and commence antibiotics
Remember to check blood glucose via glucometer.
• Management to prevent recurrence.
• Nurse baby in thermoneutral environment.
• Nursing prone can improve thoraco-abdominal wall synchrony and reduce
apnoea.
• Variable flow NCPAP or synchronised NIPPV can reduce work of breathing
and reduce risk of apnoea.
• Monitoring:
- Pulse Oximeter
- Cardio-respiratory monitor
• Drug therapy
- Methylxanthine compounds:
- Caffeine citrate (preferred if available)
- IV Aminophylline or Theophylline.
• Start methylxanthines prophylactically for babies  32 weeks gestation.
For those  32 weeks of gestation, give methylxanthines if babies have apnoea.
To stop methylxanthines if :
• gestation  34 weeks
• Apnoea free for 1 week when the patient is no longer on NCPAP
• Monitor for at least 1 week once the methylxanthines are stopped.
After discharge , parents should be given advice for prevention of SIDS:
• Supine sleep position.
• Safe sleeping environments.
• Elimination of prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco smoke.
Ventilate with bag and mask on previous FiO2.
Be careful not to use supplementary oxygen if infant has been in air
as child’s lungs are likely normal and a high PaO2
may result in ROP
Gentle nasopharyngeal suction
(Be careful: may prolong apnoea)
Surface stimulation
(Flick soles, touch baby)
Intubate,IPPV if child cyanosed or apnoea is recurrent/persistent
Try CPAP in the milder cases
127
Chapter 24: Neonatal Sepsis
NEONATOLOGY
Definition
Neonatal sepsis generally falls into two main categories:
• Early onset: usually acquired from mother with ≥ 1 obstetric complications.
• Late onset: sepsis occurring  72hours after birth.
Usually acquired from the ward environment or from the community.
Clinical Features
Risk Factors of Infants and Mother
• Any stage
• Prematurity, low birth weight.
• Male gender.
• Neutropenia due to other causes.
• Early Onset Sepsis
• Maternal GBS (Group B Streptococcus) carrier (high vaginal swab [HVS],
urine culture, previous pregnancy of baby with GBS sepsis).
• Prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM) (18 hours).
• Preterm labour/PPROM.
• Maternal pyrexia  38˚ C, maternal peripartum infection, clinical
chorioamnionitis, discoloured or foul-smelling liquor, maternal urinary
tract infection.
• Septic or traumatic delivery, fetal hypoxia.
• Infant with galactosaemia (increased susceptibility to E. coli).
• Late Onset Sepsis
• Hospital acquired (nosocomial) sepsis.
- Overcrowded nursery.
- Poor hand hygiene.
- Central lines, peripheral venous catheters, umbilical catheters.
- Mechanical ventilation.
- Association with indomethacin for closure of PDA, IV lipid administration
with coagulase-negative Staphylococcal (CoNS) bacteriemia.
• Colonization of patients by certain organisms.
• Infection from family members or contacts.
• Cultural practices, housing and socioeconomic status.
Signs and symptoms of Sepsis
• Temperature instability: hypo or hyperthermia
• Change in behaviour : lethargy, irritability or change in tone
(‘baby just doesn’t seem right or doesn’t look well)
• Skin: poor perfusion, mottling, pallor, jaundice, scleraema, petechiae
• Feeding problems: poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal distension
• Cardiovascular: tachycardia, hypotension,
• Respiratory: apnoea, tachypnoea,cyanosis, respiratory distress,
• Metabolic: hypo or hyperglycaemia, metabolic acidosis
• Evaluate neonate (late onset sepsis) carefully for primary or secondary foci,
e.g. meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, septic arthritis,
osteomyelitis, peritonitis, omphalitis or soft tissue infection.
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NEONATALOGY
Investigations
• FBC: Hb, TWBC with differential, platelets, Blood culture (1ml of blood).
• Where available :
• Serial CRP 24 hours apart
• Ratio of immature forms over total of neutrophils + immature forms:
IT ratio  0.2 is an early predictor of infection during first 2 weeks of life.
• Where indicated:
• Lumbar puncture, CXR, AXR, Urine Culture.
• Culture of ETT aspirate (Cultures of the trachea do not predict the
causative organism in the blood of the neonate with clinical sepsis.)
Management
• Empirical antibiotics
• Start immediately when diagnosis is suspected and after all appropriate
specimens taken. Do not wait for culture results.
• Trace culture results after 48 - 72 hours. Adjust antibiotics according to
results. Stop antibiotics if cultures are sterile, infection is clinically unlikely.
• Empirical antibiotic treatment (Early Onset)
• IV C.Penicillin/Ampicillin and Gentamicin
• Specific choice when specific organisms suspected/confirmed.
• Change antibiotics according to culture and sensitivity results
• Empirical antibiotic treatment – (Late Onset)
• For community acquired infection, start on
- Cloxacillin/Ampicillin and Gentamicin for non-CNS infection, and
- C.Penicillin and Cefotaxime for CNS infection
• For hospital acquired (nosocomial) sepsis
- Choice depends on prevalent organisms in the nursery and its sensitivity.
- For nursery where MRCoNS/ MRSA are common, consider Vancomycin;
for non-ESBL gram negative rods, consider cephalosporin; for ESBLs
consider carbapenams; for Pseudomonas consider Ceftazidime.
- Anaerobic infections (e.g. Intraabdominal sepsis), consider Metronidazole.
- Consider fungal sepsis if patient not responding to antibiotics
especially if preterm/ VLBW or with indwelling long lines.
• Duration of Antibiotics
• 7-10 days for pneumonia or proven neonatal sepsis
• 14 days for GBS meningitis
• At least 21 days for Gram-negative meningitis
• Consider removing central lines
• Complications and Supportive Therapy
• Respiratory: ensure adequate oxygenation (give oxygen, ventilator support)
• Cardiovascular: support BP and perfusion to prevent shock.
• Hematological: monitor for DIVC
• CNS: seizure control and monitor for SIADH
• Metabolic: look for hypo/hyperglycaemia, electrolyte, acid-base disorder
• Therapy with IV immune globulin had no effect on the outcomes of
suspected or proven neonatal sepsis.
129
NOT
DETECTED
Chapter 25: Congenital Syphilis
NEONATOLOGY
Mothercompletedtreatment:
•Withadequatepenicillinregime
•30dayspriordeliveryandno
possibilityofreinfection,and
•Withdocumented4-folddropin
VDRL/RPRtitre
MaternalVDRL/RPRReactive
MaternalTPHA
Presenceofanyoneriskbelow:
•Noorinadequatetreatment
•Treatmentwithnon-penicillin
regime
•Treatmentnotcompleted30days
beforedelivery
•Treatedbutnodocumented4
folddecreaseinVDRL/RPRtitre
•Highlikelihoodofreinfection
•Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination
•VDRL/RPR1
titrenegative,or
•4-foldmaternaltitre
•Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination
•VDRL/RPR≥4-foldmaternaltitre
•DoFBCandCSFanalysis2
forVDRL,
cellcountandprotein
•Babyhasevidenceofcongenitalsyphilis3
•DoFBCandCSFanalysisforVDRL,cell
countandprotein
•Othertests,asclinicallyindicated
(long-bonex-ray,CXR,LFT,cranialultra-
sound,ophthalmologicexaminationand
auditorybrainstemresponse)
Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination
regardlessofnontreponemaltestresult
*ConsiderLPafterdiscussionwithspecialist.
•DoVDRL/RPRtitremonthly:
treatifincreasingtrend.
•Ifriskofdefaultingfollow-up:
Optiontogivesingledoseof
IMBenzathinePenicillinG50,000units/kg
•IVCPenicillinG50,000u/kg/doseBD
forfirst7daysthenTDS
-for10daysifCSFnormal
-14daysifCSFabnormal,OR
•IMProcainePenicillinG50,000u/kg/dose
dailyfor10–14days
•Notification
•ReferparentstoSTDClinic
•VDRL/TPHAatfollowupat
3and6monthsold
Note:If1dayoftreatmentismissed,
theentirecourseshoudlberestarted.
NotreatmentNotinfected
GuidelinesforManagementofInfantswithCongenitalSyphilis
DETECTED
NO
YES
YES
130
NEONATALOGY
Footnotes to algorithm on previous page:
1. VDRL/RPR test on venous blood sample as umbilical cord may be
contaminated with maternal blood and could yield a false-positive result.
2. Clinical features of congenital syphilis: non-immune hydrops, IUGR, jaundice,
hepatosplenomegaly, rhinitis, skin rash, pseudoparalysis of extremity.
3. Recommended value of 5 WBCs/mm3
and protein of 40mg/dL as the upper
limits of normal for “non traumatic tap”.
Follow up of patients
• All sero-reactive infants should receive careful follow up examination and
serologic testing (VDRL/RPR) every 2-3 month until the test becomes non-
reactive or the titre has decreased 4-fold.
• VDRL/RPR titre should decline by age of 3 month and should be
non-reactive by age of 6 month if the infants was not infected or was
infected but adequately treated.
• If the VDRL/RPR titre are stable or increase after 6-12 month, the child
should be evaluated and treated with a 10-day course of parenteral
Penicillin G.
• For infants whose initial CSF evaluations are abnormal should undergo a
repeat lumbar puncture in 6 months. A reactive CSF VDRL test or abnormal
CSF indices that cannot be attributed to other ongoing illness required
re-treatment for possible neurosyphilis. If CSF is improving, monitor with
follow-up serology.
Additional Notes:
• Tetracycline, doxycycline or erythromycin does not have an established and
well-evaluated high rate of success as injection penicillin in the treatment of
syphilis.
• Penetration of tetracycline, doxycycline and erythromycin into CSF is poor.
131
Chapter 26: Ophthalmia Neonatorum
NEONATOLOGY
Definition
Conjunctivitis occurring in newborn during 1st 4 weeks of life with clinical signs
of erythema and oedema of the eyelids and palpebral conjunctivae, purulent
eye discharge with one or more polymorph nuclear per oil immersion field on a
Gram stained conjunctival smear.
Diagnosis
• Essentially a clinical diagnosis
• Laboratory diagnosis to determine aetiology
• Eye swab for Gram stain (fresh specimen to reach laboratory in 30 mins)
• Gram stain of intracellular gram negative diplococci - high sensitivity and
specificity for Neisseria gonorrhoea.
• Eye swab for culture and sensitivity.
• Conjunctival scrapping for indirect fluorescent antibody identification for
Chlamydia.
Aetiology
Bacterial
Gonococcal
• Most important bacteria by its potential to damage vision.
• Bilateral purulent conjunctival discharge within first few days of life.
Treatment:	
• Systemic: 	
- Ceftriaxone 25-50mg/kg (max. 125mg) IV or IM single dose. or
- Cefotaxime 100 mg/kg IV or IM single dose.
(preferred if premature or hyperbilirubinaemia present)
• Disseminated infections :
- Ceftriaxone 25-50mg/kg/day IV or IM in single daily dose for 7days, or
- Cefotaxime 25mg/kg/dose every 12 hours for 7 days.
• Documented meningitis : 10-14 days
• Local: Irrigate eyes with sterile normal saline initially every 15 mins and
then at least hourly as long as necessary to eliminate discharge. Frequency
can be reduced as discharge decreases. Topical antibiotics optional.
Non- Gonococcal
• Includes Coagulase negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus,
Streptococcus viridans, Haemophilus, E.coli, Klebsiella species and
Pseudomonas. Most are hospital acquired conjuctivitis.
Treatment:
• Local: Chloramphenicol, gentamicin eye ointment 0.5%, both eyes
(Change according to sensitivity ,duration according to response), or
In non- responsive cases refer to ophthalmologist and consider
Fucithalmic, Ceftazidime 5% ointment bd to qid for a week.
• Eye toilet (refer as above).
132
NEONATALOGY
Chlamydial
• Replaced N. gonorrhoea as most common aetiology associated with sexually
transmitted infections (STI).
• Unilateral or bilateral conjunctivitis with peak incidence at 2 weeks of life
Treatment:	
• Erythromycin 50mg/kg/d in 4 divided doses for 2 weeks
Caution - association with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
May need to repeat course of erythromycin for further 2 weeks if poor
response as elimination after first course ranges from 80-100%
• If subsequent failure of treatment, use Trimethoprim-sulfamethazole
0.5ml/kg/d in 2 doses for 2 wks (Dilution 200mg SMZ /40mg TM in 5 mls).
• Systemic treatment is essential. Local treatment may be unnecessary if
systemic treatment is given.
Herpes simplex virus
• Herpes simplex keratoconjunctivitis usually presents with generalized
infection with skin, eyes and mucosal involvement.
• May have vesicles around the eye and corneal involvement
Systemic treatment
• IV acyclovir 30mg/kg/d divided tds for 2 weeks.
Important Notes
• Refer patients to an ophthalmologist for assessment.	
• Ophthalmia neonatorum (all forms) is a notifiable disease
• Check VDRL of the infant to exclude associated congenital syphilis and screen
for C. trachomatis and HIV.
• Screen both parents for Gonococcal infections, syphilis and HIV.
Parents should be referred to STD clinic for further management.
• On discharge, infants should be seen in 2 weeks with a repeat eye swab gram
stain and CS.
133
Chapter 27: Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
Gestational age is the most important determinant of the incidence of patent
ductus arteriosus (PDA). The other risk factors for PDA are lack of antenatal
steroids, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and need for ventilation.
Clinical Features
• Wide pulse pressure/ bounding pulses
• Systolic or continuous murmur
• Tachycardia
• Lifting of xiphisternum with heart beat
• Hyperactive precordium
• Apnoea
• Increase in ventilatory requirements
Complications
• Congestive cardiac failure
• Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH)
• Pulmonary haemorrhage
• Renal impairment
• Necrotising enterocolitis
• Chronic lung disease
Management
• Confirm PDA with cardiac ECHO if available
• Medical
• Fluid restriction. Care with fluid balance to avoid dehydration
• No role for diuretics
• IV or oral Indomethacin 0.2mg/kg/day daily dose for 3 days
or
IV or oral Ibuprofen 10mg/kg first dose, 5mg/kg second and third doses,
administered by syringe pump over 15 minutes at 24 hour intervals.
• Indomethacin or ibuprofen is contraindicated if
- Infant is proven or suspected to have infection that is untreated.
- Bleeding, especially active gastrointestinal or intracranial.
- Platelet count  60 x 109
/L
- NEC or suspected NEC
- Duct dependant congenital heart disease
- Impaired renal function: creatinine  140 µmol/L, blood urea 14 mmol/L.
• Monitor urine output and renal function. If urine output  0.6 ml/kg/hr
after a dose given, withhold next dose until output back to normal.
• Monitor for GIT complications e.g. gastric bleeding, perforation.
• Surgical ligation
• Persistence of a symptomatic PDA and failed 2 courses of Indomethacin
• If medical treatment fails or contraindicated
134
NEONATALOGY
• In older preterm infant who is asymptomatic, i.e. only cardiac murmur
present in an otherwise well baby – no treatment required. Follow-up as
necessary. Most PDA in this group will close spontaneously.
Pearls and Pitfalls in Management
• There is a higher success rate in closure of PDA if indomethacin is given in
the first two weeks of life.
• When using oral indomethacin, ensure that suspension is freshly prepared
and well mixed before serving.
• IV indomethacin is unstable once the vial is opened.
135
Chapter 28: Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn
NEONATOLOGY
Definition
Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) of the newborn is defined as a
failure of normal pulmonary vasculature relaxation at or shortly after birth,
resulting in impedance to pulmonary blood flow which exceeds systemic
vascular resistance, such that unoxygenated blood is shunted to the systemic
circulation.
PPHN can be:
• Idiopathic - 20%
• Associated with a variety of lung diseases:
• Meconium aspiration syndrome (50%)
• Pneumonia/sepsis (20%)
• RDS (5%)
• Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)
• Others: Asphyxia, Maternal diabetes, Polycythemia
Diagnosis
• History
- Precipitating factors during antenatal, intrapartum, postnatal periods
• Respiratory signs
- Signs of respiratory distress (tachypnoea, grunting, nasal flaring, chest
retractions)
- Onset at birth or within the first 4 to 8 hours of life
- Marked lability in pulse oximetry
• Cardiac signs
- Central cyanosis (differential cyanosis between the upper and lower body
may be noted clinically, by pulse oximetry and blood gasses)
- Prominent praecordial impulse
- Low parasternal murmur of tricuspid incompetence
• Radiography
- Lung fields
Normal, parenchymal lesions if lung disease is present, or oligaemia
- Cardiac shadow
Normal sized-heart, or cardiomegaly (usually right atrial or ventricular
enlargement).
• Echocardiography - important to:
- Exclude congenital heart disease.
- Define pulmonary artery pressure using tricuspid incompetence, ductal
shunt velocities.
- Define the presence, degree, direction of shunt through the duct / foramen
ovale.
- Define the ventricular output.
• The Hyperoxic test may play a role in diagnosis if 2D echocardiography is not
available. However, severe PPHN is likely to produce a similar result to
cyanotic CHD.
136
NEONATALOGY
Differential Diagnosis
In centres where there is a lack of readily available echocardiography and/or
Paediatric Cardiology services, the challenge is to differentiate PPHN from
Congenital Cyanotic Cardiac diseases.
Differentiating points between the two are:
• Babies with congenital cyanotic heart diseases are seldom critically ill at
delivery.
• Bradycardia is almost always due to hypoxia, not a primary cardiac problem
• Infants with cyanotic lesions usually do not have respiratory distress.
• Infants with PPHN usually had some perinatal hypoxia and handles poorly.
• The cyanosed cardiac baby is usually pretty happy, but blue.
Management
• General measures:
• Preventing and treating
- Hypothermia
- Hypoglycaemia
- Hypocalcaemia
- Hypovolaemia
- Anaemia
• Avoid excessive noise, discomfort and agitation.
• Minimal handling
• Sedation
• Morphine – given as an infusion at 10-20 mcg/kg/hr. Morphine is a safe
sedative and analgesic even in the preterm infants.
• Midazolam – not recommended for preterms  34 weeks gestational age,
assocated with adverse long term neurodevelopmental outcomes.
• Ventilation
• Conventional ventilation – adopt ‘gentle ventilatory’ approach by
- Avoidance of hyperventilation (i.e. hypocarbia and hyperoxia).
Hypocarbia is associated with periventricular leukomalacia. Aim for a
PCO2
of 45-55mmHg.
Hyperoxia leads to chronic oxygen dependency and bronchopulmonary
dysplasia. Keep PO2
within normal limits of 60 -80 mmHg.
- Ventilating to achieve a tidal volume of 3 to 5mls/kg.
- Short inspiratory time (0.2-0.3 sec) to prevent alveolar overdistension
- Inadvertently increasing ventilatory settings may lead to overdistention
of the lungs and high mean airway pressures compromising venous
return to the heart which further aggravates systemic hypotension as
cardiac output is compromised.
• High Frequency Oscillatory ventilation / High Frequency Jet Ventilation
Effective in newborns with PPHN secondary to a pulmonary pathology.
137
• Circulatory support
Inotropes for circulatory support improve cardiac output and enhances
systemic oxygenation. Its use is poorly substantiated in PPHN, especially with
the use of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO), which through its pulmonary
vasodilating effect helps to improve cardiac output and the systemic blood
pressure. Aim to keep the mean arterial pressure  50 mmHg in term infants.
However, inotropes are still recommended in institutions without facilities
for iNO:
	 Dopamine	 5 – 20 mcg/kg/min
	 Dobutamine 5 – 20 mcg/kg/min
	 Adrenaline	 0.1 – 1.0 mcg/kg/min
• Vasodilators
• Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO)- selective pulmonary vasodilator.
- In term and near term infants (34 weeks gestational age) reduces need
for Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)(Dose: 5-20 ppm).
- insufficient evidence to support use in preterm infants  34 weeks age.
• Prostacycline and Sildenafil. These are not recommended for routine use
as their safety and efficacy had not been tested in large randomized trials.
Sildenafil in the treatment of PPHN has significant potential especially in
resource limited settings.
• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
ECMO is effective in PPHN. It is expensive as it requires trained personnel,
specialized equipment and a good nursing-cot ratio.
• Practices not recommended for routine use:
• Sodium bicarbonate.
There is lack of sufficient evidence to recommend its routine use
• Magnesium sulphate
Anecdotal efficacy in PPHN but not yet been tested in large randomized
trials to justify its use routinely.
• Muscle relaxant agents
No evidence for use in PPHN. Use had been known to increase mortality
rates.
NEONATOLOGY
138
NEONATALOGY
139
Chapter 29: Perinatally AcquiredVaricella
NEONATOLOGY
Introduction
• In maternal infection (onset of rash) within 5 days before and 2 days after
delivery 17-30% infants develop neonatal varicella with lesions appearing at
5-10 days of life.
• Mortality is high (20%-50%), as these infants have not acquired maternal
protecting antibodies. Cause of death is due to severe pulmonary
disease or widespread necrotic lesions of viscera.
• When maternal varicella occurs 5-21 days before delivery, lesions typically
appear in the first 4 days of life and prognosis is good with no associated
mortality. The mild course is probably due to the production and
transplacental passage of maternal antibodies that modify the course of
illness in new-borns.
• Infants born to mothers who develop varicella between 7 days antenatally
and 14 days postnatally should receive as prophylaxis:
• Varicella Zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG) as soon as possible within 96
hours of initial exposure (to reduce the occurrence of complications and
fatal outcomes). Attenuation of disease might still be achieved with
administration of VZIG up to 10 days.
• If Zoster immunoglobulin is not available give IV Immunoglobulin
400 mg/kg ( this is less effective), AND
• IV Acyclovir 15 mg/kg/dose over 1 hour every 8hrly (total 45 mg /kg/day)
for 5 days.
• On sending home, warn parents to look out for new vesicles or baby being
unwell for 28 days after exposure. If so, parents to bring the infant to the
nearest hospital as soon as possible (62% of healthy such neonates given
VZIG after birth)
• If vesicles develop to give IV Acyclovir 10-15 mg/kg/dose over 1 hour every
8hrly (total 30-45 mg /kg/day) for 7-10 days.
• Women with varicella at time of delivery should be isolated from their
newborns, breast-feeding is contraindicated. Mother should express breast
milk in the mean time and commence breast-feeding when all the lesions
have crusted.
• Neonates with varicella lesions should be isolated from other infants but
not from their mothers.
• It has been generally accepted that passive immunization of the neonate
can modify the clinical course of neonatal varicella but it does not prevent
the disease and, although decreased, the risk of death is not completely
eliminated.
• Infants whose mothers develop Zoster before or after delivery have
maternal antibodies and they will not need ZIG.
• Recommend immunisation of family members who are not immune.
140
NEONATALOGY
Postnatal exposure to varicella in the hospital
• Give VZIG within 96 hours to those who have been exposed if they fit the
following criteria:
• All babies born at  28 weeks gestation or who weighed  1000g at birth
irrespective of maternal history of chickenpox.
• All preterm babies born at ≥28 weeks gestation whose mothers have not
had chickenpox or whose status is unknown.
• All immunocompromised patients, e.g. immunosuppressive therapy,
have malignant disease or are immunodeficient.
• Isolate patient who has varicella infection and susceptible patients who have
been exposed to the virus. Treatment of symptomatic patients with acyclovir
as above.
• Screen exposed, susceptible hospital staff for skin lesions, fever, headache
and systemic symptoms. They are potentially infective 10-21 days after
exposure and should be placed on sick leave immediately should any
symptoms or skin lesion arise. If possible they can also be reassigned during
the incubation period to areas where the patients are not as susceptible or
non-patient care areas.
Other notes
• In hospitals, airborne transmission of VZV has been demonstrated when
varicella has occurred in susceptible persons who have had no direct contact
with the index case-patient.
• Incubators are not positive pressure air flow  therefore do not provide
isolation. Neonates may not be protected given that they are frequently
open for nursing purposes.
• All staff should preferably be screened and susceptible staff vaccinated for
varicella before commencing work in neonatal, oncology and ICU wards.
If not,they should receive post exposure vaccination as soon as possible
unless contraindications exist such as pregnancy. VZIG is an option for
exposed susceptible pregnant staff to prevent complications in the mother
rather than to protect the foetus.
• The use of VZIG following exposure does not necessarily prevent varicella
and may prolong the incubation period by  1 week and hence signs or
symptoms should be observed for 28 days post exposure.
• VZIG is not presently recommended for healthy full term infants who are
exposed postnatally, even if their mothers have no history of varicella
infection. To emphasise to parents to bring back early for treatment with
acyclovir if any skin lesion appear within the next 3 weeks.
141
References
Section 2 Neonatology
Chapter 9 Transport of a Sick Newborn
1.Hatch D, Sumner E and Hellmann J: The Surgical Neonate: Anaesthesia and
Intensive Care, Edward Arnold, 1995
2.McCloskey K, Orr R: Pediatric Transport Medicine, Mosby 1995
3.Chance GW, O’ Brien MJ, Swyer PR: Transportation of sick neonates 1972: An
unsatisfactory aspect of medical care. Can Med Assoc J 109:847-852, 1973
4.Chance GW, Matthew JD, Gash J et al: Neonatal Transport: A controlled study
of skilled assisstance J Pediatrics 93: 662-666,1978
5.Vilela PC, et al: Risk Factors for Adverse Outcome of Newborns with Gastro-
schisis in a Brazilian hospital. J Pediatr Surg 36: 559-564, 2001
6.Pierro A: Metabolism and Nutritional Support in the Surgical neonate. J
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7.Lupton BA, Pendray MR: Regionalized neonatal emergency transport. Semi-
nars in Neonatology 9:125-133, 2004
8.Insoft RM: Essentials of neonatal transport
9.Holbrook PR: Textbook of Paediatric Critical Care, Saunders, 1993
10. B.L Ohning : Transport of the critically ill newborn introduction and histori-
cal perspective. 2011
11.Fairchild K, Sokora D, Scott J, Zanelli S. Therapeutic hypothermia on
neonatal transport: 4-year experience in a single NICU. J Perinatol. May
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Chapter 11 Enteral Feeding in Neonates
1.Schandler RJ, Shulman RJ, LauC, Smith EO, Heitkemper MM. Feeding strate-
gies for premature infants: randomized trial of gastrointestinal priming and
tube feeding method. Pediatrics 1999; 103: 492-493.
2.Premji S.  Chessel L. Continuous nasogastric milk feeding versus inter-
mittent bolus milk feeding for premature infants less than 1500 grams.
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ance and prevent morbidity in parenterally fed neonates (Cochrane Review).
In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 1999. Oxford: Update Software.
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domised trial of enteral feeding volumes in infants born before 30 weeks.
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the umbilical artery. Arch Dis Child 1994; 70: F84-9.
6.Malcolm G, Ellwood D, Devonald K, Beilby R, Henderson-Smart D. Absent or
reversed end diastolic flow velocity in the umbilical artery and necrotising
enterocolitis. Arch Dis Child 1991; 66: 805-7.
7.Patricia W. Lin, MD, Tala R. Nasr, MD, and Barbara J. Stoll. Necrotizing Entero-
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NEONATOLOGY
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Chapter 12 Total Parental Nutrition for Neonates
1.Jacques Rigo, Jacques Senterre, Nutritional needs of premature infants:
Current issues. J. Pediatrics, 2006 149:S80-S88
2.Anna M. Dusick, Brenda B. Poindexter, Richard A. Ehrenkranz, and
3.James A. Lemons. Growth failure in preterm infants – Can we catch up?
Seminars in Perinatology, 2003 Vol 27 (4):302-310
4.Spear et al Effect of heparin dose and infusion rate on lipid clearance and
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6.Porcelli PJ, Sisk PM. Increased parenteral amino acid administration to
extremely low birth weight infants during early postnatal life. Journal of
Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition 2002;34:174-9
7.Collins et al. A controlled trial of insulin infusion and parenteral nutrition
in extremely low birth-weight infants with glucose intolerance. J Pediatr
1991; 118: 921-27
8.Ziegler EE, Thureen PJ, Carlson SJ. Aggressive nutrition of the very low
birthweight infant. Clin Perinatol 2002; 29(2):225-44.
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10.Thureen P, Melara D, Fennessey P. Effect of low versus high intravenous
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Chapter 14 Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis
1.Schmidt B, Andrew M. Report of the Scientific and Standardization Subcom-
mittee on Neonatal Haemostatsis. Diagnosis and treatment of neonatal
thrombosis. Throm Hemostat. 1992; 67: 381-382
2.Baserga MC,Puri A, Sola A. The use of topical nitroglycerine ointment to
treat peripheral tissue ischaemia secondary to aterial line complication in
neonates. J. Perinatol. 2002; 22:416-419
3.Monagle P, Chan A, Chalmers E, Michelson AD. Antithrombin therapy in
children. The 7th ACCP conference on antithrombotic and thrombolytic
therapy. Chest. 2004;126:645S-687S
4.Williams MD, Chalmers EA, Gibson BE. Haemostasis and thrombosis task
force, British Committee for standards in haematology. The investigation
and management of neonatal haemostasis and thrombosis. Br. J Haema-
tology. 2002;119:295-309
5.John CM, Harkensee C. Thrombolytic agents for arterial and venous throm-
bosis in neonates. Cochrane Database Sys Rev. 2005; 25:CD004242
Chapter 13 NICU: General Pointers for Care and Review of Newborn Infants
1.Murray NA, Roberts IAG. Neonatal transfusion practice. Arch Dis Child FN
2004;89:101-107.
2.Neonatal Benchmarking Group UK.
NEONATALOGY
143
Chapter 15 Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant
1.Horbar JD, Wright EC, Onstad L et al, Decreasing mortality associated with
the introduction of surfactant therapy: an observed study of neonates
weighing 601 to 1300 grams at birth. Pediatrics. 1993;92
2.Schwartz RM, Luby AM, Scanlon JW et al. Effect of surfactant on morbidity,
mortality and resource use in newborn infants weighing 500-1500 grams.
NEJM 1994; 330:1476-1480
3.Jobe A. Surfactant: the basis for clinical treatment strategies. Chapter 4
from The Newborn Lung, Neonatology questions and controversies. Ed.
Bancalari E, Polin RA. Publisher Saunders, Elsevier. 2008
4.Kendig JW, Ryan RM, Sinkin RA et al. Comparison of two startegies for sur-
factant prophylaxis in very premature infants : a multicenter randomised
controlled trial. Pediatrics. 1998;101:1006-1012.
Chapter 16 The Newborn and Acid Base Balance
1.Aschner J.L., Poland R.L. Sodium Bicarbonate: Basically useless therapy.
Pediatrics 2008; 122: 831-835
2.Forsythe S.M., Schmidt G.A. Socium bicarbonate for the treatment of lactic
acidosis. Chest 2000; 117:260-267
Chapter 17 Neonatal Encephalopathy
1.Nelson KB, Leviton A. How much of neonatal encephalopathy is due to
birth asphyxia? Am J Dis Child 1991;145(11):1325-31
2.N. Badawi et al. Antepartum risk factors for newborn encephalopathy: the
Western Australia case-control study, BMJ 317 (1998) 1549– 1553
3.N. Badawi, et al., Intrapartum risk factors for newborn encephalopathy: the
Western Australian case-control study, BMJ 317 (1998): 1554– 1558
4.G.D.V. Hankins, M. Speer, Defining the pathogenesis and pathophysiology
of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy, Obstet. Gynecol. 2003;
(102) :628– 636
5.Holme G ,Rowe J, Hafford J, Schmidt R. Prognostic value of EEG in neonatal
seizures. Electroenceph Clin Neurophysiol 1982;53: 60-72
6.Helllstorm-Westas L, Rosen I, Svenningsen NW. Predictive value of early
continuous amplitude integrated EEG recording on outcome after severe
birth asphyxia in full term infants. Arch Dis Child 1995; 72: F34-8
NEONATOLOGY
7. Low JA, Panayiotopoulos C, Derick EJ. Newborn complications after
intrapartum asphyxia with metabolic acidosis in term fetus. Am J Obstet
Gynecol 1994;170:1081-7
8. Levene ML. Management of asphyxiated full term infant. Arch Dis Child
1993;68:612-6
9. Evan D, Levene M. Neonatal seizures. Arch Dis Child 1998;78:F70-5
10. Jacobs S, hunt R, Tarnow-Mordi W et al. cooling for newborns with
hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (review). CochraneDatabase of
Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003311.
11. Barks J.D.E Current controversies in hypothermic protection. Sem Fetal 
Neonatal Medicine 2008; (13):30-34.
144
Chapter 18 Neonatal Seizures
1.JJ Volpe: Neurology in the Newborn: Fourth Edition
2.Klauss  Fanaroff: Care of The High Risk Neonate: Fifth Edition
3.MaytalJ, Novak GP, King KC: Lorazepam in the treatment of refractory
neonatal seizures:J Child Neuro6;319-323,1991
4.Hu KC, Chiu NC, Ho CS, Lee ST, Shen EY Continuous midazolam infusion in
the treatment of uncontrollable neonatal seizures. Acta Paediatr Taiwan.
2003 Sep-Oct;44(5):279-81.
5.Ng E, Klinger G, Shah V, Taddio A.Safety of benzodiazepines in Newborns.
Ann Pharmacother. 2002 Jul-Aug;36(7-8):1150-5.
6.Gamstorp I, SedinG; Neonatal convulsions treated with continuous intrave-
nous infusion of diazepam:Ups J Med Sci87: 143-149, 1982
7.Evans D, Levene M. Neonatal seizures. Archives of Diseases in Childhood.
Fetal and Neonatal Edition. 1998; 78(1):F70-5.
8.Levene M. Recognition and management of neonatal seizures. Paediatrics
and Child Health. 2008; 18(4):178-182.
9.Booth D, Evans DJ. Anticonvulsants for neonates with seizures. Cochrane
Database Syst Rev. 2004; (4):CD004218
10.Glass HC, Wirrell E. Controversies in Neonatal Seizure Management. Jour-
nal of Child Neurology. 2009; 24(5):591-599
11.Thomson Reuters. NeoFax®: a manual of drugs used in neonatal care 24th
ed: Thomson Reuters; 2011.
Chapter 19 Neonatal Hypoglycemia
1.Davis H Adamkin, MD and COMMITTEE ON FETUS AND NEWBORN. Clinical
Report –Postnatal Glucose Homeostasis in Late Preterm and Term infants.
Pediatrics 2011;127(3):575-579
2.Mehta A. Prevention and managemant of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Arch
Dis Child 1994; 70: 54-59
3.Cornblath M, Hawdon JM, Williams AF, Aynsley-Green A, Ward-Platt MP,
Schwartz R, Kalhan SC. Controversies regarding definition of neonatal hy-
poglycemia: suggested operational thresholds. Pediatrics 2000;105:1141-5
4.Cornblath M, Ichord R. Hypoglycemia in the neonate. Semin Perinatol
2000;24:136-49
5. Lilien LD, Pildes RS, Srinivasan G. Treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia with
minibolus and intravenous glucose infusion. J Pediatr. 1980;97:295-98
6. McGowan J.E. Neonatal hypoglycemia. Pediatrics in Review 1999;20;e6
7. Miralles R.E., Lodha A, Perlman M, Moore A.m., Experience with IV
Glucagon infusions as a treatment for resistant neonatal hypoglycaemia.
Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2002;156:999-1004
8. Collins JE, Leonard JV, Teale D, Marks V, Williams DM, Kennedy CR, Hall
MA. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia in small for dates babies. Arch Dis
Child 1990; 65: 1118-20
NEONATALOGY
145
Chapter 20 Neonatal Jaundice
1.Integrated Plan for Detection and Management of Neonatal Jaundice,
Ministry of Health, 2009
2.Guideline on Screening and Management of NNJ with Special Emphasis on
G6PD Deficiency, MOH 1998
3.American Academy of Paediatrics . Provisonal Committee for Quality Im-
provement and Subcommittee on Hyperbilrubinemia. Practice Parameter:
management of hyperbilirubinemia in the healthy term newborn. Pediat-
rics, 2004. 114:297-316
4.Gartner LM, Herschel M. Jaundice and breast-feeding. Pediatr Clin North
Am 2001;48:389-99.
5.Maisels MJ, Baltz RD, Bhutani V, et al. AAP Guidelines -Management of
hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant 35 or more weeks of gestation.
Pediatrics. 2004;114 :297 –316.
6.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In
Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA.
8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56.
7.NICE clinical guidelines on Neonatal jaundice. RCOG, UK. May 2010
Chapter 21 Exchange Transfusion
1.Ip S, Chung M, Kulig J et al. An evidence-based review of important issues
concerning neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Pediatrics:113(6) www.pediatrics.
org/cgi/content/full/113/6/e644.
2.AAP Subcommittee on hyperbilirubinemia. Clinical Practice Guideline:
Management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant 35 or more
weeks of gestation. Pediatrics 2004; 114 (1): 297-316.
3.Murki S, Kumar P. Blood exchange transfusion for infants with severe neo-
natal hyperbilurubinaemia. Seminars in Perinatology. 2011. 35:175-184
4.Steiner LA, Bizzaro MJ, Ehrenkranz RA, Gallagher PG. A decline in the
frequency of neonatal exchange transfusions and its effect on exchange-
related morbidity and mortality. Pediatrics 2007; 120 (1): 27-32.
5.Narang A, Gathwala G, Kumar P. Neonatal jaundice: an analysis of 551
cases. Indian Pediatr 1997: 34: 429 – 432.
6.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In
Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA.
8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56.
NEONATOLOGY
Chapter 22 Prolonged Jaundice
1.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In
Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA.
8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56.
2.Winfield CR, MacFaul R. Clinical study of prolonged jaundice in breast and
bottle-fed babies. Arch Dis Child 1978;53:506-7.
3.NICE clinical guidelines for neonatal jaundice. RCOG, UK. May 2010.
146
Chapter 23 Apnoea in the Newborn
1.Apnea, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Home Monitoring Committee
on Fetus and Newborn; Pediatrics Vol. 111 No. 4 April 2003, pp. 914-917
2.William J. R. et al , Apnes in Premature Infants: Monitoring, Incidence,
Heart Rate changes, and an Effects of Environmental Temperature;. Pediat-
rics Vol. 43 No. 4 April 1, 1969 pp. 510 -518
3.Eric C. et al, Apnea Frequently Persists Beyond Term Gestation in Infants
Delivered at 24 to 28 Weeks; Pediatrics Vol. 100 No. 3 September 1, 1997
pp. 354 -359
4.Hoffman HJ, Damus K, Hillman L, Krongrad E. Risk factors for SIDS.Results
of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development SIDS
Cooperative Epidemiological Study. Ann N Y Acad Sci.1988;533:13–30
5.Bhat RY, Hannam S, Pressler R et al (2006) Effect of prone and supine
position on sleep, apneas, and arousal in preterm infants. Pediatrics
118(1):101–107
6.Pantalitschka T, Sievers J, Urschitz MS et al (2009) Randomized crossover
trial of four nasal respiratory support systems on apnoea of prematurity in
very low birth weight infants. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 94(4):245–
248
7.American Academy of Pediatrics: Committee on Fetus and Newborn: Ap-
nea, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Home Monitoring. Pediatrics,Vol.
111 No. 4 April 2003.
Chapter 24 Neonatal Sepsis
1. R.C. Roberton. Textbook of Neonatology. Churchill Livingstone
2.Ohlsson A, Lacy JB. Intravenous immunoglobulin for suspected or subse-
quently proven infection in neonates. The Cochrane Library 2007; Issue 4
3.D Isaacs. Unnatural selection: reducing antibiotic resistance in neonatal
units Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal Neonatal Ed., January 1, 2006; 91(1): F72 - F74.
4.U K Mishra, S E Jacobs, L W Doyle, and S M Garland. Newer approaches to
the diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis. Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal Neona-
tal Ed., May 1, 2006; 91(3): F208 - F212.
5. S Vergnano, M Sharland, P Kazembe, C Mwansambo, and P T Heath
Neonatal sepsis: an international perspective. Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal
Neonatal Ed., May 1, 2005; 90(3): F220 - f224.
6. Remington and KleinTextbook of Infectious Diseases of the Fetus and
Newborn Infant. 6th Edition
7. Treatment of of Neonatal Sepsis with Intravenous Immune Globulin. The
INIS Collaborative Group N Engl J Med 2011: 365:1201-1211.
NEONATALOGY
147
Chapter 25 Congenital Syphilis
1.Centers for Disease Control. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guide-
lines, 2010. MMWR 2010;59(No. RR-12).
2.Centers for Disease Control Northern Territory. Guidelines for the investiga-
tion and treatment of infants at risk of congenital syphilis in the Northern
Territory, 2005.
Chapter 26 Ophthalmia Neonatorum
1.Fransen L, Klauss V. Neonatal ophthalmia in the developing world. Epidemiol-
ogy, etiology, management and control. Int Ophthalmol. 1988;11(3):189-96
2.PS Mallika et al. Neonatal Conjunctivitis- A Review. Malaysian Family Physi-
cian 2008; Volume 3, Number 2
3.MMWR Recomm Rep 2010; 59 (RR12): 53-55. Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Treatment Guidelines, 2010.
4.Palafox et al. Ophthalmia Neonatorum. J Clinic Exp Ophthalmol 2011, 2:1
5.Input from Dr Joseph Alagaratnam, Consultant Opthalmologist HKL , is
acknowledged.
Chapter 27 Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm
1.Raval M, Laughon M, Bose C, Phillips J. Patent ductus arteriosus ligation in
premature infants: who really benefits, and at what cost? J Pediatr Surg
2007; 42:69-75
2.Patent ductus arteriosus. Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Department of Neona-
tal Medicine Protocol Book, 2001
3.Knight D. The treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. A
review and overview ofrandomized trials. Sem Neonatol 2000;6:63-74
4.Cooke L, Steer P, Woodgate P. Indomethacin for asymptomatic patent ductus
arteriosus in preterm infants. Cochrane databse of systematic reviews 2003
5.Brion LP, Campbell, DE. Furosemide for prevention of morbidity in indometh-
acin-treated infants with patent ductus arteriosus. Cochrane database of
systematic reviews 2001.
6.Herrera CM, Holberton JR, Davis PG. Prolonged versus short course of indo-
methacin for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD003480.
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003480.pub3. Most recent review 2009.
7.Shannon E.G. Hamrick and Georg Hansmann. Patent Ductus Arteriosus of the
Preterm Infant. Pediatrics 2010;125;1020-1030
NEONATOLOGY
148
Ch 28 Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
1.Abman SH. Neonatal pulmonary hypertension: a physiologic approach to
treatment. Pediatr Pulmonol 2004;37 (suppl 26):127-8
2.Ng E, Taddio A, Ohlsson A. Intravenous midazolam infusion for sedation of
infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Cochrane Database of Systematic
Reviews 2003, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD002052.
3.Keszler M, Abubakar K. Volume Guarantee: Stability of Tidal Volume and
Incidence of Hypocarbia. Pediatr Pulmonol 2004;38:240-245
4.Finer NN, Barrington KJ. Nitric oxide for respiratory failure in infants born at
or near term. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art.
No.: CD000399.
5.Shah PS, Ohlsson A. Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. August 10, 2011
6.Walsh-Sukys MC, Tyson JE, Wright LL et al. Persistent pulmonary hyperten-
sion of the newborn in the era before nitric oxide: practice variation and
outcomes. Pediatrics 2000;105(1):14-21.
Ch 29 Perinatally acquired varicella
1.CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Vol 61/No.12 March
30, 2012
2.Prevention of Varicella. Recommendations of National Advisory committee
on Immunization practise (ACIP). MMWR 2007
3.Hayakawa M et al. Varicella exposure in a neonatal medical centre: successful
prophylaxis with oral acyclovir . Journal of Hospital Infection. 2003; (54):212-
215
4.Sauerbrei A. Review of varizella-zoster virus infections in pregnany women
and neonates. Health. 2010; 2(2): 143-152 	
NEONATALOGY
149
Chapter 30: Asthma
The International Studies on Asthma And Allergy (ISAAC) has shown that the
prevalence of asthma among school age children is 10%.
Definition
• Chronic airway inflammation leading to increase airway responsiveness that
leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and
coughing particularly at night or early morning.
• Often associated with widespread but variable airflow obstruction that is
often reversible either spontaneously or with treatment.
• Reversible and variable airflow limitation as evidenced by 15% improvement
in PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate), in response to administration of a
bronchodilator.
Important Points to Note in:
Clinical History Physical Examination
Current symptoms Signs of chronic illness
Pattern of symptoms Harrison’s sulci
Precipitating factors Hyperinflated chest
Present treatment Eczema / dry skin
Previous hospital admission Hypertrophied turbinates
Typical exacerbations Signs in acute exacerbation
Home/ school environment Tachypnoea
Impact on life style Wheeze, rhonchi
History of atopy Hyperinflated chest
Response to prior treatment Accessory muscles
Prolonged URTI symptoms Cyanosis
Family history Drowsiness
Tachycardia
Note: Absence of Physical Signs Does Not Exclude Asthma!
• In pre-school children, epidemiological studies have delineated children with
wheezing into 3 different phenotypes:
Transient wheezers, Persistent wheezers and Late-onset wheezers.
• These phenotypes are only useful when applied retrospectively.
RESPIRATORY
150
RESPIRATORY
• Hence, there are recommendations to define pre-school wheezing into two
main categories:
• Episodic (viral) wheeze. Children who only wheeze with viral infections and
are well between episodes.
• Multiple trigger wheezers are children who have discrete exacerbations
and symptoms in between these episodes. Triggers are smoke, allergens,
crying, laughing and exercise.
• The presence of atopy (eczema, allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis) in the
child or family supports the diagnosis of asthma . However, the absence of
these conditions does not exclude the diagnosis.
• Thus, because of the difficulty to diagnose asthma in young children, an
asthmatic predictive index can be helpful in predicting children who were
going to be asthmatics. The possibility of those with negative index not
becoming asthmatic by 6 years old was 95% whereas those with a positive
index have a 65% chance of becoming asthmatic by 6 years old.
A Clinical Index to define Risk of Asthma in young children with RecurrentWheeze:
Positive index ( 3 wheezing episodes / year during first 3 years)
plus 1 Major criterion or 2 Minor criteria.
Major criteria • Eczema1
• Parental asthma1
• Positive aeroallergen skin test1
Minor criteria • Positive skin test1
• Wheezing without upper respiratory tract infection
• Eosinophilia ( 4%)
Footnote: 1, Doctor Diagnosed
• The child who presents with chronic cough alone (daily cough for  4 weeks)
and has never wheezed is unlikely to have asthma. These children require
further evaluation for other illnesses that can cause chronic cough.
151
RESPIRATORY
MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC ASTHMA
Patients with a new diagnosis of asthma should be properly evaluated as to
their degree of asthma severity:
Evaluation of the background of newly diagnosed asthma
Category Clinical Parameters
Intermittent • Daytime symptoms less than once a week
• Nocturnal symptoms less than once a month
• No exercise induced symptoms
• Brief exacerbations not affecting sleep and activity
• Normal lung function
Persistent (Threshold for preventive treatment)
Mild Persistent • Daytime symptoms more than once a week
• Nocturnal symptoms more than twice a month
• Exercise induced symptoms
• Exacerbations  1x/month affecting sleep, activity
• PEFR / FEV1  80%
Moderate Persistent • Daytime symptoms daily
• Nocturnal symptoms more than once a week
• Exercise induced symptoms
• Exacerbations  2x/month affecting sleep, activity
• PEFR / FEV1 60 - 80%
Severe Persistent • Daytime symptoms daily
• Daily nocturnal symptoms
• Daily exercise induced symptoms
• Frequent exacerbations  2x/month affecting sleep,
activity
• PEFR / FEV1  60%
Note
•This division is arbitrary and the groupings may merge. An individual patient’s
classification may change from time to time.
•There are a few patients who have very infrequent but severe or life threatening
attacks with completely normal lung function and no symptoms between
episodes. This type of patient remains very difficult to manage.
• PEFR = Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; FEV1 = Forced ExpiratoryVolume in One Second.
152
RESPIRATORY
• In 2006, the Global Initiatives on Asthma (GINA) has proposed the management
of asthma from severity based to control based. The change is due to the fact
that asthma management based on severity is on expert opinion rather than
evidence based, with limitation in deciding treatment and it does not predict
treatment response.
• Asthma assessment based on levels of control is based on symptoms and
the three levels of control are well controlled, partly control and
uncontrolled.
• Patients who are already on treatment should be assessed at every clinic
visit on their control of asthma
Levels of Asthma Control (GINA 2006)
Characteristics Controlled
All of the following:
Partly Controlled
Any measure pre-
sent in any week:
Uncontrolled
Daytime symptoms None  2 per week ≥ 3 features of
partly controlled
asthma present
in any week
Limitation of
activities
None Any
Nocturnal symptoms
or Awakenings
None Any
Need for Reliever None  2 per week
Lung function test Normal  80% predicted or
personal best
Exacerbations None ≥ 1 per year One in any week
Prevention
Identifying and avoiding the following common triggers may be useful
• Environmental allergens
• These include house dust mites, animal dander, insects like cockroach,
mould and pollen.
• Useful measures include damp dusting, frequent laundering of bedding
with hot water, encasing pillow and mattresses with plastic/vinyl covers,
removal of carpets from bedrooms, frequent vacuuming and removal of
pets from the household.
• Cigarette smoke
• Respiratory tract infections - commonest trigger in children.
• Food allergy - uncommon trigger, occurring in 1-2% of children
• Exercise
• Although it is a recognised trigger, activity should not be limited. Taking a
β₂-agonist prior to strenuous exercise, as well as optimizing treatment, are
usually helpful.
153
RESPIRATORY
Drug Therapy
DrugTherapy: Delivery systems available  recommendation for different ages.
Age (years) Oral MDI +
Spacer
MDI + Mask
+ Spacer
Dry Powder
Inhaler
 5 + + - -
5 – 8 - + - -
 8 - + + +
Note:
MDI = Meter dose inhaler
Mask used should be applied firmly to the face of the child
Treatment of Chronic Asthma
Asthma management based on levels of control is a step up and step down
approach as shown in the table below:
Management Based On Control
Reduce Increase
STEP 1
Intermittent
STEP 2
Mild
Persistent
STEP 3
Moderate
Persistent
STEP 4
Severe
Persistent
STEP 5
Severe
Persistent
As needed
rapid acting
β₂-agonist
As needed
rapid acting
β₂-agonist
Controller
Options
Select one Select One Add one / more Add one / both
Low dose
inhaled
steroids
Low dose ICS
+ long acting
β₂-agonist
Medium / High
dose ICS
+ long acting
β₂-agonist
Oral
Glucocorticoids
lowest dose
Leukotriene
modifier
Medium / High
dose ICS
Leukotriene
modifier
Anti-IgE
Low dose ICS
+ Leukotriene
modifier
SRTheophylline
Low dose ICS +
SRTheophylline
Footnote: ICS, Inhaled Corticosteroids; SR, Sustained Release.
154
Drug Dosages for Medications used in Chronic Asthma
Drug Formulation Dosage
Relieving Drugs
β₂-agonists
• Salbutamol Oral
Metered dose inhaler
Dry powder inhaler
0.15 mg/kg/dose TDS-QID/PRN
100-200 mcg/dose QID/PRN
100-200 mcg/dose QID/PRN
•Terbutaline Oral 0.075 mg/kg/dose TDS-QID/PRN
250-500 mcg/dose QID/PRN
500-1000 mcg/dose QID/PRN
(maximum 4000 mcg/daily)
• Fenoterol Metered dose inhaler 200 mcg/dose QID/PRN
Ipratropium Bromide Metered dose inhaler 40-60mcg /dose TDS/QID/PRN
Preventive Drugs
Corticosteroids
• Prednisolone Oral 1-2 mg/kg/day in divided doses
• Beclomethasone
Diproprionate
• Budesonide
Metered dose inhaler
Dry powder inhaler
400 mcg/day : low dose
400-800 mcg/day : Moderate 800-
1200 mcg/day: High
• Fluticasone
Propionate
Metered dose inhaler
Dry powder inhaler
200 mcg/day : Low
200-400 mcg/day : Moderate
400-600 mcg/day : High
• Ciclesonide Metered dose inhaler 160 microgram daily
320 microgram daily
Sodium
Cromoglycate
Dry powder inhaler
Metered dose inhaler
20mg QID
1-2mg QID or 5-10mg BID-QID
Theophylline Oral Syrup
Slow Release
5 mg/kg/dose TDS/QID
10 mg/kg/dose BD
Long acting β₂-agonists
• Salmeterol Metered dose inhaler
Dry powder inhaler
50-100 mcg/dose BD
50-100 mcg/dose BD
Combination
Salmeterol /
Fluticasone
Metered dose inhaler
Dry powder inhaler
25/50mcg, 25/125mcg, 25/250mcg
50/100mcg,50/250mcg, 50/500mcg
Budesonide /For-
moterol
Dry powder inhaler 160/4.5mcg, 80/4.5mcg
Antileukotrienes (Leukotriene modifier)
Montelukast Oral 4 mg granules
5mg/tablet on night chewable
10mg/tablet ON
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155
Note: 	
• Patients should commence treatment at the step most appropriate to the
initial severity. A short rescue course of Prednisolone may help establish
control promptly.
• Explain to parents and patient about asthma and all therapy
• Ensure both compliance and inhaler technique optimal before progression
to next step.
• Step-up; assess patient after 1 month of initiation of treatment and if control
is not adequate, consider step-up after looking into factors as above.
• Step-down; review treatment every 3 months and if control sustained for at
least 4-6 months, consider gradual treatment reduction.
Monitoring
During each follow up visit, three issues need to be assessed. They are:
• Assessment of asthma control based on:
• Interval symptoms.
• Frequency and severity of acute exacerbation.
• Morbidity secondary to asthma.
• Quality of life.
• Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) or FEV1 monitoring.
• Compliance to asthma therapy:
• Frequency.
• Technique.	
• Asthma education:
• Understanding asthma in childhood.
• Reemphasize compliance to therapy.
• Written asthma action plan.
Patients with High Risk Asthma are at risk of developing near fatal asthma
(NFA) or fatal asthma (FA) . This group of patients need to be identified and
closely monitored which includes frequent medical review (at least 3 monthly),
objective assessment of asthma control with lung function on each visit,
review of asthma action plan and medication supply, identification of
psychosocial issues and referral to a paediatrician or respiratory specialist.
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MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE ASTHMA
Assessment of Severity
Initial (Acute assessment)
• Diagnosis
- symptoms e.g. cough, wheezing. breathlessness , pneumonia
• Triggering factors
- food, weather, exercise, infection, emotion, drugs, aeroallergens
• Severity
- respiratory rate, colour, respiratory effort, conscious level
Chest X Ray is rarely helpful in the initial assessment unless complications like
pneumothorax, pneumonia or lung collapse are suspected.
Initial ABG is indicated only in acute severe asthma.
Management of acute asthma exacerbations
• Mild attacks can be usually treated at home if the patient is prepared and
has a personal asthma action plan.
• Moderate and severe attacks require clinic or hospital attendance.
• Asthma attacks require prompt treatment.
• A patient who has brittle asthma, previous ICU admissions for asthma or
with parents who are either uncomfortable or judged unable to care for the
child with an acute exacerbation should be admitted to hospital.
Criteria for admission
• Failure to respond to standard home treatment.
• Failure of those with mild or moderate acute asthma to respond to nebulised
β₂-agonists.
• Relapse within 4 hours of nebulised β₂- agonists.
• Severe acute asthma.
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The Initial Assessment is the First Step in the Management of Acute Asthma
Severity of Acute Asthma Exacerbations
Parameters Mild Moderate Severe LifeThreatening
Breathless When walk-
ing
When talking
Infant: Feeding
difficulties
At rest
Infant: Stops
feeding
Talks in Sentences Phrases Words Unable to speak
Alertness Maybe
agitated
Usually
agitated
Usually
agitated
Drowsy/ con-
fused/ coma
Respiratory
rate
Normal to
Mildly In-
creased
Increased Markedly
Increased
Poor Respiratory
Effort
Accessory
Muscle usage /
retractions
Absent Present -
Moderate
Present –
Severe
Paradoxical
thoraco-abdominal
movement
Wheeze Moderate,
often only
end expira-
tory
Loud Usually loud Silent chest
SpO2 (on air) 95% 92-95% 92% Cyanosis  92%
Pulse /min  100 100-120 120(5yrs)
160 (in-
fants)
Bradycardia
PEFR1
80% 60-80% 60% Unable to perform
Footnote:
1, PEFR after initial bronchodilator, % predicted or of personal best
RESPIRATORY
158
• Nebulised Salbutamol or
MDI Salbutamol + spacer
4-6 puffs (6 yrs),
8-12 puffs (6 yrs)
• Oral Prednisolone
1 mg/kg/day (max 60 mg)
x 3 - 5 days
• Nebulised Salbutamol
± Ipratopium Bromide
(3 @ 20 min intervals)
+ Oral Prednisolone
1 mg/kg/day x 3-5 days
+ Oxygen 8L/min by face mask
• Discharged with
Improved LongTerm
Treatment and
AsthmaAction Plan
• Short course of Oral
Steroid (3-5 days)
• Regular Bronchodilators
4-6Hly for a few days then
given PRN.
• Early Review in 2-4 weeks
Continous
Obervation
Review after 20 min,
if No Improvement
then treat as Moderate
Management of Acute Exarcerbation of Bronchial Asthma in Children
• Nebulised Salbutamol
+ Ipratopium Bromide
(3x @ 20 mins intervals/
continuously)
+ Oxygen 8L/min by face mask
+ IV Corticosteroid
+ IV Salbutamol continuous
infusion 1- 5 mcg/kg/min
± Loading 15 mcg/kg over
10 minutes
± SCTerbutaline/Adrenaline
± IV Magnesium sulphate 50%
bolus 0.1 mL/kg (50 mg/kg)
over 20 mins
Consider HDU/ICU admission
± IV Aminophylline
± MechanicalVentilation
Observe
for 60 min
after
Last Dose
Admission if No
Improvement
MILDMODERATESEVERE/LIFETHREATENING
Severity Treatment Observation
Observe
for 60 min
after
Last Dose
Review
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159
Footnotes on Management of Acute Exacerbation of Asthma:
1. Monitor pulse, colour, PEFR, ABG and O2 Saturation.
Close monitoring for at least 4 hours.
2. Hydration - give maintenance fluids.
3. Role of Aminophylline debated due to its potential toxicity.
To be used with caution, in a controlled environment like ICU.
4. IV Magnesium Sulphate : Consider as an adjunct treatment in severe
exacerbations unresponsive to the initial treatment. It is safe and beneficial
in severe acute asthma.
5. Avoid Chest physiotherapy as it may increase patient discomfort.
6. Antibiotics indicated only if bacterial infection suspected.
7. Avoid sedatives and mucolytics.
8. Efficacy of prednisolone in the first year of life is poor.
9. On discharge, patients must be provided with an Action Plan to assist
parents or patients to prevent/terminate asthma attacks.
The plan must include:
a. How to recognize worsening asthma.
b. How to treat worsening asthma.
c. How and when to seek medical attention.
• Salbutamol MDI vs nebulizer
 6 year old: 6 x 100 mcg puff = 2.5 mg Salbutamol nebules.
 6 year old: 12 x 100 mcg puff = 5.0 mg Salbutamol nebules.
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160
Drug Dosages for Medications used in Acute Asthma
Drug Formulation Dosage
β₂-agonists
• Salbutamol Nebuliser solution
5 mg/ml or 2.5 mg/ml
nebule
Intravenous
0.15 mg/kg/dose (max 5 mg) or
 2 years old : 2.5 mg/dose
 2 years old : 5.0 mg/dose
Continuous : 500 mcg/kg/hr
Bolus:
5-10 mcg/kg over 10 min
Infusion:
Start 0.5-1.0 mcg/kg/min,
increase by 1.0 mcg/kg/min every
15 min to a max of 20 mcg/kg/min
•Terbutaline Nebuliser solution
10 mg/ml, 2.5 mg/ml or
5 mg/ml respule
Parenteral
0.2-0.3 mg/kg/dose, or
 20 kg: 2.5 mg/dose
 20 kg: 5.0 mg/dose
5-10 mcg/kg/dose
• Fenoterol Nebuliser solution 0.25-1.5 mg/dose
Corticosteroids
• Prednisolone Oral 1-2 mg/kg/day in divided doses
(for 3-7 days)
• Hydrocortisone Intravenous 4-5 mg/kg/dose 6 hourly
• Methylprednisolone Intravenous 1-2 mg/kg/dose 6-12 hourly
Other agents
Ipratropium bromide Nebuliser solution
(250 mcg/ml)
 5 years old : 250 mcg 4-6 hourly
 5 years old : 500 mcg 4-6 hourly
Aminophylline Intravenous 6 mg/kg slow bolus (if not previously
on theophylline) followed by infusion
0.5-1.0 mg/kg/hr
Montelukast Oral 4 mg granules
5mg/tablet on night chewable
10mg/tablet ON
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161
Chapter 31: Viral Bronchiolitis
Aetiology and Epidemiology
• A common respiratory illness especially in infants aged 1 to 6 months old
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains the commonest cause of acute
bronchiolitis in Malaysia.
• Although it is endemic throughout the year, cyclical periodicity with annual
peaks occur, in the months of November, December and January.
Clinical Features
• Typically presents with a mild coryza, low grade fever and cough.
• Tachypnoea, chest wall recession, wheeze and respiratory distress
subsequently develop. The chest may be hyperinflated and auscultation
usually reveals fine crepitations and sometimes rhonchi.
• A majority of children with viral bronchiolitis has mild illness and about 1% of
these children require hospital admission.
Guidelines for Hospital Admission in Viral Bronchiolitis
Home Management Hospital management
Age  than 3 months No Yes
Toxic – looking No Yes
Chest recession Mild Moderate/Severe
Central cyanosis No Yes
Wheeze Yes Yes
Crepitations on auscultation Yes Yes
Feeding Well Difficult
Apnoea No Yes
Oxygen saturation  95%  93 %
High risk group No Yes
Chest X-ray
• A wide range of radiological changes are seen in viral bronchiolitis:
- Hyperinflation (most common).
- Segmental collapse/consolidation.
- Lobar collapse/consolidation.
• A chest X-ray is not routinely required, but recommended for children with:
- Severe respiratory distress.
- Unusual clinical features.
- An underlying cardiac or chronic respiratory disorder.
- Admission to intensive care.
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162
Management
General measures
• Careful assessment of the respiratory status and oxygenation is critical.
• Arterial oxygenation by pulse oximetry (SpO₂) should be performed at
presentation and maintained above 93%.
- Administer supplemental humidified oxygen if necessary.
• Monitor for signs of impending respiratory failure:
- Inability to maintain satisfactory SpO₂ on inspired oxygen  40%,
or a rising pCO₂.
• Very young infants who are at risk of apnoea require greater vigilance.
• Blood gas analysis may have a role in the assessments of infants with severe
respiratory distress or who are tiring and may be entering respiratory failure.
• Routine full blood count and bacteriological testing (of blood and urine) is
not indicated in the assessment and management of infants with typical
acute bronchiolitis .
Nutrition and Fluid therapy
• Feeding. Infants admitted with viral bronchiolitis frequently have poor
feeding, are at risk of aspiration and may be dehydrated. Small frequent
feeds as tolerated can be allowed in children with moderate respiratory
distress. Nasogastric feeding, although not universally practiced, may be
useful in these children who refuse feeds and to empty the dilated stomach.
• Intravenous fluids for children with severe respiratory distress, cyanosis and
apnoea. Fluid therapy should be restricted to maintenance requirement of
100 ml/kg/day for infants, in the absence of dehydration.
Pharmacotherapy
• The use of 3% saline solution via nebulizer has been shown to increase
mucus clearance and significantly reduce hospital stay among non-severe
acute bronchiolits. It improves clinical severity score in both outpatients and
inpatients populations.
• Inhaled β₂-agonists. Pooled data have indicated a modest clinical
improvement with the use of β₂-agonist. A trial of nebulised β₂-agonist, given
in oxygen, may be considered in infants with viral bronchiolitis. Vigilant and
regular assessment of the child should be carried out.
• Inhaled steroids. Randomised controlled trials of the use of inhaled or oral
steroids for treatment of viral bronchiolitis show no meaningful benefit.
• Antibiotics are recommended for all infants with
- Recurrent apnoea and circulatory impairment.
- Possibility of septicaemia.
- Acute clinical deterioration.
- High white cell count.
- Progressive infiltrative changes on chest radiograph.
• Chest physiotherapy using vibration and percussion is not recommended in
infants hospitalized with acute bronchiolitis who are not admitted into
intensive care unit.
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163
Chapter 32: Viral Croup
Aetiology and epidemiology
• A clinical syndrome characterised by barking cough, inspiratory stridor, hoarse
voice and respiratory distress of varying severity.
• A result of viral inflammation of the larynx, trachea and bronchi, hence the
term laryngotracheobronchitis.
• The most common pathogen is parainfluenza virus (74%), (types 1, 2 and 3).
The others are Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Influenza virus types A and B,
Adenovirus, Enterovirus, Measles, Mumps and Rhinoviruses and rarely
Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Corynebacterium Diptheriae.
Clinical Features
• Low grade fever, cough and coryza for 12-72 hours, followed by:
• Increasingly bark-like cough and hoarseness.
• Stridor that may occur when excited, at rest or both.
• Respiratory distress of varying degree.
Diagnosis
• Croup is a clinical diagnosis. Studies show that it is safe to visualise the
pharynx to exclude acute epiglotitis, retropharyngeal abscess etc.
• In severe croup, it is advisable to examine the pharynx under controlled
conditions, i.e. in the ICU or Operation Theatre.
• A neck Radiograph is not necessary, unless the diagnosis is in doubt, such as
in the exclusion of a foreign body.
Assessment of severity
Clinical Assessment of Croup (Wagener)
• Severity
• Mild: Stridor with excitement or at rest, with no respiratory distress.
• Moderate: Stridor at rest with intercostal, subcostal or sternal recession.
• Severe: Stridor at rest with marked recession, decreased air entry and
altered level of consciousness.
• Pulse oximetry is helpful but not essential
• Arterial blood gas is not helpful because the blood parameters may remain
normal to the late stage. The process of blood taking may distress the child.
Management
Indications for Hospital admission
• Moderate and severe viral croup.
• Age less than 6 months.
• Poor oral intake.
• Toxic, sick appearance.
• Family lives a long distance from hospital; lacks reliable transport.
Treatment (ref Algorithm on next page)
• The sustained action of steroids combined with the quick action of
adrenaline may reduce the rate of intubation from 3% to nil.
• Antibiotics are not recommended unless bacterial super-infection is
strongly suspected or the patient is very ill.
• IV fluids are not usually necessary except for those unable to drink.
RESPIRATORY
164
RESPIRATORY
•Dexamethasone(Preferred)
Oral/Parenteral0.15kg/singledose
Mayrepeatat12and24hours
•Prednisolone
1-2mg/kg/stat
•NebulisedBudesonide(ifvomiting)
2mgsingledoseonly
Mild
•Dexamethasone
Oral/Parenteral0.3-0.6mg/kg,
singledose
•NebulisedBudesonide
2mgstatand1mg12hrly
•NebulisedAdrenaline
0.5mls/kg1:1000(Maxdose5mls)
•Dexamethasone
Parenteral0.3-0.6mg/kg
•NebulisedBudesonide
2mgstat,1mg12hrly
•Oxygen
ModerateSevere
Improvement
NoImprovement
orDeterioration
•NebulisedAdrenaline
0.5mls/kg1:1000(Maxdose5mls)
NoImprovement
orDeterioration
IntubateandVentilateHome
OutpatientInpatientInpatient
OR
AND
/OR
OR
AND
AND
AND
AlgorithmfortheManagementofViralCroup
Footnote:
•Thedecisiontointubateundercontrolledconditions(inOperationTheatreorIntensiveCareUnit,withstandbyfortracheostomy)
isbasedonclinicalcriteria,oftenfromincreasingrespiratorydistress.
•Indicationsforoxygentherapyinclude:1.severeviralcroup;2.percutaneousSpO293%
•Withoxygentherapy,SpO2maybenormaldespiteprogressiverespiratoryfailureandahighPaCO2.Henceclinicalassessmentisimportant.
165
Chapter 33: Pneumonia
Definition
There are two clinical definitions of pneumonia:
• Bronchopneumonia: a febrile illness with cough, respiratory distress with
evidence of localised or generalised patchy infiltrates.
• Lobar pneumonia: similar to bronchopneumonia except that the physical
findings and radiographs indicate lobar consolidation.
Aetiology
• Specific aetiological agents are not identified in 40% to 60% of cases.
• It is often difficult to distinguish viral from bacterial disease.
• The majority of lower respiratory tract infections are viral in origin,
e.g.Respiratory syncytial virus, Influenza A or B, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza virus.
• A helpful indicator in predicting aetiological agents is the age group.
The predominant bacterial pathogens are shown in the table below:
Pathogens for Pneumonia
Age Bacterial Pathogens
Newborns Group B streptococcus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species,
Enterobacteriaceae
Infants 1- 3 months Chlamydia trachomatis
Preschool age Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b,
Staphylococcal aureus
Less common: Group A Streptococcus,
Moraxella catarrhalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa
School age Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae
Assessment of Severity in Pneumonia
Age  2 months Age 2 months - 5 years
Severe Pneumonia Mild Pneumonia
• Severe chest indrawing • Tachypnoea
• Tachypnoea Severe Pneumonia
• Chest indrawing
Very Severe Pneumonia Very Severe Pneumonia
• Not feeding • Not able to drink
• Convulsions • Convulsions
• Abnormally sleepy, difficult to wake • Drowsiness
• Fever, or Hypothermia • Malnutrition
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166
Assessment of severity of pneumonia
The predictive value of respiratory rate for the diagnosis of pneumonia may be
improved by making it age specific. Tachypnoea is defined as follows :
 2 months age:  60 /min
2- 12 months age:  50 /min
12 months – 5 years age:  40 /min
Investigations and assessment
Children with bacterial pneumonia cannot be reliably distinguished from those
with viral disease on the basis of any single parameter: Clinical, laboratory or
chest X-ray findings.
• Chest radiograph
• Indicated when clinical criteria suggest pneumonia.
• Does not differentiate aetiological agents.
• Not always necessary if facilities are not available or if pneumonia is mild.
• White blood cell count
• Increased counts with predominance of polymorphonuclear cells suggests
bacterial cause.
• Leucopenia suggests either a viral cause or severe overwhelming infection.
• Blood culture
• Non-invasive gold standard for determining the precise aetiology.
• Sensitivity is low: Positive blood cultures only in 10%-30% of patients.
• Do cultures in severe pneumonia or if poor response to first line antibiotics.
• Pleural fluid analysis
• If there is significant pleural effusion, a diagnostic pleural tap will be helpful.
• Serological tests
• Serology is performed in patients with suspected atypical pneumonia,
i.e. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia, Legionella, Moraxella catarrhalis
• Acute phase serum titre  1:160 or paired samples taken 2-4 weeks apart
with a 4 fold rise is a good indicator of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
• This test should be considered for children aged five years or older.
Assessment of oxygenation
• Objective measurement of hypoxia by pulse oximetry avoids the need for
arterial blood gases. It is a good indicator of the severity of pneumonia.
Criteria for hospitalization
• Community acquired pneumonia can be treated at home
• Identify indicators of severity in children who need admission, as pneumonia
can be fatal. The following indicators can be used as a guide for admission:
• Children aged 3 months and below, whatever the severity of pneumonia.
• Fever ( more than 38.5 ⁰C ), refusal to feed and vomiting
• Fast breathing with or without cyanosis
• Associated systemic manifestation
• Failure of previous antibiotic therapy
• Recurrent pneumonia
• Severe underlying disorder, e.g. Immunodeficiency
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167
Antibiotics
• When treating pneumonia, consider clinical, laboratory, radiographic findings,
as well as age of the child, and the local epidemiology of respiratory pathogens
and resistance/sensitivity patterns to microbial agents.
• Severity of the pneumonia and drug costs also impact on selection of therapy.
• Majority of infections are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics.
Bacterial pathogens and Recommended antimicrobial agents.
Pathogen Antimicrobial agent
Beta-lactamsusceptible
• Streptococcuspneumonia Penicillin,cephalosporins
• Haemophilusinfluenzaetypeb Ampicillin,chloramphenicol,cephalosporins
• Staphylococcusaureus Cloxacillin
• GroupAStreptococcus Penicillin,cephalosporin
Mycoplasmapneumoniae Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin
Chlamydiapneumoniae Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin
Bordetellapertussis Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin
INPATIENT MANAGEMENT
Antibiotics
For children with severe pneumonia, the following antibiotics are recommended:
Suggested antimicrobial agents for inpatient treatment of pneumonia
First line Beta-lactams: Benzylpenicillin, moxycillin, ampicillin,
amoxycillin-clavulanate
Second line Cephalosporins: Cefotaxime, cefuroxime, ceftazidime
Third line Carbapenem: Imipenam
Other agents Aminoglycosides: Gentamicin, amikacin
• Second line antibiotics need to be considered when :
• There are no signs of recovery
• Patients remain toxic and ill with spiking temperature for 48 - 72 hours
• A macrolide antibiotic is used in pneumonia from Mycoplasma or Chlamydia.
• A child admitted to hospital with severe community acquired pneumonia
must receive parenteral antibiotics. As a rule, in severe cases of pneumonia,
combination therapy using a second or third generation cephalosporins and
macrolide should be given.
• Staphylococcal infections and infections caused by Gram negative organisms
such as Klebsiella have been frequently reported in malnourished children.
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168
Staphylococcal infection
• Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for a small proportion of cases.
• A high index of suspicion is required because of the potential for rapid
deterioration. It chiefly occurs in infants with a significant risk of mortality.
• Radiological features include multilobar consolidation, cavitation,
pneumatocoeles, spontaneous pneumothorax, empyema, pleural effusion.
• Treat with high dose Cloxacillin (200 mg/kg/day) for a longer duration
• Drainage of empyema often results in a good outcome.
Necrotising pneumonia and pneumatocoeles
• It is a result of localized bronchiolar and alveolar necrosis.
• Aetiological agents are bacteria, e.g. Staphylococcal aureus, S. Pneumonia,
H. Influenza, Klebsiella pneumonia and E. coli.
• Give IV antibiotics until child shows signs of improvement.
• Total antibiotics course duration of 3 to 4 weeks.
• Most pneumatocoeles disappear, with radiological evidence resolving
within the first two months but may take as long as 6 months.
Supportive treatment
• Fluids
• Withhold oral intake when a child is in severe respiratory distress.
• In severe pneumonia, secretion of anti-diuretic hormone is increased and
as such dehydration is uncommon. Avoid overhydrating the child.
• Oxygen
• Oxygen reduces mortality associated with severe pneumonia.
• It should be given especially to children who are restless, and tachypnoeic
with severe chest indrawing, cyanosis, or is not tolerating feeds.
• Maintain the SpO₂  95%.
• Cough medication
• Not recommended as it causes suppression of cough and may interfere
with airway clearance. Adverse effects and overdosage have been reported.
• Temperature control
• Reduces discomfort from symptoms, as paracetamol will not abolish fever.
• Chest physiotherapy
• This assists in the removal of tracheobronchial secretions: removes airway
obstruction, increase gas exchange and reduce the work of breathing.
• No evidence that chest physiotherapy should be routinely done.
OUTPATIENT MANAGEMENT
• In children with mild pneumonia, their breathing is fast but there is no chest
indrawing.
• Oral antibiotics can be prescribed.
• Educate parents/caregivers about management of fever, preventing
dehydration and identifying signs of deterioration.
• The child should return in two days for reassessment, or earlier if the condition
is getting worse.
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169
References
Section 3 Respiratory Medicine
Chapter 30 Asthma
1.Guidelines for the Management of Childhood Asthma - Ministry of Health,
Malaysia and Academy of Medicine, Malaysia
2.Pocket Guide for Asthma Management and Prevention 2007 – Global Initia-
tive for Asthma (GINA)
3.British Thoracic Society Guidelines on Asthma Management 1995. Thorax
1997; 52 (Suppl 1)
4.Paediatric Montelukast Study Group. Montelukast for Chronic Asthma in 6
-14 year old children. JAMA April 1998.
5.Pauwels et al. FACET International Study Group 1997. NEJM 1997; 337:
1405-1411.
6.Jenkins et al. Salmeterol/Fluticasone propionate combination therapy
50/250ug bd is more effective than budesonide 800ug bd in treating mod-
erate to severe asthma. Resp Medicine 2000; 94: 715-723.
Chapter 31 Viral Bronchiolitis
1.Chan PWK, Goh AYT, Chua KB, Khairullah NS, Hooi PS. Viral aetiology of
lower respiratory tract infection in young Malaysian children. J Paediatric
Child Health 1999 ; 35 :287-90.
2.Chan PWK, Goh AYT, Lum LCS. Severe bronchiolitis in Malaysian children. J
Trop Pediatr 2000; 46: 234 – 6
3.Bronciholitis in children: Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network.
4.Nebulised hypertonic saline solution for acute bronchiolitis in infants Zhang
L,Mendoza –Sassi RA, Wainwright C, Klassen TP- Cochrane Summary 2011.
Chapter 32 Viral Croup
1.AG Kaditis, E R Wald : Viral croup; current diagnosis and treatment. Pediat-
ric Infectious Disease Journal 1998:7:827-34.
Chapter 33 Pneumonia
1.World Health Organisation. Classification of acute respiratory infections in
WHO/ARI/91.20 Geneva. World Health Organisation 991, p.11-20
2.Schttze GE, Jacobs RF. Management of community-acquired pneumonia in
hospitalised children. Pediatric Infectious Dis J 1992 11:160-164
3.Harris M, ClarkJ, Coote N, Fletcher P et al: British Thoracic Society guide-
lines for the management of community acquired pneumonia in children:
update 2011.
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170
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171
Chapter 34: Paediatric Electrocardiography
Age related changes in the anatomy and physiology of infants and children
produce normal ranges for electrocardiographic features that differ from
adults and vary with age. Awareness of these differences is the key to correct
interpretation of paediatric ECG.
ECG should be interpreted systematically
• Heart rate, Rhythm
• P wave axis, amplitude, duration
• PR interval
• QRS axis, amplitude, duration
• ST segment and T waves
• QT interval and QTc
(QTc = measured QT interval /
square root of R-R interval)
Normal values for Heart rate in children
Age
Heart Rate (bpm)
Mean Range
 1 day 119 94 – 145
1 – 7 days 133 100 – 175
3 – 30 days 163 115 – 190
1 – 3 months 154 124 – 190
3 – 6 months 140 111 – 179
6 – 12 months 140 112 – 177
1 – 3 years 126 98 – 163
3 – 5 years 98 65 – 132
5 – 8 years 96 70 – 115
8 – 12 years 79 55 – 107
12 – 16 years 75 55 – 102
Normal values in Paediatric ECG
Age
PR interval
(ms)
QRS duration
(ms)
R wave (S wave) amplitude (mm)
LeadV1 LeadV6
Birth 80 – 160  75 5 - 26 (1 - 23) 0 - 12 (0 - 10)
6 months 70 – 150  75 3 - 20 (1 - 17) 6 - 22 (0 - 10)
1 year 70 – 150  75 2 - 20 (1 - 20) 6 - 23 (0 - 7)
5 years 80 – 160  80 1 - 16 (2 - 22) 8 - 25 (0 - 5)
10 years 90 – 170  85 1 - 12 (3 - 25) 9 - 26 (0 - 4)
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172
Age Group ECG Characteristics
Premature infants
( 35 weeks gestation)
• Left  posterior QRS axis.
• Relative LV dominant; smaller R inV1, taller R inV6.
Full term infant • Right axis deviation (30° to 180°) RV dominant.
•Tall R inV1, Deep S inV6, R/S ratio  1 inV1.
•T wave inV1 may be upright for 48 hours.
1 to 6 months • Less right axis deviation (10° to 120°).
• RV remains dominant.
• Negative T waves across right praecordial leads.
6 months to 3 years • QRS axis  90°.
• R wave dominant inV6.
• R/S ratio ≤ 1 inV1.
3 to 8 years • Adult QRS progression in praecordial leads.
• LV dominant, Dominant S inV1, R inV6.
• Q wave inV5-6 (amplitude  5 mm).
Important normal variants
• T wave inversion of right praecordial leads (V1 – V3): normal findings from
day 2 of life until late teens. An upright T wave in V1 before 8 years old is
indicative of RVH.
• Q wave may be seen in leads I, aVL, V5 and V6 provided amplitude  5 mm.
• RSR’ pattern of right praecordial leads: normal in children provided QRS
duration  10 msec and R’ amplitude  15 mm (infants) or 10 mm (children.)
• Elevated J point: normal in some adolescents
Criteria for Right Ventricular Hypertrophy
• R  20 mm in V1 at all ages
• S  14 mm (0 to 7 days);  10mm (1 week - 6 mths);  7mm (6 mths - 1
year);  5mm ( 1 year) in V6.
• R/S ratio  6.5 (0 - 3 mths); 4.0 (3 - 6 mths); 2.4 (6 mths - 3 years);
1.6 (3 to 5 years); 0.8 (6 to 15 years) in V1
• T wave upright in V4R or V1 after 72 hrs of life
• Presence of Q wave in V1
Criteria for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
• S  20 mm in V1
• R  20mm in V6	
• S (V1) + R (V6)  40mm over 1 year of age;  30mm if  1year
• Q wave  4 mm in V5-6
• T wave inversion in V5-6
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Chapter 35: Congenital Heart Disease in the Newborn
Introduction
• Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompass a spectrum of structural
abnormalities of the heart or intrathoracic vessels.
• Commonly presents in the newborn with central cyanosis, heart failure,
sudden collapse or heart murmur.
Central Cyanosis
• Bluish discoloration of lips and mucous membranes.
• Caused by excess deoxygenated haemoglobin ( 5 Gm/dL), confirmed by
pulse oxymetry (SpO2  85%) or ABG.
Causes of Cyanosis in the Newborn
Cyanotic Heart Disease
Obstructed pulmonary flow
Pulmonary atresia, Critical pulmonary stenosis,Tetralogy of Fallot
Discordant ventriculo-arterial connection
Transposition of great arteries.
Common mixing
Single ventricle,Truncus arteriosus,Tricuspid atresia,Total anomalous
pulmonary venous drainage
Primary Pulmonary Disorders
Parenchymal disease
Meconium aspiration syndrome, Respiratory distress syndrome, Congenital
pneumonia
Extraparenchymal disease
Pneumothorax, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of newborn
Primary
Secondary
Meconium aspiration, Perinatal asphyxia, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Severe polycythaemia
Methaemoglobinuria
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174
Heart Failure
Clinical presentation may mimic pulmonary disease or sepsis:
• Tachypnoea
• Tachycardia
• Hepatomegaly
• Weak pulses
Causes of Heart Faliure in the Newborn
Structural Heart Lesions
Obstructive Left Heart lesions
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, critical aortic stenosis, severe
coarctation of aorta
SevereValvular Regurgitation
Truncal arteriosus with truncal valve regurgitation
Large Left to Right Shunts
Patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defects, truncus arteriosus,
aortopulmonary collaterals
Obstructed PulmonaryVenous Drainage
Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage
Myocardial Diseases
Cardiomyopathy
Infant of diabetic mother, familial, idiopathic
Ischaemic
Anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery,
perinatal asphyxia
Myocarditis
Arrhythmia
Atrial flutter, SVT, congenital heart block
Extracardiac
Severe anaemia
Neonatal thyrotoxicosis
Fulminant sepsis
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175
Sudden Collapse
Can be difficult to be distinguished from sepsis or metabolic disorders:
• Hypotension
• Extreme cyanosis
• Metabolic acidosis
• Oliguria
Challenges and Pitfalls
• Cyanosis is easily missed in the presence of anaemia.
• Difficulty to differentiate cyanotic heart disease from non-cardiac causes
• Indistinguishable clinical presentations between left heart obstructive
lesions and severe sepsis or metabolic disorders.
• Possibility of congenital heart disease not considered in management of
sick infant.
Congenital heart lesions that may present with sudden collapse
Duct-dependent systemic circulation
Coarctation of aorta, Critical aortic stenosis, Hypoplastic left heart
syndrome, Interrupted aortic arch
Duct-dependent pulmonary circulation
Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum,Tricuspid atresia with
pulmonary atresia, Single ventricle with pulmonary atresia,
Critical pulmonary stenosis
Transposition of great arteries without septal defect
Obstructed total anomalous pulmonary drainage
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Clinical Approach to Infants with Congenital Heart Disease
History
• Antenatal scans (cardiac malformation, fetal arrhythmias, hydrops).
• Family history of congenital heart disease.
• Maternal illness: diabetes, rubella, teratogenic medications.
• Perinatal problems: prematurity, meconium aspiration, perinatal asphyxia.
Physical Examination
• Dysmorphism: Trisomy 21, 18, 13; Turner syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome.
• Central cyanosis.
• Differential cyanosis (SpO₂ lower limbs  upper limbs).
• Tachypnoea.
• Weak or unequal pulses.
• Heart murmur.
• Hepatomegaly.
Investigations
• Chest X-ray
• Hyperoxia test:
• Administer 100% oxygen via headbox at 15 L/min for 15 mins.
• ABG taken from right radial artery.
• Cyanotic heart diseases: pO₂  100 mmHg; rise in pO₂ is  20 mmHg.
(note: in severe lung diseases  PPHN, pO₂ can be  100 mmHg).
• Echocardiography.
General principles of management
• Initial stabilization: secure airway, adequate ventilation, circulatory support
• Correct metabolic acidosis, electrolyte derangements, hypoglycaemia;
prevent hypothermia.
• Empirical treatment with IV antibiotics.
• Early cardiology consultation.
• IV Prostaglandin E infusion if duct-dependent lesions suspected:
• Starting dose: 10 – 40 ng/kg/min; maintenance: 2 – 10 ng/kg/min.
• Adverse effects: apnoea, fever, hypotension.
• If unresponsive to IV prostaglandin E, consider:
• Transposition of great arteries, obstructed total anomalous pulmonary.
venous drainage.
• Blocked IV line.
• Non-cardiac diagnosis.
• Arrangement to transfer to regional cardiac center once stabilized.
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SummaryofTheClinicalApproachtoCyanoticNewborns
CauseHistory,SignsChestX-rayABGHyperoxiatestEchocardiography
CyanoticHeart
Disease
No/mildRespiratory
distress.
Heartmurmur.
Abnormalheartsize
and
pulmonaryvasculature
LowPCO2NoriseinPO2Usuallydiagnostic
PrimaryLungDiseaseRespiratorydistressAbnormallungsLowPO2
HghPCO2
PO2100mmHgNormal
PersistentPulmonary
Hypertension
Suggestivehistory
(MAS,asphyxia,sepsis)
Maybeabnormal(lungs)Differential
cyanosis
InconclusiveRighttoleftshunt
acrossPFOorPDA
MethemoglbinemiaNormalNormalNormalPO2100mmHgNormal
MAS,meconiumaspirationsyndrome;PFO,patentforamenovale;PDA,patentductusarteriosus
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SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR COMMON LESIONS
LEFT TO RIGHT SHUNTS
Atrial septal defects (ASD)
Small defects:
• No treatment.
Large defects:
• Elective closure at 4-5 years age.
Ventricular septal defects (VSD)
Small defects:
• No treatment; high rate of spontaneous closure.
• SBE prophylaxis.
• Yearly follow up for aortic valve prolapse, regurgitation.
• Surgical closure indicated if prolapsed aortic valve.
Moderate defects:
• Anti-failure therapy if heart failure.
• Surgical closure if:
• Heart failure not controlled by medical therapy.
• Persistent cardiomegaly on chest X-ray.
• Elevated pulmonary arterial pressure.
• Aortic valve prolapse or regurgitation.
• One episode of infective endocarditis.
Large defects:
• Early primary surgical closure.
• Pulmonary artery banding followed by VSD closure in multiple VSDs.
Persistent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
Small PDA:
• No treatment if there is no murmur
• If murmur present: elective closure as risk of endarteritis.
Moderate to large PDA:
• Anti-failure therapy if heart failure
• Timing, method of closure (surgical vs transcatheter) depends on symptom
severity, size of PDA and body weight.
Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD)
Partial AVSD (ASD primum):
• Elective surgical repair at 4 to 5 years old; earlier if symptomatic or severe
AV valve regurgitation.
Complete AVSD:
• Primary surgical repair  6 mths age to prevent pulmonary vascular disease.
• In selected patients - e.g. with severe AV valve regurgitation and older
patients, conservative treatment is an option as surgical outcomes are
poor.
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OBSTRUCTIVE LESIONS
Pulmonary stenosis (PS)
Mild (peak systolic gradient  50 mmHg)
• No treatment.
Moderate-severe (gradient  50 mmHg)
• Transcatheter balloon valvuloplasty is treatment of choice.
Neonatal critical PS:
• Characterized with cyanosis and RV dysfunction.
• Temporary stabilization with IV Prostaglandin E infusion.
• Early transcatheter balloon valvuloplasty.
Note: SBE prophylaxis is indicated in all cases
Coarctation of the aorta (CoA)
Neonatal severe CoA:
• Frequently associated with large malaligned VSD, intractable heart failure.
• Sick infants require temporary stabilization:
• Mechanical ventilation.
• Correction of metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia, electrolyte disorders.
• IV Prostaglandin E infusion.
• Early surgical repair (single-stage CoA repair + VSD closure or 2 stage CoA
repair followed by VSD closure at later date).
Asymptomatic / older children with discrete CoA:
• Presents with incidental hypertension or heart murmur.
• Choice of treatment (primary transcatheter balloon angioplasty, stent
implantation or surgical repair) depends on morphology of CoA and age of
presentation.
CYANOTIC HEART LESIONS
Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
• Most TOFs suitable for single stage surgical repair at 1 to 2 years age
• Indications for modified Blalock Taussig shunt:
• Hypercyanotic spells or severe cyanosis  6 months age when child is too
young for total repair.
• Small pulmonary arteries; to promote growth before definitive repair
• Anomalous coronary artery crossing in front of right ventricular outflow tract -
precludes transannular incision; repair with conduit required at later age.
• Following surgical repair, patients need life-long follow up for late right
ventricular dysfunction; some may require pulmonary valve replacement.
Tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia
• IV prostaglandin E infusion is often required during early neonatal period
• Further management strategy depends on the anatomy of the pulmonary
arteries and presence of aortopulmonary collaterals.
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Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum
• IV prostaglandin E infusion to maintain ductal patency in early neonatal period
• Further management strategy depends on the degree of right ventricular
hypoplasia.
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA)
Simple TGA (intact ventricular septum)
• IV Prostaglandin E infusion promotes intercirculatory mixing at PDA.
• Early balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) if restrictive interatrial communication.
• Surgical repair of choice: arterial switch operation at 2 to 4 weeks age
• Left ventricular regression may occur if repair not performed within 4
weeks of life.
TGA with VSD:
• Does not usually require intervention during early neonatal period; may
develop heart failure at 1 to 2 months age.
• Elective one-stage arterial switch operation + VSD closure  3 months age.
TGA with VSD and PS:
• Blalock Taussig shunt during infancy followed by Rastelli repair at
4 to 6 years age.
Truncus arteriosus
• Surgical repair (VSD closure and RV-to-PA conduit) before 3 months of age.
Single ventricle
Includes 3 main categories of lesions:
• Double inlet ventricles:
double inlet left ventricle, double inlet right ventricle.
• Atretic or stenosed atrioventricular connections:
Tricuspid atresia, mitral atresia, hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
• Miscellaneous lesions which preclude biventricular circulation:
Unbalanced AV septal defect, Double outlet right ventricle with remote VSD,
Congenital corrected transposition of great arteries, Heterotaxy syndromes.
Requires staged management approach for eventual Fontan procedure.
Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage
• 4 major anatomic types: supracardiac, cardiac, infracardiac and mixed.
• Management strategy depends on presence of pulmonary venous
obstruction:
• Obstructed pulmonary venous drainage (frequent in infracardiac type)
- Presents with respiratory distress and heart failure.
- Initial stabilization: oxygen, diuretics, positive pressure ventilation.
- Surgical repair immediately after initial stabilization.
• Unobstructed pulmonary venous drainage
- Early surgical repair is required.
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Chapter 36: Hypercyanotic Spell
Introduction
Sudden severe episodes of intense cyanosis caused by reduction of
pulmonary flow in patients with underlying Tetralogy of Fallot or other
cyanotic heart lesions. This is due to spasm of the right ventricular outflow
tract or reduction in systemic vascular resistance (e.g. hypovolaemia) with
resulting increased in right to left shunt across the VSD.
Clinical Presentation
• Peak incidence age: 3 to 6 months.
• Often in the morning, can be precipitated by crying, feeding, defaecation.
• Severe cyanosis, hyperpnoea, metabolic acidosis.
• In severe cases, may lead to syncope, seizure, stroke or death.
• There is a reduced intensity of systolic murmur during spell.
Management
• Treat this as a medical emergency.
• Knee-chest/squatting position:
• Place the baby on the mother’s shoulder with the knees tucked up
underneath.
• This provides a calming effect, reduces systemic venous return and
increases systemic vascular resistance.
• Administer 100% oxygen
• Give IV/IM/SC morphine 0.1 – 0.2 mg/kg to reduce distress and hyperpnoea.
If the above measures fail:
• Give IV Propranolol 0.05 – 0.1 mg/kg slow bolus over 10 mins.
• Alternatively, IV Esmolol 0.5 mg/kg slow bolus over 1 min, followed
by 0.05 mg/kg/min for 4 mins.
• Can be given as continuous IV infusion at 0.01 – 0.02 mg/kg/min.
• Esmolol is an ultra short acting beta blocker
• Volume expander (crystalloid or colloid) 20 ml/kg rapid IV push to increase
preload.
• Give IV sodium bicarbonate 1 mEq/kg to correct metabolic acidosis.
• Heavy sedation, intubation and mechanical ventilation.
In resistant cases, consider
• IV Phenylephrine / Noradrenaline infusion to increase systemic vascular
resistance and reduce right to left shunt.
• emergency Blalock Taussig shunt.
Other notes:
• A single episode of hypercyanotic spell is an indication for early surgical
referral (either total repair or Blalock Taussig shunt).
• Oral propranolol 0.2 – 1 mg/kg/dose 8 to 12 hourly should be started soon
after stabilization while waiting for surgical intervention.
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183
Chapter 37: Heart Failure
Definition
Defined as the inability to provide adequate cardiac output to meet the
metabolic demand of the body.
Causes of heart failure
• Congenital structural heart lesions: more common during infancy.
• Primary myocardial, acquired valvular diseases: more likely in older children.
Causes of Heart Failure
Congenital heart disease Acquired valvular disease
Left to right shunt lesions • Chronic rheumatic valvular diseases
• VSD, PDA,AVSD,ASD • Post infective endocarditis
Obstructive left heart lesions Myocardial disease
• Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Primary cardiomyopathy
• Coarctation of aorta, aortic stenosis • Idiopathic, familial
Common mixing unrestricted pulmonary
flow
Secondary cardiomyopathy
• Truncus arteriosus,TAPVD, tricuspid
atresia with
• Arrhythmia-induced: congenital
heart block, atrial ectopic tachycardia
•TGA, single ventricle, pulmonary
atresia withVSD,
• Infection: post viral myocarditis,
Chagas disease
• Large aortopulmonary collateral • Ischaemic: Kawasaki disease
Valvular regurgitation • Myopathic: muscular dystrophy,
• AV valve regurgitation,Ebstein anomaly • Pompe disease, mitochondrial dis.
• Semilunar valve regurgitation • Metabolic: hypothyroidism
Myocardial ischaemia • Drug-induced: anthracycline
• Anomalous origin of left coronary
artery from pulmonary artery.
• Others: iron overload (thalassaemia)
Acute myocarditis
• Viral, rheumatic, Kawasaki disease
Clinical presentation
• Varies with age of presentation.
• Symptoms of heart failure in infancy:
• Feeding difficulty: poor suck, prolonged time to feed, sweating during feed.
• Recurrent chest infections.
• Failure to thrive.
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184
CARDIOLOGY
• Signs of heart failure in infancy:
• Resting tachypnoea, subcostal recession.
• Tachycardia, Poor peripheral pulses, poor peripheral perfusion.
• Hyperactive praecordium, praecordial bulge.
• Hepatomegaly.
• Wheezing.
• Common signs of heart failure in adults, i.e. increased jugular venous
pressure, leg oedema and basal lung crackles are not usually found in
children.
Treatment
General measures
• Oxygen supplementation, propped up position
• Keep warm, gentle handling.
• Fluid restriction to ¾ normal maintenance if not dehydrated or in shock
• Optimize caloric intake; low threshold for nasogastric feeding;
- consider overnight continuous infusion feeds.
• Correct anaemia, electrolyte imbalance, treat concomitant chest infections
Antifailure medications
• Frusemide (loop diuretic)
• Dose: 1 mg/kg/dose OD to QID, oral or IV
• Continuous IV infusion at 0.1 – 0.5 mg/kg/hour if severe fluid overload
• Use with potassium supplements (1 - 2 mmol/kg/day) or add potassium
sparing diuretics.
• Spironolactone (potassium sparing diuretic, modest diuretic effect)
• Dose: 1 mg/kg/dose BD
• Captopril
• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, afterload reduction agent
• Dose: 0.1 mg/kg/dose TDS, gradual increase up to 1 mg/kg/dose TDS
• Monitor potassium level (risk of hyperkalaemia)
• Digoxin
• Role controversial
• Useful in heart failure with excessive tachycardia, supraventricular
tachyarrhythmias.
• IV inotropic agents - i.e. Dopamine, Dobutamine, Adrenaline, Milrinone
• Use in acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, post-op low output syndrome.
Specific management
• Establishment of definitive aetiology is of crucial importance
• Specific treatment targeted to underlying aetiology. Examples:
• Surgical/transcatheter treatment of congenital heart lesion.
• Pacemaker implantation for heart block.
• Control of blood pressure in post-infectious glomerulonephritis.
• High dose aspirin ± steroid in acute rheumatic carditis.
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Chapter 38: Acute Rheumatic Failure
Introduction
• An inflammatory disease of childhood resulting from untreated
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) pharyngeal infections.
• Peak incidence 5 to 15 years; more common in females.
Diagnostic criteria forAcute Rheumatic Fever
Major Criteria Minor Criteria Investigations
Carditis Fever (Temp  38 o
C) FBC: anaemia, leucocytosis
Polyarthritis, aseptic
monoarthritis or
polyarthralgia
ESR  30 mm/h or
CRP  30 mg/L
Elevated ESR and CRP
Throat swab,ASOT
Blood culture
Chorea Prolonged PR interval CXR, ECG.
Erythema marginatum Echocardiogram
Subcutaneous nodules
Making the Diagnosis:
• Initial episode of ARF:
2 major criteria or 1 major + 2 minor criteria,
+ evidence of a preceding group A streptococcal infection
• Recurrent attack of ARF: (known past ARF or RHD)
2 major criteria or 1 major + 2 minor criteria or 3 minor criteria,
+ evidence of a preceding group A streptococcal infection
Note:
1. Evidence of carditis: cardiomegaly, cardiac failure, pericarditis, tachycardia out of
proportion to fever, pathological or changing murmurs.
2.Abbrevations:ARF,Acute Rheumatic Fever; RHD, Rheumatic Heart Disease
Treatment
Aim to suppress inflammatory response so as to minimize cardiac damage,
provide symptomatic relief and eradicate pharyngeal streptococcal infection
• Bed rest. Restrict activity until acute phase reactants return to normal.
• Anti-streptococcal therapy:
• IV C. Penicillin 50 000U/kg/dose 6H
or Oral Penicillin V 250 mg 6H (30kg), 500 mg 6H (30kg) for 10 days
• Oral Erythromycin for 10 days if allergic to penicillin.
• Anti-inflammatory therapy
• mild / no carditis:
Oral Aspirin 80-100 mg/kg/day in 4 doses for 2-4 weeks, tapering over
4 weeks.
• pericarditis, or moderate to severe carditis:
Oral Prednisolone 2 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses for 2 - 4 weeks,
taper with addition of aspirin as above.
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186
CARDIOLOGY
• anti-failure medications
• Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, digoxin (to be used with caution).
Important:
• Consider early referral to a Paediatric cardiologist if heart failure persists or
worsens during the acute phase despite aggressive medical therapy.
Surgery may be indicated.
Secondary Prophylaxis of Rheumatic Fever
• IM Benzathine Penicillin 0.6 mega units (30 kg)
or 1.2 mega units (30 kg) every 3 to 4 weeks.
• Oral Penicillin V 250 mg twice daily.
• Oral Erythromycin 250 mg twice daily if allergic to Penicillin.
Duration of prophylaxis
• Until age 21 years or 5 years after last attack of ARF whichever was longer
• Lifelong for patients with carditis and valvular involvement.
187
Chapter 39: Infective Endocarditis
Introduction
An uncommon condition but has a high morbidity and mortality if untreated.
Underlying risk factors include:
• Congenital heart disease
• Repaired congenital heart defects
• Congenital or acquired valvular heart diseases
• Immunocompromised patients with indwelling central catheters
Common symptoms are unexplained remitting fever  1 week, loss of weight,
loss of appetite and myalgia.
Modified Duke Criteria for the Diagnosis of Infective Endocarditis
Major Criteria Minor Criteria
• Blood culture positive:
Typical microorganisms from two
separate blood cultures:
• Predisposing heart condition, prior
heart surgery, indwelling catheter
• Fever, temperature  38°C
• Viridans streptococci • Vascular phenomena:
• Streptococcus bovis • Major arterial emboli
• HACEK group1
• Septic pulmonary infarcts
• Staphylococcus aureus • Mycotic aneurysm
• Community-acquired enterococci • Intracranial hemorrhage,
• Conjunctival hemorrhages
• Evidence of endocardial
involvement on echocardiogram
• Janeway’s lesions
• Immunologic phenomena:
• Gomerulonephritis
Footnote:
1,Fastidious gram negative bacteria from
Haemophilus spp,
Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans,
Cardiobacterium hominis,
Eikenella corrodens and
Kingella kingae
• Osler’s nodes
• Roth’s spots
• Positive Rheumatoid factor
• Microbiological evidence:
• Positive blood culture not
meeting major criterion
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188
CARDIOLOGY
Definition of Infective Endocarditis According to the Modified Duke Criteria
Definite IE Possible IE Rejected IE
Pathological criteria
• Microorganisms by
• Culture
• Histological examination
of vegetation or intra-
cardiac abscess specimen.
• pathological lesions with
active endocarditis.
Clinical criteria
• 2 major or
• 1 major + 3 minor or
• 5 minor
• 1 major +
1 minor criteria
OR
• 3 minor
• Firm alternative
diagnosis
• Resolution of
symptoms with
antibiotic therapy
 4 days.
• No pathological
evidence of IE at
surgery or autopsy.
• Not meet criteria for
possible IE.
Footnote: IE,Infective Endocarditis
Investigations
• Blood culture
• C- Reactive protein/ESR
• Full blood count
• Urine FEME
• Chest X-ray
• Echocardiography
Management
• Ensure3bloodculturestakenbefore antibiotictherapy.
• Donotwaitforechocardiography.
• Useempiricalantibiotics,untilcultureresultsavailable(seeTableonfacingpage).
189
AntibioticchoicesforInfectiveendocarditisinChildren(AdaptedfromMalaysianCPGonantibioticusage)
IndicationPreferredRegimeAlternativeRegime
EmpiricalTherapy
ForInfective
Endocarditis
IVPenicillinG200,000U/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx4wks
AND
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks
IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks
AND
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks
Streptococcus
viridans
endocarditis
IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks
AND
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks
IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks
AND
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks
Enterococcus
endocarditis
IVPenicillinG300,000U/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx
4-6wksAND
IVGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks
Methicillinsensitive
Staphylococcus
endocarditis
IVCloxacillin200mg/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx6wks
+/-
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx3-5days
Penicillinallergy
MethicillinResistance
IVCefazolin100mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx6wks
IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2-4divdosesx6wks
IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks
Culture-Negative
Endocarditis
IVAmpicillin-Sulbactam300mg/kg/dayin4-6divdoses
x4-6wks
AND
IVGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks
IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks
AND
IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks
AND
IVCiprofloxacin20-30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4-6wks
FungalEndocarditis
Candidasppor
Aspergillosis
IVAmphotericinB6weeks
ANDValvereplacementsurgery
ANDLong-term(lifelong)therapywithOralazole
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190
Guidelines on Infective Endocarditis (IE) prophylaxis
IE prophylaxis Recommended IE prophylaxis Not Recommended
High-risk category
• Prosthetic cardiac valves.
• Previous bacterial endocarditis.
• Complex cyanotic congenital heart
disease.
• Surgical systemic pulmonary shunts
or conduits.
Negligible-risk category
• Isolated secundum ASD.
• Repaired ASD,VSD, PDA ( 6 mths)
• Mitral valve prolapse without
regurgitation.
• Functional, or innocent heart
murmurs.
• Previous Kawasaki disease without
valvar dysfunction.
• Previous rheumatic fever without
valvar dysfunction.
• Cardiac pacemakers and implanted
defibrillators.
Moderate-risk category
• Other congenital cardiac defects
(other than high/low risk category)
• Acquired valvar dysfunction.
(e.g. rheumatic heart disease)
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
• Mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation.
Common procedures that require IE Prophylaxis
Oral, dental procedures
• Extractions, periodontal procedures.
• Placement of orthodontic bands
(but not brackets).
• Intraligamentary local anaesthetic
injections.
• Prophylactic cleaning of teeth.
Respiratory procedures
• Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy.
• Surgical operations involving
respiratory mucosa.
• Rigid bronchoscopy.
• Flexible bronchoscopy with biopsy.
Gastrointestinal procedures
• Sclerotherapy for esophageal varices.
• Oesophageal stricture dilatation.
• Endoscopic retrograde
cholangiography biliary tract surgery.
• Surgical operations involving
intestinal mucosa.
Genitourinary procedures
• Cystoscopy.
• Urethral dilation.
Antibiotic guidelines for IE prophylaxis
Endocarditis Prophylactic Regimens for Dental, Oral, RespiratoryTract and
Esophageal Procedures
Standard general prophylaxis Penicillin allergy (Either one of below):
• OralAmoxicillin 50 mg/kg (max 2
Gm),one hour before procedure
OR
• IV/IMAmpicillin 50 mg/kg
(max 2 Gm)
• Oral Clindamycin 20 mg/kg (max 600 mg)
• Oral Cephalexin 50 mg/kg (max 2 Gm)
• OralAzithromycin/clarithromycin 50 mg/kg
(max 500 mg)
• Oral Erythromycin 20 mg/kg (max 3 Gm)
• IV Clindamycin 20 mg/kg (max 600 mg)
Note:Giveoraltherapy1hourbeforeprocedure;IVtherapy30minsbeforeprocedure.
CARDIOLOGY
191
Chapter 40: Kawasaki Disease
Introduction
• A systemic febrile condition affecting children usually  5 years old.
• Aetiology remains unknown, possible bacterial toxins or viral agents with
genetic predisposition.
• Also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome.
Diagnostic Criteria for Kawasaki Disease
• Fever lasting at least 5 days.
• At least 4 out of 5 of the following:
• Bilateral non-purulent conjunctivitis.
• Mucosal changes of the oropharynx (injected pharynx, red lips, dry
fissured lips, strawberry tongue).
• Changes in extremities (oedema and/or erythema of the hands or feet,
desquamation, beginning periungually).
• Rash (usually truncal), polymorphous but non vesicular.
• Cervical lymphadenopathy.
• Illness not explained by other disease process.
Clinical Pearls
Diagnosis is via table above. Other helpful signs in making the diagnosis:
• Indurated BCG scar, Perianal excoriation
• Irritability, Altered mental state, Aseptic meningitis.
• Transient arthritis.
• Diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
• Hepatosplenomegaly.
• Hydrops of gallbladder.
• Sterile pyuria.
Investigations
• Full blood count - anaemia, leucocytosis, thrombocytosis.
• ESR and CRP are usually elevated.
• Serum albumin  3g / dl; Raised alanine aminotransaminase
• Urine  10 wbc / hpf
• Chest X-ray, ECG.
• Echocardiogram in the acute phase; Repeat at 6-8 wks/earlier if indicated.
Note:
• Most important complication is coronary vasculitis, usually within 2 weeks
of illness, affecting up to 25% of untreated children.
• Usually asymptomatic, it may manifest as myocardial ischaemia, infarction,
pericarditis, myocarditis, endocarditis, heart failure or arrhythmia.
CARDIOLOGY
192
CARDIOLOGY
Incomplete Kawasaki Disease
Patients who do not fulfill the classic diagnostic criteria outlined above. Tends
to occur in infants and the youngest patients. High index of suspicion should
be maintained for the diagnosis of incomplete KD. Higher risk of coronary
artery dilatation or aneurysm occurring.
Echocardiography is indicated in patients who have prolonged fever with:
• two other criteria,
• subsequent unexplained periungual desquamation,
• two criteria + thrombocytosis
• rash without any other explanation.
Atypical Kawasaki Disease
For patients who have atypical presentation, such as renal impairment, that
generally is not seen in Kawasaki Disease.
Treatment
Primary treatment
• IV Immunoglobulins 2 Gm/kg infusion over 10 - 12 hours.
Therapy  10 days of onset effective in preventing coronary vascular damage.
• Oral Aspirin 30 mg/kg/day for 2 wks or until patient is afebrile for 2-3 days.
Maintainence:
• Oral Aspirin 3-5 mg/kg daily (anti-platelet dose) for 6 - 8 weeks or until ESR
and platelet count normalise.
• If coronary aneurysm present, then continue aspirin until resolves.
• Alternative: Oral Dipyridamole 3 - 5 mg/kg daily.
Kawasaki Disease not responding to Primary Treatment
Defined as persistent or recrudescent fever ≥ 36hrs after completion of initial
dose of IV Immunoglobulins.
Treatment
• Repeat IV Immunoglobulins 2 Gm/kg infusion over 10 - 12 hours
Vaccinations
• The use of Immunoglobulins may impair efficacy of live-attenuated virus
vaccines. Delay these vaccinations for at least 11 months.
Prognosis
• Complete recovery in children without coronary artery involvement.
• Most (80%) 3-5 mm aneursyms resolve; 30% of 5-8 mm aneurysms resolve.
• Prognosis worst for aneurysms  8 mm in diameter.
• Mortality in 1 - 2 %, usually from cardiac complications within 1 - 2 months
of onset.
193
RiskstratificationandlongtermfollowupafterKawasakiDisease
RiskLevelTreatmentPhysicalActivityFollowupInvasiveTesting
LevelI
Nocoronaryarterychanges
Nonebeyond6-8
weeks
Norestrictionsbeyond
6-8weeks
Cardiovascularrisk
assessment,counselling
at5yrintervals
None
LevelII
Transientcoronaryartery
ectasia;noneafter6-8wks
Nonebeyond6-8
weeks
Norestrictionsbeyond
6-8weeks
Cardiovascularrisk
assessment,counselling
at3-5yrintervals
None
LevelIII
Onesmall-mediumcoronary
arteryaneurysm,major
coronaryartery.
Lowdoseaspirinuntil
aneurysmregression
documented
Age11yrold:
Norestrictionbeyond
6-8weeks.
Avoidcontactsportsif
onaspirin
Annualechocar-
diogramandECG,and
cardiovascularriskas-
sessmentcounselling
Angiographyifnon-invasive
testsuggestsischemia
LevelIV
1largeorgiantcoronary
arteryaneurysm,ormultiple
orcomplexaneurysmsin
samecoronaryartery,
withoutdestruction.
Longtermaspirinand
warfarin
(targetINR2.0-2.5)
orLMWHingiant
aneurysms
AvoidcontactsportsBiannual
echocardiogramand
ECG;
Annualstresstest
Angiographyat6-12moor
soonerifindicated;
Repeatedstudyifnon-inva-
sivetest,clinicalorlaboratory
findingssuggestischemia
LevelV
Coronaryartery
obstruction.
Longtermaspirin;
WarfarinorLMWHif
giantaneurysmpersists.
Alsoconsiderbeta-
blockers
AvoidcontactsportsBiannual
echocardiogramand
ECG;
Annualstresstest
Angiographytoaddress
therapeuticoptions
LMWH,lowmolecularweightheparin
CARDIOLOGY
194
CARDIOLOGY
195
Chapter 41: Viral Myocarditis
Introduction
• Defined as inflammation of the myocardium with myocellular necrosis.
• Viruses are found to be most important cause of acute myocarditis.
Other causes include Mycoplasma, typhoid fever, diphtheria toxins etc.
Clinical presentation
• Vary from asymptomatic ECG abnormalities to acute cardiovascular
collapse, even sudden death.
• There may be prodromol symptoms of viremia, including fever, myalgia,
coryzal symptoms or gastroenteritis.
• The diagnosis is made clinically, with a high index of suspicion, with the
following presentation that cannot be explained in a healthy child:
- Tachycardia, Respiratory distress, Other signs of heart failure, Arrhythmia.
Useful Investigations for Myocarditis
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Sinus tachycardia, Non-specific ST segment , Pathological Q wave,
low QRS voltages (5mm in any precordial lead),T wave inversion.
• Arrhythmia
• Heart block, ventricular ectopics
Chest x-ray
• Cardiomegaly (normal heart size doesn’t exclude myocarditis)
• Pleural effusion
Echocardiography
Findings often varied and non-specific, although rarely entirely normal
• Global left ventricular dilatation and Hypocontractility
• Pericardial effusion
• Functional mitral regurgitation
Need to exclude other structural abnormalities,especially coronary artery anomalies.
Cardiac biomarkers
Troponin T ,Troponin I, Creatinine kinase (CK) and CK-MB
Microbiological studies, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Enterovirus 71, coxsackie B virus, adenovirus, parvovirus B19,
cytomegalovirus, echovirus, Mycoplasma, Salmonella typhi
Contrast enhanced MRI
Myocardial oedema, focal enhancement, regional wall motion abnormalities.
Endomyocardial biopsy
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196
CARDIOLOGY
Management
• Depends on the severity of the illness. Patients with heart failure require
intensive monitoring and haemodynamic support.
• Treatment of heart failure: see Ch 37: Heart Failure.
• Consider early respiratory support, mechanical ventilation in severe cases.
Specific treatment
• Treatment with IV immunoglobulins and immunosuppressive drugs have
been studied but the effectiveness remains controversial and routine
treatment with these agents cannot be recommended at this moment.
Prognosis
• One third of patients recover.
• One third improve clinically with residual myocardial dysfunction.
• The other third does poorly and develops chronic heart failure, which may
cause mortality or require heart transplantation.
197
Chapter 42: Paediatric Arrhythmias
BRADYARRHYTHMIA
Sinus node dysfunction
• Criteria for sinus bradycardia (Table below):
ECG criteria
Age Group Heart Rate
Infants to  3 years 100 bpm
Children 3 – 9 years  60 bpm
Children 9 – 16 years  50 bpm
Adolescents  16 years  40 bpm
24 hours Ambulatory ECG criteria
Age Group Heart Rate
Infants to 1 year of age  60 bpm sleeping,  80 bpm awake
Children 1 – 6 years  60 bpm
Children 7 – 11 years  45 bpm
Adolescents, young adults  40 bpm
Highly trained athletes  30 bpm
Systemic causes of sinus bradycardia:
• Hypoxia				 • Sepsis		
• Intracranial lesions			 • Acidosis
• Hypothyroidism			 • Anorexia nervosa
• Electrolytes abnormalities i.e. hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia
Causes of sinus node dysfunction
• Right atrial dilatation due to volume loading
• Cardiomyopathies
• Inflammatory conditions: myocarditis, pericarditis, rheumatic fever
• Post atrial surgery: Mustard, Senning, Fontan, ASD closure, cannulation for
cardiopulmonary bypass
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198
CARDIOLOGY
Atrioventricular block
Classification
• 1st degree - prolonged PR interval
• 2nd degree
• Mobitz type 1 (Wenckebach): progressive PR prolongation before
dropped AV conduction.
• Mobitz type 2: abrupt failure of AV conduction without prior PR
prolongation.
• High grade – 3:1 or more AV conduction.
• 3rd degree (complete heart block): AV dissociation with no atrial impulses
conducted to ventricles.
Note: 2nd degree (Type 2 and above) and 3rd degree heart block are always
pathological
Aetiology
• Congenital – in association with positive maternal antibody (anti-Ro and
anti-La); mother frequently asymptomatic
• Congenital heart diseases: atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), congenital
corrected transposition of great arteries (L-TGA), left atrial isomerism
• Congenital long QT syndrome
• Surgical trauma: especially in VSD closure, TOF repair, AVSD repair,
Konno procedure, LV myomectomy, radiofrequency catheter ablation
• Myopathy: muscular dystrophies, myotonic dystrophy, Kearns-Sayre
syndrome.
• Infection: diphtheria, rheumatic fever, endocarditis, viral myocarditis
Acute Management: Symptomatic Bradycardia with Haemodynamic Instability
• Treat the underlying systemic causes of bradycardia
• Drugs:
• IV Atropine
• IV Isoprenaline infusion
• IV Adrenaline infusion
• Transcutaneous pacing if available.
• Patients who are not responding to initial acute management should be
referred to cardiologist for further management.
• Emergency transvenous pacing or permanent pacing may be required.
199
TACHYARRHYTHMIA
Classification
• Atrial tachycardia: AF, EAT, MAT
• Conduction system tachycardia or
supraventricular tachycardia:
AVRT, AVNRT, PJRT
• Ventricular tachycardia: VT, VF
Description
• Atrial flutter (AF)
• Saw tooth flutter waves
• Variable AV conduction
• Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia (EAT)
• Abnormal P wave axis.
• P wave precedes QRS.
• Variable rate.
• “Warm up” and “cool down”
phenomenon.
• Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia
(MAT)
• Irregularly irregular
• Multiple different P wave
morphologies, bizarre, chaotic.
• No two RR intervals the same
• Atrioventricular Re-entry
Tachycardia (AVRT)
• P wave follows QRS.
• Atrioventricular Nodal Re-entry
Tachycardia (AVNRT)
• P wave not visible,
superimposed on QRS.
• Permanent Junctional
Reciprocating Tachycardia (PJRT)
• Inverted P waves in II, III, aVF
appear to precede QRS
complex.
• Long RP interval.
• Ventricular tachycardia (VT)
• Wide QRS complex.
• P wave may be dissociated
from the QRS complex.
• Ventricular fibrillation (VF)
• chaotic, irregular rhythm.
Atrial Flutter
Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia
Multifocal atrial tachycardia
Atrioventricular Re-entry Tachycardia
Atrioventricular Nodal Re-entry Tachycardia
PermanentJunctionalReciprocatingTachycardia
Ventricular Tachycardia
Ventricular Fibrillation
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200
ALGORITHM FOR IDENTIFYING TACHYARRHYTHMIA
Abbrevations. VT, ventricular tachycardia; JET, junctional ectopic tachycardia;
SVT, supraventricular tachycardia; BBB, bundle branch block; Fib, fibrillation.
AVRT, atrioventricular re-entry tachycardia; AVNRT, atrioventricular nodal
re-entry tachycardia; PJRT, permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia;
EAT, ectopic atrial tachycardia; MAT, multifocal atrical tachycardia;
Wide QRS
QRS-P interval
1:1
P wave
not visible
P/QRS ratio P/QRS ratio
 1:1
1:1 1:1  1:1
Narrow QRS
Short,
follows QRS
Very long
Regular Variable Chaotic
QRS WIDTH
VT
VT
SVT + BBB
Antidromic AVRT
JET
Atrial Flutter
AVNRT Orthodromic
AVRT
PJRT/EAT
EAT MAT/Fib
CARDIOLOGY
201
Narrow QRS complex tachycardia
Haemodynamically stable
• Vagal manoeuvers:
• Icepack/iced water for infants: apply to face for a max of 30 seconds .
• Valsalva manoeuvers if child is old enough (blow into a pinched straw).
• IV Adenosine: 0.1mg/kg (max 6mg) rapid push. Increase by 0.1mg/kg every
2 mins until tachycardia terminated or up to a maximum of 0.5mg/kg
(maximum: 18 mg).
• IV Propranolol 0.02mg/kg test dose, then 0.1mg/kg over 10 minutes.
• IV Amiodarone: 25mcg/kg/min for 4 hours then 5 -15mcg/kg/min until
conversion.
Haemodynamically unstable
• Synchronized DC conversion at 0.5 to 1 joule/kg.
Wide QRS complex tachycardia
Haemodynamically stable
• IV Amiodarone (same as above).
• IV Procainamide.
• IV Lignocaine.
Haemodynamically unstable
• Synchronized cardioversion at 0.5 to 1.0 joule/kg.
• In pulseless patients, defibrillate at 2 to 4 joules/kg.
Wide QRS
Stable
Narrow QRS
Stable UnstableUnstable
TACHYARRHYTHMIA
• Vagal
manoeuvers
• Adenosine
• Propranolol
• Atenolol
• Amiodarone
• Synchronised
Cardioversion
• Synchronised
Cardioversion
OR
• Defribillation
• Amiodarone
• Lignocaine
in Ventricular
Tachycardia
ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE TACHYARRHYTHMIA
CARDIOLOGY
202
Pitfalls in management
• Consult a cardiologist if these acute measures fail to revert the tachycardia.
• In Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, digoxin is contraindicated because
paroxysms of atrial flutter or fibrillation can be conducted directly into the
ventricle.
• Adenosine unmasks the atrial flutter by causing AV block and revealing
more atrial beats per QRS complex.
• In wide QRS complex tachycardia with 1:1 ventriculoatrial conduction, it is
reasonable to see if adenosine will cause cardioversion, thereby making a
diagnosis of a conduction system dependent SVT.
• A follow up plan should be made in consultation with cardiologist.
CARDIOLOGY
203
References
Section 4 Cardiology
Chapter 34 Paediatric Electrocardiography
1.Goodacre S, et al. ABC of clinical electrocardiography: Paediatric electro-
cardiography. BMJ 2002;324: 1382 – 1385.
Chapter 38 Acute Rheumatic Fever
1.Patrick J, Bongani M. Acute Rheumatic Fever. Medicine 2006; 34:239-243
2.Jonathan R, Malcolm M, Nigel J. Acute rheumatic fever. Lancet 2005;
366:155-168
3.Judith A, Preet J, Standford T. Acute rheumatic fever: Clinical aspects and
insights into pathogenesis and revention. Clinical and Applied Immunology
Reviews 2004; 263-276
4.Ismail E. Rheumatic fever/ Bailliere’s Clinical Rheumatology 1995; 9:111-120
Chapter 39 Infective Endocarditis
1.AHA Statement. Infective endocarditis. Circulation. 2005;111:3167–3184
2.AHA Statement. Unique Features of Infective Endocarditis in Childhood.
Circulation 2002;105:2115-2127
3.Crawford M , Durack D. Clinical Presentation of Infective endocarditis.
Cardiol Clin 2003;21: 159–166
4.Role of echocardiography in the diagnosis and management of infective
endocarditis. Curr Opin Cardiol 2002, 17:478–485
5.National Guideline on antibiotic usage.
Chapter 40 Kawasaki Disease
1.Shinahara M, Sone K, Tomomasa T: Corticosteroid in the treatment of the
acute phase of Kawasaki disease. J Pediatr 1999; 135: 465-9
2.Newburger J, Sleeper L, McCrindle B, et al. Randomised Trial of Pulsed
Corticosteroid Therapy for Primary Treatment of Kawasaki Disease. NEJM
2007; 356: 663-675.
3.Diagnosis, treatment, and long term management of Kawasaki Disease.
A statement for health professionals from the committee on rheumatic
fever, endocarditis, and Kawasaki disease, Council on cardiovascular
disease in the young, American Heart Association. Circulation. 2004; 110:
2747-2771.
Chapter 41 Viral Myocarditis
1.Batra A, Lewis A. Acute Myocarditis. Curr Opin Pediatr 2001; 13: 234-239.
2.Kaski J, Burch M. Viral Myocarditis in Childhood. J Paed and Child Health
2007,17:1; 11-18.
3.Haas G. Etiology, Evaluation, and Management of Acute Myocarditis. Car-
diol Rev 2001, 9: 88-95.
4. Jared W. Magnani J, G. William G. Myocarditis. Current Trends in Diagnosis
and Treatment. Circulation 2006.
CARDIOLOGY
204
Chapter 42 Paediatric arrhythmia
1.Kothari D, et al. Neonatal tachycardias: an update. Arch Dis Child Fetal
Neonatal Ed 2006; 91: F136 – F144.
2.Hanisch D, et al. Pediatric arrhythmias. Journal of Pediatric Nursing 2001;
Vol 16 (5): 351 – 362.
3.Neonatal cardiac arrhythmias. Intensive care nursery house staff manual of
UCSF Children’s Hospital 2004.
4.Batra Aet al. Arrhythmias: medical and surgical management. Paediatrics
and child health;17:1: 1 – 5.
5.Paediatric arrhythmias. Handbook of Paediatrics, UMMC 2nd Edition.
CARDIOLOGY
205
Chapter 43: Status Epilepticus
NEUROLOGY
Seizures continue
 10 mins
after Phenytoin
Discuss with Paediatric Neurologist
and Intensivist about inducing coma
Seizure  5 mins
Impending
Status epilepticus
PR Diazepam
0.2- 0.5 mg/kg (Max 10mg)
0.5mg/kg (2-5yrs); 0.3mg/kg
(6-11yrs); 0.2mg/kg (12yrs +)
Ensure
• Ventilation
• Adequate Perfusion
(ABC’s)
• Bedside Blood Sugar
Seizure 5-30 mins
Established
Status epilepticus
Early Refractory
Status epilepticus
Seizure  60 mins
Established Refractory
Status epilepticus
Obtain IV access
IV Diazepam 0.2mg/kg slow bolus
(at 2 mg/min; maximum 10mg)
IV Diazepam 0.2mg/kg slow bolus
(if not already given)
IV Phenytoin 20 mg/kg
(Max Loading dose 1.25 Gm)
Dilute in 0.9% saline; Max. conc. at
10 mg/ml; Infuse over 20-30 mins,
with cardiac monitoring.
IV Midazolam 0.2 mg/kg bolus
(at 2 mg/min; Max 10 mg),
then infusion 3-5 mcg/kg/min
up to a max of 15 mcg/kg/min)
IV Phenobarbitone 20 mg/kg
(Max Loading dose 1 Gm)
Infusion at 25- 50 mg/min),
IV Sodium Valproate 20 mg/kg
(Max Loading 1.25 Gm, given
over 1-5 mins, at 20-50 mg/min),
then infusion 1- 5 mg/kg/hour
for 6 - 12 hours)
IV Levetiracetam 40 mg/kg
infused over 10 minutes,
then 20 mg/kg 12 hourly
• If on maintainence
Phenytoin, then give
IV Phenobarbitone
• Monitor blood sugar,
electrolytes, blood
counts, liver function,
blood gases.
• Consider blood culture,
toxicology,
neuroimaging,
antiepilepticdruglevels.
• If 2 yrs old, consider
IV Pyridoxine 100 mg.
• Monitor BP, respiration
• Start inotropic support,
esp. if given
Midazolam or
Phenobarbitone
• Arrange for ICU.
• Secure airway, prepare
to use mechanical
ventilation.
• Titrate Phenobarbitone
to achieve burst-
suppression pattern
on EEG.
• Avoid Sodium Valproate
in metabolic
encephalopathy.
At Home, In Ambulance
In Hospital
Consider:
CONSULT PAEDIATRICIAN !
Consider One of the following:
Child with SEIZURE
ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF STATUS EPILEPTICUS
206
Definition
• Any seizure lasting  30 minutes or
• Intermittent seizures, without regaining full consciousness in between,
for  30 minutes.
However, any seizure  5 minutes is unlikely to abort spontaneously, and
should be treated aggressively. Furthermore, there is evidence of progres-
sive, time-dependent development of pharmaco-resistance if seizures
continue to perpetuate.
Refractory status epilepticus:
• Seizures lasting for 60 minutes or not responding to adequate doses of
benzodiazepine and second line medications.
Salient Points
• Optimize vital functions throughout control of Status Epilepticus.
• Apart from terminating seizures, management of Status Epilepticus
should include, identifying and treating underling cause.
• Presence of Status Epilepticus may mask usual signs and symptoms of
meningitis or encephalitis, resulting in a danger of overlooking
life-threatening infections.
• Common mistakes in failing to treat Status Epilepticus are underdosing of
anticonvulsants, excessive time lag between doses/steps of treatment and
neglecting maintenance therapy after the initial bolus of anticonvulsants
have been given. See Drug Doses for maintenance doses of
anticonvulsants.
NEUROLOGY
207
Chapter 44: Epilepsy
Definition
• A neurological condition characterised by recurrent unprovoked epileptic
seizures.
• An epileptic seizure is the clinical manifestation of an abnormal and
excessive discharge of a set of neurons in the brain.
• An epileptic syndrome is a complex of signs and symptoms that define a
unique epilepsy condition. Syndromes are classified on the basis of seizure
type(s), clinical context, EEG features and neuroimaging.
• It is important to differentiate epileptic seizures from paroxysmal
non-epileptic events such as neonatal sleep myoclonus, breath-holding
spells, vasovagal syncope, long Q-T syndrome.
APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH A FIRST SEIZURE
Definition
• One or multiple unprovoked afebrile seizures within 24 hours with recovery
of consciousness between seizures.
Notes:
• 30-50% of first unprovoked seizures in children will recur.
• 70-80% of second seizure will recur.
• Detailed history to determine if event is a seizure or a paroxysmal
non-epileptic event, e.g. syncope, breath-holding spell, gastroesophageal
reflux.
• A thorough clinical examination is important to look for any possible
underlying aetiology.
• There is a need to exclude acute provoking factors.
What Investigations Need To Be Done?
• Routine investigations such as FBC, BUSE, Ca, Mg, RBS if
• Child unwell (vomiting, diarrhoea etc).
• Child not ‘alert’, lethargic or failure to return to baseline alertness.
• Lumbar puncture indicated if there is suspicion of brain infection.
• Toxicology screening considered if there is suspicion of drug exposure.
• EEG is recommended after all first afebrile unprovoked seizures.
• EEG helps classify seizure type, epilepsy syndrome and predict recurrence.
• Neuroimaging (MRI preferred) indicated for:
• Persisting postictal focal deficit (Todd’s paresis).
• Condition of child not returned to baseline within several hours after the
seizure.
Is Treatment Required?
• Treatment with anticonvulsant NOT indicated in all first afebrile seizure as it
does not prevent development of epilepsy or influence long term remission
NEUROLOGY
208
NEUROLOGY
APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH EPILEPSY
• Detailed history of the seizures. Video of the actual event is helpful.
Also note birth history, developmental milestones and family history.
• Look for dysmorphism, neurocutaneous signs; do thorough CNS,
developmental examination.
• Investigations are recommended
when a second afebrile seizure
occurs:
• Routine biochemical tests only
if clinical features suggest a
biochemical disorder, e.g.
hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia.
• Do an ECG if suspicion of a
cardiac dysrhythmia.
• EEG is important to support
the clinical diagnosis of
epileptic seizures, classify the
epileptic syndrome, selection
of anti-epileptic drug and
prognosis. It also helps in
localization of seizure foci in
intractable epilepsy.
• Neuroimaging (preferably MRI) is indicated for any child with:
• Epilepsy occurring in the first year of life, except febrile seizures.
• Focal epilepsy except benign rolandic epilepsy.
• Developmental delay or regression.
• Intractable epilepsy.
Principles of antiepileptic drug therapy for Epilepsy
• Treatment recommended if ≥ 2 episodes (recurrence risk up to 80%)
• Attempt to classify the seizure type(s) and epileptic syndrome. Monotherapy
as far as possible. Choose most appropriate drug, increase dose gradually until
epilepsy controlled or maximum dose reached or side effects occur.
• Add on the second drug if first drug failed. Optimise second drug, then try
to withdraw first drug. (alternative monotherapy).
• Rational combination therapy (usually 2 or maximum 3 drugs) i.e.
combines drugs with different mechanism of action and consider their
spectrum of efficacy, drug interactions and adverse effects.
• Drug level monitoring is not routinely done (except phenytoin), unless non-
compliance, toxicity or drug interaction is suspected.
• When withdrawal of medication is planned (generally after being seizure
free for 2 years) , consideration should be given to epilepsy syndrome, likely
prognosis and individual circumstances before attempting slow withdrawal
of medication over 3-6 months (maybe longer if clonazepam or
phenobarbitone). If seizures recur, the last dose reduction is reversed and
medical advice sought.
ILAE Classification of seizure types
Generalised
Tonic-clonic
Absence (typical, atypical)
Myoclonic
Tonic
Clonic
Atonic
Focal seizures
Epileptic spasms
ILAE, International League Against Epilepsy
209
Classificationofepilepsiesandepilepticsyndromes(adaptedfromILAE2010)
NeonatalperiodChildhoodAdolescent-Adult
BenignfamilialneonatalepilepsyFebrileseizureplus(FS+)Juvenileabsenceepilepsy(JAE)
EarlymyoclonicencephalopathyEpilepsywithmyoclonic-atonicseizuresJuvenilemyoclonicepilepsy(JME)
OhtaharasyndromePanayiotopoulossyndromeEpilepsywithGTCseizuresalone
Benignrolandicepilepsy(BECTS)Progressivemyoclonicepilepsies(PME)
InfancyAutosomal-dominantnocturnalFLEFamilialfocalepilepsies
WestsyndromeLateonsetchildhoodoccipitalepilepsy
MyoclonicepilepsyininfancyEpilepsywithmyoclonicabsencesOthers
BenigninfantileepilepsyLennox-GastautsyndromeMesialTLEwithhippocampalsclerosis
BenignfamilialinfantileepilepsyEpilepsywithcontinuousspike-wave
duringsleep(CSWS)
Gelasticseizureswithhypothalamichamartoma
DravetsyndromeHemiconvulsion-hemiplegia-epilepsy
Landau-Kleffnersyndrome(LKS)Rasmussensyndrome
Childhoodabsenceepilepsy(CAE)Reflexepilepsies
*Epilepsies(generalizedorfocal),dueto:(Ifunabletoclassifyintotheabove)
-Structural/metaboliccauses
-Geneticcauses
-Unknowncause.
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210
Selecting antiepileptic drugs according to seizure types
Seizure type First line Second line
Focal Seizures
Carbamazepine
Valproate
Lamotrigine,Topiramate,
Levetiracetam, Clobazam,
Phenytoin, Phenobarbitone
Generalized Seizures
Tonic-clonic / clonic Valproate Lamotrigine,Topiramate,
Clonazepam, Carbamazepine1
,
Phenytoin1
, Phenobarbitone
Absence Valproate Lamotrigine, Levetiracetam
Atypical absences,
Atonic, tonic
Valproate Lamotrigine,Topiramate,
Clonazepam, Phenytoin
Myoclonic Valproate
Clonazepam
Topiramate, Levetiracetam
Clobazam, Lamotrigine2
,
Phenobarbitone
Infantile Spasm ACTH, Prednisolone,
Vigabatrin3
Nitrazepam, Clonazepam,
Valproate,Topiramate
Footnote:
1, May aggravate myoclonus/absence seizure in Idiopathic Generalised Epilepsy.
2, May cause seizure aggravation in Dravet syndrome and JME.
3, Especially for patients withTuberous Sclerosis.
Antiepileptic drugs that aggravate selected seizure types
Phenobarbitone Absence seizures
Clonazepam Causes Tonic status in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
Carbamazepine Absence, Myoclonic, Generalised tonic-clonic seizures
Lamotrigine Dravet syndrome,
Myoclonic seizures in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Phenytoin Absence, Myoclonic seizures
Vigabatrin Myoclonic,Absence seizures
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211
The patients with “Intractable Epilepsy”
Please re-evaluate for the following possibilities:-
• Is it a seizure or a non-epileptic event?
• Antiepileptic drug dose not optimised.
• Poor compliance to antiepileptic drug.
• Wrong classification of epilepsy syndrome, thus wrong choice of
antiepileptic drug.
• Antiepileptic drug aggravating seizures.
• Lesional epilepsy, hence a potential epilepsy surgery candidate.
• Progressive epilepsy or neurodegenerative disorder.
When to refer to a Paediatric Neurologist?
Refer immediately (to contact paediatric neurologist)
• Behavioural or developmental regression.
• Infantile spasms.
Refer
• Poor seizure control despite monotherapy with 2 different antiepileptic
medications.
• Difficult to control epilepsies beginning in the first two years of life.
• Structural lesion on neuroimaging.
Advice for Parents
• Educate and counsel on epilepsy.
• Emphasize compliance if on an antiepileptic drug.
• Don’t stop the medication by themselves. This may precipitate
breakthrough seizures.
• In photosensitive seizures: watch TV in brightly lit room. Avoid sleep
deprivation.
• Use a shower with bathroom door unlocked.
• No cycling in traffic, climbing sports or swimming alone.
• Know emergency treatment for seizure.
• Inform teachers and school about the condition.
First Aid Measures during a Seizure (Advise for Parents/Teachers)
• Do not panic, remain calm. Note time of onset of the seizure.
• Loosen the child’s clothing especially around the neck.
• Place the child in a left lateral position with the head lower than the body.
• Wipe any vomitus or secretion from the mouth.
• Do not insert any object into the mouth even if the teeth are clenched.
• Do not give any fluids or drugs orally.
• Stay near the child until the seizure is over and comfort the child as
he/she is recovering.
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212
SideeffectsandserioustoxicityofAntiepilepticDrugs
AntiepilepticDrugCommonsideeffectsSerioustoxicity
CarbamazepineDrowsiness,dizziness,ataxia,diplopia,rashesSteven-Johnsonsyndrome1
,
agranulocytosis
Clobazam2
Clonazepam
Drowsiness,hypotonia,salivaryandbronchialhypersecretion,
hyperactivityandaggression
LamotrigineDizziness,somnolence,insomnia,rashSteven-Johnsonsyndrome
LevetiracetamSomnolence,asthenia,dizziness,irritability,behaviouralchange
PhenobarbitoneBehaviouraldisturbance,cognitivedysfunction,drowsiness,
ataxia,rash
PhenytoinAtaxia,diplopia,dizziness,sedation,hirsutism,gumhypertrophy
megaloblasticanemia
SodiumvalproateNausea,epigastricpain,tremor,alopecia,weightgain,hairloss,
thrombocytopaenia
Hepatictoxicity(2yrsage),
pancreatitis,encephalopathy
Topiramateweightloss,somnolence,mentalslowing,wordfindingdifficulty,
hypohidrosis,renalcalculi
Vigabatrindrowsiness,dizziness,moodchanges,weightgainPeripheralvisualfieldconstriction
(tunnelvision)
Footnote:1,Steven-JohnsonsyndromeoccursmorefrequentlyinChineseandMalaychildrenwhocarrytheHLA-B*1502allele.
2,Clobazamislesssedativethanclonazepam
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213
Chapter 45: Febrile Seizures
Definition
• Seizures occurring in association with fever in children between 3 months
and 6 years of age, in whom there is no evidence of intracranial pathology
or metabolic derangement.
• No comprehensive local epidemiological data. Studies in Western Europe
quote a figure of 3-4% of children  5 years experiencing febrile seizures.
Classification of Febrile Seizures
Simple Febrile Seizures Complex Febrile Seizures
• Duration  15 minutes • Duration  15 minutes
• Generalised seizure. • Focal features
• Does not recur during the febrile
episode
•  1 seizure during the febrile
episode
• Residual neurological deficit
post-ictally,such asTodd’s paralysis
Management
• Not all children need hospital admission. The main reasons are: -
• To exclude intracranial pathology especially infection.
• Fear of recurrent seizures.
• To investigate and treat the cause of fever besides meningitis/encephalitis.
• To allay parental anxiety, especially if they are staying far from hospital.
• Investigations
• The need for blood counts, blood sugar, lumbar puncture, urinalysis,
chest X-ray, blood culture etc, will depend on clinical assessment of the
individual case.
• lumbar puncture
Must be done if: (unless contraindicated – see Ch 46: Meningitis)
- Any signs of intracranial infection.
- Prior antibiotic therapy.
- Persistent lethargy and not fully interactive 6 hours after the seizure.
Strongly recommended if
- Age  12 months old.
- First complex febrile seizures.
- In district hospital without paediatrician.
- Parents have difficulty bringing in child again if deteriorates at home.
• Serum calcium and electrolytes are rarely necessary.
• EEG is not indicated even if multiple recurrences or complex febrile
seizures.
• Parents should be counselled on the benign nature of the condition
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214
• Control fever
• Avoid excessive clothing
• Use antipyretic e.g. syrup or rectal Paracetamol 15 mg/kg 6 hourly for
patient’s comfort, though this may not reduce the recurrence of seizures.
• Parents should also be advised on First Aid Measures during a Seizure.
• Rectal Diazepam
• Parents of children with high risk of recurrent febrile seizures should be
supplied with Rectal Diazepam (dose : 0.5 mg/kg).
• They should be advised on how to administer it if the seizures lasts
more than 5 minutes.
• Prevention of recurrent febrile seizures.
- Anticonvulsants are not recommended for prevention of recurrent febrile
seizures because:
• The risks and potential side effects of medications outweigh the benefits
• No medication has been shown to prevent the future onset of epilepsy.
• Febrile seizures have an excellent outcome with no neurological
deficit nor any effect on intelligence.
Risk factors for Recurrent Febrile Seizures
• Family history of Febrile seizures
• Age  18 months
• Low degree of fever ( 40 o
C) during first Febrile seizure.
• Brief duration ( 1 hr) between onset of fever and seizure.
* No risk factor  15 % recurrence
≥ 2 risk factors  30 % recurrence
≥ 3 risk factors  60 % recurrence
Risk factors for subsequent Epilepsy
• Neurodevelopmental abnormality
• Complex febrile seizures
• Family history of epilepsy
Prognosis in Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures are benign events with excellent prognosis
• 3 - 4 % of population have Febrile seizures.
• 30 % recurrence after 1st attack.
• 48 % recurrence after 2nd attack.
• 2 - 7 % develop subsequent afebrile seizure or epilepsy.
• No evidence of permanent neurological deficits following Febrile
seizures or even Febrile status epilepticus.
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215
Chapter 46: Meningitis
Introduction
• Meningitis is still a major and sometimes fatal problem in Paediatrics.
• Morbidity is also high. A third of survivors have sequelae of their disease.
However, these complications can be reduced if meningitis is treated early.
NEUROLOGY
When NOT to do a Lumbar Puncture
• Haemodynamically unstable
• Glasgow coma scale ≤ 8
• Abnormal‘doll’s eye’ reflex or
unequal pupils
• Lateralized signs or abnormal posturing
• Immediately after a recent seizure
• Papilloedema
Continue antibiotics
Negative
No improvementImprovement
Positive
Abnormal CSF
Normal CSF, wait for
CSF culture and Latex agglutination
ResponseNo response
Change antibiotics
Complete Treatment
(See Next Page)
Consider TB, Fungus
or Encephalitis
Persistent Fever  72 hrs
and Neurological deficit
(rule out various causes)
Consider Ultrasound / CT Brain
Repeat LP if no evidence of raised ICP
Complete course of
antibiotics
Re-evaluate, Consider
discontinue Antibiotics
Do LP Withhold LP
No Yes
• Do Blood, urine CS
• Start Antibiotics
± Dexamethasone
Fever  Symptoms/Signs
of Bacterial Meningitis
Lumbar Puncture (LP)
Contraindicated?
APPROACH TO A CHIILD WITH FEVER AND SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF MENINGITIS
216
NEUROLOGY
Cerebrospinal fluid values in neurological disorders with fever
Condition Leukocytes
(mm³)
Protein (g/l) Glucose
(mmol/l)
Comments
Acute Bacterial
Meningitis
100 - 50,000 Usually 1- 5 0.5 - 1.5 Gram stain may be
positive
Partially-treated
Bacterial
Meningitis
1 - 10,000
Usually high PMN,
but may have
lymphocytes
 1 Low CSF may be sterile
in Pneumococcal,
Meningococcal
meningitis
Tuberculous
Meningitis
10 - 500
Early PMN, later
high lymphocytes
1- 5 0 - 2.0 Smear for AFB,TB
PCR + in CSF;
High ESR
Fungal
Meningitis
50 – 500
Lymphocytes
0.5 - 2 Normal or
low
CSF for
Cryptococcal Ag
Encephalitis 10 - 1,000 Normal /
0.5-1
Normal CSF virology and
HSV DNA PCR
Recommended antibiotic therapy according to likely pathogen
Age Group Initial
Antibiotic
Likely Organism Duration
(if uncomplicated)
 1 month C Penicillin +
Cefotaxime
Grp B Streptococcus
E. coli
21 days
1 - 3 months C Penicillin +
Cefotaxime
Group B Streptococcus
E. coli
H. influenzae
Strep. pneumoniae
10 – 21 days
 3 months C Penicillin +
Cefotaxime, OR
Ceftriaxone
H. influenzae
Strep. pneumoniae
N. meningitides
7 – 10 days
10 – 14 days
7 days
Note:
• Review antibiotic choice when infective organism has been identified.
• Ceftriaxone gives more rapid CSF sterilisation as compared to Cefotaxime
or Cefuroxime.
• If Streptococcal meningitis, request for MIC values of antibiotics.
MIC level Drug of choice:
• MIC  0.1 mg/L (sensitive strain) C Penicillin
• MIC 0.1- 2 mg/L (relatively resistant) Ceftriaxone or Cefotaxime
• MIC  2 mg/L (resistant strain) Vancomycin + Ceftriaxone or Cefotaxime
4. Extend duration of treatment if complications e.g. subdural empyema,
brain abscess.
217
Use of Steroids to decrease the sequelae of bacterial meningitis
• Best effect achieved if given before or with the first antibiotic dose.
• Dose:
Dexamethasone 0.15 mg/kg 6 hly for 4 days or 0.4 mg/kg 12 hly for 2 days
• Give steroids if CSF is turbid and patient has not received prior antibiotics.
Supportive measures
• Monitor temperature, pulse, BP and respiration 4 hourly and input/output.
• Nil by month if unconscious.
• Careful fluid balance required. Often, maintenance IV fluids is sufficient.
However, if SIADH occurs, reduce to 2/3 maintenance for initial 24 hours.
Patient may need more fluid if dehydrated.
• If fontanel is still open, note the head circumference daily. Consider cranial
ultrasound or CT scan if effusion or hydrocephalus is suspected.
• Seizure chart.
• Daily Neurological assessment is essential.
• Observe for 24 hours after stopping therapy and if there is no
complication, patient can be discharged.
If persistent fever in a patient on treatment for meningitis, consider:
• Thrombophlebitis and injection sites e.g. intramuscular abscess.
• Intercurrent infection e.g. pneumonia, UTI or nosocomial infection.
• Resistant organisms. Inappropriate antibiotics or inadequate dosage.
• Subdural effusion, empyema or brain abscess.
• Antibiotic fever.
Follow up (Long term follow up is important)
• Note development of child at home and in school.
• Note head circumference.
• Ask for any occurrence of fits or any behavioural abnormalities.
• Assess vision, hearing and speech.
• Request for early formal hearing assessment in cases of proven meningitis.
• Until child shown to have normal development (usually until 4 years old).
Prognosis depends on
• Age: worse in younger patients.
• Duration of illness prior to effective antibiotics treatment.
• Causative organism: more complications with H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae.
• Presence of focal signs.
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218
NEUROLOGY
Indications for Head CT Scan
Useful to detect complications
• Prolonged depression of consciousness
• Prolonged focal or late seizures
• Focal neurological abnormalities
• Enlarging head circumference
• Suspected subdural effusion or empyema
Indications for Subdural drainage
• Rapid increase in head circumference
with no hydrocephalus
• Focal neurological signs
• Increased intracranial pressure
• Suspected subdural empyema
219
Chapter 47: Acute CNS Demyelination
Introduction
These disorders consist of monophasic and polyphasic (recurrent) diseases
with acquired immune injury to the white matter in the central nervous
system.
Optic neuritis
• Acute loss of vision (decreased visual acuity) of one or both eyes
• Often associated with pain on eye movements and colour desaturation
• A relative afferent pupillary defect is present
• MRI may show swelling and abnormal signal of the optic nerves.
Acute transverse myelitis
• Spinal cord dysfunction, with motor weakness, numbness of both legs
and/or arms, often associated with urinary retention
• Maximal deficits occurring between 4 hours - 21 days after symptom onset
• MRI may demonstrate swelling +/or abnormal signal in the spinal cord
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)
• Acute encephalopathy (behavioural change or alteration of consciousness)
with multifocal neurological deficits/signs,
e.g. limb weakness, numbness, cerebellar ataxia, cranial nerve palsy,
speech impairment, visual loss, seizures and spinal cord involvement.
• MRI shows multiple areas of abnormal signal in the white matter.
• No other aetiologies can explain the event.
ADEM: Common Differential Diagnoses
• CNS infection
• Bacterial, tuberculous meningitis, Herpes simplex encephalitis
• Clinically isolated syndrome (1st episode of Multiple sclerosis)
• Guillain Barré syndrome
• Acute stroke
• Mitochondrial disorders
Other Investigations (as needed)
• Cerebrospinal fluid - FEME, cultures, oligoclonal banding, Herpes virus PCR
(optional: lactate, viral studies)
• Infection screen - virology, mycoplasma, etc.
• Vasculitis screen (ESR, C3,C4, antinuclear factor).
• Evoked potentials - visual, auditory and somatosensory.
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220
NEUROLOGY
Treatment
Supportive measures
• Vital sign monitoring, maintain blood pressure
• Assisted ventilation for “cerebral / airway protection”
• Anticonvulsants for seizures
• Antibiotics / Acyclovir for CNS infections if febrile, awaiting cultures, PCR
result.
Definitive immunotherapy
• IV Methylprednisolone 20 - 30 mg/kg/day (max 1 gm) daily, divided into
8 hourly dosing, for 3 to 5 days
• Then oral Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day (max 60 mg) daily to complete 2 wks.
• Give longer course of oral prednisolone, 4-8 weeks for ADEM and
transverse myelitis with residual deficit.
• If no response, consider: IV Immunoglobulins 2 gm/kg over 2 - 5 days
(or referral to a paediatric neurologist)
If Demyelinating episodes recur in the same patient, refer to a Paediatric
Neurologist.
221
Chapter 48: Acute Flaccid Paralysis
Introduction
Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) occurs when there is rapid evolution of motor
weakness ( than 4 days), with a loss of tone in the paralysed limb. This excludes
weakness due to trauma and spastic paralysis.
AFP is a medical emergency as unnecessary delays can result in death and dis-
ability. Children with AFP need to be assessed and managed carefully. A simple
algorithm is provided on the next page.
AFP surveillance in children
• Collecting stools for enterovirus in children with AFP is an important part of
the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
• For Malaysia to remain a polio-free country we need to prove that none of
our cases of AFP are caused by poliovirus infection. To do this we have to
report all cases of AFP aged  15 years, send stools for enterovirus isolation
using a standardised protocol, and follow up children with AFP to determine
the outcome.
Protocol for AFP surveillance in Malaysia
Step Timing Description
Case Detection At diagnosis • Follow case definition for AFP
Case Reporting Within 24 hours • Fax forms to 03-2693 8094
(Virology Unit, IMR;Tel no: 03-2616 2677)
Timing of stool
specimens
Within 2 weeks of
onset of paralysis
• 2 stool specimens collected no less than
24 hours apart
Collection of
specimens
• Fresh stool.Avoid rectal swabs.
(at least 8g – size of an adult thumb).
• Place in a sterile glass bottle.
Transport of
stools
As soon as able • Maintain a cold chain of 2 - 8 o
C.
Transport in frozen ice packs or dry ice.
• Ensure stool specimens arrive at IMR
within 72 hours of stool collection.
• Caution:avoid desiccation,leakage;
• Ensure adequate documentation and use
AFP Case Laboratory Request Form
Follow up of
patients
60 days from
paralysis
• To determine whether there is residual
paralysis on follow up
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222
NEUROLOGY
Notes: 1. Headache, vomiting, seizures, encephalopathy, cranial nerve deficits,
ataxia, brisk tendon reflexes, upgoing plantar response.
2. Soft tissue, joint or bony causes of walking difficulty.
Demonstrable
Lower limb Motor Weakness
unilateral
CNS Disorder
Absent
Dermatomal
Preserved Affected
None ‘Glove  Stocking’
Absent, reduced or normal
Preserved Preserved
Dermatomal
Reduced
or normal
No demonstrable CNS
signs or motor weakness
CNS Symptomatology¹	
Musculoskeletal
disorder²
Clinical Questions
Clinical
Localisation MUSCLE SPINAL CORDPERIPHERAL NERVE
bilateral
• Post viral myositis
• Periodic paralysis
• Toxic myositis
Sphincters ?
Sensory Loss ?
Reflexes ?
Differential
Diagnosis
Investigations
• Enteroviral
infection
• Local trauma
• Guillain Barré
syndrome
• Toxic neuropathy
• Acute transverse
myelitis
• Spinal cord /
extraspinal tumour
• Arteriovenous
malformation
• Spinal cord stroke
• Extradural abscess
• Spinal tuberculosis
• Spinal arachnoiditis
Required
• AFP workup
• Creatine kinase
• Serum electrolytes
• Urine myoglobin
Required
• AFP workup
• Nerve conduction
study
Optional
• MRI Lumbosacral
plexus,sciaticnerve
Required
• AFP workup
• CSF cells, protein
• Nerve conduction
study
Required
• AFP workup
• URGENT Spinal
Cord MRI
Optional
(as per MRI result)
• TB workup
• CSF cells, protein,
sugar, culture,
TB PCR,
Cryptococcal Ag,
Oligoclonal bands
• ESR, C3,C4,
antinuclear factor
NEW ONSET
Difficulty in Walking
CLINICAL APPROACH TO A CHIILD WITH ACUTE FLACCID PARALYSIS
223
Chapter 49: Guillain Barré Syndrome
Introduction
Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS) is a post-infectious inflammatory disorder
affecting the peripheral nerves.
Clinical Pearls on GBS in Children
• Rapidly progressive, bilateral and relatively symmetric weakness of the
limbs with decrease or absent reflexes. In atypical cases, weakness may
begin in the face or upper limbs, or asymmetrical at onset.
• Sensory symptoms, e.g. limb pain and hyperesthesia, are common.
• Bladder and bowel involvement may occasionally be seen, but is never
present at onset and never persistent
(if so, think of spinal cord disorder)
• CSF protein level and nerve conduction studies may be normal in the
first week of illness.
• GBS variants and overlapping syndrome:
• Miller Fisher syndrome - cranial nerve variant characterised by
opthalmoplegia, ataxia and areflexia.
• Bickerstaff’s brainstem encephalitis - acute encephalopathy with cranial
and peripheral nerve involvement.
Management
The principle of management is to establish the diagnosis and anticipate /
pre-empt major complications.
• a Clinical diagnosis can be made by a history of progressive, ascending
weakness ( 4 wks) with areflexia, and an elevated CSF protein level and
normal cell count (“protein-cellular dissociation”).
• Nerve conduction study is Confirmatory.
Initial measures
• Give oxygen, keep NBM if breathless. Monitor PEFR regularly
• Admit for PICU / PHDU care, if having:
• Respiratory compromise (deteriorating PERF).
• Rapidly progressive tetraparesis with loss of head control.
• Bulbar palsy.
• Autonomic and cardiovascular instability.
• Provide respiratory support early with BiPAP or mechanical ventilation
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224
NEUROLOGY
Hughes Functional Scale for GBS
0 Normal
1 Minor symptoms, capable of running
2 Able to walk up to 10 meters without assistance but unable to run
3 Able to walk 10 meters with assistance of one person, or a walker
4 Unable to walk
5 Requires assisted ventilation
Specific measures
• IV Immunoglobulins (IVIG) 2 gm /kg total over 2 - 5 days in the first 2 wks
of illness, with Hughes functional scale 3 and above or rapidly deteriorating.
• IVIG is as efficacious as Plasma exchange in both children and adults, and is
safer and technically simpler.
• 10 % of children with GBS may suffer a relapse of symptoms in the first
weeks after improvement from IVIG. These children, may benefit from a
second dose of IVIG.
General measures
• Prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis should be considered for patients
ventilated for GBS, especially if recovery is slow.
• Liberal pain relief, with either paracetamol, NSAIDs, gabapentin or opiates.
225
• Metabolic disease
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Hypoglycaemia
Hyperammonemia
• Non-accidental injury
• Post convulsive state
• Hypertensive crisis
• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
• Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Chapter 50: Approach to The Child With Altered Consciousness
NEUROLOGY
1
2
Once stable, monitor HR, BP, Resp rate, SpO₂, urine output
. . . . . secure airway, endotracheal intubation
. . . oxygen, artificial ventilation if required
. . IV bolus, ionotropes, chest compressions
. . correct hypoglycemia promptly
Airway
Breathing
Circulation
Dextrostix
consider:
. . monitor GCS hourly
. . monitor GCS ½ hourly till improves
If GCS ≥ 12
If GCS  12
• Airway obstructs if not supported.
• Airway compromised by vomiting.
• Respiratory rate too low for adequate ventilation.
• SpO₂ remains  92 % despite high flow O₂
and airway opening manouevres.
• Signs of shock even after 40 ml/kg of fluid resuscitation.
• Signs of exhaustion.
• GCS  8 and deteriorating.
If Clinically has Papilloedema, or if 2 of the following:
• GCS  8
• Unreactive, unequal pupils
• Abnormal doll’s eye reflex
• Decorticate, decerebrate posturing
• Abnormal breathing (Cheyne-Stokes, apneustic)
3
Look for  treat:
SEPSIS SHOCK SEIZURES
Optional:
EEG, Vasculitis screen, Toxicology, IEM Screen,
Blood film for malaria parasite
Sample when ILL:
1-2 ml plasma/serum: separated, frozen  saved
10-20 ml urine: frozen  saved
• CNS Infection
Bacterial meningitis
Viral encephalitis
TB meningitis
Brain abscess
Cerebral malaria
• Trauma
• Vasculitis
• Acute Poisoning
5
4
Recommended
FBC, urea  electrolytes, glucose
Liver function tests
Serum ammonia, blood gas
Blood cultures
Urinalysis
Delay Lumbar Puncture
6
Neuroimaging: Consider CT Brain for all children with ↑ ICP, or if cause of coma is
uncertain; MRI is more useful if a brain tumour or ADEM is suspected
INITIAL
ASSESSMENT
WHAT IS
THE GCS?
CONSIDER
ENDOTRACHEAL
INTUBATION IF:
RAISED
INTACRANIAL
PRESSURE
CONSIDER
AETIOLOGY
INVESTIGATIONS
226
NEUROLOGY
Management of Raised ICP
• Nursing
• Elevate head up to 30⁰
• Avoid unnecessary suction, procedures
• Fluid balance
• Keep patient well hydrated
• Avoid hypo-osmolar fluid, plain dextrose solutions
• Care with sodium homeostasis:
• Maintain cerebral blood flow
• Keep CPP  50 mmHg
• If ↑ BP: do not lower unless hypertensive crisis,
e.g. acute glomerulonephritis
• Use of IV Mannitol
• Regular doses at 0.25 - 0.5 g/kg q.i.d. if required.
• A CT scan toexcludeintracranial bleeding is recommended.
• PaO₂ , PaCO₂ level
• Maintain good oxygenation, normocapnia.
i.e. PaCO₂ 4.0 - 4.6 kPa / 35 - 40 mmHg
• Surgical decompression
• If medical measures fail, surgical decompression may
be indicated (ie. external ventricular drainage,
decompressive hemicraniectomy)
Treatment of Infection
• Antibiotics: In all children, unless alternative cause of
coma is evident
• Acyclovir: In children with encephalitis, until CSF PCR
results known
• Others: Anti-tuberculous therapy, anti-malarials
Treatment of Metabolic Encephalopathy
. . . . refer section on Metabolic disease in children
General rules
• Outcome depends on the underlying cause:
1/3 die, 1/3 recover with deficits, 1/3 recover completely
• Acute complications improve with time.
e.g. cortical blindness, motor deficits
• Metabolic causes may require long term dietary
management.
Cerebral (CPP)
Perfusion
Pressure
Intracranial
Pressure (ICP)
Mean (MAP)
Arterial
Pressure
= -
7
8
Cerebral
salt wasting
Replace renal
sodium losses
Fluid restrictionSIADH↓serum
sodium
↓urine
output
↑urine
sodium
actionconsider
MANAGEMENT
OUTCOME
227
Chapter 51: Childhood Stroke
Introduction
• The overall incidence of neonatal stroke is 1 in 4,000 live births, while for
childhood stroke is 2.5-13 per 100,000 children / year.
• Ischaemic stroke, including arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS) and cerebral
sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) is increasingly diagnosed in children.
Arterial Ischaemic Stroke
• Incidence: 2-8 per 100,000 children / year.
• Recurrence occurs in 10-30% of childhood AIS.
Definition
1. Acute onset (may be evolving) of focal ± diffuse neurological disturbance
and persistent for 24 hours or more, AND
2. Neuro-imaging showing focal ischaemic infarct in an arterial territory and
of maturity consistent with the clinical features.
Clinical features
• Typically sudden, maximal at onset (but may be evolving, waxing  waning).
• Focal deficits : commonest - motor deficits (hemiparesis), sensory deficits,
speech / bulbar disturbance, visual disturbance, unsteadiness.
• Diffuse neurological disturbance : altered consciouness, headache
• Seizures.
• Other non-specific features in neonatal stroke including apnoea, feeding
difficulty, abnormal tone.
Potential Risk Factors for Arterial Ischaemic Stroke
Cardiogenic
Congenital, acquired heart diseases;
Cardiac procedure,Arrhythmia
Acute disorders
• Head and neck disorder:
Trauma, Infection - Meningitis,
otitis media, mastoiditis, sinusitis.
• Systemic disorders:
Sepsis, dehydration, asphyxia
Vasculopathy
• Non-vasculitis
Dissection, Moyamoya,
Post-varicella angiopathy
• Vasculitis
Primary CNS vasculitis;
Secondary vasculitis
(Infective vasculitis, SLE,Takayasu)
Chronic disorders
• Iron deficiency anaemia
• Metabolic disorders
Homocystinuria, Dyslipidaemia,
Organic acidemia
MELAS (Mitochondrial
encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis
with stroke-like episodes)
Prothrombotic disorders
• Inherited thrombophilia
• Acquired thrombophilia:
Nephrotic syndrome, malignancy,
L-Asparaginase, anti-phospholipid
syndrome
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Investigations
• Blood workup :
• Basic tests: FBC / FBP, renal profile, LFT, RBS, lipid profile, iron assay
(as indicated).
• Thrombophilia screen: PT/PTT/INR, protein C, protein S, anti-thrombin III,
factor V Leiden, lupus anti-coagulant, anti-cardiolipin, serum
homocysteine level.
• If perinatal / neonatal stroke: to do mother’s lupus anti-coagulant and
anti-cardiolipin level.
• Further tests may include MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase),
lipoprotein A, Prothrombin gene mutations.
• Vasculitis workup (if indicated) : C3, C4, CRP, ESR, ANA
• Further tests may include dsDNA, p-ANCA, c-ANCA
• Others: Suspected metabolic aetiologies – lactate  VBG for MELAS.
• Cardiac assessment : ECG  Echocardiogram (ideally with bubble study)
• Neuro-imaging (consult radiologist)
• Goals – to ascertain any infarction, haemorrhages, evidence of clots /
vasculopathy and to exclude stroke-mimics.
• If stroke is suspected, both brain parenchymal and cervico-cephalic
vascular imaging should be considered.
Brain imaging Cervico-cephalicVascular Imaging
Cranial Ultrasound
If fontanel is open.
Carotid artery Ultrasound / Doppler
If suspected carotid dissection or
stenosis.
CT scan
Quick, sensitive for haemorrhages
but may miss early, small and
posterior fossa infarcts.
MR Angiogram (MRA)
Intracranial vessels (with MRI)  to
include neck vessels if suspected
cervical vasculopathy.
MRI scan (with DWI+ADC)
Better parenchymal details and
sensitive for early infarct
CT Angiogram / Formal cerebral
angiogram
May be considered in certain cases.
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Management
• General care
• Resuscitation: A, B, C’s.
• Admit to ICU if indicated for close vital signs and GCS monitoring.
(post-infarction cerebral oedema may worsen 2-4 days after acute stroke)
• Workup for the possible underlying risk factor(s) and treat accordingly.
• If cervical dissection is the likely aetiology ( eg : history of head  neck
trauma, Marfan syndrome, carotid bruit), apply soft cervical collar.
• Acute neuro-protective care :
• General measures for cerebral protection.
• Maintain normothermia, normoglycemia, normovolemia
• Monitor fluid balance, acceptable BP, adequate oxygenation, treat
seizures aggressively.
• Acute Anti-thrombotic therapy :
• Consult paediatric neurologist (and haematology team if available) for
the necessity, choice and monitoring of anti-thrombotic therapy.
• If stroke due to cardiac disease/procedure, should also consult
cardiologist/cardio-thoracic team.
• If anti-thrombotic is needed, consider anti-coagulation therapy
(unfractionated heparin / LMWH) or aspirin. Ensure no contraindications.
• Secondary preventive therapy:
• If needed, consider Aspirin (3-5mg/kg/day, may be reduced to 1-3mg/kg/
day if has side effects.)
• Duration: generally for 3-5 years but may be indefinitely.
Caution with long-term aspirin. (See below)
• Alternatively, LMWH or warfarin may be used in extra-cranial dissection,
intracardiac clots, major cardiac disease or severe prothrombotic disorders.
Contraindications of Anti-thrombotic therapy
Infarct associated with significant hemorrhage
Large infarct with the worry of secondary haemorrhagic transformation;
Uncontrolled hypertension
Other risks for bleeding
Caution with Aspirin
Reye’s syndrome has been linked to use of aspirin during febrile illness.
Reduce aspirin by 50% during fever  38°C.
Withhold for 3-5 days if suspected/confirmed varicella / influenza infection.
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Childhood Cerebral Sino-venous Thrombosis (CSVT):
Introduction
• 20-30% of childhood stroke due to CSVT; 30-40 % of CSVT will lead to
venous infarcts or stroke.
• More than 50% of venous infarcts are associated with haemorrhages.
• Consider CSVT if infarct corresponds to venous drainage territories or
infarct with haemorrhage not due to vascular abnormality.
Clinical features (Typically sub-acute)
• Diffuse neurological disturbance:
Headache, seizures, altered sensorium, features of increased intracranial
pressure (papilloedema, 6th cranial nerves palsy).
• Focal deficits if venous infarct.
Risk factors
• Prothrombotic conditions (Inherited, L-asparaginase, nephrotic syndrome)
• Acute disorders (Head  neck trauma / infection, dehydration, sepsis)
• Chronic disorders (SLE, thyrotoxicosis, iron deficiency anaemia, malignancy)
Blood workup
• Thrombophilia screen and others depending on possible risk factor(s)
Neuro-imaging
• Brain imaging - as in Childhood AIS guidelines.
• Cerebral Venogram
• MRV-TOF (time-of-flight) – flow dropout artefact may be a problem
• CTV – better than MRV-TOF, but radiation exposure is an issue.
Management
• General care and acute neuro-protective care as in AIS.
• Consult Paediatric neurologist for anti-coagulation therapy (ensure no
contraindications).
• Consult neuro-surgery if infarct associated with haemorrhage.
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Chapter 52: Brain Death
Definition
Brain death is a state when the function of the brain as a whole, including the
brain stem is irreversibly lost. A person certified to be brain dead is dead.
Diagnosis of brain death (All to be fulfilled)
Preconditions:
• Patient is in deep coma, apnoeic and on ventilator
• Cause of coma fully established and sufficient to explain the status of patient.
• There is irremediable structural brain damage.
Exclusions:
• Coma due to metabolic or endocrine disturbance, drug intoxication and
primary hypothermia (defined as a core temperature of 32 ⁰C or lower).
• Certain neurological disorders, e.g. Guillain Barre Syndrome, Miller Fisher
syndrome and Locked-in Syndrome.
• Coma of undetermined cause.
• Preterm neonates.
Diagnostic Criteria ( All to be fulfilled )
• Deep coma, unresponsive and unreceptive, Glasgow scale 3 / 15
• Apnoeic, confirmed by apnoea test
• Absent brain stem reflexes confirmed by the following tests:-
1. Pupillary light reflex.
2. Oculocephalic reflex.
3. Motor response in cranial nerve distribution
4. Corneal reflex
5. Vestibulo-ocular reflex (caloric test)
6. Oro-pharygeal reflex
7. Tracheo-bronchial reflex
Test
(All conditions and exclusions fulfilled before proceeding to examine and test
for brain death)
1. Pupillary light reflex.
• No response to bright light in both eyes.
2. Oculocephalic reflex. (Doll’s eye response)
• Testing is done only when no fracture or instability of the cervical spine
is apparent.
• The oculocephalic response is elicited by fast, vigorous turning of the
head from middle position to 90o on both sides.
3. Corneal reflex.
• No blinking response seen when tested with a cotton swab.
4. Motor response in cranial nerve distribution.
• No grimacing seen when pressure stimulus applied to the supraorbital
nerve, deep pressure on both condyles at level of the temporo-mandibular
joint or on nail bed.
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5. Vestibulo-ocular reflex (Caloric test).
• The test should not be performed if the tympanic membrane is perforated.
• The head is elevated to 30o during irrigation of the tympanum on each
side with 50 ml of ice water.
• Allow 1 minute after injection and at least 5 minutes between testing
on each side.
• Tonic deviation of the eyes in the direction of cold stimulus is absent.
6. Oropharyngeal reflex.
• Absent gag response when the posterior pharynx is stimulated.
7. Tracheo-bronchial reflex.
• A suction catheter is passed down through the endotracheal tube to the level
of the carina or beyond. Lack of cough response to bronchial suctioning
should be demonstrated.
8. Apnoea test.
• Prerequisites: the patient must be in a stable cardiovascular and
respiratory state.
• Adjust ventilator to maintain PaCO₂ at or around 40 mmHg.
• Pre-oxygenate with 100% O₂ for 10 minutes.
• Disconnect from ventilator.
• Deliver 100% O₂ via tracheal catheter at 6 L/min
• Monitor O₂ saturation with pulse oximetry
• Measure PaCO₂ after 5 minutes and again after 8 minutes if PaCO₂ has
not exceeded 60 mmHg.
• Re-connect to ventilator after the test.
• Disconnection of the ventilator shall not exceed 10 mins at any one time
• The apnoea test is positive when there is no respiratory effort with a
PaCO₂ of ≥ 60 mmHg.
• If during apnoea testing, there is significant hypotension, marked
desaturation or cardiac arrhythmias immediately draw an arterial blood
sample, re-connect to ventilator and analyse ABG.
Should the PaCO₂  60 mmHg, the result is indeterminate.
• It is left to the discretion of the paediatrician to decide whether to repeat
the test or to depend on an ancillary test to finalise the clinical diagnosis
of brain death.
Note: For patients with chronic lung disease, the baseline PaCO₂ may already
be above 40 mmHg. The apnoea test is then considered positive if there is no
respiratory effort at a PaCO₂ of 20 mmHg above the baseline PaCO₂
233
Additional criteria for children
• It is generally assumed that the young child’s brain may be more resilient
to certain forms of injury, although this issue is controversial.
• The newborn is difficult to evaluate after perinatal insults. This relates to
many factors including difficulties of clinical examination, determination of
the cause of coma, and certainty of the validity of laboratory tests.
• Hence no recommendation can be made for preterm infants and newborn
less than 7 days old.
• Beyond this period, the brain death criteria apply but the interval between
two examinations is lengthened depending on the age of the child, and an
ancillary test (EEG) is recommended for those less than one year old.
Assessment and Certification
• Two specialists who are competent (at least 3 years of postgraduate clinical
experience and trained in brain death assessment) in diagnosing brain death
are qualified to certify brain death.
• They should preferably be paediatricians, anaesthesiologists, neurologists
and neurosurgeons. Doctors involved in organ transplantation are not
allowed to certify brain death.
• A repeat assessment and certification must be carried out after the first
(with interval between the 2 examinations depending on the age of the
child), not necessarily by the same pair of specialists.
• The ‘Brain Death Certification’ form is filled up by the first set of doctors
(Doctor A and B) and completed by the 2nd set of doctors (Doctor C and D)
or Doctor A and B if the same doctors are performing the repeat test. The
time of death will then be declared by the doctors performing the repeat test.
• The time of death is at the time of the 2nd testing. Should the patient’s heart
stop before the repeat test, that will be taken as the time of death.
• Brain death certification must only be done in areas of the hospital with full
facilities for intensive cardiopulmonary care of the comatose patients.
Time criteria and ancillary testing in children
Age Interval between assessments Recommended no.of EEGs
7 days – 2 mths 48 hours 2
2 mths – 1 year 24 hours 2
 1 year¹ 12 hours Not needed
Footnote:
1.If hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy is present,observation for at least 24 hr is
recommended.This interval may be reduced if an EEG shows electrocerebral silence.
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Pitfalls in Assessment / Certification
• Assessment may be difficult in patients with
• Severe facial trauma.
• Pre-existing pupillary abnormalities.
• Sleep apnoea or severe pulmonary disease with chronic retention of CO₂
• Toxic levels of sedative drugs, aminoglycosides, tricyclic antidepressants,
anticonvulsants, chemotherapeutic drugs, neuromuscular blocking agents.
• Drug levels are useful if they can be quantified. If the drug level is below the
therapeutic range, brain death can be declared.
• When the drug or poison cannot be quantified, observe the patients for at
least 4 times the elimination half-life, provided the elimination of the drug or
toxin is not interfered with, by other drugs or organ dysfunction.
• When the drug unknown but suspicion of its presence is high, observe the
patients for 48 hours for a change in brainstem reflexes and motor response; if
none are observed, perform an ancillary test (EEG) for brain death.
• Determination of brain death should be deferred in the presence of severe
acidosis or alkalosis as this may point to certain intoxication and potentially
reversible medical illness or endocrine crisis.
• Spontaneous and reflex movements have been observed in patients with
brain death. The most common are finger jerks, toe flexion sign and
persistent Babinski response. These movements are spinal in origin and do
not occur spontaneously. They do not preclude the diagnosis of brain death.
Common CNS depressants and pharmacodynamics
Drugs Elimination T ½ Therapeutic Range
Midazolam 2 – 5 hours 50 – 150 ng/ml
Diazepam 40 hours 0.2 – 0.8 ug/ml
Carbamazepine 10 – 60 hours 2 – 10 ug/ml
Phenobarbitone 100 hours 20 – 40 ug/ml
Pentobarbitone 10 hours 1 – 5 ug/ml
Thiopentone 10 hours 6 – 35 ug/ml
Morphine 2 – 3 hours 70-450 ng/ml
Amitriptyline 10 - 24 hours 75 – 200 ng/ml
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NEUROLOGY
References
Section 5 Neurology
Chapter 43 Status Epilepticus
1.Abend N, Dlugos D. Treatment of Refractory Status Epilepticus: Literature
Review and a Proposed Protocol. Pediatr Neurol 2008; 38:377-390.
2.Walker D, Teach S. Update on the acute management of status epilepticus
in children. Curr Opin Pediatr 2006; 18:239–244.
3.Goldstein J. Status Epilepticus in the Pediatric Emergency Department. Clin
Ped Emerg Med 2008; 9:96-100.
4.Riviello J, et al. Practice Parameter: Diagnostic Assessment of the Child with
Status Epilepticus. Neurology 2006;67:1542–1550.
Chapter 44 Epilepsy
1.Hirtz D, et al. Practice parameter: Evaluating a first nonfebrile seizure in
children. Report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the AAN, the
CNS and the AES. Neurol 2000; 55: 616-623
2.Sullivan J, et al. Antiepileptic Drug Monotherapy: Pediatric Concerns. Sem
Pediatr Neurol 2005;12:88-96
3. Sankar R. Initial treatment of epilepsy with antiepileptic drugs - Pediatric
Issues. Neurology 2004;63 (Suppl 4)S30–S39
4.Wilner, R et. al. Efficacy and tolerability of the new antiepileptic drugs I:
Treatment of new onset epilepsy:
5. Report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee
and Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurol-
ogy and the American Epilepsy Society. Neurology 2004; 62;1252-1260.
Chapter 45 Febrile Seizures
1.Neurodiagnostic evaluation of the child with a simple febrile seizure. Sub-
committee of febrile seizure; American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatrics
2011;127(2):389-94
2.Shinnar S. Glauser T. Febrile seizures. J Child Neurol 2002; 17: S44-S52
3.Febrile Seizures: Clinical practice guideline for the long-term management
of the child with simple febrile seizures. Pediatrics 2008;121:1281–1286
Chapter 46 Meningitis
1.Hussain IH, Sofiah A, Ong LC et al. Haemophilus influenzae meningitis in
Malaysia. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 1998; 17 (Suppl 9):S189-90
2.Sáez-Llorens X, McCracken G. Bacterial meningitis in children. Lancet 2003;
361: 2139–48.
3.McIntyre PB, Berkey CS, King SM, et al. Dexamethasone as adjunctive
therapy in bacterial meningitis: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical tri-
als since 1988. JAMA 1997; 278: 925–31.
4.Chaudhuri A. Adjunctive dexamethasone treatment in acute bacterial men-
ingitis. Lancet Neurol. 2004; 3:54-62.
5.National Antibiotic Guidelines 2008. Ministry of Health, Malaysia.
236
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Chapter 47 Acute CNS Demyelination
1.Demyelinating Diseases Protocol. The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto,
Ontario. 2007
2.Krupp L, Banwell B, Tenenbaum S. Consensus definitions proposed for
pediatric multiple sclerosis and related disorders. Neurology 2007; 68
(suppl 2): S7-12.
Chapter 48 Acute Flaccid Paralysis
1.Global Polio Eradication Initiative . http://www.polioeradication.org/, Unit
Virologi, Institute for Medical Research, Malaysia
Chapter 49 Guillain Barre Syndrome
1.van Doorn PA, Ruts L, Jacobs BC. Clinical features, pathogenesis, and treat-
ment of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Lancet Neurol. 2008;7(10):939-50
Chapter 50 The Child with Altered Consciousness
1.Bowker R, Stephenson T. The management of children presenting with
decreased conscious level. Curr Paediatr 2006; 16: 328-335
2.Shetty R, Singhi S, Singhi P, Jayashree M. Cerebral perfusion pressure-
targeted approach in children with central nervous system infections and
raised intracranial pressure: is it feasible? J Child Neurol. 2008;23(2):192-8.
Chapter 52 Brain Death
1.Consensus Statement on Brain Death 2003. Ministry of Health, Academy of
Medicine of Malaysia and Malaysian Society of Neurosciences.
2. Guidelines for the determination of brain death in children. American
Academy of Paediatric Task Force on Brain Death in Children. Paediatrics
2011:128:e720-e740.
237
Chapter 53: Approach to A Child with Short Stature
Short stature can be a sign of disease, disability and social stigma causing
psychological stress. It is important to have early diagnosis and treatment.
Definition
Definitions of growth failure:
• Height below 3rd percentile (-2SD for age and gender).
• Height significantly below genetic potentials (-2SD below mid-parental
target).
• Abnormally slow growth velocity.
• Downwardly crossing percentile channels on growth chart ( 18 mths age).
Average height velocity at different phases:
• Prenatal growth : 1.2 -1.5 cm / week
• Infancy :23 - 28 cm / year
• Childhood : 5 - 6.5 cm / year
• Puberty : 8.3 cm / year (girls), 9.5 cm / year (boys)
Measure serial heights to assess the growth pattern and height velocity.
Initial screening evaluation of growth failure
• General tests:
• FBC with differentials, renal profile, liver function test, ESR, Urinalysis.
• Chromosomal analysis in every short girl.
• Endocrine tests
• Thyroid function tests.
• Growth factors: IGF-1, IGFBP-3.
• Growth hormone stimulation tests if growth hormone deficiency is
strongly suspected. (Refer to a Paediatric Endocrine Centre)
• Imaging studies
• Bone age : anteroposterior radiograph of left hand and wrist.
• CT / MRI brain (if hypopituitarism is suspected).
• Other investigations depends on clinical suspicion.
• Blood gas analysis.
• Radiograph of the spine.
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Differential diagnosis of short stature and growth failure
Healthy but short children Endocrinopathies
Familial short stature Hypothyroidism
Constitutional growth delay Hypopituitarism
Intrinsic short stature • Heredity,sporadic,idiopathic
Small for gestational age Isolated GH deficiency
Genetic syndromes • Birth injury
• Down syndrome,Turner syndrome • Craniopharyngioma
• Prader-Willi syndrome • Cranial irradiation
Skeletal dysplasia • Brain tumours
• Achondroplasia,hypochondroplasia • Midline defects
Systemic diseases • Haemosiderosis
Infectious:HIV,tuberculosis GH insensitivity (Laron syndrome)
Cardiac disease Cushing syndrome,exogenous steroids
Renal disease Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus
• Renal tubular acidosis Precocious puberty
• Chronic renal insufficiency Pseudohypoparathyroidism
Gastrointestinal Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism
• Cystic fibrosis Non-organic aetiology
• Inflammatory bowel disease Psychosocial deprivation
Central nervous system disease Nutritional dwarfing
Chronic lung disease
Malignancy
Abbreviation: GH, Growth Hormone
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239
Clinical Approach to children with Short Stature
History
Antenatal Nutrition
Complications of pregnancy General well being
Pre-eclampsia, hypertension Appetite, energy, sleep, bowel habits
Maternal smoking,alcohol Pattern of growth from birth
Infections Maternal and child relationship
Birth Medical history
Gestational age Underlying illness,medications,
irradiation
Birth weight and length Family History
Mode of delivery (breech,forceps) Short stature (3 generations).
Apgar score Age of onset of puberty in family
members of the same sexNeonatal complications
Developmental milestones Diseases in the family.
Physical Examination
Anthropometry General appearance and behaviour
Height,weight,head circumference Dysmorphism
Height velocity Pubertal staging
Arm span
Upper:lower segment Ratio:
1.7 in neonates to slightly 1.0 in adults
Family Measurements
Measure height of parents for mid-parental heights (MPH)
Boys : Father’s height + (Mother’s height +13)
2
Girls: Mother’s height + (Father’s height -13)
2
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Management
• Treat underlying cause (hypothyroidism, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus,
chronic illnesses).
• For children suspected to be GH deficient, refer to Paediatric Endocrinologist
for initiation of GH.
• Psychological support for non-treatable causes (genetic / familial short
stature; constitutional delay of growth and puberty)
FDA approved indications for GH treatment in Children:
• Paediatric GH deficiency
• Turner syndrome
• Small for gestational age
• Chronic renal insufficiency
• Idiopathic short stature
• Prader–Willi syndrome
• AIDS cachexia
GH Treatment
• GH should be initiated by a Paediatric Endocrinologist.
• GH dose: 0.025 - 0.05 mg/kg/day (0.5 - 1.0 units/kg/wk) SC daily at night.
• GH treatment should start with low doses and be titrated according to clinical
response, side effects, and growth factor levels.
• During GH treatment, patients should be monitored at 3-monthly intervals
(may be more frequent at initiation and during dose titration) with a clinical
assessment (growth parameters, compliance) and an evaluation for adverse
effects (e.g. impaired glucose tolerance, carpal tunnel syndrome), IGF-1 level,
and other parameters of GH response.
• Other biochemical evaluations:
• Thyroid function
• HbA1c
• Lipid profile
• Fasting blood glucose
• Continue treatment till child reaches near final height, defined as a height
velocity of  2cm / year over at least 9 months (or bone age 13 years in girls
and 14 years in boys).
• Treat other pituitary hormone deficiencies such as hypothyroidism,
hypogonadism, hypocortisolism and diabetes insipidus.
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Chapter 54: Congenital Hypothyroidism
Introduction
• Incidence of congenital hypothyroidism worldwide is 1:2500 - 4000 live births.
• In Malaysia, it is reported as 1:3666.
• It is the commonest preventable
cause of mental retardation in children.
• Thyroid hormones are crucial for: -
• Normal growth and development
of brain and intellectual function,
during the prenatal and early
postnatal period.
• Maturation of the foetal lungs
and bones.
Clinical diagnosis
• Most infants are asymptomatic at birth.
• Subtle clinical features include :
• Prolonged neonatal jaundice
• Constipation	
• A quiet baby	
• Enlarged fontanelle
• Respiratory distress with feeding
• Absence of one or both epiphyses
on X-ray of left knee (lateral view).
• If left untreated, overt clinical signs will appear by 3 - 6 months: coarse
facies, dry skin, macroglossia, hoarse cry, umbilical hernia, lethargy, slow
movement, hypotonia and delayed developmental milestones.
• Most infants with the disease have no obvious clinical manifestations at
birth, therefore neonatal screening of thyroid function should be performed
on all newborns.
Treatment
Timing
• Should begin immediately after diagnosis is established. If features of
hypothyroidism are present, treatment is started urgently.
Duration
• Treatment is life long except in children suspected of having transient
hypothyroidism where re-evaluation is done at 3 years of age.
Preparation
• There are currently no approved liquid preparations.
• Only L-thyroxine tablets should be used. The L-thyroxine tablet should
be crushed, mixed with breast milk, formula, or water and fed to the infant.
• Tablets should not be mixed with soy formulas or any preparation containing
iron (formulas or vitamins), both of which reduce the absorption of T4.
Causes of Congenital Hypothyroidism
Thyroid dysgenesis (85%)
Athyreosis (30%)
Hypoplasia (10%)
Ectopic thyroid (60%)
Other causes (15%)
Inborn error of thyroid hormone
synthesis (1:30,000)
Hypothalamo-pituitary defect
(1:100,000)
Peripheral resistance to thyroid
hormone (very rare)
Transient neonatal hypothyroidism
(1:100 - 50,000)
Endemic cretinism
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Doses of L- Thyroxine by age
Age mcg/kg/dose, daily
0 – 3 months 10 – 15
3 – 6 months 8 – 10
6 – 12 months 6 – 8
1 – 5 yr 5 – 6
6 – 12 yr 4 – 5
 12 yr 2 – 3
Note:
• Average adult dose is 1.6 mcg /kg/day in a 70-kg adult (wide range of dose
from 50 - 200 mcg/day).
• L-thyroxine can be given at different doses on alternate days, e.g. 50 mcg
given on even days and 75 mcg on odd days will give an average dose of
62.5 mcg/day.
• Average dose in older children is 100 mcg/m2
/day.
Goals of therapy
• To restore the euthyroid state by maintaining a normal serum FT4 level at
the upper half of the normal age-related reference range. Ideally, serum
TSH levels should be between 0.5-2.0 mU/L.
• Serum FT4 level usually normalise within 1-2 weeks, and then TSH usually
become normal after 1 month of treatment.
• Some infants continue to have high serum TSH concentration (10 - 20 mU/L)
despite normal serum FT4 values due to resetting of the pituitary-thyroid
feedback threshold. However, compliance to medication has to be
reassessed and emphasised.
Goals ofTherapy in the FirstYear of Life
Adequate treatment Inadequate treatment
FT4 1.4 – 2.3 ng/dL (18 - 30 pmol/L) FT4  18 pmol/L
TSH  5 mU/L TSH 15 mU/L  once in first year
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Follow-up
• Monitor growth parameters and developmental assessment.
• The recommended measurements of serum FT4 and TSH by American
Academy of Pediatrics are according to the following schedules: -
• At 2 and 4 weeks after initiation of T4 treatment.
• Every 1 to 2 months during the first 6 months of life.
• Every 3 to 4 months between 6 months and 3 years of age.
• Every 6 to 12 months thereafter until growth is completed.
• After 4 weeks if medication is adjusted.
• At more frequent interval when compliance is questioned or abnormal
values are obtained.
• Ongoing counseling of parents is important because of the serious
consequences of poor compliance.
Re-evaluation of patients likely having transient hypothyroidism
• This is best done at age 3 years when thyroid dependent brain growth is
completed at this age.
• Stop L-thyroxine for 4 weeks then repeat thyroid function test: FT4, TSH.
• Imaging studies: Thyroid scan, Ultrasound of the thyroid.
• If the FT4 is low and the TSH value is elevated, permanent hypothyroidism
is confirmed and life-long L-thyroxine therapy is needed.
Babies born to mothers with thyroid disorders
• All newborns of mothers with thyroid diseases should be evaluated for
thyroid dysfunction, followed up and treated if necessary.
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244
NORMAL
Free T4 (FT4) analysis
(on cord blood)
CLINICAL EVALUATION
Venous FT4  TSH
Footnotes:
• Interpretation of the results should take into account the physiological
variations of the hormone levels during the neonatal period.
• Free thyroxine (FT4) level is preferable to total thyroxine level (T4).
PRIMARY
HYPOTHYROIDISM
TSH  21 mU/L
(Normal)
TSH  60 mU/L
(High)
TSH 21 - 60 mU/L
(Borderline)
FT4  15 pmol/L
(Normal)
FT4 ≤ 15 pmol/L
(Low)
TSH High
FT4 Low
TSH High
FT4 Normal
TSH Normal
FT4 Low
Subclinical
PRIMARY
HYPOTHYROIDISM
TSH Normal
FT4 Normal
Differential Diagnosis
Primary hypothyroidism, delayedTSH rise
Hypothalamic immaturity
TBG (Thyroxine-Binding Globulin) deficiency
Prematurity
Sick neonate
CORD BLOOD SAMPLE
Collected at Birth
SCREENING FOR CONGENITAL HYPOTHYROIDISM
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Chapter 55: Diabetes Mellitus
Introduction
• Diabetes in children is almost invariably type I diabetes mellitus.
• The incidence of type II diabetes mellitus is on the increasing trend among
young people due to obesity.
Symptoms and Signs of Diabetes Mellitus
Early Late
Polydipsia Vomiting
Polyuria Dehydration
Weight loss Abdominal pain
Enuresis (secondary) Hyperventilation due to acidosis
Drowsiness, coma
Criteria for Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus
• Symptoms of diabetes
Plus
• Casual plasma glucose concentration ≥ 11.1 mmol/L (≥ 200 mg/dL).¹
Casual is defined as any time of day without regard to time since the last meal.
OR
• Fasting plasma glucose ≥ 7.0 mmol/L (≥ 126 mg/dL).²
Fasting is defined as no caloric intake for at least 8 hours.
OR
• A 2-hour Postload Glucose ≥ 11.1 mmol/L (≥ 200 mg/dL)
during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
Using a glucose load containing the equivalent of 75 g anhydrous glucose
dissolved in water or 1.75 g/kg of body weight to a maximum of 75 g.
(WHO).
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Management
Principles of insulin therapy
• Daily insulin dosage
• Daily insulin dosage varies between individuals and changes over time.
• The correct dose of insulin for any individual is the dose that achieves the
best glycemic control without causing obvious hypoglycemia problems,
and achieving normal growth (height and weight).
• Dosage depends on many factors such as: age, weight, stage of puberty,
duration and phase of diabetes, state of injection sites, nutritional intake
and distribution, exercise patterns, daily routine, results of blood glucose
monitoring (BGM), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and intercurrent illness.
• Guidelines on dosage:
• During the partial remission phase, total daily insulin dose is usually
0.5 IU/kg/day.
• Prepubertal children (outside the partial remission phase) usually require
insulin of 0.7–1.0 IU/kg/day.
• During puberty, requirements may rise to 1 - 2 IU/kg/day.
• The total daily dose of insulin is distributed across the day depending on
the daily pattern of blood glucose and the regimens that are used.
Types of Insulin
Type Examples Onset ofAction Peak Duration
Rapid-acting
insulin
NovoRapid,
Humalog
5-15 mins 30-60 mins 3-5 hours
Short-acting
insulin (regular)
Actrapid,
Humilin R
30 mins 2-3 hours 3-6 hours
Intermediate-
acting insulin
Insulatard (NPH),
Humulin N
2-4 hours 4-12 hours 12-18
hours
Long-acting
insulin
Levemir
(Detemir),
Lantus
(Glargine)
Determir
1-2 hours
Glargine
1 hour
Determir
6-8 hours
Glargine
No peak
Determir
6-23 hours
Glargine
24 hours
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• Frequently used regimens:
Twice Daily Regimens
• 2 daily injections of a mixture of a short or rapid acting insulin with and
intermediate-acting insulins (before breakfast and the main evening meal)
• Approximately 1/3 of the total daily insulin dose is short acting insulin
and 2/3 intermediate-acting insulin
• 2/3 of the total daily dose is given in the morning and 1/3 in the evening
Three injections daily
• A mixture of short, rapid and intermediate-acting insulins before breakfast;
• A rapid-acting analogue or regular insulin alone before afternoon snack
or the main evening meal.
• And an intermediate- acting insulin before bed.
Basal-bolus Regimen
• Of the total daily insulin requirements, 40 - 60% should be basal insulin,
the rest pre-prandial rapid-acting or regular insulin.
• If using regular insulin, inject 20 - 30 min before each main meal
(breakfast, lunch; and the main evening meal); if using rapid-acting insulin
analogue inject immediately before or after each main meal
(e.g. breakfast, lunch; and the main evening meal).
• Basal cover is given once daily at bedtime. However sometimes twice daily
injections may be needed (the other dose usually before breakfast).
• Insulin pump regimens are regaining popularity with a fixed or a variable
basal dose and bolus doses with meals.
• Patient should learn about carbohydrate counting to adjust dose of
pre-prandial insulin.
Choice of insulin regimen
• At least two injections of insulin per day are advisable in most children.
• The basal-bolus concept has the best possibility of imitating the
physiological insulin profile.
Some notes on converting from intermediate acting insulin to long acting
insulin analogues:
• Insulin Glargine
• Usually given once a day. However if needed, it can be given twice a day.
• When converting from NPH to Glargine, the total dose of basal insulin
needs to be reduced by approximately 20% to avoid hypoglycemia. After
that, the dose should be individually tailored.
• Insulin Detemir
• Is most commonly given twice daily in children
• When changing to Detemir from NPH, the same doses can be used to
start with.
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Monitoring of glycemic control
Self-Monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG)
The frequency of SMBG is associated with improved HbA1c in patients with
type 1 diabetes.
• Timing of SMBG.
• At different times in the day to show levels of BG.
• To confirm hypoglycemia and to monitor recovery; and
• During intercurrent illness to prevent hyperglycemic crises.
• The number and regularity of SMBG should be individualized depending on:
• Availability of equipment;
• Type of insulin regimen; and
• Ability of the child to identify hypoglycemia.
Note:
• Successful application of intensified diabetes management with multiple
injection therapy or insulin infusion therapy requires frequent SMBG
(four to six times a day) and regular, frequent review of the results to
identify patterns requiring adjustment to the diabetes treatment plan.
• However, each child should have their targets individually determined
with the goal of achieving a value as close to normal as possible while
avoiding severe hypoglycemia as well as frequent mild to moderate
hypoglycemia.
Target Indicators of Glycaemic control
Level of control Ideal (non-diabetic) Optimal (diabetic)
Clinical assessment
Raised Blood Glucose (BG) Not raised No symptoms
Low BG Not low Few mild, no severe
hypoglycaemias
Biochemical assessment
• SBGM values, mmol/L
AM fasting or preprandial 3.6 - 5.6 5.0 - 8.0
• Plasma Glucose (PG), mmol/L
Postprandial PG 4.5 – 7.0 5.0 – 10.0
Bedtime PG 4.0 – 5.6 6.7 – 10.0
Nocturnal PG 3.6 – 5.6 4.5 – 9.0
• HbA1c (%)  6.05  7.5
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Monitoring of ketones should be done during:
• Illness with fever and/or vomiting.
• Persistent blood glucose levels  14 mmol/L (250 mg/dL), in an unwell
child, in a young child, an insulin pump user, or patient with a history of
prior episodes of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).
• Persistent polyuria with elevated blood or urine glucose.
• Episodes of drowsiness.
• Abdominal pain or rapid breathing.
Urine ketone testing
• Tablets or urine testing strips (detect increased levels of urinary acetoacetate)
Reading (in mmol/L)	 Corresponding
0.5	 Trace amounts
1.5	 Small amounts
4	 Moderate amounts
 8 	 Large amounts
Interpretation of urine ketone testing
• Moderate or large urinary ketone levels in the presence of hyperglycemia
indicate insulin deficiency and risk for metabolic decompensation leading
to ketoacidosis.
• The presence of vomiting with hyperglycemia and large urinary ketones
must be assumed to be because of systemic acidosis and requires further
evaluation.
• Urine, in contrast to blood ketone testing, is not helpful in ruling out or
diagnosing DKA.
Blood ketone determination.
• Because of cost many centres limit the determination of blood ketone to
• Young children (difficult to obtain a urine specimen)
• For any individual if urine ketone measurement is large, i.e. 4–8 mmol/L.
• Blood ketone testing is especially important for patients on pumps as they
have a much smaller subcutaneous (SC) insulin depot.
Recommendations for HbA1c measurement
• Ideally, in younger children, 4 - 6 times per year. In older children, 3 - 4
times per year.
• Adolescents with stable type 2 diabetes should have 2 - 4 measurements per
year because they can rapidly become insulin requiring (compared to adults).
• HbA1c target range for all age-groups of:  7.5% .
• If hypoglycemia unawareness is present, glycemic targets must be increased
until hypoglycemia awareness is restored, especially in children  6 years.
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Diet
• A balance and healthy diet for age is required with dietician involvement.
• Carbohydrate counting should be taught to patients. Insulin dosage should
match the carbohydrate intake.
Exercise
• Regular exercise and participation in sport should be encouraged.
• Plan the injection sites according to the activity e.g. inject insulin in the
arm if one plans to go cycling.
• Approximately 1.0-1.5g carbohydrates /kg body weight/hour should be
consumed during strenuous exercise if a reduction in insulin is not instituted.
• If pre-exercise blood glucose levels are high (14 mmol/L) with ketonuria or
ketonemia, exercise should be avoided. Give approximately 0.05 IU/kg or 5%
of total daily dose and postpone exercise until ketones have cleared.
• Hypoglycemia may be anticipated during or shortly after exercise, but also
possible up to 24 hours afterwards, due to increased insulin sensitivity.
• Risk of post exercise nocturnal hypoglycemia is high and particular care
should be taken if bedtime blood glucose  7.0 mmol/L.
Diabetic Education
At diagnosis - Survival skills:
• Explanation of how the diagnosis has been made and reasons for symptoms.
• Simple explanation of the uncertain cause of diabetes. No cause for blame.
• The need for immediate insulin and how it will work.
• What is glucose? Normal blood glucose (BG) levels and glucose targets
• Practical skills: insulin injections; blood and/or urine testing, reasons for
monitoring.
• Basic dietetic advice.
• Simple explanation of hypoglycemia.
• Diabetes during illnesses. Advice not to omit insulin - prevent DKA.
• Diabetes at home or at school including the effects of exercise.
• Psychological adjustment to the diagnosis.
• Details of emergency telephone contacts.
Medic alert
• Wear the medic alert at all times as this may be life saving in an emergency.
• Obtain request forms for a medic alert from the local diabetes educator.
Diabetes support group
• Persatuan Diabetes Malaysia (PDM) or Malaysian Diabetes Association,
Diabetes Resource Centre at the regional centre or the respective hospital.
• Encourage patient and family members to enroll as members of diabetes
associations and participate in their activities.
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School
• The school teachers should be informed about children having diabetes so
that some flexibility can be allowed for insulin injections and mealtimes.
• Symptoms and treatment of hypoglycaemia should be informed so that
some emergency measures can be commenced at school.
Other complications and associated conditions
• Monitoring of growth and physical development.
• Blood pressure should be monitored at least annually. Blood pressure
value should be maintained at the 95th percentile for age or
130/80 mmHg for young adults.
• Screening for fasting blood lipids should be performed when diabetes
is stabilized in children over 12 years of age. If normal results are obtained,
screening should be repeated every 5 years.
• Screening of thyroid function at diagnosis of diabetes. Then every second
year if asymptomatic, no goitre or thyroid autoantibodies negative. More
frequent assessment is indicated otherwise.
• In areas of high prevalence for coeliac disease, screening for coeliac
disease should be carried out at the time of diagnosis and every second
year thereafter. More frequent assessment if there is clinical suspicion of
coeliac disease or celiac disease in first-degree relative.
• Routine clinical examination for skin and joint changes. Regular laboratory
or radiological screening is not recommended. There is no established
therapeutic intervention for lipodystrophy, necrobiosis lipoidica or limited
joint movement.
Evaluation for complications
• Microalbuminuria: 2 of 3 urine collections should be used as evidence of
microalbuminuria defined as :
• Albumin excretion rate (AER) 20-200 mcg/min or AER 30-300 mg/day.
• Albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) 3.5-35 mg/mmol (males) and
4.0 -35 mg/mmol (females) on first morning urine specimen;
Random ACR is higher.
• Albumin concentration (AC) 30-300 mg/L (on early morning urine sample).
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Screening,riskfactors,andinterventionsforvascularcomplications:thelevelsofevidenceforriskfactors
andinterventionspertainingtoadultstudies,exceptforimprovedglycemiccontrol.
RetinopathyNephropathyNeuropathyMacrovasculardisease
Whentocommencescreening?
Annuallyfromage11yr
if2yrsdiabetesduration,and
fromage9yrswith5yrofduration(E)
Annuallyfromage11yr
if2yrsdiabetesduration,and
fromage9yrswith5yrofduration(E)
UnclearAfterage12yrs(E)
Screeningmethods
Fundalmicrophotographor
Mydriaticophthalmoscopy
(lesssensitive)(E)
Urinealbumin:creatinineratioorfirst
morningalbuminconcentration(E)
Historyand
Physicalexamination
Lipidprofileevery5yr
Bloodpressureannually(E)
Riskfactors
Hyperglycaemia(A)
Highbloodpressure(B)
Lipidabnormalities(B)
HigherBMI(C)
Highbloodpressure(B)
Lipidabnormalities(B)
Smoking(B
Hyperglycaemia(A)
HigherBMI(C)
Hyperglycaemia(A)
Highbloodpressure(A)
Lipidabnormalities(B)
Smoking(B)
HigherBMI(B)
Potentialintervention
Improvedglycemiccontrol(A)
Lasertherapy(A)
Improvedglycemiccontrol(A)
ACEIandAIIRA(A)
Bloodpressurelowering(B)
Improved
glycemic
control(A)
Improvedglycemiccontrol(A)
Bloodpressurecontrol(B)
Statins(A)
Abbreviations.BMI,Bodymassindex;ACEI,Angiotensinconvertingenzymeinhibitor;AIIRA,angiotensinIIreceptorantagonists
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Target levels for different parameters to reduce the risk of microvascular
and cardiovascular diseases in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes;
the level of evidence are from adult studies.
Parameter Target Level Evidence Grade
Haemoglobin A1c
(DCCT)
≤ 7.5 % without severe
hypoglycaemia
A
Low density lipoprotein
cholesterol
 2.6 mmol/l A
High density lipoprotein
cholesterol
≥ 1.1 mmol/l C
Triglycerides  1.7 mmol/l C
Blood pressure  90th percentile by age,
sex, height
C/B
Body mass index  95th percentile (non
obese)
E
Smoking None A
Physical activity 1 h of moderate physical
activity daily
B
Sedentary activities 2 h daily B
Abbreviation: DCCT, Diabetes Control and ComplicationTrials Standard
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Chapter 56: Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
The biochemical criteria for the diagnosis of DKA are :
• Hyperglycaemia: blood glucose  11 mmol/L ( 200 mg/dL).
• Venous pH  7.3 or bicarbonate 15 mmol/L.
• Ketonaemia and ketonuria.
Goals of therapy
• Correct dehydration.
• Correct acidosis and reverse ketosis.
• Restore blood glucose to near normal.
• Avoid complications of therapy.
• Identify and treat any precipitating event.
Emergency management
• Bedside confirmation of the diagnosis and determine its cause.
• Look for evidence of infection.
• Weigh the patient. This weight should be used for calculations and not the
weight from a previous hospital record.
• Assess clinical severity of dehydration
• Assess level of consciousness [Glasgow coma scale (GCS) ]
• Obtain a blood sample for laboratory measurement of:
• Serum or plasma glucose
• Electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, osmolality
• Venous blood gas (or arterial in critically ill patient)
• Full blood count
• Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium concentrations (if possible)
• HbA1c
• Blood ketone (useful to confirm ketoacidosis; monitor response to treatment)
• Urine for ketones.
• Appropriate cultures (blood, urine, throat), if there is evidence of infection.
• If laboratory measurement of serum potassium is delayed, perform an
electrocardiogram (ECG) for baseline evaluation of potassium status.
Supportive measures
• Secure the airway and give oxygen.
• Empty the stomach via a nasogastric tube.
• A peripheral intravenous catheter or an arterial catherter (in ICU) for
painless repetitive blood sampling.
• Continuous cardiac monitoring to assess T waves for evidence of
hyper- or hypokalaemia.
• Antibiotics for febrile patients after cultures.
• Catheterization if the child is unconscious or unable to void on demand.
(e.g. in infants and very ill young children)
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NO IMPROVEMENT
• Shock
(reduced peripheral
pulses)
• Reduced conscious
level or Coma
• Dehydration  5%
• Not in shock
• Acidosis
(hyperventilation)
• Vomiting
• Minimal
dehydration
• Tolerating oral
hydration
Diagnosis Confirmed:
DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS
Contact Senior Staff
Clinical History
• Polyuria
• Polydipsia
• Weight loss (weigh)
• Abdominal pain
• Tiredness
• Vomiting
• Confusion
Clinical Signs
• Assess dehydration
• Deep sighing
respiration(Kussmaul)
• Smell of ketones
• Lethargy or
drowsiness
• Vomiting
Biochemical features
• Ketones in urine
• Elevated blood sugar
• Acidemia
Do blood gases, urea,
electrolytes, other
investigations as
indicated
Resuscitation
• Airway
+/- NG tube
• Breathing
100 % Oxygen
• Circulation
0.9 % Saline
10-20 ml/kgover 1-2 hr,
Rpt until circulation
restored, but do not
exceed 30 ml/kg)
IV Therapy
• Calculate fluid
requirements
• Correct over 48 hrs
• Saline 0.9 %
• ECG for abnormal
T waves
• Add KCl 40 mmol
per litre fluid
Therapy
• Start SC Insulin
• Continue Oral
Hydration
Continuous Insulin
infusion 0.1 unit/kg/h
Start 1-2 hrs after fluid
treatment initiated
Algorithm for Assessment and Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Adapted from Dunger et al. Karger Pub. 1999
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Acidosis
not improving
Blood glucose  17 mmol/l
or
Blood glucose falls
 5 mmol/hr
IMPROVING
• Clinically well
• Tolerating oral fluids
Exclude hypoglycaemia
is it cerebral oedema ?
IV Therapy
• Change to 0.45 % Saline
+ 5 % Dextrose
• Adjust sodium infusion
to promote an increase
in measured serum
sodium
Re-evaluate
• IV fluid calculations
• Insulin delivery
system and dose
• Need for additional
resuscitation
• Consider sepsis
Transition to SC Insulin
Start SC insulin then stop IV insulin
after an appropriate interval
Management
• Give Mannitol 0.5-1 G/kg
• Restrict IV fluids by ¹/₃
• Call senior staff
• Move to ICU
• Consider cranial imaging
only after patient stable
Critical Observations
• Hourly blood glucose
• Hourly fluid input and output
• Neurological status at least hourly
• Electrolytes 2 Hly after start of IV therapy
• Monitor ECG for T wave changes
WARNING SIGNS !
Neurological deterioration
• Headache
• Slowing heart rate
• Irritability, decreased
conscious level
• Incontinence
• Specific neurological
signs
Algorithm for Assessment and Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (cont)
Adapted from Dunger et al. Karger Pub. 1999
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Clinical and biochemical monitoring
• Monitoring should include the following:
• Hourly (or more frequently as indicated) vital signs (heart rate,
respiratory rate, blood pressure), head chart, accurate fluid I/O (including
all oral fluid).
• Amount of administered insulin.
• Hourly capillary blood glucose (must be cross checked against laboratory
venous glucose).
• 2-4 hourly (or more frequent in more severe cases): BUSE, glucose,
calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, hematocrit and blood gases.
• 2 hourly urine ketones until cleared or blood b-hydroxybutyrate (BOHB)
concentrations (if available).
Calculations
• Anion gap = ( Na + K ) - (Cl + HCO₃)
• Normal value: 12 +/- 2 mmol/L
• In DKA the anion gap is typically 20–30 mmol/L
• An anion gap  35 mmol/L suggests concomitant lactic acidosis
• Corrected sodium ( mmol/L ) = measured Na + 2 x (plasma glucose - 5.6 )
5.6
• Effective osmolality (mOsm/kg ) = 2 x (Na + K) + plasma glucose + urea
Fluids and Salt
Principles of water and salt replacement
• Begin with fluid replacement before insulin therapy.
• Fluid bolus (resuscitation) required ONLY if needed to restore peripheral
circulation.
• Subsequent fluid administration (including oral fluids) should rehydrate
evenly over 48 hrs at a rate rarely in excess of 1.5 - 2 times the usual daily
maintenance.
Acute Resuscitation
• If child is in shock, fluid resuscitation is needed to restore peripheral
circulation, fluid boluses 10–20 mL/kg over 1–2 hrs of 0.9% saline is used.
• Boluses may be repeated, if necessary.
• There is no evidence that the use of colloids is better.
Replacement of water and salt deficits
• Patients with DKA have a deficit in extracellular fluid (ECF) volume. Clinical
estimates of the volume deficit are subjective and inaccurate; therefore in
• Moderate DKA use 5–7% deficit.
• Severe DKA use 7–10% dehydration.
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• Rehydrate the patient evenly over 48 hours:
• As a guide fluid infused each day usually  1.5 - 2 times daily maintenance.
• IV or oral fluids given in another facility before assessment should be
factored into calculation of deficit and repair.
• Replacement should begin with 0.9% saline or Ringer’s lactate for at least
4 - 6 h. Thereafter, use a solution that has a tonicity equal to or greater
than 0.45% saline with added potassium chloride.
• Urinary losses should not routinely be added to the calculation of
replacement fluid, but may be necessary in rare circumstances.
• Calculate the corrected sodium (formula as above) and monitor changes:
• As plasma glucose decreases after IV fluids and insulin, the serum sodium
should increase: this does not indicate a worsening of the hypertonic state.
• A failure of sodium levels to rise or a further decline in sodium levels with
therapy may signal impending cerebral oedema.
• The sodium content of the fluid may need to be increased if measured
serum sodium is low and does not rise appropriately as the plasma glucose
concentration falls.
• The use of large amounts of 0.9% saline has been associated with the
development of hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis.
Insulin therapy
• DKA is caused by either relative or absolute insulin deficiency.
• Start insulin infusion 1–2 h AFTER starting fluid replacement therapy
• Correction of insulin deficiency
• Dose: 0.1 unit/kg/h IV infusion. (one method is to dilute 50 units regular
insulin in 50 ml normal saline, 1 unit = 1 ml).
• An initial IV bolus of insulin is not necessary, and may increase the risk of
cerebral oedema and should not be given.
• The dose of insulin should usually remain at 0.1 unit/kg/h at least until
resolution of DKA (evidenced by pH  7.30, HCO₃  15 mmol/L and/or
closure of the anion gap), which takes longer than normalization of blood
glucose concentrations.
• If patient has a marked sensitivity to insulin (e.g. young children with DKA,
patients with Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS), and older children
with established diabetes), the dose may be decreased to 0.05 unit/kg/h, or
less, provided that metabolic acidosis continues to resolve.
• During initial volume expansion the plasma glucose concentration falls
steeply. After commencing insulin therapy, the plasma glucose concentration
typically decreases at a rate of 2–5 mmol/L/h.
• To prevent an unduly rapid decrease in plasma glucose concentration and
hypoglycemia, add 5% glucose to IV fluid (e.g., 5% glucose in 0.45% saline)
when plasma glucose falls to 14–17 mmol/L, or sooner if rate of fall is rapid.
• It may be necessary to use 10% - 12.5% dextrose to prevent hypoglycemia
while continuing to infuse insulin to correct the metabolic acidosis.
• If blood glucose falls very rapidly ( 5 mmol/L/h) after initial fluid expansion
add glucose even before plasma glucose has decreased to 17 mmol/L.
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• If biochemical parameters of DKA (pH, anion gap) do not improve, reassess
the patient, review insulin therapy, and consider other possible causes of
impaired response to insulin; e.g. infection, errors in insulin preparation.
• If continuous IV insulin is not possible, hourly / 2-hourly subcutaneous (SC) or
IM administration of a short or rapid-acting insulin analog (insulin Lispro or
insulin Aspart) is safe / effective. (do not use in patients with impaired
peripheral circulation)
• Initial dose SC: 0.3 unit/kg, followed 1 h later at SC 0.1 unit/kg every hour,
or 0.15–0.20 units/kg every 2 hours.
• If blood glucose falls to 14 mmol/L before DKA has resolved (pH still
 7.30), add 5% glucose and continue with insulin as above.
• When DKA has resolved and blood glucose is  14 mmol/L , reduce
SC insulin to 0.05 unit/kg/h to keep blood glucose around 11 mmol/L.
Important
If the blood glucose concentration decreases too quickly or too low before
DKA has resolved:
• Increase the amount of glucose administered.
• Do not decrease the insulin infusion.
Potassium replacement
• There is always a deficit of total body of potassium (3-6 mmol/kg) even
with normal or high levels of serum potassium at presentation.
Replacement therapy is therefore required.
• If immediate serum potassium measurements are unavailable, an ECG may
help to determine whether the child has hyper- or hypokalemia.
• Subsequent potassium replacement therapy should be based on serum
potassium measurements.
• Potassium replacement should continue throughout IV fluid therapy
• Maximum recommended rate of IV potassium replacement is 0.5 mmol/kg/h.
• If hypokalemia persists despite maximum rate of potassium replacement,
then the rate of insulin infusion can be reduced.
Serum potassium level Action
Hypokalemic at presentation Start potassium replacement at the time of
initial volume expansion and before start-
ing insulin therapy, at a concentration of 20
mmol/ L (0.75 g KCl per pint).
Normokalemia Start replacing potassium after initial
volume expansion and concurrent with
starting insulin therapy.The starting potas-
sium concentration in the infusate should
be 40 mmol/L (1.5 g KCl/pint)
Hyperkalaemia
(K+  5.5 mmol/L)
Defer potassium replacement therapy until
urine output is documented.
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Phosphate
• Depletion of intracellular phosphate occurs in DKA
• Severe hypophosphatemia, with unexplained weakness, should be treated
• Potassium phosphate salts may be safely used as an alternative to or
combined with potassium chloride or acetate, provided that careful
monitoring of serum calcium is performed as administration of phosphate
may induce hypocalcaemia.
Acidosis
• Severe acidosis is reversible by fluid and insulin replacement.
• There is no evidence that bicarbonate is either necessary or safe in DKA.
Bicarbonate therapy may cause paradoxical CNS acidosis, hypokalaemia
and increasing osmolality.
• Used only in selected patients:
• Severe acidaemia (arterial pH 6.9) in whom decreased cardiac contractility
and peripheral vasodilatation can further impair tissue perfusion.
• Life-threatening hyperkalaemia.
• Cautiously give 1 - 2 mmol/kg over 60 min.
Introduction of oral fluids and transition to SC insulin injections
• Oral fluids should be introduced only with substantial clinical improvement
(mild acidosis/ketosis may still be present).
• When oral fluid is tolerated, IV fluid should be reduced.
• When ketoacidosis has resolved (pH  7.3; HCO3-  15mmmol/L), oral
intake is tolerated, and the change to SC insulin is planned, the most
convenient time to change to SC insulin is just before a mealtime.
e.g. SC regular insulin 0.25 u/kg given before meals (pre-breakfast, pre-
lunch, pre-dinner), SC intermediate insulin 0.25 u/kg before bedtime.
Total insulin dose is about 1u/kg/day.
• To prevent rebound hyperglycemia, the first SC injection is given 30 min
(with rapid acting insulin) or 1–2 h (with regular insulin) before stopping
the insulin infusion to allow sufficient time for the insulin to be absorbed.
• The dose of soluble insulin is titrated against capillary blood glucose.
• Convert to long-term insulin regime when stabilized. Multiple dose
injections 4 times per day are preferable to conventional (twice daily)
injections.
Morbidity and mortality
• In national population studies, mortality rate from DKA in children is
0.15–0.30%.
• Cerebral oedema accounts for 60–90% of all DKA deaths
• 10% - 25% of survivors of cerebral edema have significant residual morbidity.
• Other rare causes of morbidity and mortality include: sepsis; hypokalemia,
hyperkalemia, severe hypophosphataemia; hypoglycaemia; aspiration
pneumonia; pulmonary oedema; adult respiratory distress syndrome
(ARDS); rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure and acute pancreatitis.
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Cerebral oedema
• Clinically significant cerebral oedema usually develops 4 -12 h after
treatment has started, but may occur before treatment or rarely, as late as
24 - 48 h later.
Diagnostic Criteria for Cerebral Oedema
• Abnormal motor or verbal response to pain
• Decorticate or decerebrate posture
• Cranial nerve palsy (especially III, IV, and VI)
• Abnormal neurogenic respiratory pattern
(e.g., grunting, tachypnea, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, apneusis)
Major Criteria Minor Criteria
• Altered mentation / fluctuating level of
consciousness.
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Sustained HR deceleration (decrease
 20 bpm), not attributable to improved
intravascular volume or sleep state.
• Lethargy, not easily arousable
• Diastolic blood pressure
 90 mmHg
• Age-inappropriate incontinence • Age  5 years
Treatment of cerebral oedema
• Initiate treatment as soon as the condition is suspected. (Mannitol and
hypertonic saline should be available at the bedside)
• Give mannitol 0.5 - 1 g/kg IV over 20 min and repeat if there is no initial
response in 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• Reduce the rate of fluid administration by one-third.
• Hypertonic saline (3%), 5 - 10 ml/kg over 30 min, may be an alternative to
mannitol, especially if there is no initial response to mannitol.
• Elevate the head of the bed.
• Intubation may be necessary for the patient with impending respiratory
failure. Maintain normocapnia. (PaCO₂ within normal range).
• After treatment for cerebral oedema has been started, a cranial CT scan
should be done to rule out other possible intracerebral causes of neurologic
deterioration.
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Chapter 57: Disorders of Sexual Development
Definition
• Individuals who have a genital appearance that does not permit gender
declaration are said to have disorders of sexual development (DSD),
formerly known as ambiguous genitalia.
• Defined as a congenital condition in which development of chromosomal,
gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical. Below is a summary of the
components of the revised nomenclature.
DSD is a Neonatal Emergency!
The commonest cause of AG is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).
Major concerns are :-
• Underlying medical issues:
• Dehydration, salt loss (adrenal crisis).
• Urinary tract infection.
• Bowel obstruction.
• Decision on sex of rearing:
• Avoid wrong sex assignment.
• Prevent gender confusion.
• Psychosocial issues
General concepts of care
• Gender assignment must be avoided before expert evaluation in newborns.
• Evaluation and long-term management must be performed at a center with
an experienced multidisciplinary team (Paediatric subspecialists in
endocrinology, surgery, and/or urology, psychology/ psychiatry, gynaecology,
genetics, neonatology, and social work, nursing and medical ethics.)
• All individuals should receive a gender assignment.
• Open communication with patients and family is essential, and participation
in decision making is encouraged.
• Patients and family concerns (eg, social and culture) should be respected and
addressed.
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DisordersofSexualDevelopment(DSD)-NewNomenclature
SexChromosomeDSD46,XYDSD46,XXDSD
45,XTurnerDisordersofTesticular
Development
DisordersofAndrogen
Synthesis/Action
DisordersofOvarian
Development
FetalAndrogenExcess
47,XXYKlinefelterand
variantsCompleteGonadal
Dysgenesis
AndrogenSynthesis
Defect
OvotesticularDSDCAH
45,X/46,XYMGDTesticularDSD
(SRY+,dupSOX9)
21-OHDeficiency
Chromosomal
OvotesticularDSD
PartialGonadal
Dysgenesis
LH-ReceptorDefect11-OHDeficiency
AndrogenInsensitivityGonadalDysgenesisNon-CAH
GonadalRegession5α-reductase
Deficiency
AromataseDeficiency
OvotesticularDSDPORGeneDefect
DisordersofAMHMaternal
TimingDefectLuteoma
EndocrinedisruptersIatrogenic
Cloacalexstrophy
Abbreviations:MGD,Mixedgonadaldysgenesis;AMH,Anti-Mullerianhormone;CAH,Congenitaladrenalhyperplasia;21-OH,
21-Hydroxlylase;11-OH,11Hydroxylase.
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265
EVALUATION
Ideally, the baby or child and parents should be assessed by a competent multi-
disciplinary team.
History - exclude CAH in all neonates
• Parental consanguinity.
• Obstetric : previous abortions, stillbirths, neonatal deaths.
• Antenatal : drugs taken, exogenous androgens, endocrine disturbances.
• Family History: Unexplained neonatal deaths in siblings and close relatives
• Infertility, genital anomalies in the family
• Abnormal pubertal development
• Infertile aunts
• Symptoms of salt wasting in the first few days to weeks of life.
• Increasing pigmentation
• Progressive virilisation
Physical examination
• Dysmorphism (Turner phenotype, congenital abnormalities)
• Cloacal anomaly
• Signs of systemic illness
• Hyperpigmentation
• Blood pressure
• Psychosocial behaviour (older children)
• Appearance of external genitalia
• Size of phallus, erectile tissue
• Position of urethral opening (degree of virilisation)
• Labial fusion or appearance of scrotum
• Presence or absence of palpable gonads
• Presence or absence of cervix (per rectal examination)
• Position and patency of anus
Criteria that suggests DSD include
• Overt genital ambiguity.
• Apparent female genitalia with enlarged clitoris, posterior labial fusion, or an
inguinal labial mass.
• Apparent male genitalia with bilateral undescended testes, micropenis,
isolated perineal hypospadias.
• Mild hypospadias with undescended testes.
• Family history of DSD, e.g. Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS).
• Discordance between genital appearance and a prenatal karyotype.
Most of DSDs are recognized in the neonatal period. Others present as
pubertal delay.
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266
Investigations
• Chromosome study, karyotyping with X- and Y-specific probe detection
• Abdominopelvic ultrasound
• Genitogram
• Exclude salt losing CAH
• Serial BUSE in the neonatal period
• Serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (taken after the first day of life)
• Cortisol, testosterone, renin
• Testosterone, LH, FSH
• Anti mullerian hormone (depending on indication and availability)
Additional investigations as indicated:
• LHRH stimulation test
• hCG stimulation tests (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at Day 1  4)
• Urinary steroid analysis
• Androgen receptor study (may not be available)
• DNA analysis for SRY gene (sex-determining region on the Y chromosome)
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy of gonadal material in selected cases.
• Molecular diagnosis is limited by cost, accessibility and quality control.
• Trial of testosterone enanthate 25 mg IM monthly 3x doses 	
• This can be done to demonstrate adequate growth of the phallus and is
essential before a final decision is made to raise an DSD child as a male.
Karyotype
Palpable Gonads
Ambiguous Genitalia
CAH Screen
Absent
• Endocrine profile
• Ultrasound scan
• Genitogram
• Gonadal inspection,
Biopsy
• Ultrasound scan
• Genitogram
Present
Positive Negative
APPROACH TO DISORDERS OF SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT
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267
KARYOTYPE46,XY
GONADS
OvotestesStreakDysgeneticTestesAbsent
Uterus+/-Uterus+/-Uterus+Uterus+/-
AgonadismPartialGonadal
Dysgenesis
OvotesticularDSDCompleteGonadal
Dysgenesis
AndrogenDisorder
SynthesisorAction
•Testosterone
BiosynthesisDefect
•LH-ReceptorMutation
•AndrogenResistant
syndrome
•5α-reductase
Deficiency
•PORGeneDefect
•TimingDefect
TestesTestes
Uterus-
AmbiguousGenitalia/PubertalDelay
DIAGNOSTICALGORITHMOF46,XYDSD
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DIAGNOSTICALGORITHMOF46,XXDSD
KARYOTYPE46,XX
GONADS
OvotestesTestesStreakOvary
Uterus+Uterus+Uterus-Uterus+
VirilizedFemaleGonadalDysgenesisOvotesticularDSDXXTesticularDSD
AmbiguousGenitalia/PubertalDelay
CAHNon-CAH
17-OHProgesterone
NormalHigh
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Management
Goals
• Preserve fertility.
• Ensure normal sexual function.
• Phenotype and psychosocial outcome concordant with the assigned sex.
General considerations
• Admit to hospital. Salt losing CAH which is life threatening must be excluded.
• Urgent diagnosis.
• Do not register the child until final decision is reached.
• Protect privacy of parents and child pending diagnosis.
• Counseling of parents that DSD conditions are biologically understandable.
• Encourage bonding.
Gender Assignment
Gender assignment and sex of rearing should be based upon the most
probable adult gender identity and potential for adult function. Factors to be
considered in this decision include :-
• Diagnosis .
• Fertility potential.
• Adequacy of the external genitalia for normal sexual function. Adequate
phallic size when considering male sex of rearing.
• Endocrine function of gonads. Capacity to respond to exogenous androgen.
• Parents’ socio-cultural background, expectations and acceptance.
• Psychosocial development in older children.
• Decision about sex of rearing should only be made by an informed family
after careful evaluation, documentation, and consultation.
Gender reinforcement
• Appropriate name.
• Upbringing, dressing.
• Treatment and control of underlying disease e.g. CAH.
• Surgical correction of the external genitalia as soon as possible.
Assigned female
• Remove all testicular tissue.
• Vaginoplasty after puberty.
• No place for vaginal dilatation in childhood.
Assigned male
• Orchidopexy.
• Remove all Mullerian structures.
• Surgical repair of hypospadias.
• Gonadectomy to be considered if dysgenetic gonads.
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Surgical management
• The goals of surgery are:
• Genital appearance compatible with gender
• Unobstructed urinary emptying without incontinence or infections
• Good adult sexual and reproductive function
• The surgeon has the responsibility to outline the surgical sequence and
subsequent consequences from infancy to adulthood. Only surgeons with
the expertise in the care of children and specific training in the surgery of
DSD should perform these procedures.
• Early genitoplasty is feasible only if the precise cause of DSD has been
established and gender assignment has been based on certain knowledge of
post-pubertal sexual outcome. Otherwise surgery should be postponed, as
genitoplasty involves irreversible procedures such as castration and phallic
reduction in individuals raised females and resection of utero-vaginal tissue
in those raised male.
• The procedure should be anatomically based to preserve erectile function
and the innervations of the clitoris.
• Emphasis in functional outcome rather than a strictly cosmetic appearance.
• Timing of surgery: it is felt that surgery that is performed for cosmetic
reasons in the first year of life relieves parental distress and improves
attachment between the child and the parents; the systematic evidence for
this is lacking.
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CONGENITAL ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA (CAH)
Neonatal diagnosis and treatment
• The newborn female with CAH and ambiguous external genitalia requires
urgent expert medical attention.
• The ambiguity is highly distressing to the family; therefore, immediate
comprehensive evaluation is needed by a Paediatric Endocrinologist.
• Ensure parents develop a positive relationship with their child
Clinical evaluation in term and premature neonates
• Every newborn with ambiguous genitalia, a suspected diagnosis of CAH, or
an abnormal result in a newborn screen for 17-hydroxyprogesterone
(17-OHP) should be evaluated by a Pediatric Endocrinologist.
• The evaluation of an infant with DSD has been discussed above.
Newborn screening for CAH
• Neonatal mass screening for 21-hydroxylase deficiency identifies both male
and female affected infants, prevents incorrect sex assignment, and decreases
mortality and morbidity. However, it has not been started in Malaysia.
Clinical presentation
Neonatal period
• Ambiguous genitalia.
• Salt loss (75%).
• Family history of previous unexplained neonatal death.
• Hyperpigmentation (90%) - both sexes.
• Virilisation of a girl.
• Hypertension.
Beyond the neonatal period
• Boy with gonadotrophin independent precocious puberty
(prepubertal testicular size).
Diagnosis of salt-wasting CAH
• May not be apparent in the first days/weeks after birth by electrolyte
measurements.
• Salt wasters may be differentiated from simple virilizers by :
• Serial serum/plasma and/or urine electrolytes.
• Plasma renin activity (PRA) or direct renin.
• Results of CYP21 molecular analysis.
Management of salt losing crisis
• For patient in shock: normal saline (0.9%) bolus : 10-20 ml/kg
• Correct hypoglycemia if present : 2-4 ml/kg of 10% glucose
• Correct hyperkalaemia with administration of glucose and insulin if necessary.
• Rehydrate using ¹/₂ NS 5% dextrose
• Monitor hydration status, BP, HR, glucose.
Note: Hypotonic saline or 5% dextrose should not be used because it can
worsen hyponatraemia.
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Treatment considerations in patients with CAH
Optimal glucocorticoid dosing
• Aim to replace deficient steroids, minimize adrenal sex hormone and
glucocorticoid excess: thus preventing virilization, optimizing growth, and
protecting potential fertility.
• During infancy, initial reduction of markedly elevated adrenal sex hormones
may require hydrocortisone (HC) up to 25 mg/m²/d, but typical dosing is
10–15 mg/m²/d in 3 divided doses. Divided or crushed tablets of HC should
be used in growing children.
• Excessive doses, especially in infancy, may cause persistent growth
suppression, obesity, and other Cushingoid features. Therefore, avoid
complete adrenal suppression.
• Whereas HC is preferred in infancy and childhood, long-acting
glucocorticoids may be used at or near the completion of linear growth.
• Prednisolone needs to be given twice daily. (at 2–4 mg/m²/d).
• Dexamethasone dose is 0.25–0.375 mg/m²/d, given once daily.
• In children with advanced bone age and central precocious puberty,
treatment with a GnRH agonist may be required.
• Therapy will reduce vasopressin, ACTH levels and lower dosage of
glucocorticoid required.
• Assess the need for continuing mineralocorticoids based on PRA and BP.
• Sodium chloride supplements are often needed in infancy, at 1-3 g/day
(17-51 mEq/day), distributed in several feedings.
Monitoring treatment for classic CAH
• Monitoring may be accomplished based on physical and hormonal findings
suggestive of excessive or inadequate steroid therapy.
• Laboratory measurements may include serum/plasma electrolytes, serum
17-OHP, cortisol, and/or testosterone, and PRA or direct renin, every
3 months during infancy and every 4–12 months thereafter.
• Time from the last glucocorticoid dose should be noted; the diurnal rhythm
of the adrenal axis should be taken into account. Patients receiving adequate
replacement therapy may have cortisol levels above the normal range.
• Ideally, laboratory data will indicate a need for dose adjustments before
physical changes, growth, and skeletal maturation indicates inadequate or
excessive dosing.
• Patients should carry medical identification and information concerning their
medical condition and therapy.
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Treatment with glucocorticoids during stress
• Parents must be given clear instruction on stress dosing.
• Because circulating levels of cortisol increase during stress, patients should
be given increased doses of glucocorticoids during febrile illness ( 38.5�C),
when vomiting or poor oral intake, after trauma and before surgery.
• Participation in endurance sports may also require additional steroid dosing
• Mental and emotional stress, such as school examinations, does not require
increased dosing.
• Stress dosing should be 2–3 times the maintenance glucocorticoid dose for
patients able to take oral medications.
• Surgical and trauma patients and those unable to take oral steroids require
parenteral hydrocortisone. A bolus dose is given as shown below followed by
the same dose in four divided doses:
• Below 3 years old: to give 25mg.
• 3-12 years old: to give 50mg.
•  12 years old: to give 100mg.
• Glucose concentrations should be monitored, and intravenous sodium and
glucose replacement may be required.
Genital surgery
• The decision for surgery and the timing should be made by the parents,
together with the endocrinologist and the paediatric surgical team, after
complete disclosure of all relevant clinical information and all available
options have been discussed and after informed consent has been obtained.
• General principals of surgery for DSD has been outlined in the preceding
section on DSD.
• It is recognized that 46, XX children with significant virilization may present
at a later age. Consideration for sex reassignment must be undertaken only
after thorough psychological evaluation of patient and family.
• Surgery appropriate to gender assignment should be undertaken after a
period of endocrine treatment.
Psychological issues
• Females with CAH show behavioral masculinization, most pronounced in
gender role behavior, less so in sexual orientation, and rarely in gender
identity.
• Even in females with psychosexual problems, general psychological
adjustment seems to be similar to that of females without CAH.
• Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support rearing a 46, XX infant at
Prader stage 5 as male.
• Decisions concerning sex assignment and associated genital surgery must
consider the culture in which a child and her/his family are embedded.
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ENDOCRINOLOGY
Chapter 54 Congenital Hypothyroidism
1.Gruters A, Krude H. Update on the management of congenital hypothyroid-
ism. Horm Res 2007; 68 Suppl 5:107-11
2.Smith L. Updated AAP Guidelines on Newborn Screening and Therapy for
Congenital hypothyridism. Am Fam Phys 2007; 76
3.Update of newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism. Pediatrics
2006; 117
4.Styne, DM. Disorders of the thyroid glands, in Pediatr Endocrinology: p. 83-109.
5.LaFranchi S. Clinical features and detection of congenital hypothyroidism.
2004 UpToDate (www.uptodate.com)
6.Ross DS. Treatment of hypothyroidism. 2004 UpToDate. (www.uptodate.com)
7.LaFranchi S. Treatment and prognosis of congenital hypothyroidism. 2004
UpToDate (www.uptodate.com)
8.Ogilvy-Stuart AL. Neonatal Thyroid Disorders. Arch Dis Child 2002
9.The Endocrine Society’s Clinical Guidelines. JCEM 1992 : S1-47, 2007
10.Mafauzy M, Choo KE et al. Neonatal screening for congenital hypothyroid
in N-E Pen. Malaysia. Journal of AFES , Vol 13. 35-37.
Chapter 55  60 Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis
1.ISPAD Clinical Practice Concensus Guidelines 2009. Diabetic ketoacidosis.
Wolfsdorf J, et al, Pediatric Diabetes 2009: 10 (Suppl. 12): 118–133.
2.Global IDF/ISPAD Guideline for Type 1 Diabetes in Childhood and Adoles-
cents, 2010.
Chapter 57 Disorders of Sexual Development
1.Nieman LK, Orth DN, Kirkland JL. Treatment of congenital adrenal hyper-
plasia due to CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase) deficiency in infants and children.
2004 Uptodate online 12.1 (www.uptodate.com)
2.Consensus Statement on 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency from the Lawson
Wilkins Pediatric Endocrine Society and the European Society for Paediat-
ric Endocrinology; J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2002; 87:4048–4053.
3.Ocal Gonul. Current Concepts in Disorders of Sexual Development. J Clin
Res Ped Endo 2011; 3:105-114
4.Ieuan A. Hughes. Disorders of Sex Development: a new definition and clas-
sification. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol and Metab. 2008; 22: 119-134.
5., 6. Houk CP, Levitsky LL. Evaluation and Management of the infant with
ambiguous genitalia. 2004 Uptodate online 12.1 (www.uptodate.com)
References
Section 6 Endocrinology
Chapter 53 Short Stature
1. Grimberg A, De Leon DD. Chapter 8: Disorders of growth. In: Pediatric
Endocrinology, the Requisites in Pediatrics 2005, pp127-167.
2. Cutfield WS, et al. Growth hormone treatment to final height in idiopathic
GH deficiency: The KIGS Experience, in GH therapy in Pediatrics, 20 years
of KIGS, Basel, Karger, 2007. pp 145-62.
3. Molitch ME, et al. Evaluation and treatment of adult GH deficiency: An En-
docrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. JCEM 1991; 19: 1621-1634, 2006.
4. Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on usage of growth hormone in
children and adults 2011)
275
Chapter 58: Post-Infectious Glomerulonephritis
Introduction
Acute glomerulonephritis (AGN) is an abrupt onset of one or more features
of an Acute Nephritic Syndrome:
• Oedema e.g. facial puffiness.
• Microscopic /macroscopic
haematuria.
(urine: tea-coloured or smoky)
• Decreased urine output (oliguria).
• Hypertension.
• Azotemia.
• In children, the commonest cause
of an acute nephritic syndrome is
post-infectious AGN, mainly due
to post-streptococcal infection
of the pharynx or skin.
• Post streptococcal AGN is
commonest at 6 – 10 years age.
Presenting features of AGN
Acute nephritic syndrome (most common)
Nephrotic syndrome
Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis
Hypertensive encephalopathy
Pulmonary oedema
Subclinical (detected on routine examination)
Investigation findings in Post-Streptococcal AGN
• Urinalysis and culture
• Haematuria – present in all patients.
• Proteinuria (trace to 2+, but may be in the nephrotic range; usually
associated with more severe disease.)
• Red blood cell casts (pathognomonic of acute glomerulonephritis).
• Other cellular casts.
• Pyuria may also be present.
• Bacteriological and serological evidence of antecedent streptococcal infection:
• Raised ASOT (  200 IU/ml ).
• Increased anti-DNAse B (if available) – a better serological marker of
preceding streptococcal skin infection.
• Throat swab or skin swab.
• Renal function test
• Blood urea, electrolytes and serum creatinine.
Causes of Acute Nephritis
Post streptococcal AGN
Post-infectious acute glomerulonephritis
(other than Grp A ß-Haemolytic Streptococci )
Subacute bacterial endocarditis
Henoch-Schoenlein purpura
IgA nephropathy
Hereditary nephritis
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic vasculitidis
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276
• Full blood count
• Anaemia (mainly dilutional).
• Leucocytosis may be present.
• Complement levels
• C3 level – low at onset of symptoms, normalises by 6 weeks.
• C4 is usually within normal limits in post-streptococcal AGN.
• Ultrasound of the kidneys
• Not necessary if patient has clear cut acute nephritic syndrome.
Management
• Strict monitoring - fluid intake, urine output, daily weight, BP (Nephrotic chart)
• Penicillin V for 10 days to eliminate β - haemolytic streptococcal infection
(give erythromycin if penicillin is contraindicated)
• Fluid restriction to control oedema and circulatory overload during oliguric
phase until child diureses and blood pressure is controlled
• Day 1 : up to 400 mls/m²/day. Do not administer intravenous or oral fluids
if child has pulmonary oedema.
• Day 2 : till patient diureses – 400 mls/m²/day
(as long as patient remains in circulatory overload)
• When child is in diuresis – free fluid is allowed
• Diuretic (e.g. Frusemide) should be given in children with pulmonary oedema.
It is also usually needed for treatment of hypertension.
• Diet – no added salt to diet. Protein restriction is unnecessary
• Look out for complications of post-streptococcal AGN:
• Hypertensive encephalopathy usually presenting with seizures
• Pulmonary oedema (acute left ventricular failure)
• Acute renal failure
Management of severe complications of post-streptococcal AGN
Hypertension
• Significant hypertension but asymptomatic
• Bed rest and recheck BP ½ hour later
• If BP still high, give oral Nifedipine 0.25 - 0.5 mg/kg. Recheck BP ½ hour later.
• Monitor BP hourly x 4 hours then 4 hourly if stable.
• Oral Nifedipine can be repeated if necessary on 4 hourly basis.
• May consider regular oral Nifedipine (6 – 8 hourly) if BP persistently high.
• Add Frusemide 1 mg/kg/dose if BP still not well controlled.
• Other anti-hypertensives if BP still not under control:
Captopril (0.1-0.5 mg/kg q8 hourly), Metoprolol 1-4 mg/kg 12 hourly
• Symptomatic, severe hypertension or hypertensive emergency/encephalopathy
• Symptom/signs: Headache, vomiting, loss of vision, convulsions,
papilloedema.
• Emergency management indicated to reduce BP sufficiently to avoid
hypertensive complications and yet maintain it at a level that permits
autoregulatory mechanism of vital organs to function.
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277
• Target of BP control:
- Reduce BP to 90th percentile of BP for age, gender and height percentile .
- Total BP to be reduced = Observed mean BP − Desired mean BP
- Reduce BP by 25% of target BP over 3 – 12 hours.
- The next 75% reduction is achieved over 48 hours.
Pulmonary oedema
• Give oxygen, prop patient up; ventilatory support if necessary.
• IV Frusemide 2 mg/kg/dose stat; double this dose 4 hours later if poor response
• Fluid restriction – withhold fluids for 24 hours if possible.
• Consider dialysis if no response to diuretics.
Acute kidney injury
• Mild renal impairment is common.
• Severe persistent oliguria or anuria with azotaemia is uncommon.
• Management of severe acute renal failure, see Ch 60 Acute Kidney Injury.
Weight, urea and hypertension
ASOTStreptococcal
infection
complement
Haematuria
1 yr6 wks4 wks2 wks2 wks
Natural History of Acute Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis
NEPHROLOGY
278
Indications for Renal Biopsy
Severe acute renal failure requiring dialysis.
Features suggesting non post-infectious AGN
as the cause of acute nephritis.
Delayed resolution
• Oliguria  2 weeks
• Azotaemia  3 weeks
• Gross haematuria  3 weeks
• Persistent proteinuria  6 months
Follow-up
• For at least 1 year.
• Monitor BP at every visit
• Do urinalysis and renal function to evaluate recovery.
• Repeat C3 levels 6 weeks later if not already normalised by the time of
discharge.
Outcome
• Short term outcome: Excellent, mortality 0.5%.
• Long term outcome: 1.8% of children develop chronic kidney disease
following post streptococcal AGN. These children should be referred to the
paediatric nephrologists for further evaluation and management.
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279
Chapter 59: Nephrotic Syndrome
Diagnosis
Nephrotic syndrome is a clinical syndrome of massive proteinuria defined by
• Oedema • Hypoalbuminaemia of  25g/l
• Proteinuria  40 mg/m²/hour ( 1g/m²/day) • Hypercholesterolaemia
or an early morning urine protein creatinine
index of 200 mg/mmol ( 3.5 mg/mg).
Aetiology
• Primary or idiopathic (of unknown cause) nephrotic syndrome is the
commonest type of nephrotic syndrome in children.
• Secondary causes of nephrotic syndrome include post-streptococcal
glomerulonephritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This chapter
outlines the management of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Management
of secondary forms of nephrotic syndrome follows the management of the
primary condition.
Investigations at initial presentation
• Full blood count
• Renal profile
• Urea, electrolyte, creatinine
• Serum cholesterol
• Liver function tests
• Particularly serum albumin
• Urinalysis, urine culture
• Quantitative urinary protein excretion
(spot urine protein: creatinine ratio or 24 hour urine protein)
Other investigations would depend on the age of the patient, associated renal
impairment, hematuria, hypertension or features to suggest an underlying
secondary cause for the nephrotic syndrome.
These tests include:
• Antinuclear factor / anti-dsDNA to exclude SLE.
• Serum complement (C3, C4) levels to exclude SLE, post-infectious
glomerulonephritis.
• ASOT titres to exclude Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
• Other tests as indicated.
Renal biopsy
• A renal biopsy is not needed prior to corticosteroid or cyclophosphamide
therapy. This is because 80% of children with idiopathic nephrotic
syndrome have minimal change steroid responsive disease.
• Main indication for renal biopsy is steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome,
defined as failure to achieve remission despite 4 weeks of adequate
corticosteroid therapy.
• Other indications are features that suggest non-minimal change nephrotic
syndrome:
• Persistent hypertension, renal impairment, and/or gross haematuria.
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280
Management
• Confirm that patient has nephrotic syndrome by ensuring that the patient
fulfills the criteria above
• Exclude other causes of nephrotic syndrome. If none, then the child
probably has idiopathic nephrotic syndrome
General management
• A normal protein diet with adequate calories is recommended.
• No added salt to the diet when child has oedema.
• Penicillin V 125 mg BD (1-5 years age), 250 mg BD (6-12 years), 500 mg BD
( 12 years) is recommended at diagnosis and during relapses, particularly
in the presence of gross oedema.
• Careful assessment of the haemodynamic status.
• Check for signs and symptoms which may indicate
- Hypovolaemia: Abdominal pain, cold peripheries, poor capillary refill,
poor pulse volume with or without low blood pressure; OR
- Hypervolaemia: Basal lung crepitations, rhonchi, hepatomegaly,
hypertension.
• Fluid restriction - not recommended except in chronic oedematous states.
• Diuretics (e.g. frusemide) is not necessary in steroid responsive nephrotic
syndrome but if required, use with caution as may precipitate hypovolaemia.
• Human albumin (20-25%) at 0.5 - 1.0 g/kg can be used in symptomatic
grossly oedematous states together with IV frusemide at 1-2 mg/kg to
produce a diuresis.
Caution: fluid overload and pulmonary oedema can occur with albumin
infusion especially in those with impaired renal function. Urine output and
blood pressure should be closely monitored.
General advice
• Counsel patient and parents about the disease particularly with regards to
the high probability (85-95%) of relapse.
• Home urine albumin monitoring: once daily dipstix testing of the first
morning urine specimen. The patient is advised to consult the doctor if
albuminuria ≥ 2+ for 3 consecutive days, or 3 out of 7 days.
• The child is also advised to consult the doctor should he/she become
oedematous regardless of the urine dipstix result.
• Children on systemic corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents
should be advised and cautioned about contact with chickenpox and
measles, and if exposed should be treated like any immunocompromised
child who has come into contact with these diseases.
• Immunisation:
• While the child is on corticosteroid treatment and within 6 weeks after its
cessation, only killed vaccines may safely be administered to the child.
• Give live vaccines 6 weeks after cessation of corticosteroid therapy.
• Pneumococcal vaccine should be administered to all children with
nephrotic syndrome. If possible, give when the child is in remission.
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• Acute adrenal crisis
• May be seen in children who have been on long term corticosteroid
therapy (equivalent to 18 mg/m² of cortisone daily) when they undergo
situations of stress.
• Give Hydrocortisone 2-4 mg/kg/dose TDS or Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day.
Management of the complications of nephrotic syndrome
Hypovolaemia.
• Clinical features: abdominal pain, cold peripheries, poor pulse volume,
hypotension, and haemoconcentration.
• Treatment: infuse Human Albumin at 0.5 to 1.0 g/kg/dose fast.
If human albumin is not available, other volume expanders like human
plasma can be used. Do not give Frusemide.
Primary Peritonitis
• Clinical features: fever, abdominal pain and tenderness in children with
newly diagnosed or relapse nephrotic syndrome.
• Investigations: Blood culture, peritoneal fluid culture (not usually done)
• Treatment: parenteral penicillin and a third generation cephalosporin
Thrombosis
• Thorough investigation and adequate treatment with anticoagulation is
usually needed. Please consult a Paediatric Nephrologist.
Corticosteroid therapy
Corticosteroids are effective in inducing remission of idiopathic nephrotic
syndrome.
Initial treatment
• Once a diagnosis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome has been established,
oral Prednisolone should be started at:
• 60 mg/ m²/day ( maximum 80 mg / day ) for 4 weeks followed by
• 40 mg/m²/every alternate morning (EOD) (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks.
then reduce Prednisolone dose by 25% monthly over next 4 months.
• With this corticosteroid regime, 80% of children will achieve remission
(defined as urine dipstix trace or nil for 3 consecutive days) within 28 days.
• Children with Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome, defined by failure to
achieve response to an initial 4 weeks treatment with prednisolone at
60 mg/m²/ day, should be referred to a Paediatric Nephrologist for further
management, which usually includes a renal biopsy.
Treatment of relapses
• The majority of children with nephrotic syndrome will relapse.
A relapse is defined by urine albumin excretion  40 mg/m²/hour or urine
dipstix of ≥ 2+ for 3 consecutive days.
• These children do not need admission unless they are grossly oedematous
or have any of the complications of nephrotic syndrome.
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• Induction of relapse is with oral Prednisolone as follows:
• 60 mg/m²/day ( maximum 80 mg / day ) until remission followed by
• 40 mg/m²/EOD (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks only.
• Breakthrough proteinuria may occur with intercurrent infection and usually
does not require corticosteroid induction if the child has no oedema,
remains well and the proteinuria remits with resolution of the infection.
However, if proteinuria persists, treat as a relapse.
Treatment of frequent relapses
• Defined as ≥ 2 relapses within 6 months of initial diagnosis or
≥ 4 relapses within any 12 month period.
Treatment
• Induction of relapse is with oral Prednisolone as follows:
• 60 mg/m²/day ( maximum 80 mg/day ) until remission followed by
• 40 mg/m²/EOD (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks only.
• Taper Prednisolone dose every 2 weeks and keep on as low an alternate
day dose as possible for 6 months. Should a child relapse while on low
dose alternate day Prednisolone, the child should be re-induced with
Prednisolone as for relapse.
Treatment of steroid dependent nephrotic syndrome
• Defined as ≥ 2 consecutive relapses occurring during steroid taper or
within 14 days of the cessation of steroids.
Treatment
• If the child is not steroid toxic, re-induce with steroids and maintain on
as low a dose of alternate day prednisolone as possible. If the child is
steroid toxic (short stature, striae, cataracts, glaucoma, severe cushingoid
features) consider cyclophosphamide therapy.
Cyclophosphamide therapy
• Indicated for the treatment of steroid dependent nephrotic syndrome with
signs of steroid toxicity; begin therapy when in remission after induction
with corticosteroids.
• Parents should be counseled about the effectiveness and side effects of
Cyclophosphamide therapy (leucopenia, alopecia, haemorrhagic cystitis,
gonadal toxicity).
• Dose: 2-3 mg/kg/day for 8-12 weeks (cumulative dose 168 mg/kg).
• Monitor full blood count and urinalysis 2 weekly.
Relapses post Cyclophosphamide
• Relapses after a course of cyclophosphamide are treated as for relapses
following the initial diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome, if the child does not
have signs of steroid toxicity
• Should the relapse occur soon after a course of Cyclophosphamide when
the child is still steroid toxic, or if the child again becomes steroid toxic after
multiple relapses, then a Paediatric Nephrology opinion should be sought.
• The treatment options available include cyclosporine and levamisole.
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No ResponseResponse
Prednisolone 40 mg/m²/alternate day for 4 weeks.
then taper at 25% monthly over 4 months
1 INITIAL EPISODE OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME
Prednisolone 60 mg/m²/day for 4 weeks
2 RELAPSE
• Prednisolone 60 mg/m²/day till remission
• 40 mg/m²/alternate day for 4 weeks then stop
3 FREQUENT RELAPSES
• Reinduce as (2), then taper and keep low dose alternate
day Prednisolone 0.1 - 0.5 mg/kg/dose for 6 months
4 RELAPSES WHILE ON PREDNISOLONE
• Treat as for (3) if not steroid toxic
• Consider cyclophosphamide if steroid toxic.
5 ORAL CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE
• 2-3 mg/kg/day for 8-12 weeks
Cumulative dose 168 mg/kg
6 RELAPSES POST CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE
• As for (2) and (3) if not steroid toxic
• If steroid toxic, refer paediatric nephrologist to
consider therapy with cyclosporin or levamisole
RENAL BIOPSY
Algorithm for the Management of Nephrotic Syndrome
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284
Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome
Refer for renal biopsy. Specific treatment will depend on the histopathology.
General management of the Nephrotic state:
• Control of edema:
• Restriction of dietary sodium.
• Diuretics e.g. Frusemide, Spironolactone.
• ACE inhibitor e.g. Captopril or Angiotensin II receptor blocker (AIIRB).
e.g. Losartan, Irbesartan, to reduce proteinuria.
• Monitor BP and renal profile 1-2 weeks after initiation of ACE inhibitor
or AIIRB.
• Control of hypertension: antihypertensive of choice - ACE inhibitor/AIIRB.
• Penicillin prophylaxis.
• Monitor renal function.
• Nutrition: normal dietary protein content, salt-restricted diet.
• Evaluate calcium and phosphate metabolism.
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Chapter 60: Acute Kidney Injury
Definition
• Acute kidney injury (AKI) was previously called acute renal failure.
• Abrupt rise in serum creatinine level and decreased glomerular filtration
rate resulting in inability of the kidneys to regulate fluid and electrolyte
balance.
Clinical features
• Of underlying cause.
• Oliguria ( 300 ml/m²/day in children;  1 ml/kg/hour in neonates)
• Non-oliguria.
• Clinical features arising from complications of AKI
e.g. seizures, acute pulmonary oedema
Common causes of Acute Kidney Injury
Pre-renal Renal, or intrinsic
Hypovolaemia Glomerular
• Dehydration, bleeding Infection related
Third space loss Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Nephrotic syndrome, burns Acute glomerulonephritis
Distributive shock Tubulointerstitial
• Dengue shock, sepsis syndrome Acute tubular necrosis
Cardiac • Hypoxic-ischaemic injury
• Congestive heart failure • Aminoglycosides, chemotherapy
• Cardiac tamponade Toxins, e.g.
Post-renal • Myoglobin, haemoglobin
Posterior urethral valves Venom
Acute bilateral ureteric obstruction • Bee sting
Acute obstruction in solitary kidney Tumour lysis, Uric acid nephropathy
Infection, pyelonephritis
Vascular
ACE-inhibitors
Vascular lesions
• Haemolytic uremic syndrome
• Renal vein thrombosis
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• Important to consider pre-renal failure as a cause of oliguria.
• In pre-renal failure, the kidney is intrinsically normal and the tubules are
working to conserve water and sodium appropriately.
• In acute tubular necrosis (ATN) the damaged tubules are unable to
conserve sodium appropriately.
Investigations
• Blood:
• Full blood count.
• Blood urea, electrolytes, creatinine.
• Blood gas.
• Serum albumin, calcium, phosphate.
• Urine: biochemistry and microscopy.
• Imaging: renal ultrasound scan (urgent if cause unknown).
• Other investigations as determined by cause.
MANAGEMENT
Prevention
• Identify patients at risk of AKI. They include patients with the following:
• Prematurity, asphyxia, trauma, burns, post-surgical states, other organ
failures (eg heart, liver), pre-existing renal disease, malignancy
(leukaemia, B-cell lymphoma).
• Monitor patients-at-risk actively with regards to renal function and urine
output.
• Try to ensure effective non-dialytic measures, which include:
• Restoring adequate renal blood flow.
• Avoiding nephrotoxic agents if possible.
• Maximizing renal perfusion before exposure to nephrotoxic agents.
Fluid balance
In Hypovolaemia
• Fluid resuscitation regardless of oliguric / anuric state
• Give crystalloids e.g. isotonic 0.9% saline / Ringer’s lactate 20 ml/kg fast
(in  20 minutes) after obtaining vascular access.
• Transfuse blood if haemorrhage is the cause of shock.
• Hydrate to normal volume status.
• If urine output increases, continue fluid replacement.
• If there is no urine output after 4 hours (confirm with urinary catheterization),
monitor central venous pressure to assess fluid status.
See Chapter on shock for details of management.
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In Hypervolaemia / Fluid overload
Features of volume overload include hypertension, raised JVP, displaced apex
beat, basal crepitations, hepatomegaly and increasing ventilatory requirements.
• If necessary to give fluid, restrict to insensible loss (400 ml/m²/day or
30ml/kg in neonates depending on ambient conditions)
• IV Frusemide 2 mg/kg/dose (over 10-15 minutes),
maximum of 5 mg/kg/dose or IV Frusemide infusion 0.5 mg/kg/hour.
• Dialysis if no response or if volume overload is life-threatening.
Euvolaemia
• Once normal volume status is achieved, give insensible loss plus obvious
losses (urine / extrarenal).
• Monitor fluid status: weight, BP, heart rate, nutritional needs, intake/output.
Hypertension
• Usually related to fluid overload and/or alteration in vascular tone
• Choice of anti-hypertensive drugs depends on degree of BP elevation, presence
of CNS symptomsofhypertension and cause of renal failure. A diuretic is usually
needed.
Metabolic acidosis
• Treat if pH  7.2 or symptomatic or contributing to hyperkalaemia
• Bicarbonate deficit = 0.3 x body weight (kg) x base excess (BE)
• Ensure that patient’s serum calcium is  1.8 mmol/L to prevent
hypocalcaemic seizures with Sodium bicarbonate therapy.
• Replace half the deficit with IV 8.4% Sodium bicarbonate (1:1 dilution) if
indicated.
• Monitor blood gases
Electrolyte abnormalities
Hyperkalaemia
• Definition: serum K⁺  6.0 mmol/l (neonates) and  5.5 mmol/l (children).
• Cardiac toxicity generally develops when plasma potassium  7 mmol/l
• Regardless of degree of hyperkalaemia, treatment should be initiated in
patients with ECG abnormalities from hyperkalaemia.
ECG changes in Hypokalemia
Tall, tentedT waves
Prolonged PR interval
Widened QRS complex
Flattened P wave,
Sine wave (QRS complex
merges with peakedT waves)
VF or asystole
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Treatment of Hyperkalemia in AKI patients
• Do 12-lead ECG and look for hyperkalaemic changes
• If ECG is abnormal or plasma K+  7 mmol/l, connect patient to a cardiac
monitor and give the following in sequence:
1 IV 10% Calcium gluconate 0.5 - 1.0 ml/kg (1:1 dilution) over 5 -15 mins
(Immediate onset of action)
2 IV Dextrose 0.5 g/kg (2 ml/kg of 25%) over 15 – 30 mins.
3 ± IV Insulin 0.1 unit/kg (onset of action 30 mins).
4 IV 8.4% sodium bicarbonate 1 ml/kg (1:1 dilution) over 10 - 30 mins
(Onset of action 15 - 30 mins)
5 Nebulized 0.5% salbutamol 2.5 - 5 mg (0.5 - 1 ml : 3 ml 0.9% Saline)
(Onset of action 30 mins)
6 Calcium polystyrene sulphonate 0.25g/kg oral or rectally 4 times/day
(Max 10g/dose) (Calcium Resonium / Kalimate)
[Give rectally (NOT orally) in neonates 0.125 – 0.25g/kg 4 times/day]
OR
6 Sodium polystyrene sulphonate 1g/kg oral or rectally 4 times/day
(Max15g/dose) (Resonium)
• In patients with serum potassium between 5.5 - 7 mmol/L without ECG
changes, give calcium or sodium polystyrene sulphonate
• If insulin is given after dextrose, monitor RBS / Dextrostix for
hypoglycaemia.
• Dialyse if poor or no response to the above measures
Hyponatraemia
• Usually dilutional from fluid overload
• If asymptomatic, fluid restrict
• Dialyse if symptomatic or the above measures fail
Hypocalcaemia
• Treat if symptomatic (usually serum Ca²⁺  1.8 mmol/L), and if Sodium
bicarbonate is required for hyperkalaemia, with IV 10% Calcium gluconate
0.5 ml/kg, given over 10 – 20 minutes, with ECG monitoring.
Hyperphosphataemia
• Phosphate binders e.g. calcium carbonate or aluminium hydroxide orally
with main meals.
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289
Nutrition
Optimal intake in AKI is influenced by nature of disease causing it, extent of
catabolism, modality and frequency of renal replacement therapy.
Generally, the principles of nutritional requirement apply except for:
• Avoiding excessive protein intake
• Minimizing phosphorus and potassium intake
• Avoiding excessive fluid intake (if applicable)
• If the gastro-intestinal tract is intact and functional, start enteral feeds as
soon as possible
• Total parenteral nutrition via central line if enteral feeding is not possible;
use concentrated dextrose (25%), lipids (10-20%), protein (1.0-2.0g/kg/day)
• If oliguric and caloric intake is insufficient because of fluid restriction,
start dialysis earlier
Dialysis
Dialysis is indicated if there are life-threatening complications like:
• Fluid overload manifesting as
• Pulmonary oedema.
• Congestive cardiac failure, or
• Refractory hypertension.
• Electrolyte / acid-base imbalances:
• Hyperkalaemia (K+  7.0).
• Symptomatic hypo- or hypernatraemia, or
• Refractory metabolic acidosis.
• Symptomatic uraemia.
• Oliguria preventing adequate nutrition.
• Oliguria following recent cardiac surgery.
The choice of dialysis modality depends on:
• Experience with the modality
• Patient’s haemodynamic stability
• Contraindications to peritoneal dialysis e.g. recent abdominal surgery
Medications
• Avoid nephrotoxic drugs if possible; if still needed, monitor drug levels and
potential adverse effects.
• Check dosage adjustment for all drugs used.
• Concentrate drugs to the lowest volume of dilution if patient is oliguric.
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290
Dosage adjustment in renal failure for some common antimicrobials
Drug Cr Clearance1
Dose Dose Interval
Crystalline/
Benzylpenicillin
10 - 50 Nil 8 – 12
 10 Nil 12
Cloxacillin  10 Nil 8
Amoxicillin/clavulanic
acid (Augmentin)
10 - 30 Normal dose initially then half-dose 12-hly
 10 Normal dose initially then half-dose 24-hly
Ampicillin/sulbactam
(Unasyn)
15 - 29 Nil 12
5 - 14 Nil 24
Cefotaxime  5 Normal dose initially,then1/2 dose,same
frequency
Cefuroxime  20 Nil 8
10 - 20 Nil 12
 10 Nil 24
Ceftriaxone  10 Dose not  40mg/kg (maximum 2g)/day
Ceftazidime 30 - 50 50-100% 12
15 - 30 50-100% 24
5 -15 25-50% 24
 5 25–50% 48
Cefepime 30 - 50 50mg/kg 12
11 - 29 50mg/kg 24
 10 25mg/kg 24
Imipenem 40 75% 8
10 25% 12
Anuric 15% 24
Meropenem 25 - 50 100% 12
10 - 25 50% 12
 10 50% 24
Ciprofloxacin 40 Nil 12
10 50% 24
anuric 33% 24
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Dosage adjustment in renal failure for some common antimicrobials (cont).
Drug Cr Clearance1
Dose Dose Interval
Metronidazole  10 Nil 12
Acyclovir
(IV infusion)
25 - 50 Nil 12
10 - 25 Nil 24
Acyclovir (oral) 10 - 25 Nil 8
 10 Nil 12
Erythromycin  10 60% Nil
Gentamicin Avoid if possible.If needed,give 5mg/kg,check trough level
24 hours later,and peak 1 hour post-dose.
Amikacin Avoid if possible,If needed,give initial dose,take trough
sample immediately before next dose,and peak 1 hour
post-dose.
Vancomycin Give initial / loading dose,take trough sample immediately
before next dose and peak,1 hour after completion of
infusion.
Footnote:
1, Creatinine Clearance:
It is difficult to estimate GFR from the serum creatinine levels inARF.A rough estimate
can be calculated using the formula below once the serum creatinine level remains
constant for at least 2 days.
Calculated creatinine clearance =
(ml/min/1.73m²)
Height (cm) x 40
Serum creatinine (micromol/l)
Assume creatinine clearance of  10ml/min/1.73m² if patient is on dialysis or
anuric.
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293
Chapter 61: Acute Peritoneal Dialysis
Introduction
The purpose of dialysis is
• To remove endogenous and exogenous toxins and
• To maintain fluid, electrolyte and acid-base equilibrium until renal function
returns.
Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the simpler modality in infants and children as it is
technically simpler and easily accessible even in centers without paediatric
nephrologists.
Contraindications to Acute PD
• Abdominal wall defects or infection.
• Bowel distension, perforation, adhesion or resection.
• Communication between the chest and abdominal cavities.
Types of Catheter Access
• A soft PD catheter implanted percutaneously or surgically (preferred).
• A straight rigid catheter if a soft PD catheter is not available.
Indications for Dialysis
Acute renal failure
Pulmonary oedema
Refractory hypertension
Oliguria following recent heart surgery
Symptomatic electrolyte or acid-base imbalance
• Hyperkalaemia (K+
 7.0)
• Hypo- or hypernatraemia
• Acidosis (pH7.2, or 7.3 with hyperkalaemia)
Uraemia
Inborn errors of metabolism
Encephalopathy
Hyperammonaemia
Severe metabolic acidosis
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294
Site of insertion
• Commonest site is at the midline infra-
umbilical position 1 inch below the umbilicus.
• In small children, where the space below the
umbilicus is limited, alternative sites include
insertion lateral to the inferior epigastric
artery as shown in the dotted lines in the
diagram, two-thirds of the distance from the
umbilicus to the left last rib (just lateral to
the border of rectus muscle).
• Ensure that the catheter is inserted way
below any enlarged spleen or liver.
Procedure of PD catheter insertion
1. Consent for first peritoneal dialysis
2. Bladder must be emptied; catheterise the bladder in unconscious,
ill patients.
3. The procedure must be done under aseptic technique
4. Prepare the set of PD lines and spike the PD fluids
5. Clean the area with povidone iodine and drape the patient
6. Infiltrate insertion site with lignocaine; additional IV sedation may be
needed.
7. For small infants or patients with very scaphoid abdomen, infiltrating the
abdominal cavity with 10 - 15 ml/kg PD fluid using 20G or larger branula
prior to catheter insertion will help prevent traumatic puncture of
underlying viscus.
8. For technique of catheter insertion - see tables below.
9. Connect the catheter to the PD line via the connector provided in the set.
10. Bleeding from the insertion site can be stopped by a purse-string suture.
cover the site with dry gauze and secure with plaster.
Monitoring while on PD
• Oversee the first 3 cycles of dialysis to ensure good flow.
• Check for turbidity, leakage and ultrafiltration every two hours.
• Input / output chart, vital signs and PD chart should be kept up-to-date.
Turbid effluent must be noted to the doctor.
• Send PD fluid for cell count and culture and sensitivity at start and end of PD
and when the effluent is turbid.
• Blood urea, serum electrolytes and creatinine should be requested according
to patients needs. In stable patients, once daily should be more than sufficient.
• Blood urea and electrolyte results to be reviewed by the doctor and
Potassium chloride to be added into dialysate if necessary.
(1 Gm of Potassium chloride in 10 ml ampoule is equivalent to 13.3 mmol of
potassium. Hence adding 3 ml to 1 litre would result in dialysate with
4.0 mmol/l of potassium).
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Site of Insertion and Direction
of Catheter Introduction
295
NEPHROLOGY
Technique of insertion of different PD catheters
Acute stiff PD catheter
1 Check catheter for any breakages (by withdrawing the stilette) before
insertion.
2 Make a small skin incision (slightly smaller than the diameter of the
catheter) using a sharp pointed blade. Do not cut the muscle layer.
3 Introduce the cather with the stillete perpendicular to the abdominal
wall while controlling the length with the dominant hand, until the
peritoneum is pierced.
4 The stilette is then withdrawn and the catheter gently pushed in,
directing it towards either iliac fossa until all the perforations are well
within the peritoneal cavity.
Soft PD catheter (Seldinger technique)
1 Cooke’s set 15F.
2 Advance the needle provided in the set connected to a syringe
perpendicularly until peritoneum is breached (a give is felt).
3 Thread and advance the guide wire through the needle aiming for
either iliac fossa.
4 Remove the needle. Using the guide wire, introduce the dilator and
sheath through a skin nick into the abdominal cavity.
5 Remove the dilator and guide wire while retaining the sheath in the
abdomen.
6 Introduce the soft PD catheter through the sheath into the abdominal
cavity directing it to either iliac fossa until the external cuff fits snugly
at the skin.
7 Peel off the sheath and secure the catheter via taping or a skin stitch.
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NEPHROLOGY
The PD Prescription
Exchange volume
• Start at 20 ml/kg and observe for discomfort, cardiorespiratory changes
or leakage at catheter site.
• The volume can be increased to a maximum of 50ml/kg or
1000 -1200ml/m² body surface area.
Cycle Duration
• First 6 cycles are rapid cycles i.e. no dwell time.The cycle duration
depends on needs of the patient. However, the standard prescription
usually last an hour:
• 5-10 minutes to instill (depending on exchange volume)
• 30-40 minutes dwell
• 10-15 minutes to drain (depending on exchange volume)
• The cycles can be done manually or with an automated cycler machine
if available.
PD Fluids
• Type of PD fluids:
• 1.5%, and 4.25% dextrose (standard commercially availabe)
• Bicarbonate dialysate¹, useful if lactic acidosis is a significant problem
• PD is usually initiated with 1.5% - if more rapid ultrafiltration is required
higher glucose concentration by mixing various combinations of 1.5 and
4.25% solutions can be used.
• Watch for hyperglycaemia.
Duration of PD
• The duration of PD depends on the needs of the patient
• The usual practice is 60 cycles but at times more cycles may be needed
based on biochemical markers or clinical needs. Peritonitis is frequent
when dialysis is prolonged or when acute catheters are used for more
than 3 to 4 days.
¹Note:
• In centers with continuous renal replacement therapy, the bicarbonate solution
used for CRRT (Continuous Renal ReplacementTherapy) can be used.
• In centers where this is not available, the assistance of the pharmacist is
required to constitute a physiological dialysis solution.
The contents and concentrations are listed in the next page.
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NEPHROLOGY
Pharmacy constituted PD-Bicarbonate solution 1.5% dextrose 3000ml / bag
Content Quantitiy (ml)
NaCl 0.9% 1374.00
NaCl 20% 13.23
Sodium Bicarbonate 8.4% 120.00
Magnesium Sulphate 49.3% 1.11
Dextrose 50% 90.00
Water for injection 1401.66
Common Complications
• Poor drainage (omental obstruction, kinking)
For temporary PD cannulas
• Re-position.
• Reinsert catheter if above unsuccessful.
For surgically implanted catheters
• Irrigation.
• Add Heparin (500 units/ litre) into PD fluids.
• Peritonitis
Diagnostic criteria :
• Abdominal pain, fever, cloudy PD effluent, PD effluent cell count
 100 WBC/mm².
Treatment:
• Intraperitoneal antibiotics (empirical Cloxacillin + Ceftazidime) for
7 - 14 days.
• Adjust antibiotics once culture results known (dosage as given below).
• Exit site infection
• Send swab for culture.
• Remove PD catheter that is not surgically implanted.
• Systemic antibiotics may be considered.
• Leaking dialysate
• At exit site – resuture immediately.
• Leakage from tubings – change dialysis set, empiric intraperitoneal
antibiotics for one to two days may be needed.
• Blood stained effluent
• If mild observe. It should clear with successive cycles.
• If heavy, but vital signs stable, run rapid cycles.
Transfuse cryoprecipitate. consider blood transfusion and DDAVP.
If bleeding does not stop after the first few cycles, stop the dialysis.
• If heavy, patient in shock, resuscitate as for patient with hypovolaemic
shock. Stop dialysis and refer surgeon immediately.
298
Paediatric Antibiotic Dosing Recommendations
Administration should be via intraperitoneal route unless specified otherwise
Continuous therapy Intermittent therapy
Loading dose Maintenance dose
Glycopeptides
Vancomycin 500 mg/L 30 mg/L 30 mg/kg q 5-7 days
Cephalosporins
Cephazolin/
Cephalothin
250 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs
Cefuroxime 200 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs
Cefotaxime 500 mg/L 250 mg/L 30 mg/kg q 24 hrs
Ceftazidime 250 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs
Antifungals
Amphotericin B 1 mg/kg IV 1 mg/kg/day IV ---
Fluconazole --- --- 3-6 mg/kg IP,IV,or PO
q24-48 hrs (max 200 mg)
Aminoglycosides
Amikacin 25 mg/L 12 mg/L
Gentamicin 8 mg/L 4 mg/L
Netilmycin 8 mg/L 4 mg/L
Penicillins
Amoxicillin 250-500
mg/L
50 mg/L
Combinations
Ampicillin/
Sulbactam
1000 mg/L 100 mg/L
Imipenem/
Cilastin
500 mg/L 200 mg/L
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299
Chapter 62: Neurogenic Bladder
Introduction
• Neurogenic bladder can develop as a result of a lesion at any level in
the nervous system, i.e. cerebral cortex, spinal cord, or peripheral nervous
system.
• However, the commonest cause of neurogenic bladder is spinal cord
abnormalities.
Multi-disciplinary approach
• Children with spinal dysraphism require care from a multidisciplinary team
consisting of neurosurgeon, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, rehabilitation
specialist, neonatologist, nephrologists, urologist and other allied medical
specialists.
• Long-term follow-up is necessary since renal or bladder function can still
deteriorate after childhood.
• Children with the conditions listed below can present with various
patterns of detrusor sphincter dysfunction within a wide range of severity,
not predicted by the level of the spinal cord defect.
Causes of Neurogenic Bladder
Open spinal dysraphism
• Meningocele, myelomeningocele and lipomyelomeningocele
Occult spinal dysraphism
• spinal bifida occulta
Anorectal agenesis, sacral agenesis
Spinal trauma
Spinal cord tumors
Transverse myelitis
• The commonest cause of neurogenic bladder is a lumbosacral
myelomeningocoele.
• At birth, the majority of patients with lumbosacral myelomeningocoele
have normal upper urinary tracts, but 60% of them develop upper tract
deterioration due to infections, bladder changes and reflux by 3 years of age.
• Progressive renal damage is due to high detrusor pressures both
throughout the filling phase (poor compliance bladder) as well as
superimposed detrusor contractions against a closed sphincter (detrusor
sphincter dyssynergia).
Aims of management:
• Preserve upper renal tracts and renal function
• Achieve urinary continence
• Develop sense of autonomy and better self esteem
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300
Open spinal dysraphism
Early management with clean intermittent catheterization (CIC):
• Aim is to create a low-pressure reservoir and ensuring complete and safe
bladder emptying with clean intermittent catheterization.
• CIC should be started once the myelomeningocoele is repaired starting CIC
in early infancy has led to easier acceptance by parents and children and
reduced upper tract deterioration and improvement in continence.
Timing of urodynamic study
Urodynamic study is indicated in all children with neurogenic bladder. How-
ever due to limited availability, urodynamic study should be carried out in
children with neurogenic bladder with the following:
• Recurrent UTI.
• Hydronephrosis.
• Incontinence despite CIC.
• Thickened bladder wall.
• Raised serum creatinine. In infants with lumbosacral myelomeningocoele
with any of the above conditions and who have been started on CIC,
anti-cholinergic e.g. Oxybutinin (0.3-0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 to 3 divided dose)
should be started even if urodynamic study is not available.
Clean intermittent catheterisation
• Children, as young as 5 years of age, have learnt to do self-catheterization.
• Patients are taught catheterisation in hospital by trained nurse/doctor.
• The rationale and benefits of intermittent catheterisation are explained,
and the patient is reassured that it should be neither painful nor dangerous
• Patients are taught to catheterise themselves lying down, standing up,
or sitting on a lavatory, chair, or wheelchair.
Complications of CIC
• Urethral trauma with creation of false passages, urethral strictures and
bacteriuria.
Notes on CIC:
• In infants with myelomeningocoele, management is directed at creating a
low-pressure reservoir and ensuring complete and safe bladder emptying
with clean intermittent catheterization.
• CIC should be started once the myelomeningocoele is repaired.
• Starting CIC in early infancy has led to easier acceptance by parents and
children and reduced upper tract deterioration and improvement in
continence.
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301
NEPHROLOGY
Technique of Clean Intermittent Catheterisation (CIC)
Procedure
1 Assemble all equipment: catheter, ± lubricant, drainage receptacle,
adjustable mirror.
2 Wash hands with soap and water.
3 Clean the urethral orifice with clean water.
In boys:
1 Lift penis with one hand to straighten out urethra.
2 Lubricate the catheter, with local anaesthetic gel (lignocaine)/K-Y jelly.
3 Use the other hand to insert the catheter into the urethra.There may
be some resistance as the catheter tip reaches the bladder neck.
4 Continue to advance the catheter slowly using gentle,firm pressure until
the sphincter relaxes.
In girls:
1 The labia are separated and the catheter inserted through the urethral
meatus into the bladder.
For both males and females
1 The catheter is inserted gently until the urine flows.
2 The urine is collected in a jug or bottle or is directed into the lavatory.
3 Once the urine has stopped flowing the catheter should be rotated
and then, if no urine drains, slowly withdrawn.
4 Wash hands on completion of catheterization.
5 Catheterise at the prescribed time with the best available measures.
Size of Catheters
Small babies: 6F
Children: 8-10F
Adolescents: 12-14F
How Often to Catheterise
Infants: 6 times a day
Children: 4-5 times a day, more frequently in patients with a high fluid
intake, and in patients with a small capacity bladder.
Reuse of catheters
1 Catheters can be re-used for 2 to 4 weeks
2 After using the catheter, wash in soapy water, rinse well under running
tap water, hang to air dry and store in clean container.
302
Algorithm for the Management of Neurogenic Bladder
NEPHROLOGY
Newborn with Open Spinal Dysraphism
Surgical Closure of Defect
Start CIC before Discharge
Baseline evaluation and assessment of
risk for upper urinary tract damage
• Clinical examination
• Urine analysis and culture
• Renal profile
• Ultrasound kidneys, ureter and bladder
Urodynamic Studies, if indicated:
• Hydronephrosis
• Recurrent urinary tract infection
Refer to Combined Urology/Nephrology Care
• Deteriorating upper tract
• Abnormal serum creatinine
• Recurrent urinary tract infection
• Urinary Incontinence
303
NEPHROLOGY
Recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and antibiotics
• Prophylactic antibacterial therapy is not recommended as therapy does not
decrease the incidence of clinical infections.
• Asymptomatic bacteriuria are common but does not require treatment.
• All febrile UTIs should be treated with antibiotics as soon as possible.
• Children with recurrent symptomatic UTI should be given prophylactic
antibiotics and may benefit from circumcision.
Management of bowel incontinence
• Laxatives: mineral oil, lactulose, enema.
• Aim to achieve regular and efficient bowel emptying regimen.
Follow up assessment
• Voiding chart: timing of daytime and night-time voiding, volume of each
void, and incontinence and urge episodes.
• Constipation and fecal incontinence.
• Monitoring of blood pressure, urinalysis, renal profile.
• Urine culture in suspected febrile UTI or symptomatic UTI.
• Serial ultrasound imaging at regular intervals depending on the age and
baseline ultrasound findings. Infants and younger children require more
frequent ultrasound scans up to 3 to 6 monthly.
Occult spinal dysraphism
• May present with cutaneous stigmata (hairy tufts, skin tags, lumbosacral
subcutaneous masses and haemangiomas)
• Spinal ultrasound can be used in neonates and infants, optimally before 6
months of age, when ossification of posterior elements prevents an
acoustic window.
• After 6 months of age, the imaging modality is MRI of spine.
Other conditions that lead to neurogenic bladder
• Start CIC in patients with acquired neurogenic bladder with urinary
retention, recurrent urinary tract infection and/or hydronephrosis.
304
NEPHROLOGY
305
Chapter 63: Urinary Tract Infection
Introduction
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) comprises 5% of febrile illnesses in early
childhood. 2.1% of girls and 2.2% of boys will have had a UTI before the
age of 2 years.
• UTI is an important risk factor for the development of hypertension, renal
failure and end stage renal disease.
Definition
• Urinary tract infection is growth of bacteria in the urinary tract or
combination of clinical features and presence of bacteria in the urine
• Significant bacteriuria is defined as the presence of  105 colony forming
units (cfu) of a single organism per ml of freshly voided urine (Kass).
• Acute pyelonephritis is bacteriuria presenting clinically with fever  38⁰C
and/or loin pain and tenderness. It carries a higher risk of renal scarring
• Acute cystitis is infection limited to the lower urinary tract presenting
clinically with acute voiding symptoms: dysuria, urgency, frequency,
suprapubic pain or incontinence.
• Asymptomatic bacteriuria is presence of bacteriuria in the urine in an
otherwise asymptomatic child.
Clinical Presentation
• Symptoms depend on the age of the child and the site of infection.
• In infants and toddlers: signs and symptoms are non-specific e.g. fever,
irritability, jaundice and failure to thrive.
• The presence of UTI should be considered in children with unexplained
fever.
• Symptoms of lower UTI such as pain with micturition and frequency are
often not recognized before the age of two.	
Physical Examination
• General examination, growth, blood pressure.
• Abdominal examination for distended bladder, ballotable kidneys, other
masses, genitalia, and anal tone.
• Examine the back for any spinal lesion.
• Look for lower limb deformities or wasting (suggests a neurogenic bladder).
Diagnosis
• Accurate diagnosis is extremely important as false diagnosis of UTI would
lead to unnecessary interventions that are costly and potentially harmful.
• The diagnosis is best made with a combination of culture and urinalysis
• The quality of the urine sample is of crucial importance.
Urine specimen transport
• If collected urine cannot be cultured within 4 hours; the specimen should be
refrigerated at 4 oC or a bacteriostatic agent e.g. boric acid (1.8%) added.
• Fill the specimen container pre-filled with boric acid with urine to the
required level.
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306
NEPHROLOGY
Collection of Urine
Bag urine specimen
High contamination rate of up to 70%.
Negative culture excludes UTI in untreated children.
Positive culture should be confirmed with a clean catch or suprapubic aspi-
ration specimen (SPA).
Clean catch specimen
Recommended in a child who is bladder trained.
Catheterisation
Sensitivity 95%, specificity 99%, as compared to SPA.
Low risk of introducing infection but have higher success rates and the
procedure is less painful compared to SPA.
Suprapubic aspiration (SPA)
Best technique (“gold standard”) of obtaining an uncontaminated urine
sample.
Any gram negative growth is significant.
Technique:
• Lie the child in a supine position.
• Thin needle with syringe is inserted vertically in the midline, 1 - 2 cm
above symphysis pubis.
• Urine is obtained at a depth of 2 to 3 cm.
Usually done in infants  1 year; also applicable in children aged 4 - 5 years
if bladder is palpable above the symphysis pubis.
Success rate is 98% with ultrasound guidance.
Note: When it is not possible to collect urine by non-invasive methods,
catheterization or SPA should be used.
Urine testing
• Rapid diagnosis of UTI can be made by examining the fresh urine with
urinary dipstick and microscopy. However, where possible, a fresh
specimen of urine should be sent for culture and sensitivity.
307
Sensitivity and specificity of various tests for UTI
Test Sensitivity % (range) Specificity % (range)
Leucocyte esterase (LE) 78 (64-92) 83 (67-94)
Nitrite 98 (90-100) 53(15-82)
LE or nitrite positive 72 (58-91) 93 (90-100)
Pyuria 81 (45-98) 73 (32-100)
Bacteria 83 (11-100) 81(16-99)
Any positive test 70 (60-90) 99.8 (99-100)
Management
• All infants with febrile UTI should be admitted and intravenous antibiotics
started as for acute pyelonephritis.
• In patients with high risk of serious illness, it is preferable that urine sample
should be obtained first; however treatment should be started if urine
sample is unobtainable.
Antibiotic prophylaxis
• Antibiotic prophylaxis should not be routinely recommended in infants and
children following first time UTI as antimicrobial prophylaxis does not
seem to reduce significantly the rates of recurrence of pyelonephritis,
regardless of age or degree of reflux.
However, antibiotic prophylaxis may be considered in the following:
• Infants and children with recurrent symptomatic UTI.
• Infants and children with vesico-ureteric reflux grades of at least grade III.
Measures to reduce risk of further infections
• Dysfunctional elimination syndrome (DES) or dysfunctional voiding is
defined as an abnormal pattern of voiding of unknown aetiology
characterised by faecal and/or urinary incontinence and withholding of
both urine and faeces.
• Treatment of DES includes high fibre diet, use of laxatives, timed frequent
voiding, and regular bowel movement.
• If condition persists, referral to a paediatric urologist/nephrologist is
needed.
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308
NEPHROLOGY
AntibioticTreatment for UTI
Type of Infection PreferredTreatment AlternativeTreatment
UTI (Acute cystitis)
E.coli. POTrimethoprim
4mg/kg/dose bd
(max 300mg daily)
for 1 week
POTrimethoprim/
Sulphamethazole
4mg/kg/dose (TMP) bd
for1 week
Proteus spp.
• Cephalexin, cefuroxime can also be used especially in children who had
prior antibiotics.
• Single dose of antibiotic therapy not recommended.
UpperTract UTI (Acute pyelonephritis)
E.coli. IV Cefotaxime 100mg/kg/day
q8h
for 10-14 days
IV Cefuroxime 100mg/kg/day
q8h
OR
IV Gentamicin 5-7mg/kg/day
daily
Proteus spp.
• Repeat culture within 48hours if poor response.
• Antibiotic may need to be changed according to sensitivity.
Suggest to continue intravenous antibiotic until child is afebrile for 2-3 days
and then switch to appropriate oral therapy after culture results
e.g. Cefuroxime, for total of 10-14 days.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria
No treatment recommended
Antibiotic Prophylaxis for UTI
Indication PreferredTreatment AlternativeTreatment
UTI
Prophylaxis
POTrimethoprim
1-2mg/kg ON
PO Nitrofurantoin
1-2mg/kg ON
or
PO Cephalexin 5mg/kg ON
• Antibiotic prophylaxis is not be routinely recommended in children with UTI.
• Prophylactic antibiotics should be given for 3 days with MCUG done on
the second day.
• A child develops an infection while on prophylactic medication, treatment
should be with a different antibiotic and not a higher dose of the same
prophylactic antibiotic.
309
NEPHROLOGY
Recommendations for imaging
Previous guidelines have recommended routine radiological imaging for all
children with UTI. Current evidence has narrowed the indications for imaging
as summarized below:
Ultrasound
Recommended in
• All children less than 3 years of age
• Children above 3 years of age with poor urinary stream, seriously ill with
UTI, palpable abdominal masses, raised serum creatinine, non E coli UTI,
febrile after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment, or recurrent UTI.
DMSA scan
Recommended in infants and children with UTI with any of the following
features:
• Seriously ill with UTI.
• Poor urine flow.
• Abdominal or bladder mass.
• Raised creatinine.
• Septicaemia.
• Failure to respond to treatment with suitable antibiotics within 48 hours.
• Infection with non E. coli organisms.
Micturating cystourethogram (MCUG)
Since meta-analyses of data from recent, randomized controlled trials do not
support antimicrobial prophylaxis to prevent febrile UTI; routine MCUG after
the first UTI should not be routinely recommended after the first UTI.
MCUG may be considered in:
• Infants with recurrent UTI.
• Infants with UTI and the following features: poor urinary stream, seriously
ill with UTI, palpable abdominal masses, raised serum creatinine,
non E. coli UTI, febrile after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment.
• Children less than 3 years old with the following features:
• Dilatation on ultrasound.
• Poor urine flow.
• Non E. coli infection.
• Family history of VUR.
Other radiological investigations e.g. DTPA scan, MCUG in older children
would depend on the ultrasound findings.
310
NEPHROLOGY
Further Management
This depends upon the results of investigation.
NORMAL RENAL TRACTS
• Prophylactic antibiotic not required.
• Urine culture during any febrile illness or if the child is unwell.
NO VESICOURETERIC REFLUX BUT RENAL SCARRING PRESENT.
• Repeat urine culture only if symptomatic.
• Assessment includes height, weight, blood pressure and routine tests for
proteinuria.
• Children with a minor, unilateral renal scarring do not need long-term
follow-up unless recurrent UTI or family history or lifestyle risk factors for
hypertension.
• Children with bilateral renal abnormalities, impaired renal function, raised
blood pressure and or proteinuria should be managed by a nephrologist.
• Close follow up during pregnancy.
VESICOURETEIC REFLUX
Definition
• Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is defined as the retrograde flow of urine from
the bladder into the ureter and collecting system.
• In most individuals VUR results from a congenital anomaly of ureterovesical
junction (primary VUR), whereas in others it results from high pressure
voiding secondary to posterior urethral valve, neuropathic bladder or
voiding dysfunction (secondary VUR).
Significance of VUR
• Commonest radiological abnormality in children with UTI (30 – 40%).
• Children with VUR thought to be at risk for further episodes of
pyelonephritis with potential for increasing renal scarring and renal
impairment (reflux nephropathy).
Vesicoureteric
Reflux
Recurrent
UTI
Progressive
Renal Scarring
End Stage
Renal Disease
Hypertension
NATURAL HISTORY OF VESICOURETERIC REFLUX
311
Management
• Antibiotic prophylaxis – refer to antibiotic prophylaxis section above
• Surgical management or endoscopic treatment is considered if the child
has recurrent breakthrough febrile UTI.
POSTERIOR URETHRAL VALVE
• Refer to a Paediatric urologist/surgeon/nephrologist.
RENAL DYSPLASIA, HYPOPLASIA OR MODERATE TO SEVERE
HYDRONEPHROSIS
• May need further imaging to evaluate function or drainage in the case of
hydronephrosis
• Refer surgeon if obstruction is confirmed.
• Monitor renal function, BP and growth parameters
Summary
• All children less than 2 years of age with unexplained fever should have
urine tested for UTI.
• Greater emphasis on earlier diagnosis  prompt treatment of UTI
• Diagnosis of UTI should be unequivocally established before a child is
subjected to invasive and expensive radiological studies
• Antibiotic prophylaxis should not be routinely recommended following
first-time UTI.
CLASSIFICATION OF VESICOURETERIC REFLUX ACCORDING TO
THE INTERNATIONAL REFLUX STUDY COMMITTEE.
Grade I Grade IVGrade III Grade VGrade II
Kidney
Bladder
Ureter
312
NEPHROLOGY
313
Chapter 64: Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Definition
• No consensus statement to date.
• Most studied parameter is the measurement of antero -posterior diameter
(APD) of renal pelvis as visualized on transverse plane.
• Most agree that APD of renal pelvis of at least 5 mm on antenatal
ultrasound of the fetus is abnormal.
• APD  15mm represents severe or significant hydronephrosis.
• Fetal Hydronephrosis Index(HI): APD of renal pelvis divided by urinary
bladder volume has been proposed as studied parameter but not
uniformly accepted yet.
Advantages of prenatal detection
• May potentially be used for prenatal counseling and has allowed
identification of conditions that require immediate treatment and which
otherwise would go unrecognized until symptoms arose postnatally.
• Meta-analysis of 17 studies revealed that calculated risk of any postnatal
pathology per degree of antenatal hydronephrosis was 11.9% for mild ,
45.1% for moderate and 88.3% for severe.
Goals in evaluation of patients with antenatal hydronephrosis
• Prevent potential complications.
• Preserve renal function.
• Distinguish children who require follow up and intervention from those
who do not.
Timing of detection
• 90% after eighteen weeks of gestation.
• 95% by 22 weeks.
Grading
The Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) Hydronephronephrosis Grading System
Grades Pattern of renal sinus splitting
SFU Grade 0 No splitting (renal pelvis)
SFU Grade I Urine in pelvis barely splits sinus
SFU Grade II Urine fills intrarenal pelvis
SFU Grade II Urine fills extrarenal pelvis. Major calyces dilated
SFU Grade III SFU Grade 2 and minor calyces uniformly dilated but
renal parenchyma preserved.
SFU Grade IV SFU Grade 3 and renal parenchyma thin
• Marked hydronephrosis is frequently seen in pelvic ureteric junction
obstruction whereas the mild hydronephrosis is associated with
vesicouretric reflux.
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314
NEPHROLOGY
Epidemiology
• 1-5% of all pregnancies
• Increased frequency of up to 8% with positive family history of renal
agenesis, multicystic kidney, reflux nephropathy and polycystic kidneys.
• Male to female ratio is 2:1.
• Bilateral in 20 to 40 %.
Aetiology in Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Abnormality Frequency (%)
Transient 48
Physiologic 15
Pelvic ureteric junction obstruction 11
Vesicoureteric reflux 4
Megaureter,obstructed or non-obstructed 4
Multicystic kidneys 2
Ureterocoeles 2
Posterior urethral valves 1
Transient and physiologic hydronephrosis
• 60% of antenatal hydronephrosis is physiological. This will resolve before
end of pregnancy or within first year of life.
• Fetal urine flow is four to six times greater than neonatal urine production.
• This is due to differences in renovascular resistances, GFR and concentrating
ability before and after birth. These differences may contribute to ureteric
dilatation in-utero in the absence of functionally significant obstruction.
Antenatal management
• In general antenatal interventions are not required except for watchful
monitoring.
• Pregnancy should be allowed to proceed to term and normal delivery can
be allowed in the absence of other complications like severe
oligohydramnios or other fetal abnormalities.
Timing of postnatal evaluation
• Within first week of life: Neonates with unilateral hydronephrosis and
normal contralateral kidney.
• Immediate evaluation before discharge: Bilateral hydronephrosis,
hydronephrosis in solitary kidneys and bladder outlet obstruction.
315
Postnatal management
Physical examination
Certain clinical features may suggest specific underlying causes:
• Abdominal mass: Enlarged kidney due to pelvic-ureteric junction obstruction
or multicystic dysplastic kidneys.
• Palpable bladder and/or poor stream and dribbling: Posterior urethral
valves in a male infant.
• Deficient abdominal wall with undescended testes: Prune Belly syndrome.
• Abnormalities in the spine and lower limb with patulous anus: Neurogenic
bladder.
Examination for other anomalies should also be carried out.
Unilateral hydronephrosis
• In babies who are normal on physical examination, a repeat ultrasound
should be done after birth; subsequent management will depend on the
ultrasound findings.
• The ultrasound should be repeated one month later if initial postnatal US is
normal or show only mild hydronephrosis. The patient can be discharged
if the repeat ultrasound is also normal.
Bilateral Hydronephrosis
These babies need a full examination and investigation after birth.
• Ultrasound of the kidneys and urinary tracts should be repeated.
• Urine output should be monitored.
• Renal profile should be done on day 2 of life.
• The child should be monitored closely for UTI and a second-generation
cephalosporin started if there is any suggestion of UTI.
In boys, detailed ultrasound scan should be done by an experienced radiolo-
gist to detect thickened bladder wall and dilated posterior urethra suggestive
of posterior urethral valves. Any suggestion of posterior urethral valve or
renal failure warrants an urgent MCU.
Urgent referral to a Paediatric nephrologist and/or Urologist is needed if the
newborn has renal failure, or confirmed or suspected posterior urethral
valves.
Other radiological investigations
99mDTPA/Mag 3 SCAN
• DTPA or Mag 3 scans are required when there is moderate or gross
hydronephrosis on postnatal ultrasound. These scans detect differential
function of both kidneys as well as the presence of significant obstruction in the
urinary tract. In Malaysia, only DTPA scan is available in most radionuclear
centers. It is best done after one month of life.
Intravenous Urogram (IVU)
• With the availability of DTPA /Mag3 scan, IVU is no more indicated.
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316
NEPHROLOGY
Antibiotics
Efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis has not been proven. Consider antibiotic
prophylaxis in high risk population such as those with gross hydronephrosis
and hydroureters.
Commonly used Antibiotic Prophylaxis
Trimethoprim 1-2mg/kg at night
Cephalexin 5mg/kg at night
Follow up Care
All children with significant hydronephrosis should be referred to paediatric
nephrologists / urologist after relevant radiological investigations have been
completed.
317
NEPHROLOGY
Postnatal
Ultrasound Kidneys
Repeat
Ultrasound
Kidneys
Normal
Ultrasound findings
Micturating
CystoUrethrogram (MCU)
Discharge
Urgent Referral to
Nephrologist / Urologist
Antenatal Hydronephrosis
BILATERAL
Hydronephrosis
UNILATERAL
Hydronephrosis
Investigations
Renal profile, VBG, FBC,
UFEME, urine CS
Normal/Mild
Hydronephrosis
Moderate/Gross
Hydronephrosis
Females
Incr Sr Creatinine
Males
Dilated post urethra
Thickened bladder wall
Posterior Urethral Valve
If No VUR or
VUR Grade 1  2 only
Proceed to DTPA scan
Postnatal
Ultrasound Kidneys
Micturating
CystoUrethrogram
(MCU)
Nephrologist / Urologist
Consultation
ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF ANTENATALLY DIAGNOSED HYDRONEPHROSIS
318
NEPHROLOGY
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Chapter 64 Antenatal Hydronephrosis
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2.Vivian YF Leung, Winnie CW Chu, Constatntine Metrewell Hydronephrosis
index: a better physiological reference in antenatal ultrasound for assess-
ment of fetal hydronephrosis J Pediatr ( 2009);154:116-20
3.Richard S Lee, Marc Cendron, Daniel D Kinnamon, Hiep T. Nguyen Antenatal
hydronephrosis as a predictor of postnatal outcome: A Meta-analysis
Pediatrics (2006);118:586-594
4.Baskin L Tulin Ozca Overview of antenatal hydronpehrosis www.uptodate.
com 2011.
5.Madarikan BA, Hayward C, Roberts GM et al. Clinical outcome of fetal
uropathy. Arch Dis Child 1988; 63:961.
6.ReussA, Wladimiroff JW, Niermeijer MF. Antenatal diagnosis of renal tract
anomalies by ultrasound. Pediatr Nephrol 1987; 1:546.
7.Gonzales R, Schimke CM. Uteropelvic junction obstruction in infants and
children. Pediatr Clin North Am 2001; 48:1505.
8.Woodward M, Frank D. Postnatal management of antenatal hydronephro-
sis. BJU Int 2002; 89:149.
9.Keating MA, Escala J, Snyder HM et al. Changing concepts in management
of primary obstructive megaureter. J Urol 1989; 142:636
10.Paediatric Formulary Guy’s, St. Thomas’ and Lewisham Hospital 7th edi-
tion.2010.
11.U, Hansson S. The Swedish Reflux Trial in Children, part III: urinary tract
infection pattern. J Urol. 2010;184(1):286-291.
NEPHROLOGY
321
Chapter 65: Approach to a Child with Anaemia
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Child with Anaemia
• History
• Physical Examination
• Preliminary Investigations:
Hb, Haematocrit,
Red cell indices, Blood film
Reticulocyte count,
Presence of Generalized
Lymphadenopathy
and/or Hepatosplenomegaly?
Differential Diagnosis
Acute / Chronic leukaemias
Chronic haemolytic anaemia:
Thalassaemia
Hereditary Spherocytosis
Hereditary Elliptocytosis
G6PD deficiency
Malignancies e.g. lymphoma
Chronic infection e.g. Tuberculosis
Differential Diagnosis
Acute blood loss
Iron deficiency
Folate deficiency
B12 deficiency
Acute haemolytic anaemia:
• G6PD deficiency with oxidant stress
• Autoimmune
• ABO incompatibility
• Infection e.g. malaria
• Drug induced
Bone marrow failure
• Aplastic anaemia
• Fanconi’s anaemia
• Diamond-Blackfan
Others
• Hypothyroidism
• Chronic renal failure
APPROACH TO CHILDREN WITH ANAEMIA
YES NO
322
Variation in Full Blood Count Indices with Age
Age Hb (g/dl) RBC (x10 /l) MCV (fl)
Birth 14.9 – 23.7 3.7-6.5 100-135
2 months 9.4-13.0 3.1-4.3 84-105
12 months 11.3-14.1 4.1-5.3 71-85
2-6 year 11.5-13.5 3.9-5.3 75-87
6-12 year 11.5-15.5 4.0-5.2 77-95
12-18 yr girls 12.0-16.0 4.1-5.1 78-95
12-18 yr boys 13.0-16.0 4.5-5.3 78-95
Hb, haemoglobin; RBC, red blood cell count; MCV, mean corpuscular volume;
MCH, mean corpuscular haemoglobin
IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA
Laboratory findings
• Red cell indices : Low MCV,
Low MCH values
• Low serum ferritin
Treatment
Nutritional counseling
• Maintain breastfeeding.
• Use iron fortified cereals.
Oral iron medication
• Give 6 mg/kg/day of elemental iron in 3 divided doses, continue for
6-8 weeks after haemoglobin level is restored to normal.
• Syr FAC (Ferrous ammonium citrate): the content of elemental iron per ml
depends on the preparation available.
• Tab. Ferrous fumarate 200 mg has 66 mg of elemental iron per tablet.
Consider the following if failure to response to oral iron:
• Non-compliance.
• Inadequate iron dosage.
• Unrecognized blood loss.
• Impaired GI absorption.
• Incorrect diagnosis.
Blood transfusion
• No transfusion required in chronic anemia unless signs of decompensation
(e.g. cardiac dysfunction) and the patient is otherwise debilitated.
• In severe anaemia (Hb  4 g/dL) give low volume packed red cells ( 5mls/kg).
• If necessary over 4-6 hours with IV Frusemide (1mg/kg) midway.
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Chronic blood loss
Increase demand
• Prematurity
• Growth
Malabsorption
• Worm infestation
Poor diet
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
HEREDITARY SPHEROCYTOSIS
Pathogenesis
• A defective structural protein (spectrin) in the RBC membrane
producing spheroidal shaped and osmotically fragile RBCs that are trapped
and destroyed in the spleen, resulting in shortened RBC life span.
• The degree of clinical severity is proportional to the severity of RBC
membrane defect.
• Inheritance is autosomal dominant in 2/3; recessive or de novo in 1/3 of
children.
Clinical features – Mild, moderate and severe
• Anaemia
• Intermittent jaundice plenomegaly
• Splenomegaly
• Haemolytic crises
• Pigmented gallstones in adolescents and young adults
• Aplastic crises with Parvovirus B19 infections
• Megaloblastic crises
• All patients should receive folate supplement
Rare manifestations
• Leg ulcers, spinocerebellar ataxia, myopathy
• Extramedullary haematopoietic tumours,
Investigations in children with Suspected Spherocytosis
Reticulocytosis
Microspherocytes in peripheral blood film
Osmotic fragility is increased
Elevated MCHC
Normal direct antiglobulin test
Autohaemolysis is increased and corrected by glucose
	
Treatment
• Splenectomy to be delayed as long as possible.
• In mild cases, avoid splenectomy unless gallstones developed.
• Folic acid supplements: 1 mg day.
• Splenectomy is avoided for patients  5 years because of the increased risk
of postsplenectomy sepsis.
• Give pneumococcal, haemophilus and meningococcal vaccination 4-6
weeks prior to splenectomy and prophylactic oral penicillin to be given
post splenectomy.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
325
Chapter 66: Thalassaemia
Introduction
• β-Thalassaemia major is an inherited blood disorder presenting with
anaemia at 4 - 6 months of age.
• Common presenting symptoms are pallor lethargy, failure to thrive and
hepatosplenomegaly.
• In Malaysia, the β-thalassaemia carrier rate is estimated at 3-5%, most of
whom are unaware of their carrier / thalassaemia minor status.
• The carrier rates of α-thalassaemia and Haemoglobin E (HbE) are 1.8-7.5%
and 5-46% respectively. HbE are found more in the northern peninsular
states.
• Interaction between a β-thalassaemia carrier with a HbE carrier may result
in the birth of a patient with HbEβ-thalassaemia or thalassaemia
intermedia with variable clinical severity.
• The moderate to severe forms behave like β-thalassaemia major patients
while the milder forms are asymptomatic.
Baseline investigations to be done for all new patients: -
• Full blood count, Peripheral blood film (In typical cases, the Hb is about 7g/dl)
• Haemoglobin analysis by electrophoresis / HPLC:
• Typical findings for β-thalassaemia major: HbA decreased or absent,
HbF increased, HbA2 variable.
• Serum ferritin.
• Red cell phenotyping (ideal) before first transfusion.
• DNA analysis (ideal)
• For the detection of α-carrier and confirmation of difficult cases.
• Mandatory in prenatal diagnosis.
• Available upon request at tertiary centre laboratories in IMR, HKL, HUKM,
UMMC and USM.
• Liver function test.
• Infection screen: HIV, Hepatitis B  C, VDRL screen (before first transfusion).
• HLA typing (for all patient with unaffected siblings)
• All nuclear family members must be investigated by Hb Analysis for genetic
counselling.
• 1st degree and 2nd degree relatives should also be encouraged to be
screened  counselled (cascade screening).
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Management
Regular maintenance blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy is the
mainstay of treatment in patients with transfusion dependent thalassaemia.
Maintenance Blood Transfusion
Beta thalassaemia major
• When to start blood transfusion?
• After completing blood investigations for confirmation of diagnosis.
• Hb  7g/dl on 2 occasions  2 weeks apart (in absence other factors
e.g. infection).
• Hb  7g/dl in β+-thalassaemia major/severe forms of HbE-β-thalassaemia
if impaired growth, para-spinal masses, severe bone changes, enlarging
liver and spleen.
• Transfusion targets?
• Maintain pre transfusion Hb level at 9 -10 g/dl.
• Keep mean post-transfusion Hb at 13.5-15.5g/dl.
• Keep mean Hb 12 - 12.5 g/dl.
• The above targets allow for normal physical activity and growth,
abolishes chronic hypoxaemia, reduce compensatory marrow hyperplasia
which causes irreversible facial bone changes and para-spinal masses.
• Transfusion interval?
• Usually 4 weekly interval (usual rate of Hb decline is at 1g/dl/week).
• Interval varies from individual patients (range: 2 - 6 weekly).
• Transfusion volume?
• Volume: 15 - 20mls/kg (maximum) packed red cells (PRBC).
• Round-up to the nearest pint of cross-matched blood provided.
i.e. if calculated volume is just  1 pint of blood, give 1 pint,
or if calculated volume is just  2 pints, give 2 pints.
This strategy minimizes the number of exposure to immunologically
different units of blood product and avoid wastage of donated blood.
Note:
• In the presence of cardiac failure or Hb  5g/dl, use lower volume PRBC (
5ml/kg) at slow infusion rate over  4 hours with IV Frusemide 1 mg/kg
(20 mg maximum dose).
• It is recommended for patients to use leucodepleted (pre-storage, post
storage or bedside leucocyte filters) PRBC  2 weeks old.
• Leucodepletion would minimize non-haemolytic febrile reactions and
alloimmunization by removing white cells contaminating PRBC.
Thalassaemia intermedia
• A clinical diagnosis where patients present later with less severe anaemia
at  2 years of age usually with Hb 8g/dl or more.
• Severity varies from being symptomatic at presentation to being
asymptomatic until later adult life.
• Assessment and decision to start regular transfusion is best left to the
specialist.
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327
Alpha Thalassaemia (Hb H disease)
• Transfuse only if Hb persistently  7g/dl and/or symptomatic.
Iron Chelation Therapy
• This is essential to prevent iron overload in transfusion dependent
thalassaemia.
• Compliance to optimal treatment is directly related to superior survival
outcome, now possible beyond the 6th decade.
• Currently 3 approved iron chelators are available: Desferrioxamine (DFO),
Deferiprone (DFP) and Deferasirox (DFX).
Desferrioxamine (Desferal®)
• When to start?
• Usually when the child is  2 - 3 years old.
• When serum ferritin reaches 1000 µg/L.
• Usually after 10 – 20 blood transfusions.
• Dosage and route
• Average daily dose is 20 – 40mg/kg/day.
• by subcutaneous (s.c.) continuous infusion using a portable pump over
8-10 hours daily, 5 - 7 nights a week.
• Aim to maintain serum ferritin level below 1000 µg/L.
• Vitamin C augments iron excretion with Desferal®.
• Severely iron loaded patients require longer or continuous SC or IV infusion
(via Portacath) of Desferal®.
Complications of Desferal®
• Local skin reactions usually due to inadequately diluted Desferal® or infection
• Yersinia infection: presents with fever, abdominal pain  diarrhoea.
• Stop Desferal® and treat with cotrimoxazole, aminoglycoside or
3rd generation cephalosporin.
• Desferal® toxicity (if using high doses  50mg/kg/day in the presence of
low serum ferritin in children):
• Ocular toxicity: reduced vision, visual fields, night blindness; reversible
• Auditory toxicity: high tone deafness. Not usually reversible
• Skeletal lesions: pseudo rickets, metaphyseal changes, vertebral growth
retardation.
Complications of chronic iron overload in Thalassaemics over 10 years
• Endocrine: growth retardation, impaired glucose tolerance, pubertal delay,
hypothyroidism, hypoparathyroidism and diabetes mellitus.
• Cardiac: arrhythmias, pericarditis, cardiac failure.
• Hepatic: liver cirrhosis (especially if with Hepatitis B/C infection).
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Oral iron chelator
• Deferiprone / L1 (Ferriprox®/Kelfer®) is an alternative if iron chelation is
ineffective or inadequate despite optimal Desferal® use, or if Desferal® use
is contraindicated. However, there is no formal evaluation in children  10
years of age.
• Deferiprone is given 75 – 100 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses.
• It can also be used in combination with Desferal®, using a lower dose of
50mg/kg/day.
• There are risks of GI disturbance, arthritis and rare occurrence of idiopathic
agranulocytosis.
• Weekly full blood count monitoring is recommended. Stop if neutropaenic
(1,500/mm³).
• Deferasirox (Exjade®) can also be used for transfusional iron overload in
patients 2 years or older but is expensive.
• The dose is 20-30 mg/kg/day in liquid dispersible tablet, taken once daily.
• There are risks of transient skin rash, GI disturbance and a reversible rise in
serum creatinine.
• Monthly monitoring of renal function is required.
Monitoring of patients
During each admission for blood transfusion,
the following should be done:
• Clinical assessment: height, weight, liver  spleen size, any adverse side
effects of chelation therapy.
• Pre-transfusion Hb, platelet count and WBC (if on Deferiprone).
• Post transfusion Hb – ½ hour post transfusion.
• Calculate the volume of pure RBC transfused based on the haematocrit
(HCT) of packed red blood cells (PRBC) given (usually HCT of PRBC from
blood bank is  50 - 55%).
• Volume of pure RBC transfused = volume of blood given x HCT of PRBC
given (e.g. 600 mls x 0.55 = 330 mls).
• Annual volume of pure RBC transfused per kg body weight.
• Iron balance assessment.
• Review of current medications.
Every 3- 6 months
• Evaluate growth and development.
• Serum ferritin.
• Liver function test.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Every year or more frequent if indicated
• Evaluate growth and development
• Endocrine assessment – modified GTT, T4/TSH, Ca, PO4
(If Ca low - check PTH  Vit. D).
• Pubertal and sexual development from 10 years onwards.
• Tanner stage of breast and genitalia.
• Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) levels,
oestradiol or testosterone hormone levels.
• Infection screen (6 monthly) – Hepatitis B and C, HIV, VDRL.
• Annual volume of pure red blood cell transfused/median body weight.
• Evaluate iron balance and overload status.
• Bone: osteoporosis  skeletal abnormalities.
Cardiac assessment at variable intervals and especially after 10 years of age
• Yearly ECG or Holter monitoring for arrhythmias.
• Annual cardiac echocardiography.
• Cardiac T2* MRI.
Liver iron assessment
• Liver T2* MRI for non-invasive assessment of liver iron.
• Liver biopsy for liver iron concentration and the assessment of hepatitis,
fibrosis or cirrhosis in selected cases and prior to bone marrow
transplantation.
Splenectomy
Indications
• Blood consumption volume of pure RBC  1.5X normal or
200-220 mls/kg/year in those  5 years of age to maintain average
haemoglobin levels.
• Evidence of hypersplenism.
Note:
• Give pneumococcal and HIB vaccinations 4-6 weeks prior to splenectomy.
• Meningococcal vaccine required in endemic areas.
• Penicillin prophylaxis for life after splenectomy.
• Low dose aspirin (75 mg daily) if thrombocytosis  800,000/mm³ after
splenectomy.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Diet and supplements
• Oral folate at minimum 1 mg daily may benefit most patients.
• Low dose Vitamin C at 3 mg/kg augments iron excretion for those on
Desferral only.
• Dose: 10 yrs, 50mg daily; 10yrs, 100mg daily given only on deferral days
• Avoid iron rich food such as red meat and iron fortified cereals or milk.
• Tea may help decrease intestinal iron absorption.
• Dairy products are recommended as they are rich in calcium.
• Vitamin E as antioxidant.
• Calcium and zinc.
Bone marrow transplantation (BMT)
• Potential curative option when there is an HLA-compatible sibling donor.
• Results from matched unrelated donor or unrelated cord blood transplant
are still inferior with higher morbidity, mortality and rejection rates.
• Classification of patients into Pesaro risk groups based on the presence of
3 risk factors: hepatomegaly  2cm, irregular iron chelation and presence
of liver fibrosis.
• Best results if performed at the earliest age possible in Class 1 patients.
Pesaro Risk Groups and Outcome following BMT
Class No. of risk
factors
Event Free
Survival %
Mortality % Rejection %
1 0 91 7 2
2 1-2 83 13 3
3 3 58 21 28
Adults - 62 34 -
Note: In newly diagnosed transfusion dependent thalassaemics, the family
should be informed of this option and referred early to a Paediatrician for
counselling and HLA typing of patient and unaffected siblings to identify a
potential donor.
Antenatal diagnosis
• Can be done by chorionic villous sampling at 9-11 weeks period of gestation.
Patient and parents support groups
• Various states and local Thalassaemia Societies are available nationwide.
• Provide support and education for families.
• Organises fund raising activities and awareness campaigns.
• Health professionals are welcomed to participate.
• More information in www.moh.gov.my or www.mytalasemia.net.my.
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Chapter 67: Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Definition
• Isolated thrombocytopenia with otherwise normal blood counts in a
patient with no clinically apparent alternate cause of thrombocytopenia
(e.g. HIV infection, systemic lupus erythematosus, lymphoproliferative
disorders, alloimmune thrombocytopenia, and congenital or hereditary
thrombocytopenia).
Pathogenesis
• Increased platelet destruction, likely due to autoantibodies to platelet
membrane antigens.
• In children, ITP is an acute, self-limiting disorder that resolves spontaneously.
Clinical Manifestations
• Onset is usually acute.
• Majority will give a history of a viral infection in the preceding 2-4 weeks
• Spectrum of bleeding severity ranges from cutaneous bleeding
i.e. petechiae, to mucosal bleeds i.e. gum bleeds and epistaxis, to life
threatening bleeds i.e. intracranial haemorrhage.
Diagnosis and Investigations
• Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, blood counts, and
examination of the peripheral blood smear.
• Physical examination: absence of hepatosplenomegaly or lymphadenopathy.
• Blood counts: isolated thrombocytopenia, with normal haemoglobin and
white cell count.
• Peripheral blood picture: normal apart from reduced, larger platelets, no
abnormal cells.
• Threshold for performing a bone marrow aspiration is low and is indicated:
• Before starting steroid therapy (to avoid partially inducing an undiagnosed
acute leukaemia).
• If there is failure to respond to Immunoglobulin therapy.
• When there is persistent thrombocytopenia  6 months.
• Thrombocytopenia recurs after initial response to treatment.
• Other tests that may be indicated when there is atypical presentation are:
• Antinuclear factor and DNA antibodies.
• Coomb’s test.
• CMV serology for those less than a year old.
• Coagulation profile for those suspected non-accidental injury and inherited
bleeding disorder.
• HIV testing for those at risk i.e. parents who are HIV positive or intravenous
drug users.
• Immunoglobulin levels for those with recurrent infections.
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332
Other causes of Thrombocytopenia
Neonatal alloimmune/ isoimmune
• Thrombocytopenia if  6 months old
Sepsis and infections including HIV infection
Drug-induced thrombocytopenia
Haematological malignancy
• e.g. Acute leukaemias
Congenital marrow failure syndromes
• e.g. Fanconi anaemia, thrombocytopenia with absent radius
Autoimmune disorders
• e.g. Systemic lupus erythematosus, Evan syndrome
Primary immunodeficiency syndromes
• e.g. Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome
Management
• Not all children with diagnosis of acute ITP need hospitalization.
• Hospitalization is indicated if:
• There is severe life-threatening bleeding (e.g. ICH) regardless of platelet
count.
• Platelet count  20 x 109
/L with evidence of bleeding.
• Platelet count  20 x 109
/L without bleeding but inaccessible to health care.
• Parents request due to lack of confidence in homecare.
• Most children remit spontaneously: 70% achieve a platelet count
 50 x 109
/L by the end of the 3rd week. Treatment should be individualised.
• Precautions with physical activities, avoidance of contact sports and
seeking immediate medical attention if bleeding occurs should be advised.
• Careful observation and monitoring of platelet count, without specific
treatment, is appropriate for patients with:
• Platelet count  20 x 109
/L without bleeding.
• Platelet count  30 x 109
/L with only cutaneous purpura.
• A repeat blood count should be performed within the first 7-10 days to
ensure that there is no evidence of serious evolving marrow condition.
• Treatment is indicated if there is:
• Life threatening bleeding episode ( e.g. ICH) regardless of platelet count.
• Platelet count  20 x 109
/L with mucosal bleeding.
• Platelet count  10 x 109
/L with any bleeding.
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333
• Choice of treatment includes:
• Oral Prednisolone 2 mg/kg/day for 14 days then taper off.
• Oral Prednisolone 4 mg/kg/day for 4 days.
• IV Immunoglobulin (IVIG) 0.8 g/kg/dose for a single dose.
Notes regarding treatment:
• All above are effective in raising platelet count much quicker compared to
no treatment. However there is no evidence that these treatment
regimens reduce bleeding complications or mortality or influence
progression to chronic ITP.
• Side effects of IVIG are common (15 - 75%): fever, flushing, headache,
nausea, aseptic meningitis and transmission of Hepatitis C (older
preparations).
• Steroids should not be continued if there is no response or if there is a
rapid relapse after withdrawal. The long-term side-effects in a growing
child outweigh the benefits of either frequent high-dose pulses or titration
of platelet count against a regular lower steroid dose.
• Treatment should not be directed at increasing the platelet count above a
preset level but rather on the clinical status of the patient (treat the child
and not the platelet count).
Intracranial Haemorrhage (ICH)
• The most feared complication of ITP.
• Incidence of ICH in a child with ITP is very low between 0.1 - 0.5%.
• The risk of ICH highest with platelet count  20 x 109
/L, history of head
trauma, aspirin use and presence of cerebral arteriovenous malformation.
• 50% of all ICH occurs after 1 month of presentation, 30% after 6 months.
• Early treatment with steroid or IVIG may not prevent late onset ICH.
Emergency treatment
Emergency treatment of ITP with severe bleeding i.e. severe epistaxis or GIT
bleed causing drop in Hb or ICH (alone or in combination) includes:
• High dose IV Methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg/day for 3 days.
• IVIG 0.8g - 1g/kg as a single dose.
• Combination of IVIG and methylprednisolone in life threatening conditions.
• Platelet transfusion in life threatening haemorrhage: 8 - 12 units/m2
body
surface area (2 to 3 folds larger than usual units) as the platelets will be
consumed by the haemorrhage to form blood clots and will reduce further
circulating platelets.
• Consider emergency splenectomy if other modalities fail.
• Neurosurgical intervention in ICH, if indicated and to perform with
splenectomy if necessary.
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334
CHRONIC ITP
Definition
• Persistent thrombocytopenia after 6 months of onset (occurs in 20%)
• Wide spectrum of manifestations: mild asymptomatic low platelet counts
to intermittent relapsing symptomatic thrombocytopenia to the rare
stubborn and persistent symptomatic and haemorrhagic disease.
Management
Counselling and education of patient and caretakers regarding natural history
of disease and how to detect problems and possible complications early are
important. Parents should be comfortable of taking care of patients with
persistent low platelet counts at home. At the same time they must be made
aware of when and how to seek early medical attention when the need arises.
• Every opportunity should be given for disease to remit spontaneously as
the majority will do so if given enough time.
• Revisit diagnosis to exclude other causes of thrombocytopenia
(Immunodeficiency, lymphoproliferative, collagen disorders, HIV infection).
• Asymptomatic children can be left without therapy and kept under
observation with continued precautions during physical activity.
• Symptomatic children may need short course of treatments as for acute
ITP to tide them over the “relapse” period or during surgical procedures.
For those with Persistent bleeding, Second line therapies includes:
• Pulses of steroids: oral Dexamethasone 1 mg/kg given on 4 consecutive
days every 4 weeks for 4 months.
• Intermittent anti-Rh(D) Immunoglobulin treatment for those who are
Rhesus D positive: 45 - 50 ug/kg. May cause drop in Hb levels.
• Second line therapy should only be started after discussion with a
Paediatric haematologist.
Note:
• Care must be taken with any pulse steroid strategy to avoid treatment-
related steroid side effects.
• Family and patient must be aware of immunosuppressive complications
e.g. risk of severe varicella.
• There is no justification for long-term continuous steroids.
If first and second-line therapies fail, the patient should be managed by a
paediatric haematologist.
Other useful agents are Rituximab and Cyclosporine.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Splenectomy
• Rarely indicated in children as spontaneous remissions continue to occur
up to 15 years from diagnosis.
• The risk of dying from ITP is very low - 0.002% whilst the mortality
associated with post-splenectomy sepsis is higher at 1.4 - 2.7 %.
• Justified when there is:
• Life-threatening bleeding event
• Severe life-style restriction with no or transient success with intermittent
IVIG, pulsed steroids or anti-D immunoglobulin.
• Laparoscopic method preferred if expertise is available.
• Pre-splenectomy preparation of the child with immunization against
pneumococcus, haemophilus and meningocccus must be done and post-
splenectomy life-long penicillin prophylaxis must be ensured.
• Pneumococcal booster should be given every 5 years.
• Up to 70% of patients achieve complete remission post-splenectomy.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
337
Chapter 68: Haemophilia
Definition
• A group of blood disorders in which there is a defect in the clotting mechanism.
• Of X-linked recessive inheritance, but in 30% there is no family history as it
is a spontaneous new mutation.
• The most common haemophilias are:
• Haemophilia A – Deficiency of factor VIII (85% cases)
• Haemophilia B – Deficiency of factor IX (15% cases)
Clinical Manifestation
• Bleeding in the neonatal period is unusual.
• Usually presents with easy bruising when crawling and walking
(9-12 months age).
• Haemarthrosis is characteristic of haemophilia. Large joints are usually
affected (knee, ankle, elbow); swollen, painful joints are common.
• Epistaxis, gum bleeding, haematuria also occur.
• Intracranial haemorrhages can be life threatening.
• Bleeding may also occur spontaneously or after trauma, operation or
dental procedures.
Diagnostic Investigations
• Full blood count
• Coagulation screen: PT, APTT
• Specific factor assay: FVIII level (low in Haemophilia A).
• Specific factor assay: FIX level (low in Haemophilia B).
• Bleeding time if applicable.
• Von Willebrand screen even if APTT normal.
In haemophilia, the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is prolonged
in moderate and severe haemophilia but may not show prolongation in mild
haemophilia. The platelet count and prothrombin time (PT) are normal.
When the APTT is prolonged, then the lab will proceed to do the factor VIII
antigen level. If this is normal, only then will they proceed to assay the Factor
IX level. Once the level has been measured, then the haemophilia can be
classified as below.
Classification of haemophilia and clinical presentation
Factor level Classification Clinical presentation
 1 % Severe Spontaneous bleeding, risk of intracranial
haemorrhage
1-5 % Moderate Bleeding may only occur with
trauma, surgery or dental procedures5-25 % Mild
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338
Further Investigations
• Hepatitis B surface antigen, anti HBS antibody
• Hepatitis C antibody
• HIV serology
• Renal profile and Liver function test.
• Platelet aggregation if high suspicion of platelet defect.
• Diagnosis of carrier status for genetic counseling.
• Mother of a newly diagnosed son with haemophilia.
• Female siblings of boys with haemophilia.
• Daughter of a man with haemophilia.
Once a child is diagnosed to have haemophilia, check the viral status at
diagnosis and then yearly. This is because treatment carries the risk of acquir-
ing viruses. All haemophiliacs should be immunized against Hepatitis B.
Treatment
• Ideally, treatment of severe haemophilia should be prophylactic to
prevent arthropathy and ensure the best quality of life possible.The dosage
of prophylaxis is usually 25-35 U/kg of Factor VIII concentrate, given every
other day or 3 times a week. For Factor IX, the dosage is 40-60 U/kg, given
every 2-3 days. However, this form of management is costly and requires
central venous access.
• On demand treatment is another treatment option when clotting factors
are inadequate. It consists of replacing the missing factor: Factor VIII con-
centrates are used in haemophilia A, Factor IX concentrates in Haemophilia
B. Fresh frozen plasma and cryoprecipitate ideally SHOULD NOT be used as
there is a high risk of viral transmission.
• The dose of factor replacement depends on the type and severity of bleed.
Suggested Replacement Doses of FactorVIII and XI Concentrate
Type of bleed FactorVIII dose Factor XI dose
Haemarthrosis 20 U/kg 40 U/kg
Soft tissue or muscle bleeds 30-40 U /kg 60-80 U/kg
Intracranial haemorrhage or surgery 50 U/kg 100 U/kg
• Dose of factor required can also be calculated using the formulas below
• Units of Factor VIII: (% rise required) x (weight in kg) x 0.5.
• Units of Factor IX: (% rise required) x (weight in kg) x 1.4.
• The percentage of factor aimed for depends on the type of bleed.
• For haemarthroses, 30-40 % is adequate.
• For soft tissue or muscle bleed aim for 40- 50 % level.
(there is potential to track and cause compression/compartment syndrome)
• For intracranial bleeds or patients going for surgery, aim for 100%.
• Infuse Factor VIII by slow IV push at a rate not exceeding 100 units per
minute in young children.
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• Factor VIII is given every 8 - 12 hours. Factor IX is given every 12 - 24 hours.
• Duration of treatment depends on type of bleed:
• Haemarthroses 2-3 days.
• Soft tissue bleeds 4-5 days.
• Intracranial bleeds or surgery 7-10 days.
• Veins must be handled with care. Never perform cut-down unless in an
emergency as it destroys the vein.
Complications
Joint destruction:
• Recurrent haemarthroses into the same joint will
eventually destroy the joint causing osteoarthritis and deformity.
This can be prevented by prompt and adequate factor replacement.
Acquisition of viruses
• Hepatitis B, C or HIV: immunisation and regular screening recommended.
Inhibitors:
• These are antibodies directed against the exogenous factor VIII
or IX neutralizing the clotting activity.
• Overall incidence is 15-25% in haemophilia A and 1-3% in haemophilia B.
• Can develop at any age but usually after 10 – 20 exposure days. It is
suspected when there is lack of response to replacement therapy despite
high doses.
• Treatment requires “bypassing” the deficient clotting factor. Currently 2
agents are available - Recombinant activated Factor VII (rfVIIa or
Novoseven) and FEIBA. Immune tolerance induction is also another
option.
• Management of inhibitors are difficult and requires consultation with the
• haematologist in specialized centres.
Supportive Treatment
Analgesia
• There is rapid pain relief in haemarthroses once missing factor
concentrate is infused.
• If analgesia is required, avoid intramuscular injections.
• Do not use aspirin or the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)
as they will affect platelet function.
• Acetaminophen with or without opioids can provide adequate pain control.
Dental care
• Good dental hygiene is important as dental caries are a regular source
of bleeding.
• Dental clearance with factor replacement will be required in severe cases.
340
Immunisations
• This is important and must be given: The subcutaneous route is preferred.
• Give under factor cover if haematomas are a problem.
Haemophilia Society
• All haemophiliacs should be registered with a patient support group
e.g. Haemophilia Society.
• They should have a medic-alert bracelet/chain which identifies them as
haemophiliacs and carry a book in which the diagnosis, classification of
severity, types of bleeds and admissions can be recorded
SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT
Intracranial haemorrhage (ICH)
• Give factor replacement before suspected bleed is confirmed by CT scan
• Aim to increase Factor VIII level to 100%.
• For haemophilia B if monoclonal factor IX is used a level of 80% is
adequate and if prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is used 50% level
is recommended.
• Urgent CT scan:
• If CT scan confirms ICH : maintain factor level 80%–100% for 1–7 days
and 50% for 8–21 days.
• If CT scan show no evidence of ICH, admit 1 day for observation.
• Follow up for long term sequelae.
• Lab investigations: 	
• Pre-treatment factor assay level and inhibitor level before starting
treatment and to repeat after 3 days of treatment to ensure adequate
levels have been achieved and no inhibitor has developed.
• Post treatment factor assay level ( ½ hour after infusion ) to ensure
required factor level is achieved ( if the level is not achieved , consider
development of inhibitors ) and should be repeated after 3 – 5 days.
• follow up CT scan after 2 weeks
Surgery
• Pre-op investigations
• Full coagulation profile – PT, PTT
• Pre-factor assay level and inhibitor level
• Blood grouping, full antibody screening and full cross matching if required.
• Calculate dose
• ½ hour before operation, infuse patient with appropriate factors.
• Preferable level :
- 80-100% for factor VIII
- 70% for monoclonal factor IX
- 50% if prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) used
• Check post transfusion specific factor level ½ hour later if necessary or after
surgery to ensure correct factor level is achieved.
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341
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• Clotting factor level should be maintained above 50% during the operation
and 24 hours after surgery.
• Maintain adequate factor levels -
• Days 1-3 60-80%
4-7 40-60%
8-14 30-50%
• Repeat factor assay and check inhibitor level on day 3 to ensure adequate.
levels. Post operatively a minimum of 10 to 14 days replacement therapy
is recommended.
Illiopsoas bleed
• Symptoms: Pain/discomfort in the lower abdomen/upper thighs
• Signs: Hip flexed, internally-rotated, unable to extend
• Danger: Hypovolaemia, large volumes of blood may be lost in the
retroperitoneum.
Management:
• Factor replacement: 50U/kg stat, followed by 25U/kg bd till asymptomatic,
then 20U /kg every other day for 10-14 days.
• Ultrasound / CTscan to diagnose.
• Physiotherapy - when pain subsides.
• Repeat U/S to assess progress.
Haematuria
Management
• Bed rest.
• Hydration (1.5 x maintenance).
• Monitor for first 24 hours: UFEME  Urine CS.
• If bleeding persists for  24 hours, start factor concentrate infusion.
• Perform KUB  Ultrasound of the kidneys.
DO NOT give anti-fibrinolytic drugs (tranexamic acid) because this may
cause formation of clots in the tubules which may not recanalize.
Haemarthroses (Joint haemorrhages)
• Most spontaneous haemarthroses respond to a single infusion of factor
concentrate. Aim for a level of 30 % to 40%.
• If swelling or spasm is present, treatment to level of 50% is required and
infusion may have to be repeated at 12-24 hours interval until pain subsides.
• Minor haemarthroses may not require immobilization, elastic bandage or
slings and ice may help in pain relief.
• Severe haemarthroses
• Splint in position of comfort.
• Rest.
• Early physiotherapy.
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Chapter 69: Oncology Emergencies
I. METABOLIC EMERGENCIES
Tumour Lysis Syndrome
Introduction
• Massive tumour cell death with rapid release
of intracellular metabolites, which exceeds
the excretory capacity of the kidneys leading
to acute renal failure. Can occur before
chemotherapy is started.
• More common in Iymphoproliferative tumours with abdominal involvement
(e.g. B cell/ T cell Iymphoma, leukaemias and Burkitt’s Iymphoma)
Hyperuricaemia
• Release of intracellular purines increase uric acid
Hyperkalaemia
• Occurs secondary to tumour cell Iysis itself or secondary to renal failure
from uric acid nephropathy or hyperphosphataemia.
Hyperphosphataemia with associated hypocalcaemia
• Most commonly occurs in Iymphoproliferative disorders because
Iymphoblast phosphate content is 4 times higher than normal lymphocytes.
Causes:
• Tissue damage from CaPO₄ precipitation. Occurs when Ca X PO₄  60 mg/dl.
Results in renal failure, pruritis with gangrene, eye and joint inflammation
• Hypocalcaemia leading to altered sensorium, photophobia, neuromuscular
irritability, seizures, carpopedal spasm and gastrointestinal symptoms
Risk factors forTumour lysis syndrome
Bulky disease
Rapid cellular turnover
Tumour which is exquisitely sensitive to chemotherapy
Elevated LDH / serum uric acid
Depleted volume
Concentrated urine or acidic urine
Poor urine output
Renal failure
Multifactorial:
• Uric acid, phosphorus and potassium are excreted by kidneys
• The environ of the collecting ducts of the kidney is acidic coupled with
lactic acidosis due to high leucocyte associated poor perfusion will cause
uric acid crystallization and then uric acid obstructive nephropathy. Usually
occur when levels  20 mg/dl.
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Tumour lysis syndrome
Characterised by:
Hyperuricemia
Hyperkalemia
Hyperphosphatemia with
associated Hypocalcemia
344
• Increased phosphorus excretion causing calcium phosphate precipitation
(in vivo solubility dependant on Ca X P = 58) in microvasculature and
tubules.
• Risk increases if renal parenchymal is infiltrated by tumour e.g. lymphoma
or ureteral/venous obstruction from tumour compression (lymph nodes).
Management (Prevention):
To be instituted in every case of acute leukaemia or Iymphoma prior to
induction chemotherapy.
• Hydration: Double hydration - 125ml/m²/hr or 3000ml/m²/day.
No added potassium.
• Alkalization of urine: Adding NaHCO₃ at 150 - 200 mmol/m²/day
(3 mls/kg/day NaHCO₃ 8.4%) into IV fluids to keep urine pH 7.0 - 7.5.
Avoid over alkalinization as this may aggravate hypocalcemia and cause
hypoxanthine and xanthine precipitation. It can also cause precipitation of
calcium phosphate if pH 8. Monitor urine pH and VBG 8 hourly. If urine
pH  7.0 , consider increasing NaHCO₃ infusion. This can only be done if
HCO₃ in the blood is below normal range. Otherwise, have to accept that
some patients just cannot alkalinise their urine.
• Allopurinol 10mg/kg/day, max 300mg/day.
• May have to delay chemotherapy until metabolic status stabilizes.
• Close electrolyte monitoring: BUSE, Ca²⁺, PO₄, uric acid, creatinine,
bicarbonate.
• Strict I/O charting. Ensure adequate urine flow once hydrated.
Use diuretics with caution.
Management (Treatment)
• Treat hyperkalaemia – resonium, dextrose-insulin, Consider dialysis.
• Diuretics.
• Hypocalcaemia management depends on the phosphate level:
• If phosphate is raised, then management is directed to correct the high
phosphate.
• If phosphate is normal or if child is symptomatic, then give replacement
IV calcium.
• If hypocalcaemia is refractory to treatment, exclude associated
hypomagnesaemia.
• Dialysis if indicated. Haemodialysis most efficient at correcting electrolyte
abnormalities. Peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing phosphates.
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345
Other Metabolic Emergencies:
Hyponatraemia
• Usually occurs in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).
• Treat as for hyponatraemia.
Hypokalaemia
• Common in AML
• Rapid cellular generation leads to uptake of potassium into cells.
(Intracellular potassium 30 - 40 X times higher than extracellular
potassium). Therefore may hyperkalaemia may develop after chemotherapy.
Hypercalcaemia
• Associated with Non Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, alveolar
rhabdomyosarcoma, rhabdoid tumours and others.
Management
• Hydration.
• Oral phosphate.
• IV Frusemide (which increases calcium excretion).
• Mithramycin.
II. HAEMATOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES
Hyperleucocytosis
• Occurs in acute leukaemia. Defined as TWBC  100 000 / mm³.
• Associated
• In acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) with high risk of tumour Iysis.
• In AML with leucostasis (esp monocytic).
• Affects the lungs due to pulmonary infiltrates. May cause dyspnoea,
hypoxaemia and right ventricular failure.
• Affects the central nervous system causing headaches, papilloedema,
seizures, haemorrhage or infarct.
• Other complications: renal failure, priapism, dactylitis
• Mechanism:
• Excessive leukocytes form aggregates and thrombi in small veins causing
obstruction; worsens when blood is viscous.
• Excessive leukocytes competes for oxygen; damages vessel wall causing
bleeding.
Management
• Hydration
• To facilitate excretion of toxic metabolites.
• To reduce blood viscosity.
• Avoid increasing blood viscosity.
• Cautious in use of packed cell transfusion and diuretics.
• During induction in hyperleukocytosis, keep platelet 20 000/mm³ and
coagulation profile near normal.
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346
• Exchange transfusions and leukopheresis should not be used alone as rapid
rebound usually occurs. Concurrent drug treatment should therefore be
initiated soonest possible.
Coagulopathy
AML especially M3 is associated with an initial bleeding diathesis from consump-
tive coagulopathy due to release of a tissue factor with procoagulant activity
from cells. However the use of all-trans retinoic acid (Atra) has circumvented this
complication.
Management
• Platelet transfusions: 6 units / m² should increase platelets by 50,000 / mm³.
• Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or cryoprecipitate.
• Vitamin K.
• +/- Heparin therapy (10u/kg/hr) - controversial
Other haematological energencies
• Thrombocytopenia
• Severe anaemia
III. SUPERIOR VENA CAVA OBSTRUCTION
Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Obstruction
• Common in Non Hodgkin Lymphoma / Hodgkin Lymphoma / ALL .
• Rarely: malignant teratoma, thymoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma or
Ewing’s may present with anterior or middle mediastinal mass and obstruction.
• 50% associated with thrombosis.
• Presentation: shortness of breath, facial swelling, syncope.
Management
• Recognition of symptoms and signs of SVC obstruction and avoidance of
sedation and general anaesthesia.
Tissue diagnosis is important but should be established by the least invasive
measure available. Risk of circulatory collapse or respiratory failure may
occur with general anesthesia or sedation.
• BMA.
• Biopsy of superficial lymph node under local anaesthesia.
• Measurement of serum markers e.g. alpha-fetoprotein.
If tissue diagnosis is not obtainable, empiric treatment may be necessary
based on the most likely diagnosis. Both chemotherapy and DXT may render
histology uninterpretable within 48 hours, therefore biopsy as soon as possible.
• Avoid upper limb venepunctures
• Bleeding due to increased intravascular pressure
• Aggravate SVC obstruction.
• Primary mode of treatment is with steroids and chemotherapy if pathology
due to Non-Hodkin Lymphoma
• +/- DXT.
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HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
IV. INFECTION
Febrile neutropaenia
Febrile episodes in oncology patients must be treated with urgency especially
if associated with neutropenia. Nearly all episodes of bacteraemia or
disseminated fungal infections occur when the absolute neutorphil count
(ANC) 500 /mm³. Risk increases maximally if ANC  100 /mm³ and greatly
reduced if the ANC  1000 /mm³.
Management (Follow Algorithm on next page)
other considerations:
• If central line is present, culture from central line (both lumens);
add anti-Staph cover e.g. Cloxacillin.
• Repeated physical examination to look for new clues, signs and symptoms
of possible sources.
• Close monitoring of patient’s well-being – vital signs, perfusion, BP, I/O.
• Repeat cultures if indicated
• Investigative parameters, FBC, CRP, BUSE as per necessary.
• In presence of oral thrush or other evidence of candidal infection, start
antifungals.
• Try to omit aminoglycoside and vancomycin if on cisplatinum - nephrotoxic
and ototoxic. If required, monitor renal function closely.
Typhilitis
• A necrotizing colitis localised to the caecum occuring in neutropenic
patients.
• Bacterial invasion of mucosa causing inflammation - can lead on to full
thickness infarction and perforation.
• Usual organisms are Clostridium and Pseudomonas.
• X-ray shows non specific thickening of gut wall. At the other end of the
spectrum, there can be presence of pneumatosis intestinalis +/- evidence
of free gas.
Management
• Usually conservative with broad spectrum antibiotics covering gram
negative organisms and anaerobes (metronidazole). Mortality 20-100%.
• Criteria for surgical intervention:
• Persistent gastrointestinal bleeding despite resolution of neutropenia and
thrombocytopenia and correction of coagulation abnormalities.
• Evidence of perforation.
• Clinical deterioration suggesting uncontrolled sepsis (controversial).
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Abbrevations. FBC, full blood count; CRP, C-reactive protein; CXR, chest X-ray;
CVL, central venous line.
APPROACH TO CHILD WITH FEBRILE NEUTROPENIA
Remains febrile after 2 days
Still febrile after 4 days
Reculture, Change antibiotics
May add systemic antifungal
Continue Treatment
Temperature settles in 3 days
Stop Treatment after 1
week Observe
History and Examination to identify
possible source(s) of infection
Febrile Neutropenia
Septic Workup
• FBC, CRP
• CXR
• Bacterial and fungal cultures
- blood, urine, stool, wound
Broad spectrum antibiotics
(e.g. Cephalosporins,
Aminoglycoside and Nystatin)
• Look for possible sites of infection
• Repeat X-ray
• Repeat cultures
• Echo, ultrasound
• Consider add antifungals
• Consider changing antibiotics
Specific antibiotics
• Proper specimen collected
Site unknown Site identified
349
CommoncausesofShockinChildrenwithCancer
DistributiveHypovolaemicCardiogenic
SepsisHaemorrhage
•Haemorrhagiccystitis
•Gastrointestinalbleeding
-Ulcers
-Typhilitis
•Massivehaemoptysis
Myopathy
•Anthracycline
•Highdosecyclophosphamide
•Radiationtherapy
Anaphylaxis
•Etoposide
•L-asparaginase
•Anti-thymocyteglobulin
•Cytosine
•Carboplatin
•Bloodproducts
•AmphotericinB
Cardiactamponade
•Intracardiactumour
•Intracardiacthrombus
•Pericardialeffusion
•Constrictivepericarditis
Pancreatitis
Addisoniancrisis
Intractablevomiting
VenoocclusivediseaseDiabetesmellitusMetabolic
•Hyperkalaemia,hypokalaemia
•Hypocalcaemia
Diabetesinsipidus
Hypercalcaemia
Myocarditis
•Viral,bacterial,fungal
Management
Ascertaincauseandtreataccordingly
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350
V. NEUROLOGICAL COMPLICATIONS
Spinal Cord Compression
• Prolonged compression leads to permanent neurologic sequelae.
• Epidural extension: Lymphoma, neuroblastoma and soft tissue sarcoma.
• Intradural: Spinal cord tumour.
• Presentation
• Back pain: localized or radicular, aggravated by movement, straight leg
raising, neck flexion.
• Later: weakness, sensory loss, loss of bladder and bowel continence
• Diagnosed by CT myelogram/MRI
Management
• Laminectomy urgent (if deterioration within 72 hours).
• If paralysis present  72 hours, chemotherapy is the better option if
tumour is chemosensitive, e.g. lymphoma, neuroblastoma and Ewing’s
tumour. This avoids vertebral damage. Onset of action of chemotherapy is
similar to radiotherapy.
• Prior IV Dexamethasone 0.5mg/kg 6 hourly to reduce oedema.
• +/- Radiotherapy.
Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP) and brain herniation
Cause: Infratentorial tumours causing blockage of the 3rd or 4th ventricles
such as medulloblastomas, astrocytomas and ependymomas.
Signs and symptoms vary according to age/site.
• Infant - vomiting, lethargy, regression of milestones, seizures, symptoms of
obstructive hydrocephalus and increased OFC.
• Older - early morning recurrent headaches +/- vomiting, poor school
performance.
• Cerebellar: ipsilateral hypotonia and ataxia.
• Herniation of cerebellar tonsil: head tilt and neck stiffness.
• Tumours near 3rd ventricle: craniopharyngima , germinoma, optic glioma,
hypothalamic and pituitary tumours.
• Visual loss, increased ICP and hydrocephalus.
• Aqueduct of Sylvius obstruction due to pineal tumour: raised ICP,
Parinaud’s syndrome (impaired upward gaze, convergence nystagmus,
altered pupillary response).
Management
• Assessment of vital signs, look for focal neurological deficit.
• Look for evidence of raised ICP (bradycardia, hypertension and apnea).
• Look for evidence of herniation (respiratory pattern, pupil size and reactivity).
• Dexamethasone 0.5 mg/kg QID.
• Urgent CT to determine cause.
• Prophylactic antiepileptic agents.
• Lumbar puncture is contraindicated.
• Decompression – i.e. shunting +/- surgery.
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351
Cerebrovascular accident (CVA)
• Can result from direct or metastatic spread of tumour, antineoplastic agent
or haematological abnormality.
• L-Asparaginase associated with venous or lateral and sagittal sinus
thrombosis caused by rebound hypercoagulable state.
• AML especially APML is associated with DIVC and CVA, due to the release of
procoagulants.
Management
• Supportive.
• Use of anticoagulant potentially detrimental.
• In L-Asparaginase induced, recommended FFP bd.
VI. MISCELLANOUS EMERGENCIES
Pancreatitis
Should be considered in patients on L-Asparaginase and steroids and com-
plaining of abdominal pain. Careful examination plus measurement of serum
amylase and ultrasound abdomen.
ATRA (all-trans retinoic acid) syndrome
• Characterised by: fever, respiratory distress, respiratory failure, oedema,
pleural/pericardial effusion, hypotension.
• Pathophysiology: respiratory distress due to leukocytosis associated with
ATRA induced multiplication and differentiation of leukaemic promyelocytes/
• Treatment: Dexamethasone 0.5 - 1mg/kg/dose bd, maximum dose 20mg bd.
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353
Chapter 70: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
Definition
• Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood
malignancy, representing nearly one third of all paediatric cancers.
Peak age
• 2 – 5 years old. Male: Female ratio of 1.2:1.
Pathophysiology
• Genetically altered lymphoid progenitor cells which undergo dysregulated
proliferation and clonal expansion.
Presentation
• Signs and symptoms which reflect bone marrow infiltration causing
anaemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and extra-medullary disease.
• Pallor and easy bleeding – common
• Non remitting fever.
• Lymphadenopathy.
• Hepatosplenomegaly.
• Bone pains - not to be misdiagnosed as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).
• Uncommon at presentation:
• CNS involvement e.g. headache, nausea and vomiting, lethargy,
irritability, seizures or spinal mass causing signs and symptoms of
spinal cord compression.
• Testicular involvement, usually as a unilateral painless testicular
enlargement.
• Skin manifestations e.g. skin nodules.
Initial investigations
Diagnosis
• Full Blood Count (FBC) and Peripheral Blood Film (PBF).
• Anaemia and thrombocytopenia.
• Total White Count (TWC) can be normal, low or high.
• Occasionally PBF may not show presence of blast cells.
• Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) and trephine biopsy.
• Bone marrow for flowcytometry analysis (immunophenotyping).
• Bone marrow cytogenetics.
• Bone marrow/Blood for molecular studies wherever possible.
• Option to send to Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) Pathology Laboratory
(Haematology unit)/Haematology Laboratory in IMR (3mls in EDTA bottle)
or other University/Private laboratories for molecular characterisation
(Prior appointments must be made before sending samples).
• Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) examination for blast cells.
• CXR to evaluate for mediastinal masses.
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354
For assessment and monitoring:
• Blood Urea and Serum Electrolytes (BUSE) especially serum Potassium.
• Serum Creatinine, Uric Acid, Phosphate, Calcium, Bicarbonate levels.
• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) – to assess degree of leukaemic cell burden
and risk of tumour lysis.
• Coagulation studies in APML (acute promyelocytic leukemia) or if the child
is toxic or bleeding.
• Blood cultures and septic workup if febrile.
• Hepatitis B/C, HIV and VZ IgG screen pre transfusion and pre treatment.
• Repeat BMA and CSF examinations.
Prognosis
Overall cure rates for childhood ALL are now over 80% but it depends among
others on the prognostic groups, clinical and laboratory features, treatment
in centres with paediatric oncologist and special diagnostics, use of standard
treatment protocols and also the level of supportive care available.
Unfavourable if:
• Clinical features indicating high risk
• Age  10 years old and infants.
• WBC count at diagnosis  50000/mL.
• Molecular characteristics of the leukaemic blasts, e.g. Presence of
abnormal cytogenetics with oncogenes producing abnormal fusion
proteins e.g. Philadelphia chromosome t(9;22)(q34;q11);
BCR-ABL;P185BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase.
• Poor response to the induction chemotherapy
• Day 8 peripheral blast cell count  1000 x 109
/L.
• Day 33 BMA not in remission
Treatment
The regimes or treatment protocols used varies according to originator
groups/institutions from the various countries (BFM – Germany, MRC – UK,
CCG/COG – USA) but generally consists of induction, central nervous system
treatment/prophylaxis, consolidation/intensification and maintenance
therapy.
Complications considered as oncologic emergencies can be seen before, dur-
ing and after treatment (see Ch 69 Oncologic Emergencies). These include:
• Hyperleucocytosis at presentation.
• Superior vena caval obstruction.
• Tumor lysis syndrome leading on to renal failure.
• Sepsis.
• Bleeding.
• Thrombosis.
• Typhylitis.
• CNS manifestations: Cord compression, neuropathy, encephalopathy
and seizures.
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Once discharged, care givers must be able to recognise signs and symptoms
that require urgent medical attention, especially infections as they can be life
threatening. Even on maintenance therapy, infections must be taken seriously
as patients are still immunocompromised up to 3 months after discontinuing
chemotherapy.
General guidelines for children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia on
maintenance chemotherapy for a total of 2 - 2.5 years:
• Check height, weight and calculate surface area (m2) every 3 months and
adjust drug dosages accordingly.
To calculate body surface area = √ [Height (cm) x Weight (kg) / 3600]
• Check full blood count every 2 weeks for the first 1- 2 months after starting
maintenance chemotherapy and monthly thereafter if stable.
• Bone marrow aspiration should be considered if counts are repeatedly low
or if there is clinical suspicion of relapse. Majority of relapse (2/3) would
occur within the first year of stopping treatment.
• CNS disease would present itself usually with headache, vomiting,
abnormal sensorium or hypothalamic symptoms (e.g. Hyperphagia and
abnormal weight gain).
• Testicular relapse present as a painless unilateral swelling
• Cotrimoxazole is routinely used as prophylaxis against Pneumocystis carinii
pneumonia (PCP) and continued until the end of therapy. In the event of
chronic cough or unexplained tachypnoea, CXR is required.
If there is evidence of interstitial pneumonitis, send nasopharyngeal secre-
tions for PCP Antigen detection e.g. Immunoflorescent test (IFT) or PCP
PCR detection and treat empirically with high dose Cotrimoxazole 20 mg/
kg/day in divided doses for a total of 2 weeks.
• Different institutions and protocols will have different regimes for
maintenance chemotherapy.
Check the TWC and Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) threshold levels
of the various protocols:
As a general rule, chemotherapy is adjusted to maintain TWC at
2 - 3 X109
/L and ANC at or more than 0.75 X 109
/L.
• If TWC drop to levels of 1-2 X109
/L and ANC to levels of 0.5 -0.75 x 109
/L
or platelet level at 50-100 x 109
/L, reduce tablet 6-Mercaptopurine (6MP)
and oral methotrexate (MTX) normal dose by 50%.
• Once counts are above those levels, increase 6MP and MTX back to 75%
of normal dose.
• Review the patient in 1 week and if counts can be maintained, increase
back to 100% of normal dose.
• If TWC is  1 X 109
/L and ANC  0.5 x 109
/L or platelets  50 x 109
/L, stop
both drugs.
• Restart drugs at 50% dose once neutrophil count have recovered
 0.75 x 109
/L and then increase back to 75% and 100% as above.
356
• Normally Haemoglobin would remain stable but repeated falls in
haemoglobin alone may be due to 6MP intolerance.
• Transfuse if anaemia occurs early in the course of maintenance therapy
and the standard doses of 6MP and MTX are to be maintained as much
as possible.
• If there is persistent anaemia (i.e. Hb 8 gm/dl), reduce 6MP dose first
and maintain the MTX dose.
• If anaemia persists despite reducing the dose of 6MP, reduce the MTX
dose appropriately.
• If counts are persistently low and doses of 6MP/MTX are already
suboptimal, consider withholding Cotrimoxazole.
• Re-introduce Cotrimoxazole once 6MP or MTX are at  75% of standard
protocol dosage.
• If neutropaenia recurs or if child cannot tolerate at least 75% drug of
dosages, Cotrimoxazole should be stopped
• Maintenance of adequate drug dose should take priority over
continuing Cotrimoxazole.
• If Cotrimoxazole is stopped, keep in mind that the child is at increased
risk of Pneumocystis pneumonia and there should be a relatively low
threshold for treatment of any suspected interstitial pneumonitis.
• If counts take longer to recover, consider performing bone marrow
aspiration after 2-3 weeks to rule out sub-clinical relapse.
• If the diagnostic test is available, consider to also send blood for
Thiopurine Methyltransferase (TPMT) enzyme deficiency screening.
Children who are homozygous TPMT deficient can become profoundly
myelosuppressed with 6MP administration.
• In severe diarrhoea and vomiting, stop both drugs. Restart at 50% dose
when better and return to full dose when tolerated.
• Severe MTX mucositis; withhold MTX until improvement and restart at
full dose. Initiate supportive treatment with mouthwash and antifungal
treatment.
• In clinically significant liver dysfunction; oral MTX should be stopped until
improvement occurs. Restart at reduced dose and increase as tolerated.
Investigate for causes of liver dysfunction. Monitor LFT.
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
357
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
• Infections:
• If there is significant fever (To ≥ 38.5 o
C x 1 or ≤ 38 o
C x 2 one hour apart)
and neutropenia, stop all chemotherapy drugs and admit for IV antibiotics.
• Take appropriate cultures and CXR if indicated and give bolus IV antibiotics
immediately without waiting for specific bacteriological confirmation.
• Use a combination of aminoglycoside and cephalosporins to cover both
gram negative and gram positive organisms. If nosocomial infection is
suspected, use the appropriate antibiotics according to your hospital’s
cultures sensitivity pattern.
• Any fever developing within 24 hours of central venous line access
should be treated as catheter related blood stream infection. Common
organisms are the gram positive cocci. Consider adding cloxacillin to
the antibiotic regime.
• Assume multiresistant bacterial sepsis when dealing with patients
presenting with septic shock especially if recently discharged from hospital.
• Vancomycin may be indicated if there is a long line (Hickman) or
chemoport in situ or if MRSA or coagulase negative Staphylococcus
infections are suspected.
• Antifungal therapy may be indicated in prolonged neutropenia or if there
is no response to antibiotics or if fungal infection is suspected.
• Early and aggressive empirical therapy without waiting for blood culture
results will save lives.
• Chicken Pox/Measles
• These are life-threatening infections in ill immunocompromised children.
• Always reinforce this information on parents when they come for follow-up.
• If a patient is significantly/directly exposed (in the same room  1 hour),
including the 3 days prior to clinical presentation, to sibling, classroom
contact, enclosed playmate contact or other significant contact, they are
at increased risk of developing these infections.
GIVE
Measles
• Human broad-spectrum immune globulin IM 0.5ml/kg divided into
2 separate injection sites on the same day.
Chickenpox
For exposed patients:
(VZ IgG –ve at diagnosis, on treatment or within 6 months  of stopping
treatment); give:
• VZIG if available (should be given within 7 days of contact)
 5yrs: 250mg, 5 – 7 yrs: 500mg, 7 – 12 yrs: 750mg.
• If VZIG not available - Oral acyclovir 200mg 5x/day if  6 years old;
400 mg 5x/day if  6 years old for 5 days.
• Monitor for signs of infections.
358
HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
Patient with chickenpox
• Admit, isolate and treat immediately with IV acyclovir 500 mg/m2
/dose
8 hourly or 10mg/kg 8 hourly until no new lesions are noted.
• Switch to oral acyclovir 400mg 5x daily if 6 years old; 800mg 5x daily
if 6 years until the lesions are healed, usually in about 10 days.
• Chemotherapy must be stopped on suspicion of exposure. If infected
and treated, it should only be recommenced 2 weeks after the last
vesicle has dried up.
Vaccinations
• Children on chemotherapy should not receive any vaccinations until
6 months after cessation of chemotherapy.
• Recommence their immunisation programme continuing from where
they left off.
References
Section 8 Haematology-Oncology
Chapter 65 Approach to a Child with Anaemia
1.Lieyman JS, Hann IM. Paediatric Haematology.London, Churchill Livingston,
1992.
Chapter 67 Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura
1.George J, et al. (1996) Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: a practice
guideline developed by explicit methods for the American Society of
Hematology. Blood 1996; 88: 3-40.
2.Lilleyman J. Management of Childhood Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Pur-
pura. Brit J Haematol 1997; 105: 871-875
3.James J. Treatment Dilemma in Childhood Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic
Purpura. Lancet 305: 602
4.Nathan D, Orkin S, Ginsburg D, Look A. Nathan and Oski’s Hematology of
Infancy and Childhood. 6th ed 2003. W.B. Saunders Company.
Chapter 68 Haemophilia
1.Malaysian CPG for Management of Haemophilia.
2.Guidelines for the Management of Hemophilia - World Federation of
Hemophilia 2005
3.Nathan and Oski, Hematology of Infancy and Childhood, 7th Ed, 2009.
Chapter 69 Oncology Emergencies
1.Pizzo, Poplack: Principles and Practice of Paediatric Oncology. 4th Ed, 2002
2.Pinkerton, Plowman: Paediatric Oncology. 2nd Ed. 1997
3.Paediatric clinics of North America, Aug 1997.
359
Chapter 71: Acute Gastroenteritis
Introduction
The following is based on Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI)
and the College of Paediatrics, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia guidelines
on the management of Acute Diarrhoea in Children 2011 and modifications
have been made to Treatment Plan C in keeping with Advanced Paediatric
Life Support (APLS) principles.
• Acute gastroenteritis is a leading cause of childhood morbidity and
mortality and an important cause of malnutrition.
• Many diarrhoeal deaths are caused by dehydration and electrolytes loss.
• Mild and moderate dehydration is safely and effectively treated with
ORS solution but severe dehydration requires intravenous fluid therapy.
If you have gone through the PALS or APLS course, First assess the state of
perfusion of the child.
Is the child in shock?
• Signs of shock include tachycardia, weak peripheral pulses, delayed
capillary refill time  2 seconds, cold peripheries, depressed mental state
with or without hypotension.
Any child with shock go straight to treatment Plan C.
OR you can also use the WHO chart below to assess the degree of dehydra-
tion and then choose the treatment plan A, B or C, as needed.
Assess
Look at child’s
general condition
Well, alert Restless or
irritable
Lethargic or
unconscious
Look for sunken
eyes
No sunken eyes Sunken eyes Sunken eyes
Offer the child
fluid
Drinks normally Drinks eagerly,
thirsty
Not able to drink or
drinks poorly
Pinch skin of
abdomen
Skin goes back
immediately
Skin goes back
slowly
Skin goes back very
slowly
( 2 seconds)
Classify Mild dehydrated
5% Dehydrated*
IMCI: No signs
of Dehydration
≥ 2 above signs
present:
Moderate
Dehydration
5-10% Dehydrated
IMCI: Some signs
of Dehydration
≥ 2 above signs
present:
Severe Dehydration
 10% Dehydrated
Treat Plan A
Give fluid and food
to treat diarrhoea
at home
Plan B
Give fluid and food
for some
dehydration
Plan A
Give fluid for severe
dehydration
*% of body weight (in g) loss in fluid (Fluid Deficit) e.g. a 10 kg child with 5%
dehydration has loss 5/100 x 10000g = 500 mls of fluid deficit.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
360
PLAN C: TREAT SEVERE DEHYDRATION QUICKLY
• Start intravenous (IV) or intraosseous (IO) fluid immediately.
If patient can drink, give ORS by mouth while the drip is being set up.
• Initial fluids for resuscitation of shock: 20 ml/kg of NaCl 0.9% or
Hartmann solution as a rapid IV bolus.
• Repeated if necessary until patient is out of shock or if fluid overload
is suspected. Review patient after each bolus.
• Calculate the fluid needed over the next 24 hours:
Fluid for Rehydration (also called fluid deficit)
+ Maintenance (minus the fluids given for resuscitation).
• Fluid for Rehydration: percentage dehydration X body weight in grams
• Maintenance fluid (NaCl 0.45 / D5%)
(See Ch 3 Fluid And Electrolyte Guidelines)
1st 10 kg = 100 ml/kg;
10-20 kg = 1000 ml/day + 50 ml/kg for each kg above 10 kg
20 kg = 1500 ml/day + 20 ml/kg for each kg above 20 kg.
Example:
A 6-kg child is clinically shocked and 10% dehydrated as a result of gastroenteritis.
Initial therapy:
• 20 ml/kg for shock = 6 × 20 = 120 ml of 0.9% saline given as a rapid
intravenous bolus.
• Estimated fluid therapy over next 24 hours:
• Fluid for Rehydration: 10/100 x 6000 = 600 ml
• 100ml/kg for daily maintenance fluid = 100 × 6 = 600 ml
• Rehydration + maintenance = 600 + 600 =1200 ml
• Start with infusion of 1200/24 = 50 ml/h
• The cornerstone of management is to reassess the hydration status
frequently (e.g. at 1-2 hourly), and adjust the infusion as necessary.
• Start giving more of the maintenance fluid as oral feeds
e.g. ORS (about 5 ml/kg/hour) as soon as the child can drink, usually after 3
to 4 hours for infants, and 1 to 2 hours for older children. This fluid should
be administered frequently in small volumes (cup and spoon works very
well for this process).
• Generally normal feeds should be administered in addition to the
rehydration fluid, particularly if the infant is breastfed.
• Once a child is able to feed and not vomiting, oral rehydration according
to Plan A or B can be used and the IV drip reduced gradually and taken
off.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
361
• If you cannot or fail to set up IV or IO line, arrange for the child to be
sent to the nearest centre that can do so immediately. Meanwhile as
arrangements are made to send the child (or as you make further
attempts to establish IV or IO access),
• Try to rehydrate the child with ORS orally (if the child can drink) or by
nasogastric or orogastric tube. Give ORS 20 ml/kg/hour over 6 hours.
Continue to give the ORS along the journey.
• Reassess the child every 1-2 hours
• If there is repeated vomiting or increasing abdominal distension, give
the fluid more slowly.
• Reassess the child after six hours, classify dehydration
• Then choose the most appropriate plan (A, B or C) to continue treatment.
• If there is an outbreak of cholera in your area, give an appropriate oral
antibiotic after the patient is alert.
Other indications for intravenous therapy
• Unconscious child.
• Continuing rapid stool loss (  15-20ml/kg/hour).
• Frequent, severe vomiting, drinking poorly.
• Abdominal distension with paralytic ileus, usually caused by some
antidiarrhoeal drugs ( e.g. codeine, loperamide ) and hypokalaemia.
• Glucose malabsorption, indicated by marked increase in stool output
and large amount of glucose in the stool when ORS solution is given
(uncommon).
IV regime as for Plan C but the replacement fluid volume is calculated
according to the degree of dehydration. (5% for mild, 5-10% for moderate
dehydration).
Indications for admission to Hospital
• Moderate to severe dehydration.
• Need for intravenous therapy (as above).
• Concern for other possible illness or uncertainty of diagnosis.
• Patient factors, e.g. young age, unusual irritability/drowsiness,
worsening symptoms.
• Caregivers not able to provide adequate care at home.
• Social or logistical concerns that may prevent return evaluation if necessary.
* Lower threshold for children with obesity due to possibility of
underestimating degree of dehydration.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
362
Other problems associated with diarrhoea
• Fever
• May be due to another infection or dehydration.
• Always search for the source of infection if there is fever, especially if it
persists after the child is rehydrated.
• Seizures
• Consider:
- Febrile convulsion (assess for possible meningitis)
- Hypoglycaemia
- Hyper/hyponatraemia
• Lactose intolerance
• Usually in formula-fed babies less than 6 months old with infectious
diarrhoea.
• Clinical features:
- Persistent loose/watery stool
- Abdominal distension
- Increased flatus
- Perianal excoriation
• Making the diagnosis: compatible history; check stool for reducing
sugar (sensitivity of the test can be greatly increased by sending the
liquid portion of the stool for analysis simply by inverting the diaper).
• Treatment: If diarrhoea is persistent and watery (over 7-10 days) and
there is evidence of lactose intolerance, a lactose free formula may
be given.
• Normal formula can usually be reintroduced after 2–3 weeks.
• Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy
• A known potentially serious complication following acute gastroenteritis.
• To be suspected when trial of lactose free formula fails in patients with
protracted course of diarrhoea.
• Children suspected with this condition should be referred to a paediatric
gastroenterologist for further assessment.
	
GASTROENTEROLOGY
363
Non pharmacological / Nutritional strategies
• Undiluted vs diluted formula				
• No dilution of formula is needed for children taking milk formula.
• Soy based or cow milk-based lactose free formuls
• Not recommended routinely. Indicated only in children with suspected
lactose intolerance.
Pharmacological agents
• Antimicrobials
• Antibiotics should not be used routinely.
They are reliably helpful only in children with bloody diarrhoea, probable
shigellosis, and suspected cholera with severe dehydration.
• Antidiarrhoeal medications
• The locally available diosmectite (Smecta®) has been shown to be safe
and effective in reducing stool output and duration of diarrhoea. It acts
by restoring integrity of damaged intestinal epithelium, also capable to
bind to selected bacterial pathogens and rotavirus.
Other anti diarrhoeal agents like kaolin (silicates), loperamide (anti-
motility) and diphenoxylate (anti motility) are not recommended.
• Antiemetic medication
• Not recommended, potentially harmful.
• Probiotics
• Probiotics has been shown to reduce duration of diarrhoea in several
randomized controlled trials. However, the effectiveness is very strain
and dose specific. Therefore, only probiotic strain or strains with
proven efficacy in appropriate doses can be used as an adjunct to
standard therapy.
• Zinc supplements
• It has been shown that zinc supplements during an episode of
diarrhoea reduce the duration and severity of the episode and lower
the incidence of diarrhoea in the following 2-3 months.
WHO recommends zinc supplements as soon as possible after
diarrhoea has started. Dose up to 6 months of age is 10 mg/day,
and age 6 months and above 20mg/day, for 10-14 days.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
364
GASTROENTEROLOGY
365
Chapter 72: Chronic Diarrhoea
Introduction
WHO defines persistent or chronic diarrhea as an episode of diarrhea that
begins acutely and lasts for 14 days or more. It is a complex condition with
multitude etiologies. Locally, commonest aetiology is believed to be infec-
tion related where as autoimmune enteropathy is an important aetiology in
developed countries.
Mechanisms of diarrhea
• Osmotic e.g. Lactose intolerance
• Secretory e.g. Cholera
• Mixed secretory-osmotic e.g. Rotavirus
• Mucosal inflammation e.g. Invasive bacteria, Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Motility disturbance
Differentiation of Osmotic from Secretory Diarrhoea
Parameter Osmotic diarrhoea Secretory diarrhoea
Stool volume Small (generally
200ml/24 hours)
Large (200ml/24
hours)
Response to fasting Diarrhoea stops Diarrhoea continues
Stool Osmolality  (Stool Na + K) x 2 = (Stool Na + K) x 2
Osmotic Gap  135 mOsm/l  50 mOsm/l
Stool Sodium  70 mmol/l  70 mmol/l
Stool Potassium  30 mmol/l  40 mmol/l
Stool Chloride  35 mmol/l  40 mmol/l
Stool pH 5.5  6.0
Stool reducing substance Positive (0.5%) Negative
Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics
and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47
GASTROENTEROLOGY
366
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Causes of chronic diarrhea in children
Functional diarrhea (chronic nonspecific diarrhea)
Excessive intake of juice/osmotically active carbohydrates
Inadequate dietary fat
Idiopathic
Enteric infection
Postenteritis syndrome
Parasites
Giardia lamblia; Cryptosporidia parvum; Cyclospora cayetanensis; Isospora
belli; Microsporidia; Entamoeba histolytica; Strongyloides,Ascaris,Tricuris
spesies
Bacteria
Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAggEC); Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC);
Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC); Enteroadherent E. coli (EAEC); Mycobac-
terium avium complex; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Salmonella, Shigella,
Yersinia, Campylobacter
Viruses
Cytomegalovirus; Rotavirus; Enteric adenovirus;Astrovirus;Torovirus; Hu-
man ImmunodeficiencyVirus (HIV)
Syndromic persistent diarrhea (common in developing countries)
Associated with malnutrition
Immune deficiency
Primary immune deficiencies
Secondary immune deficiencies (HIV)
Abnormal immune response
Celiac disease
Food allergic enteropathy (dietary protein-induced enteropathy)
Autoimmune disorders
Autoimmune enteropathy (including IPEX)
Graft vs Host disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (more common in developed countries)
Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn's disease
Protein losing gastroenteropathy
Lymphangiectasia (primary or secondary)
Other diseases affecting the gastrointestinal mucosa
367
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Causes of chronic diarrhea in children (continued)
Congenital persistent diarrhea (rare)
Microvillus inclusion disease (Microvillus atrophy)
Intestinal epithelial dysplasia (Tufting enteropathy)
Congenital chloride diarrhea
Congenital sodium diarrhea
Congenital disaccharidase (sucrase-isomaltase, etc.) deficiencies
Congenital bile acid malabsorption
Neuroendocrine tumors
Gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)
VIPoma (Verner-Morrison syndrome)
Mastocytosis
Factitious diarrhea
Laxative abuse
Manipulation of stool samples
368
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Common causes of chronic diarrhea classified by typical stool
characteristics, irrespective of age
Watery diarrhea
Osmotic diarrhea
• Functional diarrhea (sometimes)
• Magnesium, phosphate, sulfate ingestion
• Carbohydrate malabsorption (lactose intolerance, mucosal disease,
congenital disaccharidase deficiencies)
Secretory diarrhea
• Laxative abuse (nonosmotic laxatives)
• Bacterial toxins
• Bile acid malabsorption (post cholecystecomy ileal)
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Autoimmune enteropathy (isolated or IPEX syndrome)
• Vasculitis
• Drugs and poisons
• Disordered motility (Hirshsprung's disease, pseudoobstruction)
• Neuroendocrine tumors (gastrin,VIP, carcinoid, mastocytosis)
• Neoplasia
• Addison's disease
• Epidemic secretory diarrhea (brainerd diarrhea)
• Idiopathic secretory diarrhea
• Congenital secretory diarrheas
Inflammatory diarrhea
• Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease,
microscopic [lymphocytic and collagenous] colitis, diverticulitis)
• Infectious diseases (ulcerating viral infections, enteric bacterial
pathogens, parasites)
• Ischemic colitis
• Radiation colitis
• Neoplasia (colon cancer, Lymphoma)
Fatty diarrhea
• Malabsorption syndromes (mucosal diseases [eg, celiac], short-bowel
syndrome, post-resection diarrhea, mesenteric ischemia)
• Maldigestion (pancreatic insufficiency [eg, cystic fibrosis], bile acid
deficiency)
369
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Implications of some aspects of the medical history in children with chronic
diarrhea
Line of Questioning Clinical Implication
Onset
• Congenital Chloridorrhea, Na+ malabsorption
• Abrupt Infections
• Gradual Everything else
• With introduction of
wheat cereals
Celiac disease
Stool Characteristics
• Daytime only Functional diarrhea (chronic nonspecific
diarrhea of childhood)
• Nocturnal Organic etiology
• Blood Dietary protein intolerance (eg, milk),
inflammatory bowel disease
• White/light tan color Absence of bile; Celiac disease
• Family history Congenital absorptive defects, inflammatory
bowel disease, celiac disease, multiple
endocrine neoplasia
Dietary History
• Sugar-free foods Fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol ingestion
• Excessive juice Osmotic diarrhea/chronic nonspecific diarrhea
• Raw milk Brainerd diarrhea
• Exposure to potentially
impure water source
Chronic bacterial infections (eg, aeromonas),
giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, Brainerd diarrhea
Travel history Infectious diarrhea, chronic idiopathic
secretory diarrhea
Failure to thrive/weight
loss
Malabsorption, pancreatic exocrine
insufficiency, anorexia nervosa
Previous therapeutic in-
terventions (drugs, radia-
tion, surgery, antibiotics)
Drug side effects, radiation enteritis,
postsurgical status, pseudomembranous colitis
(C. difficile), post-cholecystectomy diarrhea
Secondary gain from
illness
Laxative abuse
Systemic illness symptoms Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, inflammatory bowel
disease, tuberculosis, mastocytosis
Intravenous drug abuse,
sexual promiscuity (in
adolescent/child's parent)
HIV disease
Immune problems HIV disease, immunoglobulin deficiencies
Abdominal pain Obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome
Excessive flatus Carbohydrate malabsorption
Leakage of stool Fecal incontinence (consider occult
constipation)
370
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Investigations in Chronic Diarrhoea
Baseline investigations
Stool microscopy ova, cysts, parasites, fat globules
Stool microbiology
Stool pH, reducing substances, electrolytes
Full blood count and differential
Urea and electrolytes, CRP and ESR
Liver function tests including albumin
Coeliac serology
Subsequent investigations
Stool elastase-I
Stool alfa-1-antitrypsin
Vitamins A, D, E, coagulation, B12, folate levels, Ca, Mg, phosphate, ferritin
Endoscopy, colonoscopy and biopsies for histology, disaccharidases,
bacterial culture, Electron microscopy
Imaging studies x-ray, ultrasound, barium, MRI
Sweat test
Immunoglobulins, subclass, lymphocyte and neutrophil function test,
complements
Zinc level
Cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins
Autoantibodies including anti-enterocyte antibodies
Isoelectric focussing of transferrin
Gastrin, secretin, calcitonin,VIP
Manometric studies
Urinary laxatives
Breath hydrogen tests
Plasma and urinary bile acids and salts
Response to dietary modifications
Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics
and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47
371
Specific diagnostic consideration on routine blood examination results
Parameter Diagnostic considerations
Anaemia Iron, folate and B12 deficiency due to
malabsorption
Neutropenia Shwachman–Diamond syndrome
Lymphopenia Intestinal lymphangiectasia, immunodeficiency
Eosinophilia Food allergies, eosinophilic gastroenteritis
Elevated platelets Acute infections, IBD (especially Crohn’s
disease)
Acanthocytes in blood film Abetalipoproteinemia
Elevated ESR, CRP IBD, infections
Low albumin Protein losing enteropathies
Positive coeliac serology Coeliac disease
Metabolic alkalosis Congenital chloride diarrhoea
Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics
and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47
• Collection of stool with the help of a bag placed around the anus, using
an inverted diaper or insertion of a rectal tube to collect stool sample are
practical ways to confirm the watery nature of stool and also to obtain
samples for investigations.
• Collecting the liquid portion of the stool increases the sensitivity of stool
for reducing sugar testing.
Conclusion
• Despite being a complex condition which frequently requires tertiary
gastroenterology unit input, a complete history, physical examination
and logical stepwise investigations would usually yield significant clues
on the diagnosis.
• The type of diarrhea ie. secretory vs osmotic type should be determined
early in the course of investigations.
• It helps to narrow down the differential diagnosis and assists in planning
the therapeutic strategies.
• The nutritional status should not be ignored. It should be ascertained
on initial assessment and appropriate nutritional rehabilitation strategies
(parenteral or enteral nutrition) should be employed whilst investigating
the aetiology.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
372
Stoolelectrolytesand
ResponsetoFasting
ChronicDiarrhoea
OlderAgeGroupNeonatalOnset
Secretory
Diarrhoea
Osmotic
Diarrhoea
IntestinalBiopsy
Congenitalchloride
diarrhoea
Congenitalsodium
diarrhoea
Microvillous
inclusiondisease
CMPI
CysticFibrosis
Immunodeficiencystates
consider
CongenitalGlu-Gal
malabsorption
Congenitallactasedeficiency
Congenitalenterokinase
deficiency
Tuftingenteropathy
IPEX/autoimmune
Phenotypicdiarrhoea
CMPI
NormalAbnormal
WellChild
Normalgrowth,nutrition
NormalbaselineInvestigations
Chronicnon-specificdiarrhoea
Irritablebowelsyndrome
Reassurance
Failuretothrive
FeaturesofMalabsorption
Guthormones
Hormonesecretingtumours
CysticFibrosis
Shwachman-Diamond
Abetalipoproteinemia
Bileacidmalabsorption
Secondarylactoseintolerance
Sucrose-Isomaltosedeficiency
LymphangiectasiaCoeliacdisease
IBD
Postenteritis
Foodintolerances
Shortgut
Motilitydisorder
Bacteriaovergrowth
FatmalabsorptionCarbohydratemalabsorption
Proteinloss
Combinedmalabsorption
Secretory
Diarrhoea
Osmotic
Diarrhoea
Note:CMPI,Cow’smilkproteinintolerance;IBD,Inflammatory
boweldisease;IPEX,Immunedysregulation,polyendocrinopathy,
enteropathy,X-linked.
ALGORITHMFORAPPROACHTOCHRONICDIARRHOEAADAPTEDFROMRAVIKUMARA,
PAEDIATRCHILDHEALTH2008;18:441-47
GASTROENTEROLOGY
373
Chapter 73: Approach to Severely Malnourished Children
RESUSCITATION PROTOCOL FOR CHILDREN WITH SEVERE MALNUTRITION
This guideline is intended for Orang asli and indigenous children who present
to District Hospitals and Health Centres with a history of being unwell with
fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and poor feeding.
This protocol is not to be used for a child who does not have malnutrition.
This guideline is only recommended for those who fulfill the following criteria:
• Orang asli or other indigenous ethnic group
• Severe malnutrition • Lethargic or has lost consciousness
• Ill • Shock
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Reference
1. Management of the child with a serious infection or severe malnutrition (IMCI). Unicef WHO 2000
Initial assessment
Weigh the child (or estimate)
Measure temperature, pulse rate, BP and respiratory rate
Give oxygen
Insert intravenous or intraosseouos line
Draw blood for investigations where possible
(Blood sugar, FBC, BUSE, Blood culture, BFMP,ABG)
Resuscitation for shock
• Give IV/IO fluid 15ml/kg over 1 hour
• Solutions used -1/2NS, Hartmans if 1/2NS not available
• Use 1/2NSD5% if hypoglycaemic
Monitor and stabilise
• Measure pulse and breathing rate every 5-10 minutes
• Start antibiotic IV Cefotaxime or Ceftriaxone
(if not available Ampicillin+ Chloramphenicol)
• Monitor blood sugar and prevent hypothermia
• IV Quinine only after discussion with Paediatrician
If there are signs of improvements
(pulse and breathing rates are falling)
• Repeat IV/IO bolus 15ml/kg
over 1 hour
• Initiate ORS (or ReSoMal) PO
at10 ml/kg/h
• Discuss case with Paediatrician
and refer
If the child deteriorates
(breathing up by 5 breaths/min
or pulse up by 25 beats/min
or fails to improve with IV/IO fluid)
• Stop infusion as this can
worsen
child’s condition
• Discuss case with Paediatrician
immediately and refer
374
RE-FEEDING SEVERELY MALNOURISHED CHILDREN
This protocol is based on the protocol for Management of the child with a
serious infection or severe malnutrition (IMCI), Unicef WHO 2000.
Starter feed with F75 based on IMCI protocol
• Feeds at 75-100kcal/kg/day ( 100kcal/kg/day in the initial phase).
• Protein at 1-1.5 g/kg/day.
• Total volume 130mls/kg/day (if severe oedema, reduce to 100mls/kg/day).
How to increase feeds?
• Increase F75 gradually in volume, e.g. 10 ml/kg/day in first 3-4 days
• Gradual decrease in feeding frequency: 2, then 3 and 4 hourly when
improves.
• Calculate calorie and protein content daily
• Consider F100 catch up formula when
- Calories 130/kCal-kg/day-140kCal/kg/day.
- Child can tolerate orally well, gains weight, without signs of heart failure.
Note:
1. In a severely oedematous child this process might take about a week.
2. If you do not increase calories and proteins the child is not going to gain
weight and ward stay will be prolonged.
Monitoring
• Avoid causing heart failure
- Suspect if: sustained increase ( 2 hrs) of respiratory rate (increases by
5/min), and / or heart rate by 25/min from baseline.
- If present: reduce feed to 100ml/kg/day for 24 hr then slowly increase
as follows:
• 115ml/kg/day for next 24 hrs; then 130ml/kg/day for next 48 hrs.
• Then increase each day by 10 mls.
• Ensure adequate weight gain
- Weigh child every morning before feeds; ideal weight gain is  10g/kg/day
• If poor weight gain  5g/kg/day do a full reassessment
• If moderate weight gain (5-10g/kg/day) check intake or check for infection
• Watch for secondary infection
Algorithm for Re-Feeding Plan
Severely dehydrated,
ill, malnourished child
(Z Score  -3SD) Ongoing at
6hrs-10hrs
Completed Start F75 *
immediately
Wean from
ReSoMal to F75 *
(same volume)
Correct
dehydration
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375
Introducing Catch up Growth formula (F100)
• Gradual transition from F75 to F100 (usually over 48-72 hrs).
• Increase successive feed by 10mls till some feeds remains uneaten.
• Modified porridge or complementary food can be used, provided they have
comparable energy and protein levels.
• Gradually wean to normal diet, unlimited frequent feeds, 150-220 kCal/kg/day.
• Offer protein at 4-6 g/kg/day.
• Continue breast feeding if child is breastfed.
Note: If child refuses F75/F100 and is too vigorous for forced RT feeding,
then give normal diet. However must calculate calories and protein (as above).
Discharge criteria
• Not oedematous.
• Gaining weight well.
• Afebrile.
• Has completed antibiotics.
• Aged ≥ 12 mths (caution  12 mths: A Specialist opinion is required
before discharge).
In situation where patient need to be transferred to district facilities,
make sure:
• Provide a clear plan on how to feed and how to monitor progress.
• Provide a dietary plan with adequate calorie and protein requirements.
• A follow up appointment with a Paediatrician.
WHO electrolyte/mineral solution recipe
Item Quantity (gm) Molar content
(in 20 ml)
Potassium chloride, KCl 224 20 mmol
Tripotassium citrate: C6H5K3O7.H2O 81 2 mmol
Magnesium chloride: MgCl2.6H2O 76 3 mmol
Zinc acetate: Zn(CH3COO)2.2H20 8.2 300 μmol
Copper sulphate: CuSO4.5H2O 1.4 45 μmol
Water to make up 2500 ml
Note: if available, add Selenium (Sodium Selenate 0.028 g), and Iodine
(Potassium Iodide 0.012g) per 2500ml
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376
Recipes for starter and catch-up formulas
F-75 F-100 F-135
(starter) (catch-up) (catch-up)
Dried skimmed milk (g)* 25 80 90
Sugar (g) 100 50 65
Vegetable oil (g) 30 (or 35 ml) 60 (or 70 ml) 85 (or 95 ml)
Electrolyte/mineral solution (ml) 20 20 20
Water: make up to 1000 ml 1000 ml 1000 ml
Contents per 100ml
Energy (kcal) 75 100 135
Protein (g) 0.9 2.9 3.3
Lactose (g) 1.3 4.2 4.8
Potassium (mmol) 4.0 6.3 7.7
Sodium (mmol) 0.6 1.9 2.2
Magnesium (mmol) 0.43 0.73 0.8
Zinc (mg) 2.0 2.3 3.0
Copper (mg) 0.25 0.25 0.34
% energy from protein 5 12 10
% energy from fat 36 53 57
Osmolarity (mOsmol/L) 413 419 508
Preparation
• Using an electric blender: place some of the warm boiled water in the
blender, add the milk powder, sugar, oil and electrolyte/mineral solution.
Make up to 1000 ml, and blend at high speed.
• If no blender is available, mix milk, sugar, oil and electrolyte/ mineral
solution to a paste, and then slowly add the rest of the warm boiled water
and whisk vigorously with a manual whisk.
• Store made-up formula in refrigerator.
*Alternative recipes: (other milk sources)
F-75 starter formulas (make up to 100 ml)
• Full-cream dried milk 35 g, 100 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/
mineral solution.
• Full-cream milk (fresh/ long life) 300 ml, 100 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil,
20 ml electrolyte/mineral solution.
F-100 catch-up formulas (make up to 100 ml)
• Full-cream dried milk 110 g, 50 g sugar, 30 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/
mineral solution.
• Full-cream milk (fresh / long life) 880 ml, 75 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml
electrolyte/mineral solution.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
377
Chapter 74: Gastro-oesophageal Reflux
Introduction
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the passage of gastric contents into the
esophageal with/without regurgitation and vomiting. This is a normal
physiological process occurring several times per day in healthy children.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in pediatric patients is present
when reflux of gastric contents is the cause of troublesome symptoms
and/or complications.
Symptoms and Signs:
• Symptoms and signs associated with reflux vary by age and are nonspecific.
Warning signals requiring investigation in infants with recurrent
regurgitation or vomiting:
• Symptoms of gastrointestinal obstruction or disease
• Bilious vomiting.
• GI bleeding: hematemesis, hematochezia.
• Consistently forceful vomiting.
• Onset of vomiting after six months of life.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Abdominal tenderness, distension.
• Symptoms suggesting systemic or neurologic disease
• Hepatosplenomegaly.
• Bulging fontanelle.
• Macro/microcephaly.
• Seizures.
• Genetic disorders (e.g., Trisomy 21).
• Other chronic disorders (e.g., HIV).
• Nonspecific symptoms
• Fever.
• Lethargy.
• Failure to thrive.
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378
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Infant/younger
child (0-8 yrs) or
older without
cognitive ability
to reliably report
symptoms
GERD in paediatric patients is present when reflux of gastric contents
is the cause of troublesome symptoms and/or complications
ExtraoesophagealOesophageal
Symptoms
purported to
be due to GERD
• Excessive regurgitation
• Feeding refusal/anorexia
• Unexplained crying
• Choking/gagging/
coughing
• Sleep disturbance
• Abdomial pain
GLOBAL DEFINITION OF GERD IN THE PAEDIATRIC POPULATION
Symptomatic
Syndromes
Syndromes
with
Oesophageal
injury
Definite
associations
Possible
associations
Older child/adolescent
with cognitive ability
to reliably report
symptoms
• Typical Reflux
Syndrome
• Sandifer’s syndrome
• Dental erosion
• Reflux oesophagitis
• Reflux stricture
• Barret’s oesophagus
• Adenocarcinoma
Bronchopulmonary
• Asthma
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Laryngotracheal and Pharyngeal
• Chronic cough
• Chronic laryngitis
• Hoarseness
• Pharyngitis
Rhinological and Otological
• Sinusitis
• Serous Otitis Media
Infants
• Pathological Apnoea
• Bradycardia
• Apparent life threatening
events
From Sherman, et al.
Am J Gastroenterology
2009; 104: 1278-1295
379
Investigations
GERD is often diagnosed clinically and does not require investigations
• Indicated:
• If its information is helpful to define difficult or unusual cases.
• If of value in making treatment decisions.
• When secondary causes of GORD need to be excluded especially in
severely affected patients.
• Esophageal pH Monitoring
• The severity of pathologic acid reflux does not correlate consistently
with symptom severity or demonstrable complications
• For evaluation of the efficacy of antisecretory therapy
• To correlate symptoms (e.g., cough, chest pain) with acid reflux
episodes, and to select those infants and children with wheezing or
respiratory symptoms in whom GER is an aggravating factor.
• Sensitivity, specificity, and clinical utility of pH monitoring for diagnosis
and management of extraesophageal complications of GER is uncertain.
• Barium Contrast Radiography
• Not useful for the diagnosis of GERD as it has poor sensitivity and
specificity but is useful to confirm or rule out anatomic abnormalities
of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
• Nuclear Scintigraphy
• May have a role in the diagnosis of pulmonary aspiration in patients
with chronic and refractory respiratory symptoms. A negative test does
not rule out possible pulmonary aspiration of refluxed material.
• Not recommended for the routine evaluation of GERD in children.
• Esophageal manometry
• Not sufficiently sensitive or specific to diagnose GERD.
• To diagnose motility disorder e.g. achalasia or other motor disorders of
the esophagus that may mimic GERD.
• Endoscopy and Biopsy
• Endoscopically visible breaks in the distal esophageal mucosa are the
most reliable evidence of reflux esophagitis.
• To identify or rule out other causes of esophagitis including eosinophilic
esophagitis which do not respond to conventional anti reflux therapy.
• To diagnose and monitor Barrett esophagus (BE) and its complications.
• Empiric Trial of Acid Suppression as a Diagnostic Test
• Expert opinion suggests that in an older child or adolescent with typical
symptoms of GERD, an empiric trial of PPI is justified for up to 4 weeks.
• However, improvement of heartburn, following treatment, does not
confirm a diagnosis of GERD because symptoms may improve
spontaneously or respond by a placebo effect
• No evidence to support an empiric trial of acid suppression as a diagnostic
test in infants/young children where symptoms of GERD are less specific.
• Exposing them to the potential adverse events of PPI is not the best
practice. Look for causes other than GERD before making such a move.
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380
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Treatment
• Physiologic GER does not need medical treatment.
• Symptoms are often non specific esp. during infancy; many are exposed
to anti-reflux treatment without any sufficient evidence.
• Should always be balance between intended improvement of symptoms
with risk of side-effects.
Suggested Schematic Therapeutic Approach
• Parental reassurance  observe. Avoid overeating
• Lifestyle changes.
• Dietary treatment
- Use of a thickened formula (or commercial anti regurgitation formulae)
may decrease visible regurgitation but does not reduce in the frequency
of esophageal reflux episodes.
- There may be association between cow’s milk protein allergy and GERD.
- Therefore infants with GERD that are refractory to conventional anti
reflux therapy may benefit from a 2- to 4-week trial of elimination of
cow’s milk in diet with an extensively hydrolyzed protein formula that
has been evaluated in controlled trials. Locally available formulas are
Alimentum, Pepti and Pregestimil. Usually there will be strong family
history of atopy in these patients.
- No evidence to support the routine elimination of any specific food in
older children with GERD.
• Position during sleep
- Prone positioning decreases the amount of acid esophageal exposure
measured by pH probe compared with that measured in the supine
position. However, prone and lateral positions are associated with an
increased incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Therefore, in most infants from birth to 12months of age, supine
positioning during sleep is recommended.
- Prone or left-side sleeping position and/or elevation of the head of the
bed for adolescents with GERD may be of benefit in select cases.
• Buffering agents (some efficacy in moderate GERD, relatively safe).
Antacids only in older children.
• Buffering agents e.g. alginate and sucralfate are useful on demand for
occasional heartburn.
• Chronic use of buffering agents is not recommended for GERD because
some have absorbable components that may have adverse effects with
long-term use.
• Prokinetics .
• Treat pathophysiologic mechanism of GERD.
• There is insufficient evidence of clinical efficacy to justify the routine
use of metoclopramide, erythromycin, or domperidone for GERD.
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GASTROENTEROLOGY
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) (drug of choice in severe GERD).
Histamine-2 receptor antagonists less effective than PPI.
• Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonists (H2RAs).
- Exhibit tachyphylaxis or tolerance (but PPIs do not)
- Useful for on-demand treatment
• Proton Pump Inhibitors
- Administration of long-term acid suppression without a diagnosis is
inadvisable.
- When acid suppression is required, the smallest effective dose should
be used.
- Most patients require only once-daily PPI; routine use of twice-daily
dose is not indicated.
- No PPI has been officially approved for use in infants 1 year of age.
- The potential adverse effects of acid suppression, including increased
risk of community-acquired pneumonias and GI infections, need to be
balanced against the benefits of therapy.
• Antireflux surgery (either open or laparoscopic surgery).
- May be of benefit in selected children with chronic-relapsing GERD.
- Indications include: failure of optimized medical therapy, dependence
on long-term medical therapy, significant non adherence with medical
therapy, or pulmonary aspiration of refluxate.
- Children with underlying disorders predisposing to the most severe GERD
e.g. neurological impairment are at the highest risk for operative
morbidity and postoperative failure.
- It is essential therefore to rule out all non-GERD causes of the
child’s symptoms, confirm the diagnosis of chronic relapsing GERD,
discuss with the parents the pros and cons of surgery and to
assure that the caregivers understand the potential complications,
symptom recurrence and sometimes the need to be back on medical
therapy.
382
GASTROENTEROLOGY
383
Chapter 75: Acute Hepatic Failure in Children
• Definitions
• Fulminant hepatic failure (HF) - hepatic dysfunction (hepatic encepha-
lopathy and coagulopathy) within 8 weeks of evidence of symptoms of liver
disease and absence of pre-existing liver disease in any form.
• Hyperacute/ Fulminant HF - encephalopathy within 2 weeks of onset of
jaundice
• Subfulminant HF - encephalopathy within 2-12 weeks of onset of jaundice
• Subacute/ Late-onset HF- encephalopathy later than 8 weeks to 6 months
of onset of symptoms.
Salient features
• jaundice with impalpable liver or a liver of reducing size
• encephalopathy - may worsen rapidly (needs frequent review)
• bruising, petechiae or bleeding from deranged clotting unresponsive to
vitamin K.
• failure to maintain normoglycaemia (which aggravates encephalopathy)
or presence of hyperammonaemia
• increased intracranial pressure (fixed dilated pupils, bradycardia,
hypertension and papilloedema)
Grading of Hepatic Encephalopathy - Coma Level
Grade 1
Irritable, lethargic
Grade 2
Mood swings, aggression, photophobia,
Not recognising parents, presence of flap
Grade 3
Sleepy but rousable, incoherent, sluggish
Pupils, hypertonia ± clonus, extensor spasm
Grade 4
Comatose; decerebrate, decorticate
or no response to pain
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384
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Causes of Hepatic Failure
Infection
Hepatitis A, B, non A- non B, CMV
Leptospirosis, Dengue
Herpes simplex virus (particularly in small infants)
Drugs
Carbamazepine, valproate
Paracetamol, halothane
Ingested toxins
Mushrooms,Amanita phalloides
Metabolic
Fructosaemia, galactosaemia, tyrosaemia,
Wilson’s disease
Neonatal haemochromatosis
Ischaemic shock
Gram negative septicaemia,
Budd Chiari syndrome
Autoimmune
Autoimmune Hepatitis
Tumour
Histiocytosis, lymphoproliferative disorder
Principles of management
Supportive Treatment					
• Nurse in quiet darkened room with head-end elevated at 20o
with
no neck flexion (to decrease ICP and minimise cerebral irritability).
• DO NOT SEDATE unless already ventilated
• This may precipitate respiratory failure and death.
• Maintain blood glucose between 6-9 mmol/l using minimal fluid volume
(40-60 ml/kg/day crystalloid) with high dextrose concentrations
e.g. 10-20%. Add Potassium as necessary.
• Check capillary blood sugar every 2 - 4 hourly.
• Strict monitoring of urine output and fluid balance. Catheterise if necessary.
• Check urinary electrolytes, serum urea, creatinine, electrolytes, osmolarity.
• Frequent neurological observations (1-4 hourly).
• Maintain oxygenation with facial oxygen.
• Give Vitamin K to correct prolonged PT. If frank bleeding (GIT/oral)
occurs, consider prudent use of FFP or IV Cryoprecipitate at 10 ml/kg.
• Prophylactic Ranitidine + oral Antacid to prevent gastric/duodenal ulceration.
• Full septic screen (excluding LP) on admission, CXR. Treat sepsis
aggressively, monitoring levels of aminoglycosides frequently.
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GASTROENTEROLOGY
• Stop oral protein initially. Gradually reintroduce 0.5-1g/kg/day.
• Lactulose to produce 3-4 loose stools per day.
• *Strict fluid balance is essential - aim for urine output  0.5 ml/kg/hour.
• Consider N-Acetylcysteine. (discuss with hepatologist). The dose is a
continuous infusion at 10mg/kg/hr for at least 48-72 hours with regular
serial monitoring of liver biochemical and synthetic function parameters.
Small risk of anaphylaxis is present.
• Antibiotics : Combination that provides a good cover against gram
negative organisms and anaerobes eg. cefotaxime and metronidazole if
no specific infective agent suspected (eg. leptospira, mycoplasma)
• Antiviral : Acyclovir is recommended in neonates and small infants with
Acute Liver Failure due to possibility of Herpes simplex virus infection
• Renal dysfunction
• Possible causes : Hepato-renal syndrome, Dehydration and Low CVP/
low cardiac output. Consider haemofiltration (to discuss with
Paediatric nephrologist) if supportive measures like fluid challenge,
renal dose dopamine and frusemide infusion fail.
Clinical Pearls In a comatose patient:
• In the presence of sudden coma, consider intracranial bleed: request a
CT Brain.
• Patients in Grade 3 or 4 coma require mechanical ventilation to maintain
normal cerebral perfusion pressure.
Indication for Liver Transplantation
Paracetamol-induced disease
• Arterial pH  7.3 (independent of the grade of encephalopathy)
OR
• Grade III or IV encephalopathy and
• Prothrombin time  100 s and
• Serum creatinine  3.4 mg/dL (301 μmol/l)
All other causes of fulminant hepatic failure
• Prothrombin time  100 s (independent of grade of encephalopathy)
OR
• Any 3 of the following variables (independent of grade of encephalopathy)
• Age  10 years or  40 years
• Etiology: non-A, non-B hepatitis, halothane hepatitis, idiosyncratic drug
reactions
• Duration of jaundice before onset of encephalopathy  7 days
• Prothrombin time  50 s
• Serum bilirubin  18 mg/dl (308 μmol/l)
Adapted from the King’s College Hospital Criteria
386
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Fluid management in liver failure
Normal Liver Function Liver Failure
Volume given if no dehydration and losses are not abnormal
Body Weight
 10 kg 120-150 ml/kg/day 60-80 ml/kg/day
10-20 kg 90-120 ml/kg/day 40-60 ml/kg/day
 20 kg 50-90 ml/kg/day 30-50 ml/kg/day
Fluid type Dextrose 4 – 5 % Dextrose ≥ 10%
(adjust according to
Destrostix readings)
Potassium 1 - 3.5 mmol/kg/day NIL WHILE ANURIC
Sodium 1.5 - 3.5 mmol/kg/day No added sodium to
existing maintenance
fluid (Adjust to keep
serum Na normal)
Other Fluids Albumin 20% 5 ml/kg Albumin 20% 5 ml/kg
For transfusion FFP 10-20 ml/kg FFP 10-20 ml/kg
Blood volume (ml) = No. of grams to raise Hb by x body weight in kg x F
Where F = 6 for whole blood, F = 4 for packed cells
387
Chapter 76: Approach to Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Definitions
• Haemetemesis - vomiting out blood whether fresh or stale
• Malaena - passing out tarry black stools per rectum
Both are medical emergencies that carry significant mortality.
Salient features
• Duration and severity of haemetemesis and/or malaena.
• Evidence of hypovolaemic shock.
• Rule out bleeding diathesis.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Largest possible bore IV cannula inserted immediately
(CVP line may be required)
Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Quick assessment of cardiovascular status
(Pulse, BP, Respiration)
Resuscitate with IV volume ex-
pander
Use 0.45 %/ 0.9 % Saline,
plasmatein, FFP
or 5% albumin to stabilise BP/HR
while waiting for blood
to be available
• Transfuse blood to maintain
BP/HR, urine output and Hb.
Look for complications of massive
transfusion: acidosis, hypoglycemia,
hypothermia
• If required give
IV Calcium Gluconate 10%
and Sodium Bicarbonate
Large bore NG tube passed
to aspirate fresh/ clotted blood,
then tube removed
Take blood for GXM
At least 1-2 units of packed cells
kept available at all times
during acute period
Investigations
• Hb/Platelet counts/haematocrit
• Renal profile
• Coagulation profile
• Other investigations relevant
to cause of bleeding
• Monitor BP/HR/Pulse volume/
temperature/ urine output/
CVP hourly until stable
• Continue to observe for
ongoing bleeding.
FFP, Cryoprecipitate and Platelet concentrates may be
needed to correct coagulation disorders, DIVC, etc
ACUTE RESUSCITATION IN A CHILD WITH GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING
388
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Decision making after acute resuscitation
Reassessment of patients
When patient’s condition is stable and resuscitative measures have been
instituted,
Assess patient for cause of bleeding and the need for surgery.
History is reviewed.
Ask for history of chronic liver disease, dyspepsia, chronic or intermittent
gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g. polyps), drug ingestion (anticoagulants,
aspirin), or acute fever (dengue haemorrhagic fever), easy bleeding
tendencies, antibiotics treatment (pseudomembranous colitis).
Physical examination should be directed towards looking for signs of
chronic liver disease (spider angiomata, palmar erythema, portal
hypertension or splenomegaly) or telengiectasia / angiomata in mouth,
trunk, etc.)
Diagnostic measures to localise source of bleeding
• Oesophagogastro-duodenoscopy (OGDS) or colonoscopy can be
performed when patient’s condition is stable.
• Double contrast barium study less useful than endoscopy but may be
indicated in patients when endoscopy cannot precisely locate the
source of bleeding (e.g. in intussusception).
• Visceral angiography can precisely locate the source of bleeding. But
is only reserved for patients with a difficult bleeding problem.
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GASTROENTEROLOGY
Definitive measures to management of gastrointestinal bleeding
Medical Cause
Bleeding peptic ulcer
• Start H2 receptor antagonist (e.g. cimetidine or ranitidine).
Proton pump inhibitor (omeprazole) should be considered when
available as it has higher acid suppressant activity.
Pantoprazole infusion has been increasingly used “off label” (discuss with
Paediatric Gastroenterologist).
• If biopsy shows presence of Helicobacter pylori infection, treat accordingly.
• Stop all incriminating drugs e.g. aspirin, steroids and anticoagulant
drugs if possible.
Bleeding oesophageal varies ulcer
• Do not transfuse blood too rapidly as this will lead to increase in CVP
and a rapid increase in portal pressure will precipitate further bleeding.
• Aim to maintain Hb at 10 g/dL.
• Refer Paediatric Surgeon and Paediatric Gastroenterologist to
consider use of octreotide.
Pseudomembranous colitis
• Stop all antibiotics
• Start oral metronidazole or oral vancomycin immediately.
Surgical Cause
When surgical cause is suspected, early referral to the surgeon is impor-
tant so that a team approach to the problem can be adopted.
• Intussusception requires immediate surgical referral and intervention.
• Meckel’s diverticulum
• Malrotation
390
GASTROENTEROLOGY
References
Section 9 Gastroenterology
Chapter 72 Chronic Diarrhoea
1.Schmitz J. Maldigestion and malabsorption. In: Walker Goulet, Kleinman
Sherman, Shneider, Sanderson, eds. Pediatric gastrointestinal disease. New
York: B C Decker, 2004, p. 8–20.
2.Binder HJ. Causes of chronic diarrhea. N Engl J Med 2006; 355:236.
3.Bhutta ZA, Ghishan F, Lindley K, et al. Persistent and chronic diarrhea and
malabsorption: Working Group report of the second World Congress of
Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. J Pediatr Gastroen-
terol Nutr 2004; 39 Suppl 2:S711.
4.Schiller, LR. Chronic diarrhea. Gastroenterology 2004; 127:287.
5.Fine, KD, Schiller, LR. AGA technical review on the evaluation and manage-
ment of chronic diarrhea. Gastroenterology 1999; 116:1464.
6.M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics and child
health 2008; 18: 441-47.
Chapter 74 Gastroesophageal reflux
1.Yvan Vandenplas, and Colin D. Rudolph et al. Pediatric Gastroesophageal
Reflux Clinical Practice Guidelines: Joint Recommendations of the North
American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition
and the European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and
Nutrition. J Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 49:498–547 2009.
2.Robert Wyllie, Jeffrey S. Hyams, Marsha Kay et al.Pediatric Gastrointestinal
And Liver Disease, Fourth Edition. 2011.
391
Chapter 77: Sepsis and Septic Shock
Definitions of Sepsis and Shock
SIRS
(Systemic
Inflammatory
Response
Syndrome)
• Non-specific systemic inflammatory response to
infection, trauma, burns, surgery etc.
• Characterized by abnormalities in ≥ 2 of the
following (one of which must be abnormal tempera-
ture or leukocyte count):
• Body temperature.
• Heart rate.
• Respiratory function.
• Peripheral leucocyte count.
Sepsis • SIRS in the presence of or as a result of suspected
or proven infection.
Severe sepsis • Sepsis plus one of the following:
• Cardiovascular organ dysfunction.
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Two or more other organ dysfunction.
Septic shock • Severe sepsis with cardiovascular organ dysfunction
i.e. Hypotension (systolic Blood Pressure  5th
centile for age).
Early septic shock
(WARM shock)
• Compensated warm phase of shock.
• Prompt response to fluids, pharmacologic treatment.
Refractory septic
shock
(COLD shock)
• Late decompensated phase.
• Shock lasting 1 hour despite vigorous therapy
necessitating vasopressor support.
Based on the International Pediatric Sepsis Consensus Conference
Incidence
Non hospitalized immunocompetent children may develop community ac-
quired sepsis. More commonly, hospitalized immunocompromised patients are
at higher risk of developing serious healthcare associated sepsis.
Pathophysiology
Infection
Activation of immunological system
Release of inflammatory chemical mediators
Systemic vasodilation
Capillary leakage
Intravascular volume depletion
Maldistribution of intravascular volume
Impaired myocardial function
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
392
Clinical features
Sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock are a clinical continuum.
• SEPSIS is present when 2 or more of the following features are present
• Fever (  38.5⁰C) or hypothermia, often in neonate ( 36⁰C)
• Hyperventilation
• Tachycardia
• White blood count abnormalities: leukocytosis or leucopenia
AND there is clinical evidence of infection.
Other constitutional symptoms such as poor feeding, diarrhea, vomiting,
lethargy may be present.
• With progression to SEVERE SEPSIS, there are features of compromised end
organ perfusion such as:
Features of compromised end organ perfusion
Neurology Altered sensorium, irritability, agitation, confusion,
unresponsiveness or coma
Respiratory Tachypnoea, increase breathing effort,
apnoea / respiratory arrest, cyanosis (late sign)
Renal Oliguria: urine output  0.5ml/kg per hour
• When SEPTIC SHOCK sets in, look for features of Warm or Cold shock:
Features of Warm and Cold shock
WARM shock COLD shock
Peripheries Warm, flushed Cold, clammy, cyanotic
Capillary refill  2 sec  2 sec
Pulse Bounding Weak, feeble
Heart rate Tachycardia Tachycardia or bradycardia
Blood pressure Relatively maintained Hypotension
Pulse pressure Widened Narrowed
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
393
Look out for localizing signs - most useful but not always present:
Localising Signs
Central nervous system
meningism , encephalopathy
Respiratory
localized crepitations, evidence of consolidation
Cardiovascular
changing murmurs
Gastrointestinal
focal or rebound tenderness, guarding
Bone and soft tissue
focal erythema, tenderness and oedema
Head and neck
cervical lymphadenopathy, sinus tenderness,
inflamed tympanic membrane, stridor,
exudative pharyngotonsillitis
Skin
pustular lesions
Complications
Multiorgan Failure:
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Acute renal failure.
• Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy.
• Central nervous system dysfunction.
• Hepatic failure.
394
Investigations
Septic work - up Monitoring severity and progress
• Blood CS • Full blood count
• Urine CS • Renal profile
Where appropriate • Electrolytes, calcium, magnesium
• CSF CS • Blood sugar
• Tracheal aspirate CS • Blood gases
• Pus / exudate CS • +/- lactate levels
• Fungal cultures • Coagulation profile
• Serology, viral studies • Liver function test
• Imaging studies
- Chest X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan
Supporting evidence of infection:
Full blood count
Leukocytosis or leukopenia
Peripheral blood film
Increase in immature neutrophil count
C-reactive protein
Elevated c-reactive protein levels
Abbreviation. CS, Culture and Sensitivity
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
395
Management
• Initial resuscitation - ABC
• Secure airway, Support breathing, Restore circulation
Caution: the use of sedation in septic or hypotensive children may result in
crash of blood pressure. If sedation is required, use low dose IV Midazolam
or Ketamine, volume infusion should be continued and inotropes should be
initiated, if time permits.
• Fluid therapy
• Aggressive fluid resuscitation with crystalloids or colloids at 20 mls/kg
as rapid IV push over 5-10 mins. Can be repeated up to 60 mls/kg or more.
• Correct hypoglycaemia and hypocalcaemia.
• Inotropic Support
• If fluid refractory shock*, establish central venous access
- Start inotropes: IV Dopamine 5 - 15 µg/kg min or
- IV Dobutamine 5 - 15 µg/kg/min
• For fluid refractory and dopamine/dobutamine refractory shock with
- Warm shock : titrate IV Noradrenaline 0.05 – 2.0 µg/kg /min
- Cold shock : titrate IV Adrenaline 0.05 – 2.0 µg/kg /min
• The aim of titration of inotropes include normal clinical endpoints
and where available, SpO₂ 70%.
• Inotropes should be infused via a central line (whenever possible)
or a large bore peripheral canula.
• Use dedicated line or lumen. Avoid concurrent use for other IV fluids,
medication.
• Fluids and inotropes to be titrated to optimal vital signs, urine output
and conscious level.
*hypotension, abnormal capillary refill or extremity coolness
• Antimicrobial therapy
• IV antibiotics should be administered immediately after appropriate
cultures are taken. Start empirical, broad spectrum to cover all likely
pathogens, considering:
- Risk factors of patient and underlying illness.
- Local organism prevalence and sensitivity patterns.
- Protocols of the institution.
• Antibiotic regime to be modified accordingly once CS results are back.
• Source control:
- Evaluate patient to identify focus of infection.
- Drainage, debridement or removal of infected devices to help
control infection.
396
• Respiratory Support
• Use PEEP and FIO2 to keep SaO2  90%, PaO2  80 mmHg
Caution: use sufficient PEEP to ensure alveolar recruitment in cases of sepsis
with acute lung injury. Too high PEEP can result in raised intrathoracic pres-
sure which can compromise venous return and worsen hypotension.
• Supportive Therapy
• Packed cells transfusion if Hb 10g/L.
• Platelet concentrate transfusion if platelet count  20 000/mm3.
• If overt clinical bleeding, correct coagulopathy or DIVC.
• Bicarbonate therapy: give bicarbonate only in refractory metabolic
acidosis, if pH  7.1 (ensure adequate tissue perfusion and ventilation
to clear by-product CO₂).
• Aim to maintain normal electrolytes and blood sugar.
• Monitoring
• Frequent serial re-evaluation is essential to guide therapy and gauge
response, as below:
Monitoring in Children with Sepsis
Clinical
• Vital signs
• Heart rate via cardiac monitor
• Capillary return
• Skin temperature
• Pulse volume
• Blood pressure
• Non invasive
• Invasive - ideal if available
• SpO2 via pulse oximeter
• Central venous pressure (CVP)
Urine output via continuous bladder drainage
Head chart (GCS)
Laboratory
See previousTable on Investigations
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
397
Chapter 78: Pediatric HIV
Screening of children for HIV status
• In newborns and in children, the following groups need to be tested:
• Babies of HIV positive mothers.
• Abandoned babies / street children.
• Babies of mothers with high risk behaviour (e.g. drug addicts /
prostitutes / multiple sex partners / single-teenage /underage).
• Sexually abused children and children with sexually transmitted disease.
• Children receiving regular blood transfusions or blood products
e.g. Thalassemics.
Deliveries and infant nursing
• Standard precautions must be observed at all times. It is vital to use
protective barriers such as arm length gloves, mask, goggles and gown
with waterproof sleeves. Boots are to be used for institutional deliveries:
• During deliveries.
• During handling of placenta tissue.
• During handling of babies such as wiping liquor off babies.
• All equipment, including resuscitation equipment should be cleaned
and sterilised.
• For home deliveries, battery operated suction device should be used.
• Standard precautions are to be observed in caring for the babies.
• For parents or relatives, gloves are given for use when handling the
placenta after discharge, or during burial of stillbirth or dead babies at
home. The placenta from HIV positive mothers should be soaked in
formalin solution before disposal. Alternatively, the placenta can be
sealed in a plastic bag or other leak proof container with clear
instructions to parents not to remove it from the container.
Immunisation
• Vaccines protect HIV-infected children from getting severe vaccine
preventable diseases, and generally well tolerated.
• All routine vaccinations can be given according to schedule, with special
precautions for live vaccines i.e. BCG, OPV and MMR:
• BCG: safe in child is asymptomatic and not immunosuppressed
(e.g. at birth); omit if symptomatic or immunosuppressed
• Give IPV (killed polio vaccine) as recommended in current schedule.
• MMR: safe; omit in children with severe immunosuppression (CD415%).
• Other recommended vaccines:
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine when  2 years of age; booster
3-5 years later. Where available, use Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
(more immunogenic).
• Varicella-zoster vaccine, where available. 2 doses with 2 months interval.
Omit in those with severe immunosuppression (CD4  15%)
Despite vaccination, remember that long term protection may not be
achieved in severe immune suppression i.e. they may still be at risk of
acquiring the infections!
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
398
Interventions to limit perinatal transmission
• Vertical transmission of HIV may occur while in utero, during the birth
process or through breast-feeding. The rates vary from 25 - 30%.
• Breastfeeding confers an additional 14% risk of transmission, and is
therefore contraindicated.
• Blood and blood products should be used judiciously even though the
risk of transmission of HIV infection from blood transfusion is very small.
Several interventions have proven effective in reducing vertical transmission:
• Total substitution of breastfeeding with infant formula.
• Elective Caesarean section.
• Antiretroviral (ARV) prophylaxis.
Factors associated with higher transmission rate
Maternal
Low CD 4 counts
High viral load
Advanced disease
Seroconversion during pregnancy
Foetal
Premature delivery of the baby
Delivery and procedures
Invasive procedures such as episiotomy
Foetal scalp electrodes
Foetal blood sampling and amniocentesis
Vaginal delivery
Rupture of membranes  4 hours
Chorioamnionitis
Management of Babies Born to HIV Infected Mothers
Children born to HIV positive mothers are usually asymptomatic at birth.
However, all will have acquired maternal antibodies. In uninfected children,
antibody testing becomes negative by 10 - 18 months age.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
399
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
During pregnancy
• Counsel mother regarding:
• Transmission rate (without intervention) –25 to 30%.
• ARV prophylaxis + elective LSCS reduces transmission to ~3%.
• Feed with infant formula as breast feeding doubles the risk of transmission.
• Difficulty in making early diagnosis because of presence of maternal
antibody in babies. Stress importance of regular blood tests and follow-up.
Neonatal period
• Admit to ward or early review by paediatric team (if not admitted).
• Examine baby for
• Evidence of other congenital infections.
• Symptoms of drug withdrawal (reviewing maternal history is helpful).
• Most babies are asymptomatic and only require routine perinatal care
• Start on prophylaxis ARV as soon as possible.
• Sample blood for:
• HIV DNA PCR (done in IMR, do not use cord blood; sensitivity 90%
by 1 month age).
• FBC.
• Other tests as indicated:
LFT, RFT, HbsAg, Hepatitis C, Toxoplasmosis, CMV, VDRL serology.
400
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
MANAGEMENT OF HIV EXPOSED INFANTS
¹ Footnote:
Scenario 1: HIV infected pregnant mother who is on HAART
Scenario 2: HIV infected mother at delivery who has not received adequate ARV
Scenario 3: Infant born to HIV infected mother who has not received any ARV
• ARV should be served as soon as possible (preferably within 6-12 hrs of life)
and certainly no later than 48 hours.
• Dose of Syr ZDV for premature baby 30 wks: 2mg/kg 12hrly for 2 wks, then
2mg/kg 8hrly). If oral feeding is contraindicated, use IV ZDV 1.5mg/kg/dose.
Abbreviations:
ARV, Antiretroviral prophylaxis; HAART, Highly active antiretroviral therapy;
PCP, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
Positive
Positive
Positive
Negative
Negative
HIV Positive Mother
HIV DNA PCR Testing
Repeat HIV DNA PCR
as soon as possible
1. Initiate HIV prophylaxis in newborn immediately after delivery:
Scenario 1¹
Zidovudine
Scenario 2 + 3:¹
Zidovudine
+ Nevirapine
4mg/kg/dose bd for 6 weeks
4mg/kg/dose bd for 6 weeks
8mg/dose (BW 2kg), 12mg/dose (BW 2kg)
for 3 doses: at birth, 48hrs later and 96hrs after 2nd dose
2. Investigations:
HIV DNA PCR (together with mothers blood ) at 0-2 weeks
FBC at birth and at 6 weeks
3. Start PCP prophylaxis at 6 weeks age, till HIV status determined
Co-trimoxazole 4mg TMP/20mg SMX/kg daily
or 150 mg TMP/ 750 SMX mg/m²/day bd for 3 days per week
Repeat HIV DNA PCR
at 6 weeks age
Repeat HIV DNA PCR
at 4 - 6 months age
INFECTED NOT INFECTED
• PCP Prophylaxis up to 12 mths
Later evaluate for continued need
• Anti-retroviral therapy,
if indicated
• Follow up
• Stop Co-trimoxazole
• Follow 3 mthly till 18 mths age
• Ensure that baby’s antibody
status is negative by 18 mths
Negative
401
Management of HIV in Children
Clinical Features
Common presenting features are:
• Persistent lymphadenopathy • Hepatosplenomegaly
• Failure to thrive • Developmental delay, regression
• Recurrent infections (respiratory, skin, gastrointestinal)
Diagnosis of HIV infection
• In children  18 months age: 2 consecutive positive HIV antibody tests.
• In children ≤ 18 months age: 2 positive HIV DNA PCR tests.
Monitoring
• Monitor disease progression through clinical, immunological (CD4+ count
or %) and viral load status.
• CD4+ count and viral load assay are done at diagnosis, 2-3 months after
initiation or change of ART and every 3-4 months thereafter (more
frequently if change of therapy is made or progression of disease occurs).
Antiretroviral Therapy
Clinical outcome following the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy
(HAART) in children is excellent, with reduced mortality (67 - 80%) reported
from various cohorts. However, this needs to be balanced with: failure of
current drugs to eradicate infection, medication side effects and
compliance-adherence issues.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Goals of therapy
Decrease Viral Replication
Preservation of Immune System
Diminish Viral Replication
Improved Quality of Life and Survival
Optimising Growth and Development
Reduced Opportunistic Infections
402
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
When to start?
• Starting ART is very rarely an emergency. Before starting ART, intensive
education to parents, care-givers and older children-patients need to be
stressed. Do not start in haste as we may repent at leisure!
Assess family’s capacity to comply with often difficult and rigid regimens.
Stress that non-adherence to medications allows continuous viral
replication and encourages the emergence of drug resistance and
subsequent treatment failure.
• Young infants have a much higher risk of disease progression to clinical
AIDS or death when compared to older children or adults and hence the
treatment recommendations are more aggressive. Recommendation for
when to start ARV is shown in Table.
• Please consult a specialist/consultant before starting treatment.
WHO classification of HIV-associated immunodeficiency using CD4 count
Classification of
HIV-associated
Immunodeficiency
Age related CD4 values
 11 mths
(CD4 %)
12-35 mths
(CD4 %)
36-59 mths
(CD4 %)
≥5 years
(cells/mm³ or
CD4 %)
Not significant 35 30 25 500
Mild 30–35 25–30 20–25 350−499
Advanced 25–29 20−24 15−19 200−349
Severe 25 20 15 200 or 15%
Clinical categories
There are 2 widely used clinical classification systems i.e CDC’s 1994
Revised Paediatric Classification and the more recently updated WHO Clini-
cal Classification system. Both classification systems are quite similar with
only minor differences.
403
WHO Clinical Staging Of HIV for Infants and Children With Established HIV
infection (Adapted from WHO 2007)
Clinical stage 1 (Asymptomatic)
Asymptomatic
Persistent generalized lymphadenopathy
Clinical stage 2 (Mild) *
Unexplained persistent hepatosplenomegaly
Papular pruritic eruptions
Extensive wart virus infection
Extensive molluscum contagiosum
Recurrent oral ulcerations
Unexplained persistent parotid enlargement
Lineal gingival erythema
Herpes zoster
Recurrent or chronic upper respiratory tract infections (otitis media, otor-
rhoea, sinusitis, tonsillitis )
Fungal nail infections
Clinical stage 3 (Advanced) *
Unexplained moderate malnutrition not adequately responding to stand-
ard therapy
Unexplained persistent diarrhoea (14 days or more )
Unexplained persistent fever (above 37.5 ºC, intermittent or constant, for
longer than one month)
Persistent oral candidiasis (after first 6 weeks of life)
Oral hairy leukoplakia
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis/periodontitis
Lymph node TB
Pulmonary TB
Severe recurrent bacterial pneumonia
Symptomatic lymphoid interstitial pneumonitis
Chronic HIV-associated lung disease including bronchiectasis
Unexplained anaemia (8.0 g/dl ), neutropenia (0.5 x 109/L) or chronic
thrombocytopenia (50 x 109/ L)
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
404
WHO Clinical Staging Of HIV for Infants and Children With Established HIV
infection (Adapted from WHO 2007) (continued)
Clinical stage 4 (Severe) *
Unexplained severe wasting, stunting or severe malnutrition not respond-
ing to standard therapy
Pneumocystis pneumonia
Recurrent severe bacterial infections (e.g. empyema, pyomyositis, bone
or joint
infection, meningitis, but excluding pneumonia)
Chronic herpes simplex infection; (orolabial or cutaneous of more than
one month’sduration, or visceral at any site)
Extrapulmonary TB
Kaposi sarcoma
Oesophageal candidiasis (or Candida of trachea, bronchi or lungs)
Central nervous system toxoplasmosis (after the neonatal period)
HIV encephalopathy
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection; retinitis or CMV infection affecting
another organ, with onset at age over 1 month
Extrapulmonary cryptococcosis (including meningitis)
Disseminated endemic mycosis (extrapulmonary histoplasmosis, coccidi-
omycosis)
Chronic cryptosporidiosis (with diarrhoea )
Chronic isosporiasis
Disseminated non-tuberculous mycobacteria infection
Cerebral or B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
HIV-associated cardiomyopathy or nephropathy
(*) Unexplained refers to where the condition is not explained by other
causes.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
405
Which drugs to use?
Always use combination of at least 3 drugs (see Table next page)
Either
• 2 NRTI + 1 NNRTI [Efavirenz (age ≥ 3 years) or Nevirapine (age  3 years)]
OR
• 2 NRTI + 1 PI (Lopinavir/r)
• Recommended 2 NRTI combinations: ZDV + 3TC; ZDV + ddI; ABC + 3TC;
• Alternative 2 NRTI combinations : d4T + 3TC ; ddI + 3TC
• For infants exposed to maternal or infant NVP or other NNRTIs used for
maternal treatment or PMTCT, start ART with PI (Lopinavir/r) + 2 NRTIs.
Not Recommended
• Mono or dual therapy (except mother-to-child transmission prophylaxis
during neonatal period):
• d4T + ZDV - pharmacologic and antiviral antagonism.
• d4T + ddI - higher risk of lipodystrophy, peripheral neuropathy.
• 3TC + FTC - similar resistance patterns and no additive benefit.
When to change?
• Treatment failure based on clinical, virologic and immunological parameters
e.g. deterioration of condition, unsuppressed/rebound viral load or
dropping of CD4 count/%.
• Toxicity or intolerance of the current regimen
If due to toxicity or intolerance:
• Choose drugs with toxicity profiles different from the current regimen.
• Changing a single drug is permissible.
• Avoid reducing dose below lower end of therapeutic range for drug.
If due to treatment failure:
• Assess and review adherence
• Preferable to change all ARV (or at least 2) to drugs that the patient has
not been exposed to before.
Choices are very limited! Do not add a drug to a failing regime.
• Consider potential drug interactions with other medications
• When changing therapy because of disease progression in a patient
with advanced disease, the patient’s quality of life must be considered.
• Doing genotypic resistant testing will help to choose the appropriate
ARV, however, the test is not widely available in Malaysia
• Consult an infectious diseases specialist before switching.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
406
CategoriesofantiretroviraldrugsavailableinMalaysia
Nucleoside/
Nucleotidereverse
transcriptase
inhibitors(NRTI)
Nonnucleosidere-
versetranscriptase
inhibitor(NNRTI)
Proteaseinhibitors
(PI)
IntegraseinhibitorsCCR5antagonistsFusioninhibitors
Zidovudine(ZDV)Nevirapine(NVP)RitonavirRaltegravirMaravirocEnfurvitide
Stavudine(d4T)Efavirenz(EFZ)Indinavir(IDV)
Lamivudine(3TC)EtravirineLopinavir/Ritonavir
(Kaletra)
Didanosine(ddI)Saquinavir
Abacavir(ABC)Atazanavir(ATV)
Tenofovir(TDF)Nelfinavir
Emtricitabine(FTC)Darunavir
Fixed-dosecombinationtabletsFDC)
ZDV+3TCcombinedtablet(Combivir/Duovir)
d4T+3TC+NVPcombinedtablet(SLN30)
TDF+FTCcombinedtablet(Tenvir-EM)
Footnote:
NotallARVsaresuitableforuseinchildren
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
407
WhentostartARV?
AgeInitiateTreatment*ConsiderDefer
12monthsAllinfantsregardlessofclinical
symptoms,immunestatusandviralload
1-5yearsAIDSorsignificantHIV-relatedsymptoms
(WHOStage3**or4**)
OR
Asymptomaticormildsymptoms(WHOStage
12)andCD425%
Asymptomaticormild
symptomsand
• CD425%
or
• VL≥100,000copies/ml
Asymptomaticand
• CD4≥25%
and
• VL100,000copies/ml
≥5yearsAIDSorsignificantHIV-relatedsymptoms
(WHOStage3**or4**)
OR
Asymptomaticormildsymptoms
(WHOStage12)andCD4≤350cells/mm3
Asymptomaticormild
symptomsand
• CD4350cells/mm3
or
• VL≥100,000copies/ml
Asymptomaticand
• CD4350cells/mm3
and
• VL100,000copies/ml
*Beforemakingthedecisiontoinitiatetherapy,theprovidershouldfullyassess,discuss,andaddressissuesassociatedwith
adherencewiththechildandthecaregiver
**Stabilizeanyopportunisticinfection(OI)beforeinitiatingART.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
408
Antiretroviral drugs dosages and common side effects
Drug Dosage Side effects Comments
Zidovudine
(ZDV)
180-240mg/m2
/dose,
bd
Neonate: 4mg/kg bd
(max. dose 300mg bd)
Anaemia,
neutropenia,
headache
Large volume
of syrup not
well tolerated in
older children
Didanosine
(ddI)
90-120mg/m2
/dose,
bd
(max. dose 200mg bd)
Diarrhoea, abdo
pain, peripheral
neuropathy
Ideally taken on
empty stomach
(1hr before or
2h after food)
Lamivudine
(3TC)
4mg/kg/dose, bd
(max. dose 150mg bd)
Diarrhoea, abdo
pain;
pancreatitis
(rare)
Well tolerated
Use oral solution
within 1 month
of opening
Stavudine
(d4T)
1mg/kg/dose, bd
(max. dose 40mg bd)
Headache,
peripheral
neuropathy,
pancreatitis
(rare)
Capsule may
be opened and
sprinkle on food
or drinks
Abacavir
(ABC)
8 mg/kg/dose bd
(max. dose 300 mg bd)
Diarrhoea,
nausea , rash,
headache;
Hypersensitivity,
Steven-Johnson
(rare)
NEVER restart
ABC after
hypersensitivity
reaction (may
cause death)
Efavirenz
(EFZ)
350mg/m2 od
13-15kg 200mg
15-20kg 250mg
20-25kg 300mg
25-32kg 350mg
33 –40kg 400mg
 40kg 600mg od
Rash, headache,
insomnia
Inducer of
CYP3A4 hepatic
enzyme; so has
many drug
interactions
Capsules may
be opened and
added to food
Nevirapine
(NVP)
150-200mg/m2
/day od
for 14 days,
then increase to
300-400mg/m2
/day,
bd
(max. dose 200mg bd)
Severe skin rash,
headache, diar-
rhea, nausea
Take with food
to increase
absorption and
reduce GI side
effects
Solution
contains 43%
alcohol and is
very bitter!
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
409
Antiretroviral drugs dosages and common side effects (continued)
Drug Dosage Side effects Comments
Ritonavir
(RTV)
350-450mg/m2
/dose,
bd
(max. dose 600mg bd)
Vomiting, nau-
sea, headache,
diarrhoea;
hepatitis (rare)
Take with food
to increase
absorption and
reduce GI side
effects
Solution
contains 43%
alcohol and is
very bitter!
Kaletra
(Lopinavir/
ritonavir)
230/57.5mg/m2
/
dose, bd
7 -14kg
12/3 mg/kg, bd
15-40kg
10/2.5mg/kg, bd
 40kg
400/100mg, bd
Diarrhea,
asthenia
Low volume, but
a bitter taste.
Higher dose
used with NNRTI
Indinavir
(IDV)
500mg/m2
/dose, tds
(max. dose 800mg tds)
Headache,
nausea,
abdominal pain,
hyperbilirubine-
mia,
renal stone
Use in older
children that can
swallow tablet;
Take on an
empty stomach
Advise to drink
more fluid
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
410
Follow up
• Usually every 3 - 4 months, if just commencing/switching HAART,
then every 2 weeks
• Ask about medication:
• Adherence (who, what, how and when of taking medications)
• Side effects e.g. vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice
• Examine: Growth, head circumference, pallor, jaundice, oral thrush,
lipodystrophy syndrome (if on Stavudine /or PI)
• FBC, CD4 count, viral load 3-4 monthly, RFT, LFT, Ca/Po₄ (amylase if on ddI)
6 monthly;
• If on PI also do fasting lipid profiles and blood sugar yearly
• Explore social, psychological, financial issues e.g. school, home
environment. Many children are orphans, live with relatives, adopted or
under NGO’s care. Referral to social welfare often required.
Compliance - adherence to therapy strongly linked to these issues.
Other issues
• HIV / AIDS is a notifiable disease. Notify health office within 1 week of
diagnosis.
• Screen other family members for HIV.
• Refer parents to Physician Clinic if they have HIV and are not on follow up.
• Disclosure of diagnosis to the child (would-be teenager, sexual rights)
• Be aware of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS)
• In this condition there is a paradoxical worsening of a known condition
(e.g. pulmonary TB or lymphadenitis) or the appearance of a new
condition after initiating ARV.
• This is due to restored immunity to specific infectious or non-infectious
antigens.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
411
Horizontal transmission within families
Despite sharing of household utensils, linen, clothes, personal hygiene
products; and daily interactions e.g. biting, kissing and other close contact,
repeated studies have failed to show transmission through contact with sa-
liva, sweat, tears and urine (except with exposure to well defined body fluids
i.e. blood, semen, vaginal fluids).
It is important to stress that the following has not transmitted infection:
• Casual contact with an infected person
• Swimming pools
• Droplets coughed or sneezed into the air
• Toilet seats
• Sharing of utensils such as cups and plates
• Insects
Note: It is difficult to isolate the virus from urine and saliva of seropositive
children. So day care settings are not a risk. However, due to a theoretical
risk of direct inoculation by biting, aggressive children should not be sent to
day care. Teachers should be taught to handle cuts/grazes with care.
Guidelines for post exposure prophylaxis
Goal is to prevent HIV infection among those sustaining exposure, and pro-
vide information and support during the follow up until infection is
diagnosed or excluded with certainty.
Risk for occupational transmission of HIV to Health Care Workers (HCW)
• Risk for HIV transmission after a percutaneous exposure to HIV infected
blood is 0.3%; risk after mucous membrane exposure is 0.1%.
• Risk is dependent on :
• Type, volume of body fluid involved
• Type of exposure that has occurred
• Viral load of the source patient
• Disease stage
Treatment of an Exposure Site
• Wash wounds, skin exposure sites with soap, water; flush mucous
membranes with water.
• Notify supervisor; refer HCW to designated doctor as in hospital
needlestick injury protocol.
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413
Chapter 79: Malaria
Uncomplicated Malaria
Symptomatic infection with malaria parasitaemia without signs of severity
or evidence (clinical or laboratory) of vital organ dysfunction.
Treatment
UNCOMPLICATED PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM
First Line Treatment
Preferred Treatment Alternative Treatment
Artesunate/Mefloquine (Artequine)# Artemether/Lumefantrine (Riamet)+
Dosage according to body wt Dosage according to body wt
10-20kg:*
Artesunate 50mg OD x 3d
Mefloquine 125mg OD x 3d
(Artequine pellets)
5 -14 kg:
D1: 1 tab stat then 1 tab again after
8 hours
D2-3: 1 tab BD
20-40kg:
Artesunate: 100mg OD x 3d
Mefloquine 250mg OD x 3d
(Artequine 300/750)
15 – 24kg:
D1: 2 tabs stat then 2 tabs again
after 8 hours
D2-3: 2 tablets BD
40kg:
Artesunate 200mg OD x 3d
Mefloquine 500mg OD x 3d
(Artequine 600/1500)
25 – 35kg:
D1: 3 tabs stat then 3 tabs again
after 8 hours
D2-3: 3 tablets BD
35kg:
D1: 4 tabs stat then again 4 tabs
after 8 hours
D2-3: 4 tabs BD
Add primaquine 0.75mg/kg single dose OD if gametocyte is present at any
time during treatment. Check G6PD before giving primaquine.
#. Avoid in children with epilepsy as well.
*Use Riamet for children below 10 kg as there is no artequine
formulations for this group of children.
+ Riamet should be administered with high fat diet preferably to be taken
with milk to enhance absorption.
Both Artequine and Riamet are Artemisinin-based Combination Treatment
(ACT)
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414
Second-line treatment for treatment failure
(in uncomplicated Plasmodium Falciparum):
• Recommended second-line treatment:
• An alternative ACT is used (if Riamet was used in the first regimen,
use Artequine for treatment failure and vice-versa).
• Artesunate 4mg/kg OD plus Clindamycin 10mg/kg/dose bd for a total
of 7 days.
• Quinine 10mg salt/kg 8 hourly plus Clindamycin 10mg/kg/dose bd for
a total of 7 days.
• Add primaquine 0.75mg base/kg single dose OD if gametocyte is present
at any time during treatment. Check G6PD before giving Primaquine.
Treatment for Plasmodium vivax, knowlesi or malariae.
Treatment for P. vivax Treatment for P. knowlesi or malariae
Total Chloroquine 25mg base/kg
divided over 3 days
D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg
base/kg 6 hours later
D2: 5 mg base/kg OD
D3: 5 mg base/kg OD
Total Chloroquine 25mg base/kg
divided over 3 days
D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg
base/kg 6 hours later
D2: 5 mg base/kg OD
D3: 5 mg base/kg OD
PLUS
Primaquine* 0.5 mg base/kg daily
for 14 days
Note:
Chloroquine should be prescribed as mg base in the drug chart.
P. malariae and P. knowlesi do not form hypnozoites, hence do not require
radical cure with primaquine.
Treatment of chloroquine-resistant P. vivax, knowlesi or malariae.
• ACT (Riamet or Artequine) should be used for relapse or chloroquine
resistant P. vivax. For radical cure in P. vivax, ACT must be combined
with supervised 14-day primaquine therapy.
• Quinine 10mg salt/kg three times a day for 7 days is also effective for
chloroquine resistant P. vivax and this must be combined with
primaquine for antihypnozoite activity.
• Mefloquine 15mg/kg single dose combined with primaquine have
been found to be effective.
Primaquine may cause life threatening haemolysis in individuals with G6PD
deficiency. G6PD testing is required before administration of Primaquine. For
mild to moderate G6PD deficiency, an intermittent Primaquine regimen of
0.75mg base/kg weekly for 8 weeks can be given under medical supervision.
In severe G6PD deficiency Primaquine is contraindicated.
Severe and complicated P. vivax, knowlesi or malariae should be managed as
for severe falciparum malaria (see next page).
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415
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
TREATMENT OF SEVERE PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA.
Severe P. falciparum malaria
• All Plasmodium species can potentially cause severe malaria, the
commonest being P falciparum.
• Young children especially those aged below 5 years old are more prone
to develop severe or complicated malaria.
Recognising Severe P. falciparum malaria
Clinical features
Impaired consciousness or unarousable coma
Prostration
Failure to feed
Multiple convulsions (more than two episodes in 24 h)
Deep breathing, respiratory distress (acidotic breathing)
Circulatory collapse or shock
Clinical jaundice plus evidence of other vital organ dysfunction
Haemoglobinuria
Abnormal spontaneous bleeding
Pulmonary oedema (radiological)
Laboratory findings
Hypoglycaemia (blood glucose  2.2 mmol/l or  40 mg/dl)
Metabolic acidosis (plasma bicarbonate  15 mmol/l)
Severe anaemia (Hb  5 g/dL, packed cell volume  15%)
Haemoglobinuria
Hyperparasitaemia ( 2%/100 000/μl in low intensity transmission areas or
 5% or 250 000/μl in areas of high stable malaria transmission intensity)
Hyperlactataemia (lactate  5 mmol/l)
Renal impairment (serum creatinine  265 μmol/l).
416
First-line Treatment
D1: IV Artesunate 2.4 mg/kg on admission, then rpt again at 12H  24H
D2-7: IV Artesunate 2.4 mg/kg OD or switch to oral ACT
Parenteral Artesunate should be given for a minimum of 24h or until patient
is able to tolerate orally and thereafter to complete treatment with a com-
plete course of oral ACT (Artequine or Riamet). Avoid using Artequine (Ar-
tesunate + Mefloquine) if patient presented initially with impaired conscious-
ness as increased incidence of neuropsychiatric complications associated
with mefloquine following cerebral malaria have been reported.
IM Artesunate (same dose as IV) can be used in patients with difficult intra-
venous access.
Second-line Treatment
• D1:IV Quinine loading 7mg salt/kg over 1 hour followed by
Infusion Quinine 10mg salt/kg over 4 hours then 10mg salt/kg q8hourly
OR
• Loading 20mg salt/kg over 4 hours then IV 10mg salt/kg q8 hourly
(Dilute quinine in 250ml of D5% over 4 hours)
• D2-7: IV Quinine 10mg salt/kg q8h
AND
• Doxycycline (8yrs) (3.5 mg/kg OD) OR Clindamycin (8yrs)
(10 mg/kg/dose bd) given for 7 days
Quinine infusion rate should not exceed 5 mg salt/kg body weight per hour.
Change to Oral Quinine if able to tolerate orally.
(Maximum Quinine per dose = 600mg.) Reduce IV Quinine dose by one third
of total dose if unable to change to Oral Quinine after 48hours or in renal
failure or liver impairment.
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417
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Congenital malaria
Congenital malaria is rare. It is acquired from the mother prenatally or
perinatally, usually occurring in the newborn of a non-immune mother with
P. vivax or P. malariae infection, although it can be observed with any of the
human malarial species.. The first sign or symptom most commonly occur
between 10 and 30 days of age (range: 14hr to several months of age).
Signs and symptoms include fever, restlessness, drowsiness, pallor, jaun-
dice, poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, cyanosis and hepatosplenomegaly.
It can mimic a sepsis like illness. Parasitemia in neonates within 7 days of
birth implies transplacental transmission. Vertical transmission may be as
high as 40% and is associated with anemia in the baby. Baby should been
screened for malaria and be treated if parasitemia is present.
Treatment:
• Chloroquine, total dose of 25mg base/kg orally divided over 3 days
D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg base/kg 6 hours later
D2: 5 mg base/kg OD
D3: 5 mg base/kg OD
• Primaquine is not required for treatment as the tissue/ exo-erythrocytic
phase is absent in congenital malaria.
Mixed Malaria infections
Mixed malaria infections are not uncommon. ACTs are effective against all
malaria species and are the treatment of choice. Treatment with
Primaquine should be given to patients with confirmed P. vivax infection.
418
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Malaria Chemoprophylaxis
Prophylaxis Duration of Prophylaxis Dosage
Atovaquone/
Proguanil
(Malarone)
Start 2 days before,
continue daily during
exposure and for 7 days
thereafter
Pediatric tablet of 62.5 mg
Atovaquone and 25 mg
Proguanil:
5-8 kg: 1/2 tablet daily
8-10 kg: 3/4 tablet daily
10-20 kg: 1 tablet daily
20-30 kg: 2 tablets daily
30-40 kg: 3 tablets daily
40 kg: 1 adult tablet daily
Mefloquine
(Tablet with
250mg base,
274mg salt)
Start 2-3 weeks before,
continue weekly during
exposure and for 4 weeks
thereafter
15 kg: 5mg of salt/kg;
15-19 kg: ¼ tab/wk;
20-30 kg: ½ tab/wk;
31-45 kg: ¾ tab/wk;
45 kg: 1 tab/wk
Doxycycline
(tab 100mg)
Start 2 days before,
continue daily during
exposure and for 4 weeks
thereafter
1.5mg base/kg once daily
(max. 100 mg)
25kg or 8 yr: Do Not Use
25-35kg or 8-10 yr: 50mg
36-50kg or 11-13 yr: 75mg
50kg or 14 yr: 100mg
419
Chapter 80: Tuberculosis
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Definition
The presence of symptoms, signs and /or radiographic findings caused by
MTB complex (M. tuberculosis or M. bovis).
Disease may be pulmonary or extrapulmonary, (i.e. central nervous system
(CNS), disseminated (miliary), lymph node, bone  joint) or both.
Clinical features
• Pulmonary disease is commonest. Symptoms include fever, cough,
weight loss, night sweats, respiratory distress.
Extrapulmonary disease may manifest as prolonged fever, apathy, weight
loss, enlarged lymph nodes (cervical, supraclavicular, axillary), headache,
vomiting, increasing drowsiness, infants may stop vocalising. Swellings and
loss of function may suggest bone, joint or spinal TB.
• Phlyctenular conjuctivitis, erythema nodosum and pleural effusions are
considered hypersensitivity reactions of TB disease.
Diagnosis of TB disease
Diagnosis in children is usually difficult. Features suggestive of tuberculosis are:
• Recent contact with a person (usually adult) with active tuberculosis.
This constitutes one of the strongest evidence of TB in a child who has
symptoms and x ray abnormalities suggestive of TB.
• Symptoms and signs suggestive of TB are as listed above. Infants are
more likely to have non specific symptoms like low-grade fever, cough,
weight loss, failure to thrive, and signs like wheezing, reduced breath
sounds, tachypnoea and occasionally frank respiratory distress.
• Positive Mantoux test (10 mm induration at 72 hours; tuberculin
strength of 10 IU PPD).
• Suggestive chest X-ray:
• Enlarged hilar Iymph nodes +/- localised obstructive emphysema
• Persistent segmental collapse consolidation not responding to
conventional antibiotics.
• Pleural effusion.
• Calcification in Iymph nodes - usually develops  6 mths after infection.
• Laboratory tests
• Presence of AFB on smears of clinical specimens and positive
histopathology or cytopathology on tissue specimens are highly
suggestive of TB. Isolation of M. tuberculosis by culture from
appropriate specimens is confirmatory.
Diagnostic Work-up
• Efforts should be made to collect clinical specimens for AFB smear,
cytopathology or histopathology, special stains and AFB culture to assure
confirmation of diagnosis and drug susceptibility.
• If the source case is known, it is important to utilize information from the
source such as culture and susceptibility results to help guide therapy.
the diagnostic work-up for TB disease is tailored to the organ system most
likely affected.
420
The diagnostic work-up for TB disease is tailored to the organ system most
likely affected. The tests to consider include but are not limited to the
following:
Pulmonary TB
• Chest radiograph
• Early morning gastric aspirates¹
• Sputum (if 12 years, able to expectorate sputum)¹
• Pleural fluid¹ or biopsy¹
Central Nervous System (CNS) TB
• CSF for FEME , AFB smear and TB culture¹
• CT head with contrast
TB adenitis
• Excisional biopsy or fine needle aspirate¹
Abdominal TB
• CT abdomen with contrast
• Biopsy of mass / mesenteric lymph node¹
TB osteomyelitis
• CT/MRI of affected limb
• Biopsy of affected site¹
Miliary / Disseminated TB
• As for pulmonary TB
• Early morning urine¹
• CSF¹
¹Note: These specimens should be sent for AFB smear and TB culture and
susceptibility testing.
Cytopathology or histopathology should be carried out on appropriate
specimens.
In addition, all children evaluated for TB disease require a chest x-ray to
rule out pulmonary
Abbreviations: AFB, acid fast bacilli; CT, computed tomography scan; CSF,
cerebrospinal fluid
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421
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Treatment of TB disease
• Antimicrobial therapy for TB disease requires a multidrug treatment regimen.
• Drug selection is dependent on drug susceptibility seen in the area the
TB is acquired, disease burden and exposure to previous TB medications,
as well as HIV prevalence.
• Therapeutic choices are best made according to drug susceptibility of
the organism cultured from the patient.
• Almost all recommended treatment regimens have 2 phases, an initial
intensive phase and a second continuation phase.
• For any one patient, the treatment regimen would depend on the diagnosis
(pulmonary or extrapulmonary), severity and history of previous treatment.
• Directly observed therapy is recommended for treatment of active disease.
Tuberculosis Chemotherapy in Children
Drug Daily Dose Intermittent Dose
(Thrice Weekly)
mg/kg/day Max dose (mg) mg/kg/day Max dose (mg)
Isoniazid H 10-15 300 10 900
Rifampicin R 10-20 600 10 600
Pyrazinamide Z 30-40 2000 - -
Ethambutol E 15-25 1000 30-50 2500
Short course therapy
• This consists of a 6 month regimen, an initial 2 month intensive and
subsequent 4 month continuation phase. Short course therapy is suitable
for pulmonary tuberculosis and non-severe extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Children with tuberculous meningitis , miliary and osteoarticular tuber-
culosis should be treated for 12 months. It is not recommended for drug
resistant TB.
The short course consists of:
• Intensive Phase (2 months)
• Daily Isoniazid, Rifampicin and Pyrazinamide
• A 4th drug (Ethambutol) is added when initial drug resistance may be
present or for extensive disease eg. miliary TB or where prevalence of
HIV is high.
• Maintenance Phase (4 months)
• Isoniazid and rifampicin for the remaining 4 months.
• This should be given daily (preferred).
• WHO does not recommend intermittent regimens but a thrice weekly
regimen can be given in certain cases.
• All intermittent dose regimens must be directly supervised.
422
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Pulmonary TB and Less Severe Extrapulmonary TB
• Recommended regimen is short course therapy as above.
• Less severe extrapulmonary TB include lymph node disease, unilateral
pleural effusion, bone / joint (single site) excluding spine, and skin.
WHO Recommendations
• Children living in settings where the prevalence of HIV is high or where
resistance to isoniazid is high, or both, with suspected or confirmed
pulmonary tuberculosis or peripheral lymphadenitis; or children with
extensive pulmonary disease living in settings of low HIV prevalence or
low isoniazid resistance, should be treated with a four-drug regimen
(HRZE) for 2 months followed by a two-drug regimen (HR) for 4 months.
• Children with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis or
tuberculous peripheral lymphadenitis who live in settings with low HIV
prevalence or low resistance to isoniazid and children who are
HIV-negative can be treated with a three-drug regimen (HRZ) for 2
months followed by a two-drug (HR) regimen for 4 months
• Children with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis or
tuberculous peripheral lymphadenitis living in settings with a high HIV
prevalence (or with confirmed HIV infection) should not be treated with
intermittent regimens.
• Thrice-weekly regimens can be considered during the continuation
phase of treatment, for children known to be HIV-uninfected and living
in settings with well-established directly-observed therapy (DOT).
• Streptomycin should not be used as part of first-line treatment regimens
for children with pulmonary tuberculosis or tuberculous peripheral
lymphadenitis.
• Children with suspected or confirmed tuberculous meningitis as well as
those with suspected or confirmed osteoarticular tuberculosis should be
treated with a four-drug regimen (HRZE) for 2 months, followed by a
two-drug regimen (HR) for 10 months; the total duration of treatment
being 12 months.
423
Corticosteroids
• Indicated for children with TB meningitis.
• May be considered for children with pleural and pericardial effusion (to
hasten reabsorption of fluid), severe miliary disease (if hypoxic) and
endobronchial disease.
• Steroids should be given only when accompanied by appropriate
antituberculous therapy.
• Dosage: prednisolone 1-2mg/kg per day (max. 40 mg daily)
for first 3-4 week, then taper over 3-4 weeks.
Monitoring of Drug Toxicity
• Indications for baseline and routine monitoring of serum transaminases
and bilirubin are recommended for:
• Severe TB disease.
• Clinical symptoms of hepatotoxicity.
• Underlying hepatic disease.
• Use of other hepatotoxic drugs (especially anticonvulsants).
• HIV infection.
• Routine testing of serum transaminases in healthy children with none of
the above risk factors is not necessary.
• Children on Ethambutol should be monitored for visual acuity and colour
discrimination.
Breast-feeding and the Mother with Pulmonary Tuberculosis
• Tuberculosis treatment in lactating mothers is safe as the amount of
drug ingested by the baby is minimal. Hence if the mother is already on
treatment and is non-infective, the baby can be breastfed.
• Women who are receiving isoniazid and are breastfeeding should
receive pyridoxine.
• If the mother is diagnosed to have active pulmonary TB and is still infective:
• The newborn should be separated from the mother for at least one
week while the mother is being treated. Mother should wear a surgical
mask subsequently while breast feeding until she is asymptomatic and
her sputum is AFB-smear negative .
• Breast feeding is best avoided during this period, however, expressed
breast milk can be given .
• The infant should be evaluated for congenital TB. If this is excluded,
BCG is deferred and the baby should receive isoniazid for 3 months
and then tuberculin tested. If tuberculin negative and mother has been
adherent to treatment and non-infectious, isoniazid can be
discontinued and BCG given. If tuberculin positive, the infant should be
reassessed for TB disease and if disease is not present, isoniazid is
continued for total of 6 months and BCG given at the end of treatment.
• Other close household contacts should be evaluated for TB.
• Congenital TB is rare but should be suspected if the infant born to a
tuberculous mother fails to thrive or is symptomatic.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
424
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
≥10mm10mm
Child(Contact)
MantouxTest
SymptomaticAsymptomatic
ChestX-rayCheckBCG
NormalAbnormalNoScarScar+
Treatas
HighRisk
Investigate
FurtherBCGFollowup
ChestX-ray
NormalAbnormal
TreatasTBINH
Chemoprophylaxis
Followup
AsymptomaticSymptoms
suggestiveofTB
≥5yrsage5yrsage
MANAGEMENTOFCHILDRENWITHAPOSITIVEHISTORYOFCONTACTWITHTUBERCULOSIS
425
Chapter 81: BCG Lymphadenitis
• Regional lymphadenopathy is one of the more common complications
of BCG vaccination and arises as a result of enlargement of ipsilateral
lymph nodes, principally involving the axillary node.
• Differential diagnoses to consider are:
• Pyogenic lymphadenitis.
• Tuberculous lymphadenitis.
• Non-tuberculous lymphadenitis.
• The following are features suggestive of BCG lymphadenitis
• History of BCG vaccination on the ipsilateral arm.
• Onset usually 2 to 4 months after BCG vaccination, although it may
range from 2 weeks to 6 months. Almost all cases occur
within 24 months.
• There is absence of fever or other constitutional symptoms.
• Absent or minimal local tenderness over the lesion(s).
• 95% of cases involve ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes, but supraclavicular
or cervical glands may be involved in isolation or in association with
axillary lymphadenopathy.
• Only 1 to 2 discrete lymph nodes are enlarged (clinically palpable) in
the majority of cases. Involved lymph nodes are rarely matted together.
• Two forms of lymphadenitis can be recognized, non-suppurative or simple
which may resolve spontaneously within a few weeks, or suppurative
which is marked by the appearance of fluctuation with erythema and
oedema of the overlying skin and increased pigmentation.
• Once suppuration has occurred, the subsequent course is usually one of
spontaneous perforation, discharge and sinus formation. Healing
eventually takes place through cicatrization and closure of the sinus, the
process taking several months with possible scarring.
Correct Technique to give BCGVaccination
Needle: Short (10mm) 26-27 gauge needle with a short bevel
using a BCG or insulin syringe
Site: Left arm at Deltoid insertion
Dose: 0.05 mls for infants ( 1 year of age)
0.1 ml for children  1 year.
Route: Intradermal
Do not give BCG at other sites where the lymphatic drainage makes
subsequent lymphadenitis difficult to diagnose and dangerous (especially
on buttock where lymphatic drains to inguinal and deep aortic nodes).
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
426
MANAGEMENT
Assessment
Careful history and examination are important to diagnose BCG adenitis
• BCG lymphadenitis without suppuration (no fluctuation)
• Drugs are not required.
• Reassurance and follow-up Is advised.
• Several controlled trials and a recent metaanalysis (Cochrane database)
have suggested that drugs such as antibiotics (e.g. erythromycin) or
antituberculous drugs neither hasten resolution nor prevent its
progression into suppuration.
• BCG lymphadenitis with suppuration (fluctuation)
• Needle aspiration is recommended. Usually one aspiration is effective,
but repeated aspirations may be needed for some patients.
• Surgical excision may be needed when needle aspiration has failed (as
in the case of matted and multiloculated nodes) or when suppurative
nodes have already drained with sinus formation.
• Surgical incision is not recommended.
Needle aspiration
• Prevents spontaneous perforation and associated complications.
• Shortens the duration of healing.
• Is safe.
Persistent Lymphadenitis/ disseminated disease
• In patients with large and persistent or recurrent lymphadenopathy,
constitutional symptoms, or failure to thrive, possibility of underlying
immunodeficency should be considered and investigated. Thus all infants
presenting with BCG lymphadenitis should be followed up till resolution.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
427
Chapter 82: Dengue and Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever with Shock
Introduction
• Dengue virus infections affect all age groups and produce a spectrum of
illness that ranges from asymptomatic to a mild or nonspecific viral illness
to severe and occasionally fatal disease.
• The traditional 1997 World Health Organization classification of dengue
was recently reviewed and changed. The new classification encompass
various categories of dengue since dengue exists in continuum.
• The term DHF used in previous classification put too much emphasis on
hemorrhage; However, the hallmark of severe dengue (and the
manifestation that should be addressed early) IS NOT HEMORRHAGE but
increased vascular permeability that lead to shock.
This new system divides dengue into TWO major categories of severity:
• Dengue: with or without warning signs, and
• Severe dengue.
Probable Dengue Warning Signs
• Lives in/travel to dengue endemic area • Intense abdominal pain
or tenderness
• Persistent vomiting
• Clinical fluid
accumulation.
• Mucosal bleed
• Lethargy, restlessness
• Liver enlargement  2cm
• Laboratory:
Increase in hematocrit
with concurrent rapid
decrease in platelet
count.
• Fever and 2 of the following:
• Nausea, vomiting
• Rash
• Aches and pains
• Positive Tourniquet test
• Leucopenia
• Any warning sign
• Laboratory-confirmed dengue
(important when no sign of plasma leakage)
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
DENGUE VIRAL ILLNESS
With Warning Signs
DENGUE SEVERE DENGUE
No Warning Signs
Severe Shock +/-
• Respiratory Distress
• Severe Haemorrhage
• Organ Failure
(CNS/Liver)
NEW SIMPLIFIED CLASSIFICATION OF DENGUE VIRAL INFECTIONS, WHO 2009
428
Criteria for Severe Dengue
Severe plasma leakage with rising hematocrit leading to:
• Shock
• Fluid accumulation (pleural,ascitic)
• Respiratory distress
• Severe bleeding
• Severe organ involvement
• Liver: Elevated transaminases (AST or ALT≥1000)
• CNS: Impaired consciousness, seizures.
• Heart and other organ involvement
Management of Patients with Dengue
• Dengue is a complex and unpredictable disease but success can be
achieved with mortality rates of 1% when care is given in simple and
inexpensive interventions provided they are given appropriately at the
right time.
• The timing of intervention starts at frontline healthcare personnel
whether they are in AE or OPD or even health clinics.
• Early recognition of disease and careful monitoring of IV fluid is
important right from beginning.
• The healthcare personnel involved in managing dengue cases day to day
need to familiarize themselves with the THREE main well demarcated
phases of dengue: febrile, critical; and recovery. (see next page)
• In early phase of disease, it is difficult to differentiate dengue with other
childhood illness; therefore performing a tourniquet test with FBC at first
encounter would be useful to differentiate dengue from other illness.
• Temporal relationship of fever cessation (defervescence) is important as
in DENGUE (unlike other viral illness) manifest its severity (leakage/
shock) when temperature seems to have declined.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
429
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
1 2 3 4 65 7 8 9 10
40
Days of Illness
Temperature
Potential Clinical
Issues
Laboratory
Changes
Serology and
Virology
Phase of Illness
Shock and
Bleeding
Reabsorption,
fluid overload
pulmonary oedema
Dehydration,
febrile seizures
Organ Impairment
Platelets
Haematocrit
IgM/IgG
Viraemia
CRITICALFEBRILE RECOVERY
PHASES OF DENGUE IN RELATION TO SYMPTOMS AND LABORATORY CHANGES
Adapted from World Health Organization: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis,
Treatment, Prevention and Control. Third Edition. Geneva, WHO/TDR, 2009.
430
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Priorities during first encounter are:
1 - Establish whether patient has dengue
2 - Determine phase of illness
3 - Recognise warning signs and/or the presence of severe dengue if present.
• Most patients with DF and DHF can be managed without hospitalization
provided they are alert, there are no warning signs or evidence of
abnormal bleeding, their oral intake and urine output are satisfactory,
and the caregiver is educated regarding fever control and avoiding non
steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and is familiar with the course of
illness.
• A dengue information/home care card that emphasizes danger/warning
signs is important.
• These patients need daily clinical and/or laboratory assessment by
trained doctors or nurses until the danger period has passed.
If dengue is suspected or confirmed, disease notification is mandatory.
Indication for Hospitalisation
• Presence of warning signs.
• Infants.
• Children with co-morbid factors (diabetes, renal failure, immune
• compromised state, hemoglobinopathies and obesity).
• Social factors - living far from health facilities, transport issues.
The THREE major priorities of managing hospitalized patient with dengue in
the critical phase are:
A - Replacement of plasma losses.
B - Early recognition and treatment of hemorrhage.
C - Prevention of fluid overload.
• Fluid therapy in a patient with dengue shock has two parts: initial, rapid
fluid boluses to reverse shock followed by titrated fluid volumes to
match ongoing losses.
• However, for a patient who has warning signs of plasma leakage but is
not yet in shock, the initial fluid boluses may not be necessary.
431
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
VOLUME REPLACEMENT FLOWCHART FOR PATIENTS
WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND COMPENSATED SHOCK
Yes
Stable hemodynamics, HCT
and general well being
IMPROVEMENTVitals stable,
HCT falls
• HCT still high
• Signs of shock
unresolved
Administer 2nd bolus
of crystalloid/colloid,
10-20ml/kg over 1-2hrs
depending on SBP
DISCHARGE
• Assess airway, breathing, obtain baseline hematocrit (HCT),
insert urinary catheter.
• Commence fluid resuscitation with Normal Saline or Ringer’s lactate
at 5-10ml/kg over 1 hour for compensated shock.
If hemodynamics and HCT are
stable, plan a gradually reducing
IV fluid (IVF) regimen with serial
monitoring of vitals, urine output
and 6-8 hourly HCT
• IVF 5-7ml/kg/hr for 1-2 hours,
then
• Reduce IVF to 3-5ml/kg/hr for
2-4hours.
• Reduce IVF to 2-3ml/kg/hr for
2-4hours.
• Continue to reduce if patient
improves.
• Oral rehydration solutions may
suffice when vomiting subsides
and hemodynamic stable
• A monitoring fluid regimen may
be required for 24-48 hrs,until
danger subsides.
• If oral intake tolerated, can
reduce IVF more rapidly.
Reduce fluids to 7-10ml/kg/hr
No
Check HCT
• HCT low
• Consider occult
/overt bleeding
Emergent transfusion
with whole blood/
packed red cells
IMPROVEMENT
IMPROVEMENT
Vitals and urine output good
Yes
No
Yes
No
Note:
• Recurrence of clinical instability may be due to increased plasma leak
or new onset hemorrhage:
• Review HCT
432
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
APPROACH TO CHILD WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND HYPOTENSION
Stable hemodynamics, HCT
and general well being
IMPROVEMENT
Depending on HCT, repeat
colloid or blood (whole blood/
packed red cells) x 2-3 aliquots
as above until better
DISCHARGE
• Stabilize airway, breathing, high flow oxygen
• Normal Saline / Ringer’s Lactate OR 6% Hetastarch / Gelatin
10-20ml/kg as 1-2 boluses over 15-30 min.
• Obtain baseline hematocrit prior to fluids
• Monitor vitals and hourly urine output with an indwelling catheter.
• Correct hypoglycemia, hypocalcaemia, acidosis
If hemodynamics and hematocrit are
stable, plan a gradually
reducing IV fluid regimen.
• IV Crystalloid 5-7ml/kg/hr for
1-2 hrs, then
• Reduce to 3-5ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hrs
• Reduce to 2-3ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hrs
• Continue serial close clinical
monitoring and 2-4 hourly HCT
Check HCT
IMPROVEMENT
Yes
No
Remember!
The commonest causes of uncorrected shock/recurrence of shock are:
• Inadequate replacement of plasma losses
• Occult hemorrhage (Beware of procedure related bleeds)
Recurrence of clinical instability
may be due to increase plasma leak
or new onset hemorrhage:
• Review HCT
• If HCT decreases consider
transfusion with fresh whole
blood/packed red cells
• If HCT increases consider repeat
fluid bolus or increase fluid
administration
• Extra fluid may be required
for 36-48 hours
• If oral intake tolerated,
can reduce IVF more rapidly
High Baseline HCT
Administer 2nd bolus
of Colloid,
10-20ml/kg over 1-2hrs
depending on SBP
Urgent fresh whole
blood/packed red
cells transfusion.
Evaluate for source
of blood loss.
Low Baseline HCT
Review Baseline HCT
Yes
No
433
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND REFRACTORY SHOCK
(LATE PRESENTERS).
• Stabilize airway, breathing, high flow oxygen
• Normal Saline / Ringer’s Lactate OR 6% Hetastarch / Gelatin
10-20ml/kg as 1-2 boluses over 15-30 min.
• Correct hypoglycemia, hypocalcaemia, acidosis
• Monitor hemodynamics: Vitals, clinical indices of perfusion,
hourly urine output, 2nd-4th hourly Haematocrit (HCT)
• Transfuse fresh whole blood/PRBC early if hypotension persists.
•	Shock persist despite
40-60ml/kg of colloid/blood
•	HCT normal
Remember!! The commonest
causes of uncorrected shock/
recurrence of shock are:
•	Inadequate replacement of
plasma losses
•	Occult hemorrhage (Beware
of procedure related bleeds)
Respiratory Distress
Consider inotrope/pressor depending on SBP (see below),
consider Echocardiogram
CVP Low / HCT High
Evaluate for unrecognized
morbidities: See Box A (next page)
Consider CVP with great care
if expertise available
CVP normal or high with
continuing shock,
HCT normal.
Consider inotrope/
vasopressor depending on SBP
• Dopamine/adrenaline
(SBP low)
• Dobutamine
(SBP normal/high)
Check IAP.
Controlled Ascitic Fluid drainage
with great caution if IAP elevated
and shock refractory
Titrate crystalloids/colloids
with care till CVP/HCT target
• Consider ventilation/nasal CPAP
• Infuse fluids till CVP/HCT target
• Consider inotrope/vasopressor
depending on SBP, serial ECHO
and clinical response.
Hemodynamics unstable
Hemodynamics improved
Wean ventilation and inotrope/pressor.
Taper fluids gradually.
Beware of over-hydration during recovery.
SBP: Systolic blood pressure, PRBC: Packed red blood cell, CVP: Central venous
pressure, ECHO: Echocardiogram, IAP: Intra-abdominal pressure
434
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
BOX A: Unrecognized morbidities that may contribute to refractory
dengue shock.
Occult bleeds
Rx: Whole blood/PRBC transfusion
Co-Existing bacterial septic shock/Malaria/leptospira, etc
Rx: antibiotics/antimalarials, cardiovascular support, blood transfusion
Myocardial Dysfunction (systolic or diastolic)
Rx: Cardiovascular support, evaluate with ECHO if available
Positive pressure ventilation contributing to poor cardiac output
Rx: Titrated fluid and cardiovascular support
Elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP)
Rx: Cautious drainage
Wide-Spread Hypoxic-ischemic injury with terminal vasoplegic shock
No treatment effective
ECHO: Echocardiogram; IAP: Intra-abdominal pressure; Rx: Treatment
Volume replacement flowchart for patient with dengue with “warning signs”
• Assess airway and breathing and obtain baseline HCT level.
• Commence fluid resuscitation with normal saline/Ringers lactate
at 5-7ml/kg over 1-2 hours.
• If hemodynamic and HCT are stable, plan a gradually reducing
IVF regime.
• Titrate fluid on the basis of vital signs, clinical examination, urine
output (aim for 0.5ml-1ml/kg/hr),and serial HCT level.
• IVF:5-7ml/kg/hr for 1-2 hours, then:
• Reduce IVFs to 3-5ml/kg/hr for 2-4hours;
• Reduce IVFs to 2-3ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hours;
• Continue serial close monitoring and every 6-8hourly HCT level.
• Oral rehydration solutions may suffice when vomiting subsides and
hemodynamic stabilize.
• A monitored fluid regimen may be required for 24-48hours until
danger period subsides
HCT-hematocrit; IVF, intravenous fluid
435
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Guidelines for reversing dengue shock while minimizing fluid overload
Severe dengue with compensated shock:
• Stabilize airway and breathing, obtain baseline Hct level, initiate fluid
resuscitation with NS/RL at 5-10 mL/kg over 1 hr, and insert urine
catheter early.
Severe dengue with hypotension:
• Stabilize airway and breathing, obtain baseline Hct level, initiate fluid
resuscitation with 1-2 boluses of 20 mL/kg NS/RL or synthetic colloid
over 15-20 mins until pulse is palpable, slow down fluid rates when
hemodynamics improve, and repeat second bolus of 10 mL/kg colloid
if shock persists and Hct level is still high.
• Synthetic colloids may limit the severity of fluid overload in severe shock.
End points/goals for rapid fluid boluses:
• Improvement in systolic BP, widening of pulse pressure, extremity
perfusion and the appearance of urine, and normalization of elevated
Hct level.
• If baseline Hct level is low or “normal” in presence of shock,
hemorrhage likely to have worsened shock, transfuse fresh WB or
fresh PRBCs early.
• After rapid fluid boluses, continue isotonic fluid titration to match
ongoing plasma leakage for 24–48 hrs; if patient not vomiting and is
alert then aftershock correction with oral rehydration fluids may
suffice to match ongoing losses.
• Check Hct level 2-4 hourly for first 6 hrs and decrease frequency
as patient improves.
Goals for ongoing fluid titration:
• Stable vital signs, serial Hct measurement showing gradual
normalization (if not bleeding), and low normal hourly urine output
are the most objective goals indicating adequate circulating volume;
adjust fluid rate downward when this is achieved.
• Plasma leakage is intermittent even during the first 24 hrs after
the onset of shock; hence, fluid requirements are dynamic.
• Targeting a minimally acceptable hourly urine output (0.5-1 mL/kg/hr)
is an effective and inexpensive monitoring modality that can signal
shock correction and minimize fluid overload.
• A urine output of 1.5–2 mL/kg/hr should prompt reduction in fluid
infusion rates, provided hyperglycemia has been ruled out.
• Separate maintenance fluids are not usually required; glucose and
potassium may be administered separately only if low.
436
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Guidelines for reversing dengue shock while minimizing fluid overload
(cont)
• Hypotonic fluids can cause fluid overload; also, avoid glucose-
containing fluids, such as 1/2Glucose Normal Saline (GNS or I/2 GNS):
the resultant hyperglycemia can cause osmotic diuresis and delay
correction of hypovolemia. Tight glucose monitoring is recommended
to avoid hyper/hypoglycemia.
• Commence early enteral feeds when vital signs are stable, usually
4–8 hrs after admission.
• All invasive procedures (intubation, central lines, and arterial
cannulation) must be avoided; if essential, they must be performed by
the most experienced person. Orogastric tubes are preferred to
nasogastric tubes.
• Significant hemorrhage mandates early fresh WB or fresh PRBC
transfusion; minimize/avoid transfusions of other blood products,
such as platelets and fresh-frozen plasma unless bleeding is
uncontrolled despite 2–3 aliquots of fresh WB or PRBCs.
NS/RL, normal saline/Ringer’s lactate; Hct, hematocrit; BP, blood pressure;
WB, whole; HCT-hematocrit; IVF, intravenous fluid GNS-glucose/normal
saline
** It is recommended that baseline hematocrit is obtained for all cases and
repeat hematocrit done following each fluid resuscitation to look at child ‘s
response and to plan subsequent fluid administration. In PICU/HDW settings,
ABG machine can be used to look at HCT and in general wards, either, SPIN
PCV or FBC (sent to lab).
437
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Discharge of Children with Dengue
• Patients who are resuscitated from shock rapidly recover. Patients with
dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome may be
discharged from the hospital when they meet the following criteria:
• Afebrile for 24 hours without antipyretics.
• Good appetite, clinically improved condition.
• Adequate urine output.
• Stable hematocrit level.
• At least 48 hours since recovery from shock.
• No respiratory distress.
• Platelet count greater than 50,000 cells/μL.
438
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
HOME CARE CARD FOR DENGUE PATIENTS
(Please take this card to your health facility for each visit)
What should be done?
• Adequate bed rest.
• Adequate fluid intake:
(5 glasses for average-sized adults or accordingly in children)
• Milk, fruit juice (caution with diabetes patient) and
isotonic electrolyte solution (ORS) and barley/rice water.
• Plain water alone may cause electrolyte imbalance.
• Take Paracetamol (not more than 4 grams per day for adults and
accordingly in children).
• Tepid sponging.
• Look for mosquito breeding places in and around the home and
eliminate them.
What should be avoided?
• Do not take acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin), mefenamic acid (Ponstan),
ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs),
or steroids.
If you are already taking these medications please consult your doctor.
• Antibiotics are not necessary.
If any of following is observed, take the patient immediately to the nearest
hospital. These are warning signs for danger:
• Bleeding:
• Red spots or patches on the skin; bleeding from nose or gum,
• vomiting blood; black-colored stools;
• heavy menstruation/vaginal bleeding.
• Frequent vomiting.
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Drowsiness, mental confusion or seizures.
• Pale, cold or clammy hands and feet.
• Difficulty in breathing.
Laboratory Monitoring
Visit (date)
White blood cells
Hematocrit
Platelets
439
Chapter 83: Diphteria
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
Introduction
• Diphtheria is a clinical syndrome caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria.
• Diphtheria can be classified based on site of disease: nasal diphtheria,
pharyngeal and tonsillar diphtheria, laryngeal or laryngotracheal
diphtheria, and cutaneous diphteria.
• Diphtheria may cause systemic complication such as myocarditis
(mortality 50%), neuritis presenting as paralysis of soft palate and rarely
non-oliguric acute kidney injury.
Management of an Acute Case
• All suspected and confirmed patients must be placed under strict
isolation until bacteriological clearance has been demonstrated after
completing treatment. Strict droplet precautions and hand hygiene must
be observed by healthcare workers.
• Obtain specimens for culture from nose, throat, or any mucosal
membrane (tissue). Obtain specimen before the commencement of
antibiotic and specimen must be transported to the laboratory promptly.
Notify laboratory personnel as special tellurite enriched culture media
(Loffler’s or Tindale’s) are needed.
Diphtheria Antitoxin (derived from horse serum)
• Definitive treatment :
• Early, single dose of IV infusion (over 60minutes) diphtheria antitoxin
should be administered on the basis of clinical diagnosis, even before
culture results are available.
• Tests for hypersensitivity is recommended for IV administration.
Form of diphtheria Dose ( units) Route
Pharyngeal/Laryngeal disease of 48
hours or less
20,000 to 40,000 IM OR IV
Nasopharyngeal lesions 40,000 to 60,000 IM OR IV
Extensive disease of 3 or more days
durations or diffuse swelling of the neck
(bull-neck diphtheria)
80,000 to 120,000 IM OR IV
Cutaneous lesions
(not routinely given)
20,000 to 40,000 IM
440
Begin antibiotic therapy
Antibiotic is indicated to stop toxin production, treat localised infection, and
to prevent transmission of the organism to contacts. It is not a substitute for
antitoxin treatment.
REGIME
• Penicillin
• IV aqueous crystalline Penicillin 100,000 to 150,000 U/kg/day
in 4 divided doses, maximum 1.2 million U.
Or
• IM procaine Penicillin 25,000 to 50,000 U/kg/day
(maximum 1.2million U, in 2 divided doses.
• Change to oral Penicillin V 125-250mg QID once patient can take orally.
• Total antibiotic duration for 14 days.
OR
• Erythromycin
• IV OR Oral 40-50 mg/kg/day, maximum 2g/day.
• Total antibiotic duration for 14 days.
Immunization
• Before discharge, to catch up diphtheria toxoid immunization as
diptheria infection does not necessary confer immunity
Management of close contacts and asymptomatic carriers
• Refer to diphtheria protocol.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
441
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
FLOW CHART FOR THE CASE MANAGEMENT AND INVESTIGATION
OF CLOSE CONTACTS IN DIPHTHERIA
Notify Health Department
NoneIdentify Close
Contacts
Assess for signs
/symptoms for
at least 7 days
Positive
Ensure daily surveillance of all contacts
The following 4 issues must be addressed:
3 doses or
unknown
Suspected or
Proven Diphtheria
• Institute strict isolation
• Obtain nasal  pharyngeal swab culture
for C. dipththeria
• Notify laboratory
• Treatment with Diphtheria antitoxin
• Begin antibiotic therapy (Penicillin)
• Provide active immunization
Stop
Obtain Cultures
nose, pharynx,
wounds
Antibiotic prophylaxis
Immunization status
Negative
Stop ≥3 doses, last
dose  5 yrs ago
• Avoid close contact with
inadequately vaccinated
persons.
• Identify close contacts and
proceed with preventive
measures described for close
contacts of a case.
• Repeat cultures a minimum
of 2 weeks after completion
of antibiotic to assure
eradication of the organism.
≥3 doses, last
dose  5 yrs ago
• Administer immediate
dose of diphtheria toxoid
and complete primary
series according to
schedule
• Administer immediate
booster dose of
diphtheria toxoid
• Children who need
their 4th primary dose
or booster dose should
be vaccinated;
otherwise, vaccination
442
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
References
Section 10 Infectious Disease
Chapter 77 Sepsis and Septic Shock
1.Goldstein B, Giroir B, Randolph A, et al. International pediatric sepsis
consensus conference: Definitions for sepsis and organ dysfunction in
pediatrics. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2005;6:2-8
2.Dellinger RP, Levy MM, Carlet JM, et al. Surviving Sepsis Campaign: Interna-
tional Guidelines for Management of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock. Crit
Care Med 2008;36:296-327
3.Warrick Butt. Septic Shock. Ped Clinics North Am 2001;48(3)
4.Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International guidelines for management of
severe sepsis and septic shock: 2008. Intensive Care Med (2008) 34:17–60
5.APLS 5th edition.
Chapter 78 Pediatric HIV
1.Clinical Practice Guidelines: Management of HIV infection in children
(Malaysia, 2008).
2.World Health Organization. Antiretroviral therapy of HIV infection in infants
and children in resource-limited settings: towards universal access: recom-
mendations for a public health approach (2006).
3.Sharland M, et al. PENTA guidelines for the use of antiretroviral therapy,
2004. HIV Medicine 2004; 5 (Suppl 2) :61-86.
4.The Working Group on Antiretroviral Therapy. Guidelines for the use of
antiretroviral agents in Paediatric HIV infection. Oct 26, 2006 http://www.
aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/ (accessed on 9th December 2007)
Chapter 79 Malaria
1.Dondorp A, et al. Artesunate versus quinine in the treatment of severe
falciparum malaria in African children (AQUAMAT): on open-label, rand-
omized trial; Lancet 2010 Nov 13:376: 1647-1657.
2.WHO Malaria treatment Guidelines 2010.
3.Metha PN. UK Malaria guidelines 2007.
4.Red Book 2009.
Chapter 80 Tuberculosis
1.RAPID ADVICE. Treatment of tuberculosis in Children WHO/HTM/
TB/2010.13.
Chapter 81 BCG Lymphadenitis
1.Singha A, Surjit S, Goraya S, Radhika S et al. The natural course of non-
suppurative Calmette-Guerin bacillus lymphadenitis. Pediatr Infect Dis J
2002:21:446-448
2.Goraya JS, Virdi VS. Treatment of Calmette-Guerin bacillus adenitis, a
metaanalysis. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2001;20:632-4 (also in Cochrane Data-
base of Systematic Reviews 2004; Vol 2.)
3.Banani SA, Alborzi A. Needle aspiration for suppurative post-BCG adenitis.
Arch Dis Child 1994;71:446-7.
443
Chapter 82 Dengue
1.World Health Organization: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis, Treat-
ment, Prevention and Control. Second Edition. Geneva. World Health
Organization, 1997.
2.Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and control.
Third Edition. A joint publication of the World Health organization (WHO)
and the Special programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases
(TDR), Geneva, 2009.
3.TDR: World Health Organization issues new dengue guidelines. Available
at http://apps.who.int/tdr/svc/publications/tdrnews/issue-85/tdr-briefly.
Accessed July 1,2010
4.Suchitra R, Niranjan K; Dengue hemorrhagic fever and shock syndromes.
Pediatr Crit Care Med 2011 Vol.12, No.1; 90-100.
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
444
INFECTIOUSDISEASE
445
Chapter 84: Atopic Dermatitis
Introduction
• A chronic inflammatory itchy skin condition that usually develops
in early childhood and follows a remitting and relapsing course. It often
has a genetic component.
• Leads to the breakdown of the skin barrier making the skin susceptible
to trigger factors, including irritants and allergens, which can make the
eczema worse.
• Although not often thought of as a serious medical condition, it can have
a significant impact on quality of life.
Diagnostic criteria
Major features (must have 3) Hanifin and Rajka criteria
Pruritus
Typical morphology and distribution
• Facial and extensor involvement in infancy, early childhood
• Flexural lichenification and linearity by adolescence
Chronic or chronically relapsing dermatitis
Personal or family history of atopy
(asthma, allergic rhinoconjuctivitis, atopic dermatitis)
Minor / less specific features
Xerosis
Preauricular fissures
Icthyosis / palmar hyperlinearity / keratosis pilaris
Ig E reactivity
Hand/foot dermatitis
Cheilitis
Scalp dermatitis (cradle cap)
Susceptibility to cutaneous infection
(e.g. Staph. aureus and Herpes simplex virus)
Perifollicular accentuation (especially in pigmented races)
DERMATOLOGY
446
Triggering factors
• Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal
• Emotional stress
• Sweating and itching
• Irritants: Hand washing soap, detergents
• Extremes of weathers
• Allergens
• Food : egg, peanuts, milk, fish, soy, wheat.
• Aeroallergens : house dust mite, pollen, animal dander and molds.
Management
• Tailor the treatment of atopic dermatitis individually depending on:
• The severity.
• Patient’s understanding and expectation of the disease and the
treatment process.
• Patient’s social circumstances.
• Comprehensive patient education is paramount, and a good doctor-patient
relationship is essential for long-term successful management.
• In an acute flare-up of atopic dermatitis, evaluate for the following factors:
• Poor patient compliance
• Secondary infection: bacterial (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus), viral
(e.g. herpes simplex virus)
• Persistent contact irritant/allergen.
• Physical trauma, scratching, friction, sweating and adverse
environmental factors.
Bath  Emollients
• Baths soothe itching and removes crusting. They should be lukewarm
and limited to 10 minutes duration. Avoid soaps. Use soap substitute e.g.
aqueous cream or emulsifying ointment.
• Moisturizers work to reduce dryness in the skin by trapping moisture.
• Apply to normal and abnormal skin at least twice a day and more
frequently in severe cases.
• Emollients are best applied after bath. Offer a choice of unperfumed
emollients and suitable to the child’s needs and preferences,
e.g. Aqueous cream, Ung. Emulsificans, and vaseline.
N.B. Different classes of moisturizer are based on their mechanism of action,
including occlusives, humectants, emollients and protein rejuvenators. In
acute exudation form KMNO4 1:10,000 solutions or normal saline daps or
soaks are useful – as mild disinfectant and desiccant.
DERMATOLOGY
447
USE STEPPED CARE PLAN APPROACH FOR TREATMENT MEASURES
Diagnosis (Follow
Diagnostic Criteria table)
Clear
• Normal skin
• No active
eczema
Physical assessment
– including psychological impact
• Emollients +
• Mild potency
corticosteroids
for 7-14 days
DERMATOLOGY
Moderate
• Areas of dry
skin
• Frequent
itching
• Areas of
redness
• Areas of
excoriation
Mild
• Areas of dry
skin
• In-frequent
itching
• Small areas of
redness
Severe
• Widespread
areas of dry skin
• Intense itching
• Widespread
areas of
redness
• Areas of
excoriation,
bleeding, oozing
 lichenification
Emollients • Emollients +
• Moderate
potency
corticosteroids
for 7-14 days
• Wet wraps
• Tacrolimus
• Systemic
therapy
• Phototherapy
• Emollients +
• Moderate
potency
corticosteroids
for 7-14 days
• Wet wraps
• Tacrolimus
Step treatment up or down according
to physical severity
448
Topical Corticosteroids
• Topical corticosteroid is an anti-inflammatory agent and the mainstay
of treatment for atopic eczema.
• Topical steroid are often prescribed intermittently for short term reactive
treatment of acute flares and supplemented by emollients.
• Choice depends on a balance between efficacy and side-effects.
• The more potent the steroid, the more the side-effect.
• Apply steroid cream once or twice daily.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation to prevent rebound phenomenon.
• Use milder steroids for face, flexures and scalp.
• Amount of topical steroid to be used – the finger tip (FTU) is convenient
way of indicating to patients how much of a topical steroid should be
applied to skin at any one site. 1 FTU is the amount of steroid expressed
from the tube to cover the length of the flexor aspect of the terminal
phalanx of the patient’s index finger.
• Number of FTU required for the different body areas.
• 1 hand/foot/face 1 FTU
• 1 arm 3 FTU
• 1 leg 6 FTU
• Front and back of trunk 14 FTU
• Adverse effect results from prolonged use of potent topical steroids.
• Local effects include skin atrophy, telangiectasia, purpura, striae, acne,
hirsutism and secondary infections. Systemic effects are adrenal axis
suppression, Cushing syndrome.
Steroid Potency
Potency of topical steroid Topical steroid
Mild Hydrocortisone cream/ointment 1%
Moderate Bethametasone 0.025% (1:4dilution)
Eumovate (clobetasone butyrate)
Potent Bethametasona 0.050%
Elomet (mometasone furoate)
Super potent Dermovate (clobetasone propionate)
DERMATOLOGY
449
Systemic Therapy
• Consist of:
• Relief of pruritus
• Treatment of secondary infection, and
• Treatment of refractory cases
Relief of Pruritus
• Do not routinely use oral antihistamines.
• Offer a 1-month trial of a non-sedating antihistamine to:
• Children with severe atopic eczema
• Children with mild or moderate atopic eczema where there is severe
itching or urticaria.
• If successful, treatment can be continued while symptoms persist.
Review every 3 months.
• Offer a 7–14 day trial of a sedating antihistamine to children over 6
months during acute flares if sleep disturbance has a significant impact.
This can be repeated for subsequent flares if successful.
Treatment of secondary infection
• Secondary bacterial skin infection is common and may cause acute
exacerbation of eczema. Systemic antibiotics are necessary when there
is evidence of extensive infection.
• Commonly Staphyloccus aureus.
• Useful in exudation form where superinfection occurs.
• Choice:
• Oral cloxacillin 15mg/kg/day 6 hourly for 7-14 days, or
• Oral Erythromycin / cephalosporin
• Secondary infection can arise from Herpes simplex virus causing Eczema
Herpeticum. Treatment using antiviral e.g. Acyclovir may be necessary.
Refractory cases
• Refractory cases do not response to conventional topical therapy and
have extensive eczema. Refer to a Dermatologist (who may use systemic
steroids, interferon, Cyclosporine A, Azathioprine or/and phototherapy).
Other Measures
• Avoid woolen toys, clothes, bedding.
• Reduce use of detergent (esp. biological).
• BCG contraindicated till skin improves.
• Swimming is useful (MUST apply moisturizer immediately upon
exiting pool).
• Avoid Aggravating Factors.
DERMATOLOGY
450
For Relapse
• Check compliance.
• Suspect secondary infection – send for skin swab; start antibiotics.
• Exclude scabies
• For severe eczema, emollient and topical steroid can be applied under
occlusion with ‘wet wrap’. This involves the use of a layer of wet,
followed by a layer of dry Tubifast to the affected areas i.e. limbs and
trunk. The benefits are probably due to cooling by evaporation, relieving
pruritus, enhanced absorption of the topical steroid and physical
protection of the excoriation.
Prognosis
• Tendency towards improvement throughout childhood.
• Two third will clear by adolescence.
DERMATOLOGY
451
Infantile haemangiomas
• Are the most common benign vascular tumour of infancy.
• Clinical course is marked by rapid growth during early infancy followed
by slower growth, then gradual involution.
• A minority cause functional impairment and even more cause
psychosocial distress.
• Once resolved, a significant minority (20-40%) leave residual scarring,
fibrofatty tissue, telangiectases, and other skin changes which can have
a lasting psychological effect.
• By 5 years of age, 50% of hemangiomas involute, 70% by age 7,
and 90% by age 9. 20-40% leave residual changes in the skin.
• Approximately 10% require treatment, and  1% are life threatening.
• In 95% of cases, diagnosis can be established on the basis of history
and physical examination alone.
• Typical-appearing vascular tumors.
• History of the lesion seen at birth or shortly thereafter, with
characteristic proliferation in early infancy.
Clinical subtypes of haemangiomas:
• Superficial haemangiomas are most common (50%-60%).
• Deep haemangiomas (15%): bluish soft-tissue swellings without an
overlying superficial component.
• Mixed haemangiomas (both a superficial and deep component)
(25%-35%).Multiple neonatal haemangiomatosis (15%-30%), consists
of multiple small lesions ranging from a few millimeters to 1 to 2 cm.
Chapter 85: Infantile Hemangioma
DERMATOLOGY
Rate of
haemangioma
growth
2 1812964 24 36 48 60
Rapid
growth
Slow
growth
Static
growth
Slow involution
Age in months
452
Management
• Most hemangiomas require no treatment.
• Active nonintervention is recommended in order to recognize those
that may require treatment quickly.
• When treatment is undertaken, it is important that it be customized to
the individual patient, and that the possible physical, and psychological
complications be discussed in advance. Often, a multidisciplinary
approach is recommended.
• Individualized depending on: size of the lesion(s), location, presence of
complications, age of the patient, and rate of growth or involution at
the time of evaluation. The potential risk(s) of treatment is carefully
weighed against the potential benefits.
No risk or low-risk haemangiomas
(Small, causing no functional impairment and unlikely to leave permanent
disfigurement)
• Wait and watch policy (active non-intervention)
• Patient education: Parent education may include the following:
• The expected natural history without treatment
• Demonstration whenever possible serial clinical photographs of
natural involution.
High-risk haemangiomas
(Large, prognostically poor location, likely to leave permanent disfigurement,
causing functional impairment, or involving extracutaneous structures)
• Large cutaneous or visceral haemangiomas (particularly liver) can result
in high-output cardiac failure.
• Haemangiomas on the ‘special sites’ with associated complications are
given on the table below.
Special site Complications
Beard Airway compromise
Eye Amblyopia, strabismus, astigmatism
Lumbar Tethered cord, imperforate anus, renal anomalies, sacral
anomalies.
Facial PHACES
DERMATOLOGY
453
DERMATOLOGY
• Segmental haemangiomas, which cover a particular section or area of
skin, may be markers for underlying malformations or developmental
anomalies of the heart, blood vessels, or nervous system (PHACE and
PELVIS syndromes and lumbosacral haemangiomas) and, depending on
the severity of the associated anomaly, can result in increased morbidity
or mortality.
• PHACE syndrome is posterior fossa structural brain abnormalities
(Dandy-Walker malformation and various forms of hypoplasia);
haemangiomas of the face, head, and neck (segmental, 5 cm in
diameter); arterial lesions (especially carotid, cerebral, and vertebral);
cardiac anomalies (coarctation of the aorta in addition to many other
structural anomalies); eye abnormalities; and, rarely, associated midline
ventral defects such as sternal cleft or supraumbilical raphe).
• PELVIS syndrome is perineal haemangioma with any of the following:
external genital malformations, lipomyelomeningocele, vesicorenal
abnormalities, imperforate anus, and/or skin tags.
Treatment
• The listed treatments may be used singly, in combination with each
other, or with a surgical modality.
MEDICAL
• Propranolol is the first-line therapy; Patients are admitted to ward for
propranolol therapy for close monitoring of any adverse effects.
• Dose: Start at 0.5 mg/kg/d in 2 to 3 divided doses orally and then
increased if tolerated. An increase in dose by 0.5 mg/kg/d is given until
the optimal therapeutic dose of 1.5 to 2 mg/kg/day.
• Duration: Ranges from 2 - 15 months but it is proposed that propranolol
should be continued for 1 year or until the lesion involutes completely,
as rebound growth has been noted if treatment is withdrawn too early.
• Propranolol is withdrawn by halving the dose for 2 weeks, then halving
again for 2 weeks, before stopping.
• Adverse effects: hypotension, bradycardia, hypoglycemia,
bronchospasm, sleep disturbance, diarrhea, and hyperkalemia.
• Systemic corticosteroids (indicated mainly during the growth period of
haemangiomas):
• Prednisolone 2 to 4 mg/kg/ day in a single morning dose or divided
doses. Watch out for growth retardation, blood pressure elevation,
insulin resistance, and immunosuppression.
• Intralesional corticosteroid therapy for small, bossed, facial hemangioma.
• Triamcinolone, 20mg/ml, should be injected at low pressure, using a
3 ml syringe and 25-gauge needle. Do not exceed 3-5mg/kg per
procedure.
• Periocular regions must be done only by an experienced ophthalmologist
as there is a risk of embolic occlusion of the retinal artery or oculomotor
nerve palsy.
454
DERMATOLOGY
• Other systemic therapy:
• Interferon alfa. Very effective but is used mainly as a second-line
therapy for lesions not responsive to corticosteroids because of the
possible severe neurotoxicity, including spastic diplegia.
• Vincristine. Some consider this as second-line treatment for
corticosteroid resistant hemangiomas.
SURGERY
• The benefits and risks of surgery must be weighed carefully, since
the scar may be worse than the results of spontaneous regression.
• Surgery is especially good for small, pedunculated hemangiomas and
occasionally, in cases where there may be functional impairment. It is
usually used to repair residual cosmetic deformities.
• Generally, it is recommended that a re-evaluation be done when the
child is 4 years old, in order to assess the potential benefit of excision.
455
Chapter 86: Scabies
Definition
Infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabei. Any part of the body may be
affected, and transmission is by skin to skin contact.
Clinical features
Symptoms
• Mites burrow into the skin where they lay eggs. The resulting offspring
crawl out onto the skin and makes new burrows.
• Absorption of mite excrement into skin capillaries generates a
hypersensitivity reaction.
• The main symptom, which takes 4-6 wks to develop, is generalised itch –
especially at night.
Signs
• Characteristic silvery lines may be seen in the skin where mites have
burrowed.
• Classic sites: interdigital folds, wrists, elbows, umbilical area, genital area
and feet.
• Nodular Scabies- papules or nodules seen at the site of mite infestation
often affect the scrotum, axillae, back, or feet of children.
• Crusted or Norwegian Scabies- seen in young infants or
immunosuppressed patients. Widespread mite infestation causing a
hyperkeratotic and/or crusted generalized rash.
Diagnosis
• The clinical appearance is usually typical, but there is often diagnostic
confusion with other itching conditions such as eczema.
• Scrapings taken from burrows examined under light microscopy may
reveal mites.
Management
General advice
• Educate the parents about the condition and give clear written
information on applying the treatment.
• Treat everyone in the household and close contacts.
• Only allow the patient to go to school 24 hours after the start of
treatment.
• Wash clothing and bedding in hot water or by dry cleaning. Clothing that
cannot be washed may be stored in a sealed plastic bag for three days.
• The pruritis of scabies may be treated with diphenhydramine or other
anti-pruritic medication if necessary. The pruritis can persist up to three
weeks post treatment even if all mites are dead, and therefore it is not
an indication to retreat unless live mites are identified.
• Any superimposed bacterial skin infection should be treated at the same
time as the scabies treatment.
DERMATOLOGY
456
Treatment
• Permetrin 5% lotion
• Use for infants as young as 2 months and onwards. Children should be
supervised by an adult when applying lotion.
• Massage the lotion into the skin from the head to the soles of the feet,
paying particular attention to the areas between the fingers and toes,
wrists, axillae, external genitalia and buttocks. Scabies rarely infects the
scalp of adults, although the hairline, neck, temple and forehead may
be involved in geriatric patients.
• Reapply to the hands if washed off with soap and water within eight
hours of application.
• Remove the lotion after 12 to 14 hours by washing (shower or bath).
• Usually the infestation is cleared with a single application. However a
second application may be given seven to 10 days after the first if live
mites are demonstrated or new lesions appear.
• Benzyl Benzoate (EBB)
• Use 12.5% emulsion in children age 7-12 years; 25% emulsion if above
12 years and adults.
• Apply nightly or every other night for a total of three applications.
• It can irritate the skin and eyes, and has caused seizures when ingested.
• Crotamiton (Eurax)
• Apply 10% crotamiton cream to the entire body from the neck down,
nightly, for two nights. Wash it off 24 hours after the second application.
• Sulfur (3-6% in calamine lotion)
• Apply from the neck down, nightly, for three nights. Bathe before
• reapplying and 24 hours after the last application. No controlled
• studies of efficacy or safety are available.
• Lindane (1% gamma benzene hexachloride) Lotion.
• Apply to cool, dry skin. Apply the lotion sparingly from the chin to the
toes, with special attention to the hands, feet, web spaces, beneath
the fingernails and skin creases. Wash off after eight to 12 hours.
• 95% of patients require only one treatment. Re-treat only if
i. Infestations with live mites is confirmed after one week.
ii. Itching persist three weeks after the first treatment.
DERMATOLOGY
457
Chapter 87: Steven Johnson Syndrome
Definitions
STEVEN JOHNSON SYNDROME (SJS)
• Severe erosions of at least two mucosal surfaces with extensive necrosis
of lips and mouth, and a purulent conjunctivitis.
• Epidermal detachment may occur in SJS, but less than 10% of the body
surface area is involved.
• Morbidity with this disease is high, and can include photophobia,
burning eyes, visual impairment and blindness.
TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS (TEN)
• Severe exfoliative disease associated with systemic reaction characterized
by rapid onset of widespread erythema and epidermal necrolysis.
• Involves more than 30% loss of epidermis.
Aim of treatment: To remove the cause and prevent complications
Salient features
• Acute prodromal flu-like symptoms, fever, conjunctivitis and malaise.
• Skin tenderness, morbilliform to diffuse or macular erythema target
lesions, vesicles progressing to bullae. Blisters on the face, and upper
trunk, then exfoliation with wrinkled skin which peels off by light stroking
(Nikolksy’ sign).
• Buccal mucosa involvement may precede skin lesion by up to 3 days
in 30% of cases.
• Less commonly the genital areas, perianal area, nasal and conjuctival
mucosa.
• In the gastrointestinal tract, esophageal sloughing is very common,
and can cause bleeding and diarrhoea.
• In the respiratory tract, tracheobronchial erosions can lead to
hyperventilation, interstitial oedema, and acute respiratory disease
syndrome.
• Skin biopsy of TEN - Extensive eosinophilic necrosis of epidermis with
surabasal cleavage plane.
• Renal profile – raised blood urea, hyperkalaemia and creatinine.
• Glucose - hypoglycaemia.
Aetiology in Steven Johnson Syndrome / TEN
Drugs
• Antibiotics: Sulphonamides, amoxycillin, ampicillin, ethambutol, isoniazid
• Anticonvulsants: Phenobarbitone, carbamazepine, phenytoin
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Phenylbutazone, salicylates
Infection
• Virus: herpes simplex, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, measles, mumps
• Bacteria: Streptococcus, Salmonella typhi, Mycoplasma pneumoniae
DERMATOLOGY
458
Management
Supportive Care
• Admit to isolation room where possible.
• May need IV fluid resuscitation for shock.
• Good nursing care (Barrier Nursing and hand washing).
• Use of air fluidized bed, avoid bed sores.
• Adequate nutrition – nasogastric tubes, IV lines, parenteral nutrition if
severe mucosal involvement.
Specific treatment
• Eliminate suspected offending drugs
• IV Immunoglobulins at a dose of 0.4 Gm/kg/per day for 5 days. IVIG is a safe
and effective in treatment for SJS/TEN in children. It arrests the progression of
the disease and helps complete re-epithelialization of lesions.
Monitoring
• Maintenance of body temperature. Avoid excessive cooling or overheating.
• Careful monitoring of fluids and electrolytes – BP/PR.
• Intake / output charts, daily weighing and renal profile.
Prevent Complications
Skin care
• Cultures of skin, mucocutaneous erosions, tips of Foley’s catheter.
• Treat infections with appropriate antibiotics.
• Topical antiseptic preparations: saline wash followed by topical bacitracin or
10% Chlorhexidine wash.
• Dressing of denuded areas with paraffin gauze / soffra-tulle.
• Surgery may be needed to remove necrotic epidermis.
Eye care
• Frequent eye assessment.
• Antibiotic or antiseptic eye drops 2 hourly.
• Synechiea should be disrupted.
Oral care
• Good oral hygiene aimed at early restoration of normal feeds.
DERMATOLOGY
459
DERMATOLOGY
References
Section 11 Dermatology
Chapter 84 Atopic Dermatitis
1.NICE guideline for treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in children from birth to
12 years old. 2007
2.Topical Treatment with Glucocorticoids. M. Kerscher, S. Williams, P.
Lehmann. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006
3.Atopic Dermatitis. Thomas Bieber, M.D., Ph.D. Ann Dermatol 2010
4.Atopic dermatitis. Eric L. Simpson, MD, and Jon M. Hanifin, MD. J Am Acad
Dermatol 2005.
Chapter 85 Infantile Hemangioma
1.Guidelines of care for hemangiomas of infancy. Ilona J. Frieden, MD, Chair-
man, Lawrence E Eichenfield, MD, Nancy B.Esterly, MD, Roy Geronemus,
MD, Susan B. Mallory, MD. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997
2.Infantile hemangiomas. Anna L. Bruckner, MD,  Ilona J. Frieden, MD. J Am
Acad Dermatol 2006.
3.Novel Strategies for Managing Infantile Hemangiomas: A Review Silvan
Azzopardi,  Thomas Christian Wright. Ann Plast Surg 2011.
4.A Randomized Controlled Trial of Propranolol for Infantile Hemangiomas.
Marcia Hogeling, Susan Adams and Orli Wargon Pediatrics 2011.
Chapter 86 Scabies
1.Communicable Disease Management Protocol – Scabies November 2001
2.United Kingdom National Guideline on the Management of Scabies infesta-
tion (2007).
460
DERMATOLOGY
461
Chapter 88: Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to
Diagnosis and Early Management in a Sick Child
Introduction
• Over 500 human diseases due to IEM are now recognized and a
significant number of them are amenable to treatment.
• IEMs may present as
• An acute metabolic emergency in a sick child.
• Chronic problems involving either single or multiple organs, either
recurrent or progressive, or permanent.
• It will become ever more important to initiate a simple method of clinical
screening by first-line paediatric doctors with the goal ‘Do not miss a
treatable disorder’.
Classification
From a therapeutic perspective, IEMs can be divided into 5 useful groups:
Group Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment
Disorders that give
rise to acute or
chronic intoxication
Aminoacidopathies
(MSUD, tyrosinaemia,
PKU, homocystinuria),
most organic acidurias
(methylmalonic, pro-
pionic, isovaleric, etc.),
urea cycle defects, sugar
intolerances (galactosae-
mia, hereditary fructose
intolerance), defects
in long-chain fatty acid
oxidation
• Readily diagnosed
through basic IEM
investigations: blood
gases, glucose, lactate,
ammonia, plasma
amino acids, urinary
organic acids and
acylcarnitine profile
• Specific emergency
and long term treat-
ment available for most
diseases.
Disorders with
reduced fasting
tolerance
Glycogen storage
diseases, disorders of
gluconeogenesis, fatty
acid oxidation disorders,
disorders of ketogenesis/
ketolysis
• Persistent/recurrent
hypoglycemia is the first
clue to diagnosis.
• Specific emergency
and long term
treatment available for
most diseases.
Neurotransmitter
defects and related
disorders
Nonketotic hyperglycine-
mia, serine deficiency,
disorders of biogenic
amine metabolism, disor-
ders of GABA metabo-
lism, antiquitin deficiency
(pyridoxine dependent
epilepsy), pyridoxal phos-
phate deficiency, GLUT1
deficiency
• Diagnosis requires
specialized CSF
analysis.
• Some are treatable.
METABOLIC
462
Classification (continued)
Group Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment
Disorders of the
biosynthesis and
breakdown of
complex molecules
Lysosomal storage disor-
ders, peroxisomal disor-
ders, congenital disorders
of glycosylation, sterol
biosynthesis disorders,
purine and pyrimidine
disorders
• Specialized diagnostic
tests required.
• Very few are
treatable.
Mitochondrial
disorders
Respiratory chain en-
zymes deficiencies,
PDHc deficiency, pyruvate
carboxylase deficiency
• Persistent lactate
acidemia is often the
first clue to diagnosis.
• Mostly supportive
care.
Screening for treatable IEM in a sick child
• In an acutely ill child, IEM should be considered a differential diagnosis
along with other diagnoses:
• In all neonates with unexplained, overwhelming, or progressive disease
particularly after a normal pregnancy or birth, but deteriorates after
feeding.
• In all children with acute encephalopathy, particularly preceded by
vomiting, fever or fasting.
• In all children with unexplained symptoms and signs of metabolic
acidosis, hypoglycaemia, acute liver failure or Reye-like syndrome.
• The aim is targeted to pick up treatable diseases in Group 1 and 2 as
early as possible.
• Many clues may be gained from a detailed history and physical examination
• Unexplained death among sibling(s) due to sepsis or “SIDS”.
• Unexplained disorders in other family members (HELLP syndrome,
progressive neurological disease).
• Consanguinity.
• Deterioration after a symptom-free interval in a newborn.
• Unusual smell - burn sugar (MSUD), sweaty feet (isovaleric acidemia).
• Actively investigate for IEM in any acutely ill child of unknown aetiology,
as early as possible during the course of illness. According to the clinical
situation, basic and special metabolic investigations must be initiated in
parallel.
METABOLIC
463
Basic metabolic investigations 1
Special metabolic investigations 1
Ammonia2
Must be
included in
work-up of an
acutely ill child
of unknown
aetiology 4
Acylcarnitines (Dried blood spot on
Guthrie card )
Glucose
Lactate2
Amino acids (plasma or serum)3
Blood gases Organic acids (urine)
Ketostix (urine) Orotate (urine): if suspected urea
cycle defects
Blood count, electrolytes, ALT,
AST, CK, creatinine, urea, uric acid,
coagulation
[Send to the metabolic lab immedi-
ately ( eg by courier) especially when
the basic metabolic investigations
are abnormal, particularly if there
is hyperammonemia or persistent
ketoacidosis]
1, Will pick up most diseases from Group 1 and 2, and some diseases in
other groups (which often require more specialized tests)
2, Send immediately (within 15 minutes) to lab with ice
3, Urinary amino acids are the least useful as they reflect urinary thresh
old. Their true value is only in the diagnosis of specific renal tubular
transport disorders (eg cystinuria ).
4, Routine analysis of pyruvate is not indicated.
Useful normal/abnormal values
Basic tests Values Note
Ammonia Neonates
• Healthy: 110µmol/L
• Sick: up to 180µmol/L
• Suspect IEM: 200µmol/L
After the Neonatal period
• Normal: 50-80 µmol/L
• Suspect IEM: 100µmol/L
1. False elevations are
common if blood sample
is not analyzed
immediately.
2. Secondary elevated
may occur in severe liver
failure.
Anion Gap Calculation
[Na+] + [K+] – [Cl-] – [HCO3-]
Normal :- 15-20mmol/L
1. Normal: renal / intestinal
loss of bicarbonate.
2. Increased: organic acids,
lactate, ketones.
Lactate • Blood:  2.4mmol/L
• CSF:  2.0mmol/L
False elevations are com-
mon due to poor collection
or handling techniques
METABOLIC
464
Disorders“Typical”basiclaboratoryconstellations
DisordersAmmoniaGlucoseLactatepHKetonuriaOthers
Ureacycledefects↑↑↑NN↑N
Organicacidemias↑↑↓,N,↑↑↑↓↓↓↑↑↑↑aniongap,neutropenia,
thrombocytopenia
MSUDNNNNN,↑
GSDN↓↓↓↑↑↓N↑triglyceride,↑uricacid,↑ALT
FAOD↑↓↓↓↑↓↓↓↓↑CK
Mitochondrial
disorders
NN↑↑↑↓↓N↑alanine
TyrosinemiaINN-↓NN-↓NLiverfailure,↑α-fetoprotein,
Renalfanconi
METABOLIC
465
Early contact to the metabolic laboratory will help target investigations, avoid
unnecessary tests, and speed up processing of samples and reporting of
results.
Emergency management of a sick child suspected IEM
• In the critically ill and highly suspicious patient, treatment must be
started immediately, in parallel with laboratory investigations.
• This is especially important for Group 1 diseases
STEP 1
If the basic metabolic test results and the clinical findings indicate a disorder
causing acute endogenous intoxication due to disorder of protein
metabolism (Group 1 diseases - UCD, organic acidurias or MSUD), therapy
must be intensified even without knowledge of the definitive diagnosis.
Anabolism must be promoted and detoxification measures must be initiated.
• Immediately stops protein intake. However, the maximum duration
without protein is 48 hours.
• Correct hypoglycaemia and metabolic acidosis.
• Reduce catabolism by providing adequate calories.
Aim 120kcal/kg/day, achieved by
• IV Glucose infusion (D10%, 15% or 20% with appropriate electrolytes).
• Intralipid 20% at 2-3g/kg/day (Except when a Fatty Acid Oxidation
Disorder is suspected).
• Protein-free formula for oral feeding [eg Pro-phree® (Ross), Calo-Lipid
(ComidaMed®), basic-p (milupa)].
• Anticipate complications
• Hyperglycemia/glucosuria - Add IV Insulin 0.05U/kg/hr if blood glucose
 15mmol/L to prevent calories loss.
• Fluid overload: IV Frusemide 0.5-1mg stat doses.
• Electrolytes imbalances: titrate serum Na+ and K+.
• Protein malnutrition – add IV Vamin or oral natural protein (eg milk)
after 48 hours, starts at 0.5g/kg/day.
• Carry out detoxifying measures depending on the clinical and laboratory
findings.
• Continue all conventional supportive/intensive care
• Respiratory insufficiency: artificial ventilation.
• Septicaemia: antibiotics.
• Cerebral convulsions: anticonvulsants.
• Cerebral edema: avoid hypotonic fluid overload, hyperventilation,
Mannitol, Frusemide.
• Early central line.
• Consult metabolic specialist.
METABOLIC
466
Specific detoxification measures for hyperammonemia
Hyperammonemia due to Urea cycle defects
Anti-hyperammonemic drugs cocktail
Loading dose
• IV Sodium benzoate 250mg/kg
• IV Sodium phenylbutyrate 250mg/kg
• IV L-Arginine 250mg/kg
(mix together in D10% to a total volume of 50mls, infuse over 90 min)
Maintanence dose
• Same dilution as above but infuse over 24 hours
Indication:
1. NH3  200µmol/L
2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic)
Dialysis
• Hemodialysis or hemofiltration if available.
• If not, peritoneal dialysis is the alternative.
• Exchange transfusion is not effective.
(Method of choice depends on local availability, experience of medical staff)
Indication:
1. NH3  400µmol/L
2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic)
3.Inadequate reduction/raising NH3 despite drugs cocktail
Hyperammonemia due to Organic aciduria
Give oral Carglumic acid, 100 - 250mg/kg/day in divided doses
Other specific Detoxification measures
Disorder Pharmacological Non-pharmacological
MSUD nil Dialysis. Indication:
1. Leucine 1,500µmol/L
2. Symptomatic
(encephalopathic)
Organic acidurias Carnitine
100mg/kg/day
Dialysis. Indication:
1. intractable metabolic
acidosis
2. Symptomatic
(encephalopathic)
Tyrosinemia type 1 NTBC 1-2mg/kg/day Nil
Cobalamin
disorders
IM Hydroxocobalamin
1mg daily
Nil
METABOLIC
467
STEP 2
• Adaptation and specification of therapy according to the results of the
special metabolic investigations/definitive diagnosis.
• For protein metabolism disorders, the long term diet is consists of
• Specific precursor free formula
• Natural protein (breast milk or infant formula). This is gradually added
when child is improving to meet the daily requirement of protein and
calories for optimal growth.
• Other long term treatment includes
• Oral anti-hyperammonemic drugs cocktail (for urea cycle defects)
• Carnitine (for organic acidemias)
• Vitamin therapy in vitamin-dependent disorders (eg Vit B12-responsive
methylmalonic acidemia and cobalamine disorders).
• Transfer the child to a metabolic centre for optimisation of therapy is
often necessary at this stage in order to plan for the long term nutritional
management according to child’s protein tolerance
STEP 3
• Be prepared for future decompensation
• Clear instruction to parents.
• Phone support for parents.
• Provide a letter that includes the emergency management protocol to
be kept by parents.
• Role of first-line paediatric doctors
1. Help in early diagnosis
2. Help in initial management and stabilization of patient
3. Help in long term care (shared-care with metabolic specialist)
• Rapid action when child is in catabolic stress (febrile illness, surgery, etc)
• Adequate hydration and temporary adjustment in nutrition
management and pharmacotherapy according to emergency protocol
will prevent catastrophic metabolic decompensation.
METABOLIC
468
Key points in managing acute metabolic decompensation in children with
known disorders of protein metabolism ( UCD, MSUD, Organic acidurias)
• Consult metabolic specialist if you are uncertain.
• Perform clinical and biochemical assessment to determine the severity.
• Stop the natural protein but continue the special formula as tolerated
(PO or per NG tube/perfusor).
• IV Glucose and Intralipid to achieve total calories 120kcal/kg/day.
• IV antiemetic (e.g. Kytril) for nausea or vomiting.
• Management of hypoglycemia, hyperammonemia and metabolic
acidosis as above.
• Gradually re-introduce natural protein after 24-48 hours.
Acute intoxication due to classical galactossemia (Group 1)
• Clinical presentation: progressive liver dysfunction after start of milk
feeds, cataract.
• Diagnosis: dry blood spots (Guthrie card) for galatose and
galactose-1-P uridyltransferase (GALT) measurement
• Treatment: lactose-free infant formula
• Neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by Citrin Deficiency (NICCD)
may mimic classical Galactosemia.
Disorders with reduced fasting tolerance (Group 2)
• Clinical presentation: recurrent hypoglycemia ± hepatomegaly.
• Treatment: - 10% glucose infusion, 120- 150ml/kg/day.
• This therapy is usually sufficient in acute phase.
• Long term: avoid fasting, frequent meals, nocturnal continuous feeding,
uncooked cornstarch (older children).
(refer Chapter on Hypoglycaemia)
Neurotransmitter defects and related disorders (Group 3)
• This group should be considered in children with neurological problems
• when basic metabolic investigations are normal.
• Diagnosis usually requires investigations of the CSF. Considers this in
• Severe epileptic encephalopathy starting before birth or soon thereafter,
especially if there is myoclonic component.
• Symptoms of dopamine deficiency: oculogyric crises, hypokinesia,
dystonia, truncal hypotonia/limb hypertonia.
• Presence of vanillactate and 4(OH) Butyrate in urine.
• Unexplained hyperprolactinemia.
METABOLIC
469
Disorders of the biosynthesis and breakdown of
complex molecules (Group 4)
Disorders in this group
• Typically show slowly progressive clinical symptoms and are less likely to
cause acute metabolic crises.
• Are not usually recognised by basic metabolic analyses but require
specific investigations for their diagnosis.
• Lysosomal disorders:
(1) screening tests: urine glycoaminoglycans (mucopolysacchardioses),
urine oligosaccharides (oligosaccharidoses).
(2) definitive diagnosis: enzyme assay, DNA tests.
• Peroxisomal disorders: plasma very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA).
• Congenital disorders of glycosylation: serum transferrin isoform analysis.
Mitochondrial disorders (Group 5)
• Clinical: suspect in unexplained multi-systemic disorders especially if
involve neuromuscular system.
• Inheritance:
(1) mtDNA defects –sporadic, maternal.
(2) nuclear gene defects –mostly autosomal recessive.
• Laboratory markers: persistently elevated blood/CSF lactate and
plasma alanine.
• Diagnosis: respiratory enzyme assay in muscle biopsy/skin fibroblast,
targeted mtDNA mutation study etc (discuss with metabolic specialist).
• Treatment: ensure adequate nutrition, treat fever/seizure/epilepsy
efficiently, avoid drugs that may inhibit the respiratory chain
(e.g. valproate, tetracycline, chloramphenicol and barbiturates).
• Use of vitamins and cofactors is controversial/insufficient evidence.
• Useful websites: http://www.mitosoc.org/, www.umdf.org/
METABOLIC
470
Management of a asymptomatic newborn but at risk of having potentially
treatable IEM
• Ideally the diagnosis of treatable IEM should be made before a child
becomes symptomatic and this may be possible through newborn
screening for high risk newborns.
• A previous child in the family has had an IEM.
• Multiple unexplained early neonatal death.
• Mother has HELLP/fatty liver disease during pregnancy
(HELLP – Haemolytic Anaemia, Elevated Liver Enzymes, Low Platelets).
• Affected babies may need to be transferred in utero or soon after delivery
to a centre with facilities to diagnose and manage IEM.
• Admit to nursery for observation.
• If potential diagnosis is known: screens for the specific condition,
e.g. urea cycle disorders – monitor NH3 and plasma amino acid, MSUD –
monitor plasma leucine (amino acids).
• If potential diagnosis is unknown: Guthrie cards, collect on 2nd or 3rd
day after feeding, mails it immediately and get result as soon as possible.
Other essential laboratory monitoring: NH3, VBG, blood glucose. Please
discuss with metabolic specialist.
• To prevent decompensation before baby’s status is known: provide
enough calories (oral/IV), may need to restrict protein especially if index
case presented very early (before 1 week). Protein-free formula should
be given initially and small amount of protein (eg breast milk) is gradually
introduced after 48 hours depending on baby’s clinical status.
• If the index patient presented after the first week, the new baby should
be given the minimum safe level of protein intake from birth
(approximately 1.5 g/kg/day). Breast feeding should be allowed under
these circumstances with top-up feeds of a low protein formula to mini-
mise catabolism.
• Get the metabolic tests result as soon as possible to decide weather
the baby is affected or not.
METABOLIC
471
Chapter 89: Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM)
in a Child with Chronic Symptoms
Introduction
IEMs may cause variable and chronic disease or organ dysfunction in a child
resulting in global developmental delay, epileptic encephalopathy, movement
disorders, (cardio)-myopathy or liver disease. Thus it should be considered as
an important differential diagnosis in these disorders.
The first priority is to diagnose treatable conditions. However, making
diagnosis of non-treatable conditions is also important for prognostication, to
help the child find support and services, genetic counselling and prevention,
and to provide an end to the diagnostic quest.
PROBLEM 1: GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY (GDD)
• Defined as significant delay in two or more developmental domains.
• Investigation done only after a thorough history and physical examination.
• If diagnosis is not apparent after the above, then investigations may be
considered as listed below.
• Even in the absence of abnormalities on history or physical examination,
basic screening investigations may identify aetiology in 10-20%.
• In the absence of any other clinical findings or abnormalities in the
baseline investigations then further investigations are not indicated.
Basic screening Investigations
Karyotyping
Serum creatine kinase
Thyroid function test
Serum uric acid
Blood Lactate
Blood ammonia
Metabolic screening using Guthrie card1
Plasma Amino acids2
Urine organic acid2
Neuroimaging3
Fragile X screening (boy)
1, This minimal metabolic screen should be done in all even in the absence
of risk factors.
2, This is particularly important if one or more of following risk factors:
Consanguinity, family history of developmental delay, unexplained sib
death, unexplained episodic illness
3, MRI is more sensitive than CT, with increased yield. It is not a
mandatory study and has a higher diagnostic yield when indications exist
(eg. macro/microcephaly; seizure; focal motor findings on neurologic
examination such as hemiplegia, nystagmus, optic atrophy; and unusual
facial features eg. hypo/hypertelorism)
METABOLIC
472
• If history and physical examination reveals specific clinical signs and
symptoms, a large number of potential further investigations for possible
IEM may be available. Many of these are highly specialised investigations
and are expensive – it is not suggested they are all undertaken but
considered. Referral to a clinical geneticist or metabolic specialist is useful
at this stage to help with test selection based on “pattern recognition”.
Interpretation of basic screening investigations
Test abnormality Possible causes of abnormal results
Creatine kinase↑ • Muscle injury
• Muscular dystrophy
• Fatty acid oxidation disorders
Lactate ↑ • Excessive screaming, tourniquet pressure
• Glycogen storage disorders
• Gluconeogenesis disorders
• Disorders of pyruvate metabolism
• Mitochondrial disorders
• Is plasma alanine increased? If yes, suggest true
elevation of lactate
Ammonia↑ • Sample contamination
• Sample delayed in transport/processing
• Specimen hemolysed
• Urea cycle disorders
• Liver dysfunction
Uric acids An abnormality high or low result is significant:
• Glycogen storage disorders↑
• Purine disorders↑
• Molybdenum cofactor deficiency ↓
METABOLIC
473
Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features
Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests
Severe hypotonia Peroxisomal disorders
Very long chain fatty acids (B)
Purine/pyrimidine disorders
Purine/pyrimidine analysis (U)
Neurotransmitters deficiencies
Neurotransmitters analysis (C)
Neuropathic organic acidemia
Organic acid analysis (U)
Pompe disease
Lysosomal enzyme (G)
Prader Willi syndrome
Methylation PCR (B)
Neurological regression +
organomegaly + skeletal
abnormalities
Mucopolysaccharidoses
Urine MPS (U)
Oligosaccharidoses
Oligosaccharides (U)
Neurological regression ±
abnormal neuroimaging
e.g. leukodystrophy
Other lysosomal disorders
Lysosomal enzyme (B)
Mitochondrial disorders
Respiratory chain enzymes (M/S)
Biotinidase deficiency
Biotinidase assay (G)
Peroxisomal disorders
Very long chain fatty acids (B)
Rett syndrome (girl)
MECP2 mutation study (B)
Abnormal hair Menkes disease
Copper (B), coeruloplasmin (B)
Argininosuccinic aciduria
Amino acid (U/B)
Trichothiodystrophy
Hair microscopy
B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card
METABOLIC
474
METABOLIC
Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features (continued)
Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests
Macrocephaly Glutaric aciduria type I
Organic acids (U)
Canavan disease
Organic acid (U)
Vanishing white matter disease
DNA test (B)
Megalencephalic leukodystrophy with
subcortical cysts (MLC)
DNA test (B)
Dysmorphism Microdeletion syndromes
FISH, aCGH (B)
Peroxisomal disorders
Very long chain fatty acids (B)
Smith Lemli Opitz syndrome
Sterol analysis (B)
Congenital disorders of glycosylation
Transferrin isoform (B)
Dystonia Wilson disease
Copper (B), coeruloplasmin (B)
Neurotransmitters deficiencies
Phenylalanine loading test,
Neurotransmitters analysis (C)
Neuroacanthocytosis
Peripheral blood film, DNA test (B)
B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card, aCGH=array
comparative genomic hybridization
475
METABOLIC
Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features (continued)
Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests
Epileptic encephalopathy Nonketotic hyperglycinemia
Glycine measurement (B and C)
Molybdenum cofactor deficiency/
sulphite oxidase deficiency
Sulphite (fresh urine)
Glucose transporter defect
Glucose (blood and CSF)
Pyridoxine dependency
Pyridoxine challenge, alpha aminoadipic
semiadehyde (U)
PNPO deficiency
Amino acid (C), Organic acid (U)
Congenital serine deficiency
Amino acid (B and C)
Cerebral folate deficiency
CSF folate
Ring chromosome syndromes
Karyotype
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis
Peripheral blood film, lysosomal enzyme (B)
Creatine biosynthesis disorders
MR spectroscopy
Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency
Purine analysis (U)
Cerebral dysgenesis e.g. lissencephaly
MRI brain
Angelman syndrome
Methylation PCR
Spastic paraparesis Arginase deficiency
Amino acid (B)
Neuropathic organic academia
Organic acid (U)
Sjogren Larsson syndrome
Detailed eye examination
B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card, aCGH=array
comparative genomic hybridization
476
METABOLIC
PROBLEM 2: LIVER DISEASE
• A considerable number of IEM cause liver injury in infants and children,
either as isolated liver disease or part of a multisystemic disease.
• Hepatic clinical response to IEM or acquired causes such as infection is
indistinguishable.
• While IEM should be considered in any child with liver disease, it is
essential to understand many pitfalls in interpreting the results.
• Liver failure can produce a variety of non-specific results: hypoglycaemia,
↑ammonia, ↑lactate, ↑plasma amino acids (tyrosine, phenylalanine,
methionine), positive urine reducing substances (including galactose), an
abnormal urine organic acid/blood acylcarnitine profiles.
Citrin deficiency
Recognized clinical phenotypes:
• Neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by citrin deficiency (NICCD)
• Characterized by transient neonatal cholestasis and variable hepatic
dysfunction.
• Diagnosis: elevated plasma citrulline, galactossemia (secondary).
• Treatment: lactose-free and/or MCT-enriched formula.
• Failure to thrive and dyslipidemia caused by citrin deficiency (FTTDCD)
• Characterized by post-NICCD growth retardation and abnormalities of
serum lipid concentrations.
• A strong preference for protein-rich and lipid-rich foods and an
aversion to carbohydrate-rich foods.
• Diagnosis: mutation testing (plasma citrulline is normal at this stage)
• Treatment: diet rich in protein and lipids and low in carbohydrates,
sodium pyruvate.
• Citrullinemia type II (CTLN2)
• Characterized by childhood- to adult-onset, recurring episodes of hyper
ammonemia and associated neuropsychiatric symptoms.
• Treatment: liver transplant.
477
METABOLIC
IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease
Leadingmanifestation
patterns
Metabolic/geneticcauses
tobeconsidered
CluesDiagnostictests
Acute/subacute
hepatocellular
necrosis
(↑AST,↑ALTjaun-
dice,hypoglycaemia,
↑NH3,bleeding
tendency,↓albumin,
ascitis)
Neonatal/earlyinfantile
*Neonatal
haemochromatosis
↑↑↑ferritinBuccalmucosabiopsy
*GalactosemiaPositiveurinereducingsugar,cataractGALTassay
*Long-chainfattyacid
oxidationdisorders
Associated(cardio)myopathyBloodacylcarnitine
*mtDNAdepletion
syndrome
Muscularhypotonia,multi-systemicdisease,
encephalopathy,nystagmus,↑↑lactate(blood
andCSF)
LiverbiopsyformtDNA
depletionstudy
*tyrosinemiatypeISeverecoagulopathy,mild↑AST/ALT,renal
tubulopathy,↓PO4,↑↑↑AFP
Urinesuccinylacetone
*Congenitaldisordersof
glycosylation
Multi-systemdisease,protein-losingenteropa-
thy
Transferrinisoform
analysis
MustruleoutinfectionsAetiology:TORCHES,parvovirusB19,echovirus,
enteroviruses,HIV,EBV,HepB,HepC
Serology,urine/stool
viralculture
478
METABOLIC
IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease(continued)
Leadingmanifestation
patterns
Metabolic/geneticcauses
tobeconsidered
CluesDiagnostictests
Acute/subacute
hepatocellular
necrosis
(↑AST,↑ALTjaun-
dice,hypoglycaemia,
↑NH3,bleeding
tendency,↓albumin,
ascitis)
Lateinfancytochildhood
*abovecauses
*α-1-antitrypsindeficiencyCommonlypresentsascholestaticjaundice,
graduallysubsidesbefore6months.Some
developcirrhosislater.Lesscommonlymay
presentasliverfailureinearlyinfancy
α-1-antitrypsin
*FructosemiaSymptomsafterfructoseintake,renaltubulopa-
thy
*WilsondiseaseKFring,neurologicalsymptoms,haemolysisSerum/urinecopper,
coeruloplasmin
Mustruleoutchronicviralhepatitisandautoimmunediseases
479
IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease(continued)
Leadingmanifestation
patterns
Metabolic/geneticcauses
tobeconsidered
CluesDiagnostictests
Cholestasticliver
disease
(conjugatedbilirubin
15%,acholicstool,
yellowbrownurine,
pruritus,↑↑ALP)
GGTmaybelow,
normalorhigh-
usefultodifferentiate
variouscauses
Neonatal
*AlagillesyndromeEye/cardiac/vertebralanomaliesDNAstudy
*Inbornerrorbileacid
synthesis
↓ornormalGGTLiverbiopsy,DNAstudy
*Progressivefamilialintra-
hepaticcholestasis(PFIC)
↓ornormalGGTexceptPFICtypeIIILiverbiopsy,DNAstudy
*Citrindeficiency↑plasmacitrulline,↑galactose,+veurine
reducingsugar
PlasmaAminoacids,
DNAstudy
*NiemannPickCHypotonia,opthalmoplegia,hepatospleno-
megaly
Bonemarrow
examination
*PeroxisomaldisordersSeverehypotonia,cataract,dysmorphic,knee
calcification
PlasmaVLCFA
*α-1-antitrypsindeficiencyseeaboveα-1-antitrypsin
Mustexcludeextrahepatic
biliarydisease
METABOLIC
480
IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease(continued)
Leadingmanifestation
patterns
Metabolic/geneticcauses
tobeconsidered
CluesDiagnostictests
Cholestasticliver
disease
(conjugatedbilirubin
15%,acholicstool,
yellowbrownurine,
pruritus,↑↑ALP)
GGTmaybelow,
normalorhigh-
usefultodifferentiate
variouscauses
Lateinfancytochildhood
*abovecauses
*RotorsyndromeNormalliverfunctionDiagnosisbyexclusion
*Dublin-JohnsonNormalliverfunctionDiagnosisbyexclusion
Cirrhosis
(endstageofchronic
hepato-cellular
disease)
chronicjaundice,
clubbing,spider
angiomatoma,ascites,
portalHPT
*WilsondiseaseKFring,neurologicalsymptoms,haemolysisSerum/urinecopper,
coeruloplasmin
*Haemochromatosis↑↑ferritin,Cardiomyopathy,hyperpigmenta-
tion
Liverbiopsy,DNA
study
*GSDIVCirrhosisaround1year,splenomegaly,muscu-
larhypotonia/atrophy,cardiomyopathy,fatal
4year
Liverbiopsy
*α-1-antitrypsinSeeaboveα-1-antitrypsin
Mustruleout:chronicviralhepatitis,autoimmunediseases,vasculardiseases,biliarymalformationetc
METABOLIC
481
PROBLEM 3: CARDIOMYOPATHY
• Cardiomyopathy can be part of multi-systemic manifestation of many
IEMs.
• In a child with an apparently isolated cardiomyopathy, must actively
screen for subtle/additional extra-cardiac involvement included
studying renal and liver function as well as ophthalmological and
neurological examinations.
• Cardiomyopathy may be part of clinical features of some genetic
syndromes especially Noonan syndrome, Costello syndrome,
Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome.
• Sarcomeric protein mutations are responsible for a significant cases of
familial cardiomyopathy.
IEM that may present predominatly as Cardiomyopathy (CMP)
Disorder Cardiac finding Clues
Primary carnitine
deficiency
Dilated CMP Low serum free carnitine
Long chain fatty acid
oxidation disorders
Hypertrophic/
Dilated CMP
Myopathy, retinopathy, hypoke-
totic hypoglycaemia, abnormal
acylcarnitne profile
Mitochondrial disor-
ders
Hypertrophic/
Dilated CMP
Associated with multi-system
abnormalities, ↑↑lactate
Kearns– Sayre syndrome: Chronic
progressive external ophthalmo-
plegia ,complete heart block
Barth syndrome Dilated CMP Neutropenia, myopathy, abnor-
mal urine organic acid
(↑3 methylglutaconic aciduria)
Infantile pompe
disease
Hypertrophic
CMP
Short PR, very large QRS, ↑CK,
↑AST, ↑ALT, deficient alpha
acid glucosidase enzyme activity
(could be done using dried blood
spots)
Glycogen Storage
Disease type III
Hypertrophic
CMP
Hepatomegaly, ↑CK, ↑AST,
↑ALT, ↑postprandial lactate,
↑uric acid, ↑TG
METABOLIC
482
PROBLEM 4: HAEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS
IEMs presenting as mainly a Haematological disorder
Clinical problem Metabolic/Genetic causes and Clues/tests
Megaloblastic anemia Defective transportation or metabolism of B12
Methylmalonic aciduria, ↑homocysteine, low/
normal serum B12.
Orotic aciduria
↑↑ urinary orotate.
Disorders of folate metabolism
↓serum folate.
Global marrow failure Pearson syndrome
Exocrine Pancreatic dysfunction, lactate, renal
tubulopathy.
Fanconi anemia
Cafe au lait spots, hypoplastic thumbs, neuro-
logical abnormalities, increased chromosomal
breakage.
Dyskeratosis congenita
Abnormal skin pigmentation, leucoplakia and
nail dystrophy; premature hair loss and/or
greying.
METABOLIC
483
Chapter 90: Approach to Recurrent Hypoglycemia
Introduction
Definition of hypoglycemia:
• Consensus for thresholds at which intervention should be considered:
• 2.2 mmol/L (40 mg/dl) on first day of life.
• 2.2–2.8 mmol/L (40-50 mg/dl) after 24 hours of age.
METABOLIC
0
20
10
30
40
Glucoseused(g/hr)
Glycogen Gluconeogenesis
Exogenous
II
Glucagon
Cathecolamines
III
Growth hormone
Glucagon
Cathecolamines
Cortisol
I
Insulin
4 8 201612 24 28 32
Hours
IV
2 8 16 24
Days
MEAL
Phase I: Post
Prandial
II: Short to
Middle Fast
III: Long Fast IV: Very Long
Fast
Glucose
source
Exogenous Glycogen
Gluconeo-
genesis
Gluconeo-
genesis
(hepatic)
Glycogen
Gluconeo-
genesis
(hepatic and
renal)
Counsuming
tissues
All All but liver,
muscle
- Brain, blood cell,
medullary kidney
Greatest
brain
nutrient
Glucose Glucose Glucose Ketone bodies
Glucose
484
Clinical classification of hypoglycemia
• According to its timing:
• Only postprandial.
• Only at fast.
• Permanent/hectic.
• According to liver findings:
• With prominent hepatomegaly.
• Without prominent hepatomegaly.
• According to lactic acid:
• With lactic acidosis (lactate  6mmol/l).
• With hyperlactatemia (lactate 2.5–6mmol/l).
• With normal lactate (lactate  2.5 mmol/l).
• According to ketosis:
• Hyper/normoketotic.
• Hypoketotic/nonketotic.
Laboratory tests during symptomatic hypoglycemia
• Adequate laboratory tests must be done to identify the cause, or else
the diagnosis may be missed.
•  Ensure samples are taken before correcting the hypoglycemia.
Laboratory tests during symptomatic hypoglycemia
Essential Tests Other tests
Ketone (serum or urine) Serum cholesterol/triglyceride
Acylcarnitine (dry blood spots
on Guthrie card)
Serum uric acid
Blood lactate Liver function
VBG Creatine kinase
Blood ammonia Urine reducing sugar
Urine organic acids Urine tetraglucoside
Free fatty acids (if available) Plasma amino acid
Serum insulin Consider toxicology tests (C-peptide)
Serum cortisol Fasting tolerance test (only by metabolic
specialist/ endocrinologist)
Serum growth hormone Other special tests e.g. fatty oxidation
study in cultured fibroblasts
METABOLIC
485
DETERMINE THE CAUSE
This can be approached using the following algorithm which is based first on
2 major clinical findings :
(1) Timing of hypoglycemia and
(2) Permanent hepatomegaly.
Then looking carefully at the metabolic profile over the course of the day,
checking plasma glucose, lactate, and ketones before and after meals and
ketones in urines will allow one to reach a diagnosis in almost all cases..
METABOLIC
HYPOGLYCEMIA
Post PrandialHectic / Permanent
At Fast
Hepatomegaly No Hepatomegaly
High Lactate Ketosis
At Fast Post Prandial Yes No
Hyperinsulinism Hyperinsulinism
HFI, GAL
Short:
GSD1a, GSD1b
(neutropenia)
Long:
FBP, FAOD
(all with acidosis)
GSD III (High CK)
GSD VI, IX
(No acidosis)
Ketotic
hypoglycemia,
Glycogen
synthetase
deficiency
MCAD, SCAD,
Ketolytic defect
(Ketoacidosis)
FAOD (High CK),
Ketogenesis
defect,
Hyperinsulinism
Abbreviations:
HFI, Hereditary fructose intolerance; GAL, Galactosemia; GSD, Glycogen
storage disease; FBP, Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase deficiency; FAOD, Fatty
acid oxidation disorders; MCAD, Medium chain acyl dehydrogenase
deficiency; SCAD, Short chain acyl dehydrogenase deficiency.
486
GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE
• Hepatic type: Type Ia, Ib, III, IV, VI, IX.
• Clinical presentation: Recurrent hypoglycemia, hepatomegaly, failure to
thrive, “doll face”, bleeding tendency (GSD I), hypertrophic
cardiomyopathy (GSD III).
• Laboratory findings: ↑lactate, ↑uric acid, ↑triglycerides,
(↑) transaminases, ↑CK (GSD III), ↑ urine tetraglucosides.
• Glucose challenge test: Type Ia, Ib: ↓in lactate; Type III, VI, IX: ↑in lactate.
• Diagnosis: enzyme studies (liver), mutation analysis.
• Treatment:
• Avoid hypoglycemia by means of continuous carbohydrate intake.
• Frequent meals (every 2-3 hours): Slowly resorbed carbohydrates
(glucose polymer/maltodextrin, starch), avoid lactose.
• Nights: Continous intake of glycose polymer/maltodextrin via
nasogastric tube, uncooked cornstarch in children  1 year age.
• Complications: liver tumours, osteoporosis, cardiomyopathy (GSD III).
HYPERINSULINAEMIC HYPOGLYCAEMIA
Diagnostic criteria
• Glucose infusion rate  8mg/kg/min to maintain normoglycaemia.
• Detectable serum insulin (+/- C-peptide) when blood glucose  3mmol/l.
• Low or undetectable serum fatty acids.
• Low or undetectable serum ketone bodies.
• Serum ammonia may be high (Hyperinsulinism/hyperammonaemia
syndrome).
• Glycaemic response to glucagon at time of hypoglycaemia.
• Absence of ketonuria.
Causes
• Congenital Hyperinsulinism (Mode of inheritance)
• ABCC8 (AR, AD)); KCNJ11 (AR, AD); GLUD1 (AD); GCK (AD); HADH (AR);
HNF4A (AD); SLC16A1 (Exercise induced)(AD).
• Secondary to (usually transient)
• Maternal diabetes mellitus (gestational and insulin dependent).
• IUGR.
• Perinatal asphyxia.
• Rhesus isoimmunisation.
•  Metabolic conditions
• Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), Tyrosinaemia type I.
• Associated with Syndromes
• Beckwith-Wiedemann, Soto, Kabuki, Usher, Timothy, Costello,
Trisomy 13, Mosaic Turner, Central Hypoventilation Syndrome.
• Other causes: Dumping syndrome, Insulinoma (sporadic or associated
with MEN Type 1), Insulin gene receptor mutations, Factitious HH
(Munchausen-by-proxy).
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METABOLIC
Treatment for Recurrent Hypoglycaemia
Medication Route / Dose
Diazoxide Oral, 5–20mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses
Side Effects • Common: fluid retention, hypertrichosis.
• Others: hyperuricaemia, eosinophilia, leukopenia.
Practical
Management
• Use in conjunction with cholorothiazide especially in
newborns.
• Restrict fluid intake, especially on the higher doses.
• Carefully monitor fluid balance.
Chlorothiazide Oral, 7–10mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses
(used in conjunction with diazoxide)
Side Effects Hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia
Practical
Management
Monitor serum electrolytes
Nifedipine Oral, 0.25-2.5mg/kg/day divided into three doses
Side Effects Hypotension
Practical
Management
• Monitor blood pressure.
• Not effective in patients with CHI due to defective
KATP channels.
Glucagon
(± Octreotide)
SC/IV infusion, 1–20µg/kg/hour
Side Effects • Nausea, vomiting, skin rashes.
• Paradoxical hypoglycaemia in high doses.
Practical
Management
• Avoid high doses.
• Watch for rebound hypoglycaemia when used as an
emergency treatment for hypoglycaemia.
Octreotide
(± Glucagon)
SC/IV continuous infusion or 6–8-hourly SC injections;
5–25µg/kg/day
Side Effects • Common- tachyphylaxis
• Others- Suppression of GH, TSH, ACTH, glucagon;
diarrhoea, steatorrhoea, cholelithiasis, abdominal
distension, growth suppression.
Practical
Management
• Use with caution in infants at risk of necrotising
enterocolitis, (reduces blood flow to the splanchnic
circulation).
• Follow-up with serial ultrasound scans of the biliary
tree, if on long-term treatment with Octreotide.
• Monitor long-term growth.
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489
Chapter 91: Down Syndrome
Incidence of Down syndrome
Maternal Age-Specific Risk for Trisomy 21 at Livebirth
Overall Incidence: 1 in 800-1000 newborns
Age (years) Incidence
20 1 in1500
30 1 in 900
35 1 in 350
40 1 in 100
41 1 in 70
42 1 in 55
43 1 in 40
44 1 in 30
45 1 in 25
Source Hecht and Hook ‘94
Medical problems
Newborn 					
• Cardiac defects (50% ): AVSD [most common], VSD, ASD, TOF or PDA
• Gastrointestinal (12%): duodenal atresia [commonest], pyloric stenosis,
anorectal malformation, tracheo-oesophageal fistula, and Hirshsprung
disease.
• Vision: congenital cataracts (3%), glaucoma.
• Hypotonia and joint laxity
• Feeding problems. Usually resolves after a few weeks.
• Congenital hypothyroidism (1%)
• Congenital dislocation of the hips
Infancy and Childhood
• Delayed developmental milestones.
• Mild to moderate intellectual impairment (IQ 25 to 50).
• Seizure disorder (6%).
• Recurrent respiratory infections.
• Hearing loss (60%) due to secretory otitis media, sensorineural
deafness, or both.
• Visual Impairment – squint (50%), cataract (3%), nystagmus (35%), glau
coma, refractive errors (70%) .
• Sleep related upper airway obstruction. Often multifactorial.
• Leukaemia (relative risk:15 to 20 times). Incidence 1%.
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490
• Atlantoaxial instability. Symptoms of spinal cord compression include
neck pain, change in gait, unusual posturing of the head and neck
(torticollis), loss of upper body strength, abnormal neurological reflexes,
and change in bowel/bladder functioning. (see below)
• Hypothyroidism (10%). Prevalence increases with age.
• Short stature – congenital heart disease, sleep related upper airway
obstruction, coeliac disease, nutritional inadequacy due to feeding
problems and thyroid. Hormone deficiency may contribute to this.
• Over/underweight.
Adolescence and Adulthood
• Puberty:
• In Girls menarche is only slightly delayed. Fertility presumed.
• Boys are usually infertile due to low testosterone levels.
• Increased risk of dementia /Alzheimer disease in adult life.
• Shorter life expectancy.
Management
• Communicating the diagnosis is preferably handled in private by a senior
medical officer or specialist who is familiar with the natural history, genetic
aspect and management of Down syndrome.
• Careful examination to look for associated complications.
• Investigations:
• Echocardiogram by 2 weeks (if clinical examination or ECG were
abnormal) or 6 weeks.
• Chromosomal analysis.
• T4 /TSH at birth or by 1-2 weeks of life.
• Early intervention programme should begin at diagnosis if health
conditions permit.
• Assess strength  needs of family. Contact with local parent support
group should be provided (Refer list of websites below).
• Health surveillance  monitoring: see table below
Atlantoaxial instability
• Seen in X rays in 14% of patients; symptomatic in 1-2%.
• Small risk for major neurological damage but cervical spine X rays in
children have no predictive validity for subsequent acute dislocation/
subluxation at the atlantoaxial joint.
• Children with Down syndrome should not be barred from taking part in
sporting activities.
• Appropriate care of the neck while under general anaesthesia or after
road traffic accident is advisable.
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METABOLIC
Karyotyping in Down syndrome
Non-disjunction trisomy 21 95%
Robertsonian Translocation 3%
Mosaicism 2%
Recurrence Risk by Karyotype
Nondisjunction Trisomy
47(XX or XY) + 21 1%
Translocation
Both parents normal low; 1%
Carrier Mother 10%
Carrier Father 2.5%
Either parent t(21q;21q) 100%
Mosaics  1%
Useful web resources
• The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (UK)
www.dsmig.org.uk
• Down Syndrome: Health Issues
www.ds-health.com
• Growth charts for children with Down Syndrome
www.growthcharts.com
• Educational issues
www.downsed.org
• Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation
www.kdsf.netmyne.com
• Educational  support centre.
http://www.disabilitymalaysia.com/
• Parents support group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DownSyndromeMalaysia
• Jabatan Pendidikan Khas
http://www.moe.gov.my/jpkhas/
• Jabatan Kebajikan Malaysia.
http://www.jkm.gov.my/
492
RecommendationsforMedicalSurveillanceforchildrenwithDownSyndrome
Birth-6weeks6-10months12months18mths-2½yrs3-3½years4-4½years
Thyroidtests¹T4,TSHT4,TSH,antibodiesT4,TSH,antibodies
Growth
monitoring²
Length,weightandheadcircumferencechecked
regularlyandplottedonDown’ssyndromegrowthcharts.
Lengthandweightshouldbecheckedatleastannually
andplottedonDown’ssyndromegrowthcharts.
EyeexaminationVisualbehaviour.
Checkfor
congenitalcataract
Visualbehaviour.
Checkfor
congenitalcataract
Visualbehaviour.
Checkfor
congenitalcataract
Orthoptic,refrac-
tion,ophthalmic
examination³
Visualacuity,re-
fraction,ophthal-
micexamination³
HearingcheckNeonatalscreeningFullaudiologicalreview(hearing,impedance,otoscopy)by6-10monthsandthenannually.
Cardiology,
Otheradvice
Echocardiogram
0-6weeks
Dental
assessment
Age5to19yearsFootnote:
1,AsymptomaticpatientswithmildlyraisedTSH
(10mu/l)butnormalT4doesnotneedtreatmentbut
testmorefrequentlyforuncompensatedhypothyroidism.
2,Downsyndromecentilechartsatwww.growthcharts.
com.Considerweightforlengthchartsoftypically
developingchildrenforweightassessment.IfBMI98th
centileorunderweigh,referfornutritionalassessment
andguidance.Re-checkthyroidfunctionifaccelerated
weightgain.
3,Performedbyoptometrist/ophthalmologist.
PaediatricreviewAnnually
Hearing2yearlyaudiologicalreview(asabove)
Vision/Orthopticcheck2yearly
ThyroidbloodtestsAtage5years,then2yearly
SchoolperformanceCheckperformanceandplacement
SexualityandemploymentTodiscusswhenappropriate,inadolescence.
Note:Theabovetablearesuggestedages.Checkatanyothertimeif
parentalorotherconcerns.Performdevelopmentalassessment
duringeachvisit.
AdaptedfromDownSyndromeMedicalInterestGroup(DSMIG)guidelines
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METABOLIC
References
Section 11 Metabolic Disease
Ch 88 Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to Diagnosis and Early
Management in a Sick Child
1.Saudubray JM, van den Berghe G, Walter J, eds. Inborn Metabolic Diseases:
Diagnosis and Treatment. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 5th edition, 2011
2.A Clinical Guide to Inherited Metabolic Diseases. Joe TR Clarke (editor). Cam-
bridge University Press, 3rd edition, 2006
3.	JM Saudubray, F Sedel, JH Walter. Clinical approach to treatable inborn
metabolic diseases: An introduction. J Inherit Metab Dis (2006) 29:261–274.
Ch 89 Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM) in a Child with Chronic
Symptoms
1.Georg F. Hoffmann, Johannes Zschocke, William L Nyhan, eds. Inherited
Metabolic Diseases: A Clinical Approach. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 2010
2.Helen V. Firth, Judith G. Hall, eds. Oxford Desk Reference Clinical Genetics.
1st edition, 2005
3.M A Cleary and A Green. Developmental delay: when to suspect and
how to investigate for an inborn error of metabolism. Arch Dis Child
2005;90:1128–1132.
4.P. T. Clayton. Diagnosis of inherited disorders of liver metabolism. J. Inherit.
Metab.Dis. 26 (2003) 135-146
5.T. Ohura, et al. Clinical pictures of 75 patients with neonatal intrahepatic
cholestasis caused by citrin deficiency (NICCD). J Inherit Metab Dis 2007.
Ch 90 Recurrent Hypoglycemia
1.Blasetti et al. Practical approach to hypoglycemia in children. Ital J Pediatr
2006; 32: 229-240
2.Saudubray JM, et al. Genetic hypoglycaemia in infancy and childhood :
Pathophysiology and diagnosis J. Inherit. Metab. Dis. 23 (2000) 197-214
3.Khalid Hussain et al. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia. Arch. Dis. Child
(2009).
Ch 91 Down Syndrome
1.Clinical Practice Guideline. Down Syndrome, Assessment and Intervention
for Young Children. New York State Department of Health.
2.Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome. American Academy
of Paediatrics. Committee on Genetics. 2000 – 2001
3.The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (UK). Guidelines for Essential
Medical Surveillance for Children with Down Syndrome.
494
METABOLIC
495
Chapter 92: Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the most common surgical condition of the abdomen in
children over the age of 4 years and yet can be a challenge to diagnose and
manage. Although diagnosis and treatment have improved over the years, it
continues to cause considerable morbidity and even mortality in Malaysia.
The deaths appear to be due to delay and difficulty in diagnosis, inadequate
perioperative fluid replacement and sepsis.
Clinical Features
• Abdominal pain – Lower abdominal pain is an early and almost invariable
feature. Usually the pain starts in the epigastrium or periumbilical region
before localising to the lower abdomen or the right iliac fossa. However
the younger child may not be able to localise the pain. If there is free pus,
the pain is generalised.
• Nausea and vomiting occurs in about 90% of children and is an early
symptom. Most children have a loss of appetite. A hungry child rarely has
appendicitis.
• Diarrhoea is more common in the younger age group causing confusion
with gastroenteritis. It can be due to pelvic appendicitis or collection of pus
within the pelvis.
• Dysuria and frequency are also commonly present in the child with pelvic
appendicitis or perforated appendicitis.
Physical Findings
• General – the child is usually quiet and may be dehydrated.
• Dehydration must be actively sought for especially in the obese child and
the child with perforated appendicitis. A history of vomiting and diarrhoea,
tachycardia, poor urine output and poor perfusion of the peripheries are
indicators of dehydration.
• Tenderness on palpation or percussion is essential for the diagnosis. It may
be localised to the right iliac fossa or be generalised. The tenderness may
also be mild initially and difficult to elicit in the obese child or if the ap-
pendix is retrocaecal. Eliciting rebound tenderness is usually not required
to make the diagnosis and can cause unnecessary discomfort.
• Guarding signifies peritonitis but may be subtle especially if the child is
toxic, obese and very dehydrated.
• Rectal examination is only required if other diagnosis are suspected e.g.
ovarian or adnexal pathology.
Investigations
• Full blood count – The total white blood cell count may be elevated but a
normal count does not exclude appendicitis.
• Blood Urea and Serum Electrolytes – The sodium level may be apparently
normal if the child is dehydrated
• Serum Amylase – If pancreatitis cannot be ruled out as the cause of the
abdominal pain.
• Ultrasound and CT scan have been suggested to improve the diagnostic
accuracy in doubtful cases. So in our setting the recommendation is that
the children need to be assessed by a specialist preoperatively.
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496
• If unsure of the diagnosis, the child is very ill or there are no facilities or
personnel for intensive care, the child must be referred to the nearest
paediatric surgical unit.
Complications
• Perforation can occur within 36 hours of the onset of symptoms.
Perforation rate increases with the duration of symptoms and delayed
presentation is an important factor in determining perforation rate.
Perforation rate: Adolescent age group - 30-40%
Younger child - up to about 70%.
However, “active observation” with adequate fluid resuscitation and
preoperative antibiotics before embarking upon surgery has not shown an
increase in morbidity or mortality. Delaying surgery for both perforated
and non perforated appendicitis till the daytime did not significantly affect
the perforation rate, complications or operating time.
• Appendicular abscess, mass and perforation may be treated with
IV antibiotics to settle the inflammatory and infectious process. If the child
settles, this can then be followed by an interval appendicectomy which needs
to be done within 14 weeks of the original disease process as recurrent ap-
pendicitis has been reported between 10-46 %.
Management
• Children with appendicitis (suspected or confirmed) should be reviewed
by a specialist.
• Dehydration should be actively looked for. The heart rate, blood
pressure, perfusion and the urine output should be closely monitored.
The blood pressure is usually maintained in the children until they have
decompensated.
• Rehydration must be aggressive, using 20 mls/kg aliquots of normal
saline or Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate) given fast over ½ - 2 hours.
The child should be reviewed after each bolus and the rehydration contin-
ued until the child’s heart rate, perfusion and urine output and electrolytes
are within normal limits. Maintenance fluid – ½ saline + 5% D/W + KCl.
• Antibiotics must be started early, soon after the diagnosis is made.
• Inotropes may need to be started early if the child is in severe sepsis.
• Operation - There is no rush to take the child to the operating theatre.
It is recommended that appendicectomies not be performed after 11 pm,
especially in the sick child. However, the time should be utilised to
continue the resuscitation and antibiotics with close monitoring of the
child.
• At surgery, a thorough peritoneal washout with copious amount of
normal saline is done after the appendicectomy. No drains are required
and the skin can be closed with a subcuticular suture.
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Chapter 93: Vomiting in the Neonate and Child
• Vomiting in the child is NOT normal.
• Bilious vomiting is ALWAYS significant until otherwise proven
Causes of Persistent Vomiting
Neonates
General
• Sepsis
• Meningitis
• Hydrocephalus/ neurological disorder
• Urinary tract infection
• Motility disorder
• Inborn errors of metabolism
• Congential adrenal hyperplasia
• Poor feeding techniques
Oesophageal
• Atresia
• Webs
• Swallowing disorders
Stomach
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux
• Duodenal atresia/ stenosis
Small intestines
• Malrotation
• Stenosis/ atresia
• Adhesions/ Bands
• Meconium peritonitis/ ileus
• Enterocolitis
Large intestine/ rectum
• Stenosis/ atresia
• Hirschprung’s disease
• Anorectal malformation
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Causes of Persistent Vomiting (continued)
Infants
General
• Sepsis
• Meningitis
• Hydrocephalus/ neurological disorder
• Urinary tract infection
• Tumours eg neuroblastoma
• Metabolic disorders
• Oesophageal stricture
Stomach
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux
• Pyloric stenosis
Small intestines
• Malrotation/ volvulus
• Adhesions
• Meckel’s diverticulum
• Hernias
• Appendix- rare
Large intestines
• Intussusception
• Hirschprung’s disease
• Enterocolitis/gastroenteritis
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PAEDIATRICSURGERY
Causes of Persistent Vomiting (continued)
Older Child
General
• Sepsis
• Neurological disorder
• Tumours
• Metabolic disease
• Oesophageal stricture
Stomach
• Gastro-oesophageal stricture/ reflux
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastric volvulus
Small intestines
• Malrotation/ volvulus
• Adhesions
• Meckel’s diverticulum
• Appendicitis/ peritonitis
Large intestines
• Intussusception
• Foreign body
• Worm infestation
• Constipation: habitual
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PAEDIATRICSURGERY
When is the vomiting significant?
• Vomiting from Day 1 of life.
• Vomit contains blood (red/black).
• Bilious vomiting: green, not yellow. Bowel obstruction must be ruled out.
• Faeculent vomiting.
• Projectile vomiting.
• Baby is unwell - dehydrated/septic.
• Associated failure to thrive.
• Associated diarrhoea/constipation.
• Associated abdominal distension.
GASTRO-OESOPHAGEAL REFLUX
• More common in infancy than generally recognized.
• Majority (90%) resolve spontaneously within the first year of life.
• Small percentage develop complications.
• Please refer Ch 74 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
PYLORIC STENOSIS
• Cause- unknown.
• Usually first born baby boy; usual presentation at 2nd to 8th week of life.
• Strong familial pattern.
Clinical Features
• Vomiting -Frequent, forceful, non-bilious with/without haematemesis.
The child is keen to feed but unable to keep the feed down.
• Failure to thrive.
• Dehydration.
• Constipation.
• Seizures.
Physical Examination
• Dehydrated
• A test feed can be given with the child in the mother’s left arm and
visible gastric peristalsis (left to right) observed for. The doctor’s left hand
then palpates beneath the liver feeling for a palpable olive sized pyloric
tumour against the vertebra.
501
PAEDIATRICSURGERY
Investigations
Investigation to confirm diagnosis are usually unnecessary.
• Ultrasound.
• Barium meal.
However, pre-operative assessment is very important
• Metabolic alkalosis is the first abnormality
• Hypochloraemia  100 mmol/l
• Hyponatraemia  130 mmol/l
• Hypokalaemia  3.5 mmol/l
• Hypocalcaemia  2.0 mmol/l
• Jaundice.
• Hypoglycemia.
• Paradoxical aciduria - a late sign.
Therapy
• Rehydration
• Slow (rapid will cause cerebral oedema) unless the child is in shock
• Fluid
• ½ saline + 10%D/W (+ 5-10 mmol KCL/kg/day) .
• Rate (mls/hr) = [Maintenance (150 ml/kg body weight) + 5-10 %
dehydration {% dehydration x body weight (kg) x 10}] /24 hours.
• Replace gastric losses with normal saline.
Do NOT give Hartmann’s solution (the lactate will be converted to
bicarbonate which worsens the alkalosis)
• Insert a nasogastric tube – 4 hourly aspiration with free flow.
• Comfort glucose feeds maybe given during the rehydration period but
the nasogastric tube needs to be left on free drainage.
• Pyloromyotomy after the electrolytes have been corrected.
502
MALROTATION
• A term that embraces a number of different types of abnormal rotation
that takes place when the bowel returns into the intra-abdominal cavity in
utero. This is Important because of the propensity for volvulus of the mid-
gut around the superior mesenteric artery causing vascular compromise of
most of the small bowel and colon.
Types of Clinical Presentation
• Acute Volvulus
• Sudden onset of bilious/ non-bilious vomiting.
• Abdominal distention with/without a mass (late sign).
• Bleeding per rectum (late sign).
• Ill baby with distended tender abdomen.
• Chronic Volvulus
• Caused by intermittent or partial volvulus resulting in lymphatic and
venous obstruction.
• Recurrent colicky abdominal pain.
• Vomiting (usually bilious).
• Malabsorption.
• Failure to thrive.
• Internal Herniation
• Due to lack of fixation of the colon.
• Results in entrapment of bowel by the mesentery of colon.
• Recurrent intermittent intestinal obstruction.
Investigations
• Plain Abdominal X-ray
• All the small bowel is to the right side.
• Dilated stomach +/- duodenum with rest of abdomen being gasless.
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• Upper Gastrointestinal contrast study with follow through
• Duodeno-jejunal flexure to the right of the vertebra.
• Duodenal obstruction, often with spiral or corkscrew appearance of
barium flow.
• Presence of small bowel mainly on the right side.
Treatment
Pre-operative Management
• Rapid rehydration and correction of electrolytes
• Fluids
• Maintenance – ½ saline + 5% (or 10% if neonate) Dextrose Water with
added KCl.
• Rehydration – Normal saline or Hartmann’s Solution (Ringer’s Lactate)
• Orogastric or nasogastric tube with 4 hourly aspiration and free drainage
• Antibiotics ( + inotropes) if septic.
Operative
• De-rotation of volvulus.
• ± Resection with an aim to preserve maximum bowel length (consider a
second look operation if most of the bowel appears of doubtful viability).
• Division of Ladd’s bands to widen the base of the mesentery to prevent
further volvulus.
• Appendicectomy.
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ATRESIAS
Duodenal Stenosis/ Atresia
• Usually at the second part of the duodenum
• Presents with bilious/non-bilious vomiting
• Can be associated with Down’s Syndrome and gastro-oesophageal reflux.
• Abdominal X-Ray – double – bubble with or without gas distally
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
Management
• Slow rehydration with correction of electrolytes and nutritional
deficiencies.
• Duodeno-duodenostomy as soon as stabilized.
• Postoperatively, the bowel motility may be slow to recover.
Ileal /Jejunal Atresia
• Atresia anywhere along the small bowel. Can be multiple.
• Presents usually with abdominal distension and vomiting (non-bilious
initially and then bilious)
• Usually pass white or pale green stools, not normal meconium.
• Differential diagnoses – Long segment Hirschsprung’s disease,
Meconium ileus.
Management
• Evaluation for associated anormalities.
• Insertion of an orogastric tube – 4 hourly aspiration and free drainage.
• Replace losses with Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate).
• Rehydration of the baby with correction of the electrolytes and acidosis.
• Laparotomy and resection of the dilated bowels with primary
anastomosis, preserving as much bowel length as possible.
• Parenteral nutrition as the motility of the bowel can be abnormal and
take a long time to recover.
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505
• AXR – dilated loops of small bowel.
• Contrast enema – microcolon
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Chapter 94: Intussusception
Intussusception is the invagination of one portion of intestine into another
with 80% involving the ileocaecal junction. The mortality and morbidity from
intussusception in Malaysia is still high due to delay in diagnosis, inadequate
IV fluid therapy and surgical complications.
It is the most common form of intestinal obstruction in infancy and early
childhood with the peak age group being 2 months to 4 years. Majority of the
children in this age group have no pathological lead point. Lymphoid hyper-
plasia has been implicated. Children may also have a preceding viral illness.
Common lead points (usually in the age group outside the above):
• Structural – Meckel’s diverticulum, duplication cysts.
• Neoplastic – Lymphoma, polyps, vascular malformations.
• Vascular – Henoch-Schonlein purpura, leukaemia.
• Miscellaneous – Foreign body.
Clinical Features
• Previously healthy or preceding viral illness.
• Pain - Sudden onset, severe intermittent cramping pain lasting seconds
to minutes.
• During the time in-between attacks lasting between 5 to 30 minutes,
the child may be well or quiet.
• Vomiting – Early reflex vomiting consists of undigested food but if the
child presents late, the vomiting is bilious due to obstruction.
• Stools- Initially normal, then become dark red and mucoid (“redcurrant
jelly”).
• Note that small bowel intussusception may have an atypical
presentation.
Physical Findings
• Well- looking/drowsy/dehydrated/fitting (due to hyponatremia)
depending on the stage of presentation.
• Abdominal mass (sausage shaped but may be difficult to palpate in a
distended abdomen).
• Abdominal distension is a late sign.
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Investigations
• Plain abdominal X-ray – Absence of caecal gas, paucity of bowel gas on
the right side with loss of visualization of the lower border of the liver,
dilated small bowel loops (see figure below).
• Ultrasound – Useful diagnostic tool. Target sign (see figure below) on
transverse section and pseudo-kidney sign on longitudinal section. May
also help to identify lead points if present.
• Barium enema – for diagnosis and reduction if required.
Management
Resuscitation
• Aggressive rapid rehydration with boluses of 20 mls/kg of Normal
saline/Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate) till parameters are normal.
• Do NOT proceed to hydrostatic reduction or surgery till fully resuscitated.
• Close monitoring of vital signs and urine output.
• Antibiotics and inotropes as required.
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Non-operative reduction
• Should be attempted in most patients, if there are trained radiologists
and surgeons available, successful reduction rate is about 80-90%.
• Types
• Barium enema reduction. (see figure below: “claw sign” of
intussusceptum is evident).
• Air/Oxygen reduction.
• Ultrasound guided saline reduction.
• The younger child who has been sick for a longer duration of more than
36 hours and has complete bowel obstruction is at risk of colonic
perforation during attempted enema reduction.
• Delayed repeat enemas done after 30 minutes or more after the initial
unsuccessful reduction enema may improve the outcome of a select group
of patients. These patients are clinically stable and the initial attempt had
managed to move the intussusceptum.
Contraindications to enema reduction
• Peritonitis.
• Bowel Perforation.
• Severe Shock.
• Neonates or children more than 4 years old (relative contraindication).
• History more than 48 hours.
Indications for surgery
• Failed non-operative reduction.
• Bowel Perforation.
• Suspected lead point.
• Small bowel intussusception.
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Recurrence of intussusception
• Rate: 5-10% with lower rates after surgery.
• Success rate for non-operative reduction in recurrent intussusception is
about 30-60%.
Successful management of intussusception depends on high index of suspi-
cion, early diagnosis, adequate resuscitation and prompt reduction.
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Chapter 95: Inguinal hernias, Hydrocoele
Both are due to a patent processus vaginalis peritonei. The patent communi-
cation in the hydrocoele is smaller, so the sac contains only fluid. The hernial
sac can contain bowel, omentum or ovaries.
INGUINAL HERNIA
• Incidence: 0.8%-4.4% in children, but 16-25% in premature babies.
• Boy:girl ratio = 6 : 1.
• Site: 60% right side but 10% may be bilateral.
Presentation
• Reducible bulge in groin – extends into scrotum when crying/straining.
• With complications.
• Lump in groin (girls) – sliding hernia containing ovary (rule out testicular
feminization syndrome if bilateral)
Complications
• Incarceration/Irreducibility – Highest incidence (2/3) before age of 1 year.
• Testicular atrophy.
• Torsion of ovary.
Management
Reducible hernia:
• To operate (herniotomy) as soon as possible.
• Premature: before discharge (if possible at corrected age-44 to 60 week)
• Infant: as soon as possible.
• Older child: on waiting list.
Incarcerated hernia
• Attempt manual reduction as soon as possible to relieve compression on
the testicular vessels. The child is rehydrated and then given intravenous
analgesic with sedation. Constant gentle manual pressure is applied in the
direction of the inguinal canal to reduce the hernia. The sedated child can
also be placed in a Trendelenburg position for an hour to see if the hernia
will reduce spontaneously.
• If the manual reduction is successful, herniotomy is performed 24-48
hours later when the oedema subsides. If the reduction is not successful,
the operation is performed immediately.
• HYDROCOELE
• Usually present since birth. May be communicating or encysted
• Is typically a soft bluish swelling which is not reducible but may
fluctuate in size.
Management
• The patent processus closes spontaneously within the first year of life,
in most children.
• If the hydrocoele does not resolve after the age of 2 years, herniotomy
with drainage of hydrocoele is done.
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Chapter 96: Undescended Testis
An empty scrotum may be due to the testis being undescended, ectopic,
retractile or absent. Familial predisposition present in 15%. 10 - 25% are
bilateral.
Incidence
• At birth: Full term 	 3.4%
	 Premature 30.3%
• At 1 year:Full term 	 0.8%
	 Premature	 0.8%
• Adult 		 0.7-1%
• Spontaneous descent may occur within the 1st year of life after which
descent is rare.
Complications
• Trauma (especially if in inguinal canal).
• Torsion - extravaginal type.
• Decreased spermatogenesis. Damage occurs in the first 6-12 months of
life. 90% of patients with orchidopexy before 2 years have satisfactory
spermatogenesis. If done after 15 years old, fertility is 15%.
• Testicular tumour: Risk is 22 times higher than the normal population
(Intra-abdominal 6 times more than inguinal). Surgery makes the testis
more accessible to palpation and thus an earlier diagnosis.
• Associated with hernias (up to 65%), urinary tract anomaly (3%, e.g.
duplex and horseshoe), anomalies of epididymis or vas deferens and
problems of intersex.
• Psychological problems.
Management
• Ask mother whether she has ever felt the testis in the scrotum, more
easily felt during a warm bath and when squatting.
• Examine patient (older children can be asked to squat). A normal sized
scrotum suggests retractile testis. The scrotum tends to be hypoplastic in
undescended testis.
• If bilateral need to rule out dysmorphic syndromes, hypopituitarism,
and chromosomal abnormalities (e.g. Klinefelter). Exclude virilized female
(Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia).
• Observe the child for the 1st year of life. If the testis remains
undescended after 1 year of life surgery is indicated. Surgery should be
done between 6-18 months of age. Results of hormonal therapy (HCG,
LH-RH) have not been good.
• For bilateral impalpable testis: Management of choice is Laparoscopy
± open surgery. Ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to locate the testes have not
been shown to be useful. Check chromosomes and 17 OH progesterone
levels if genitalia are ambiguous.
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Chapter 97: The Acute Scrotum
Causes of Acute Scrotum
Acute testicular torsion.
Torsion of epididymal and testicular appendages.
Epididymo-orchitis.
Incarcerated inguinal hernia.
Idiopathic scrotal oedema.
Acute hydrocele.
Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
Tumours.
Trauma.
Scrotal (Fournier’s) gangrene.
Symptomatic varicocele.
TORSION OF THE TESTIS
Torsion of the testis is an emergency as failure to detort testis within 6 hours
will lead to testicular necrosis.
Symptoms
• Sudden severe pain (scrotum and referred to lower abdomen)
• Nausea and vomiting
• No fever or urinary tract infection symptoms until later
Physical Findings
• Early	
• Involved testis - high, tender, swollen.
• Spermatic cord – swollen, shortened and tender.
• Contralateral testis - abnormal lie, usually transverse.
• Late	
• Reactive hydrocele.
• Scrotal oedema.
There are 2 types of torsion:
Extravaginal
• The torsion usually occurs in the perinatal period or during infancy and is
thought to be probably due to an undescended testis.
Intravaginal
• This is due to a high investment of tunica vaginalis causing a “bell-clapper”
deformity. It usually occurs in boys between 10-14 years old. The deformity
is usually bilateral.
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Investigation
• Doppler /Radioisotope scan. It may be normal initially
Management
• Exploration: salvage rate: 83% if explored within 5 hours.
• 20% if explored after 10 hours.
• If viable testis, fix bilaterally.
• If non-viable, orchidectomy to prevent infection and sympathetic orchitis
(due to antibodies to sperm) and fix the opposite testis.
TORSION OF APPENDAGES OF TESTIS AND EPIDIDYMIS
• Appendages are Mullerian and mesonephric duct remnants.
• Importance: in a late presentation, may be confused with torsion of testis.
Symptoms
• Age – 8-10 years old.
• Sudden onset of pain, mild initially but gradually increases in intensity.
Physical Examination
• Early
• Minimal redness of scrotum with a normal non-tender testis
• Tender nodule “blue spot” (upper pole of testis) is pathognomonic.
• Late
• Reactive hydrocele with scrotal oedema makes palpation of testis difficult.
Treatment
• If sure of diagnosis of torsion appendages of testis, the child can be given
the option of non-operative management with analgesia and bed rest
• If unsure of diagnosis, explore and remove the twisted appendage (this
ensures a faster recovery of pain too!)
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EPIDIDYMO-ORCHITIS
• Can occur at any age.
• Route of infection
• Reflux of infected urine.
• Blood borne secondary to other sites.
• Mumps.
• Sexual abuse.
Symptoms
• Gradual onset of pain with fever.
• May have a history of mumps.
• ± Dysuria/ frequency.
Physical examination
• Testis may be normal with a reactive hydrocoele.
• Epididymal structures are tender and swollen.
Treatment
• If unsure of diagnosis, explore.
• Investigate underlying abnormality (renal ultra sound, MCU and IVU if
a urinary tract infection is also present)
• Treat infection with antibiotics.
IDIOPATHIC SCROTAL OEDEMA
The cause is unknown but has been postulated to be due to an allergy.
Symptoms
• Sudden acute oedema and redness of scrotum.
• Painless.
• Starts as erythema of perineum and extending to lower abdomen.
• Well child, no fever.
• Testes: normal.
Treatment
• This condition is self –limiting but the child may benefit from antibiotics
and antihistamines.
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Chapter 98: Penile Conditions
Phimosis
Definition - True preputial stenosis
(In a normal child the foreskin is non-retractile till age of 5 years)
Causes
• Congenital - rare
• Infection- balanoposthitis
• Recurrent forceful retraction of foreskin
• *Balanoxerotica obliterans (BXO)
Symptoms
• Ballooning of foreskin on micturition.
• Recurrent balanoposthitis.
• Urinary retention.
• Urinary tract infection.
Management
• Treat infection if present.
• Elective circumcision.
*BXO:
Chronic inflammation with fibrosis of foreskin and glans causing a whitish
appearance with narrowing of prepuce and meatus.
Treatment: careful circumcision ± meatotomy.
(Will require long term follow-up to observe for meatal stenosis)
Balanoposthitis
(Balanitis - inflamed glans, Posthitis - inflamed foreskin)
Cause effect: phimosis with or without a urinary tract infection
Treatment
• Check urine cultures.
• Sitz bath.
• Analgesia.
• Antibiotics.
• Circumcision later if there is associated phimosis or recurrent infection.
Paraphimosis
Cause: forceful retraction of foreskin (usually associated with phimosis)
Treatment
• Immediate reduction of the foreskin under sedation/analgesia (Use an
anaesthetic gel or a penile block, apply a warm compress to reduce
oedema and then gentle constant traction on foreskin distally).
• If reduction is still unsuccessful under a general anaesthetic then a
dorsal slit is performed.
• The child will usually need a circumcision later.
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Chapter 99: Neonatal Surgery
OESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA WITH OR WITHOUT A
TRACHEO-OESOPHAGEAL FISTULA
Presentation
• Antenatal: polyhydramnios, diagnosed on ultrasound.
• “Mucousy” baby with copious amount of secretions.
• Unable to insert orogastric tube.
• Respiratory distress syndrome.
• Aspiration pneumonia and sepsis.
Problems
• Oesophageal Atresia: Inability to swallow saliva with
a risk of aspiration pneumonia.
• Tracheo-oesophageal fistula: Reflux of
gastric contents, difficult to ventilate.
• Distal obstruction: If present and the baby is ventilated, prone to
perforation of bowel.
• Prematurity: If present, associated problems.
Management
• Evaluation for other anomalies/problems e.g. cardiac, intestinal atresias,
pneumonia.
• Suction of the upper oesophageal pouch: A Replogle (sump suction)
tube should be inserted and continuous suction done if possible. Other-
wise, frequent intermittent suction (every 10-15 minutes) of oropharynx is
done including throughout the journey to prevent aspiration pneumonia.
• Ventilation if absolutely necessary.
• Fluids - Maintenance and resuscitation fluids as required.
• Position - Lie the baby horizontal and lateral or prone to minimise
aspiration of the saliva and reflux.
• Monitoring – Pulse oximetry and cardiorespiratory monitoring.
• Keep baby warm.
• Refer to nearest centre with neonatal and paediatric surgical facilities
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CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA
Types
• Bochdalek: Posterolateral, commonest, more common on left side.
• Eventration of the diaphragm.
• Morgagni – anterior, retrosternal.
Problems
• Associated pulmonary hypoplasia.
• Herniation of the abdominal viscera into thoracic cavity causing
mechanical compression and mediastinal shift.
• Reduced and abnormal pulmonary arterial vasculature resulting in
persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) and reversal to
foetal circulation.
• High mortality rate (40-60%) associated with early presentation.
Presentation
• Antenatal: Fluid filled stomach or bowel with/without liver in the left
chest cavity.
• Mediastinal shift.
• Birth: Respiratory distress with cyanosis.
• Absent breath sounds on left side, scaphoid abdomen.
• Chest X-Ray: bowel loops within the chest and minimal bowel in abdomen.
• Late presentation
• Left side: Gastrointestinal symptoms- bowel obstruction.
• Right side: Respiratory symptoms including recurrent respiratory
infections.
• Asymptomatic: Abnormal incidental chest x-ray
Differential Diagnoses
• Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation.
• Pulmonary sequestration.
• Mediastinal cystic lesions e.g. teratoma.
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Mediastinal shift Bowel in
Left chest cavity
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Management
• Evaluation for associated anomalies and persistent pulmonary
hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).
• Ventilation - Intubation and ventilation may be required soon after
delivery and pre-transport. Ventilation with a face-mask should be avoided.
Low ventilatory pressures are to be used. A contralateral pneumothorax
or PPHN need to be considered if the child deteriorates. If the baby is
unstable or high ventilatory settings are required, the baby should not be
transported.
• Frequent consultation with a paediatrician or paediatric surgeon to
decide when to transport the baby.
• Chest tube - If inserted, it should not be clamped during the journey.
• Orogastric Tube: Gastric decompression is essential here. A Size 6 or
8 Fr tube is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage.
• Fluids – Caution required as both dehydration and overload can
precipitate PPHN.
• May need inotropic support and other modalities to optimize outcome.
• Monitoring: Pre-ductal and post-ductal pulse oximetry to detect PPHN.
• Position: Lie baby lateral with the affected side down to optimise
ventilation.
• Warmth.
• Consent: High risk.
• Air transport considerations.
• Referral to the paediatric surgeon for surgery when stabilised.
Factors most affecting the outcome
• Birth weight ≥ 2kg: Good outcome.
• Apgar score at 5 minutes of 7-10: Good outcome.
• Size of defect: If primary repair is achieved, 95% survival vs 57% survival
in agenesis.
• Willford Hall/Santa Rosa predictive formula (WHSRpf) = Highest PaO2 –
Highest PaCo2 (using arterial blood sample within 24 hours of life). If WH-
SRpf  0, survival was 83 – 94%. If WHSRpf  0, survival was only 32-34%.
• Cardiac anomalies- Survival was low for patients with haemodynamically
significant cardiac defects (41.1%), compared to patients without cardiac
lesions (70.2%)
• Late presentation more than 30 days of life: 100% survival.
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ABDOMINAL WALL DEFECTS
• Exomphalos and Gastroschisis are commoner abdominal wall defects.
• Gastroschisis: Defect in the anterior abdominal wall of 2-3 cm diameter
to the right of the umbilicus with loops of small and large bowel prolapsing
freely without a covering membrane.
• Exomphalos: Defect of anterior abdominal wall of variable size (diameter
of base). It has a membranous covering (Amnion, Wharton’s jelly,
peritoneum) and the umbilical cord is usually attached to the apex of the
defect. The content of the large defect is usually liver and bowel but in the
small defect the content may just be bowel loops.
Problems
• Fluid loss: Significant in gastroschisis due to the exposed loops of bowel.
• Hypothermia: Due to the larger exposed surface area.
• High incidence of associated syndromes and anomalies especially in
exomphalos.
• Hypoglycemia can occur in 50% of babies with Beckwith-Wiedermann’s
Syndrome (exomphalos, macroglossia, gigantism).
Management
• Evaluation: for hydration and associated syndromes and anomalies.
• Fluids: IV fluids are essential as losses are tremendous especially from
the exposed bowel. Boluses (10-20 mls/kg) of normal saline/ Hartmann’s
solution must be given frequently to keep up with the ongoing losses. A
maintenance drip of ½ Saline + 10% D/W at 60 – 90 mls/kg (Day 1 of life)
should also be given.
• Orogastric tube: Gastric decompression is essential here and a Size 6 or
8 Fr tube is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage.
• Warmth: Pay particular attention to temperature control because of the
increased exposed surface area and fluid exudation causing evaporation
and the baby to be wet and cold. Wrapping the baby’s limbs with cotton
and plastic will help.
• Care of the exposed membranes: The bowel/membranes should be
wrapped with a clean plastic film without compressing, twisting and kink-
ing the bowel. Please do NOT use “warm, saline soaked gauze” directly on
the bowel as the gauze will get cold and stick to the bowel/membranes.
• Disposable diapers or cloth nappies changed frequently will help to
keep the child dry.
• Monitoring: Heart rate, Capillary refill time, Urine output (the baby may
need to be catheterised to monitor urine output or have the nappies
weighed).
• Position: The baby should be placed in a lateral position to prevent
tension and kinking of the bowel.
• Referral to the surgeon as soon as possible.
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INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION
• Cause -May be functional e.g. Hirschsprung’s disease or mechanical e.g.
atresias, midgut malrotation with volvulus.
Problems
• Fluid loss due to the vomiting, bowel dilatation and third space losses.
• Dehydration.
• Diaphragmatic splinting.
• Aspiration secondary to the vomiting.
• Nutritional deficiencies.
Presentation
• Antenatal diagnosis – dilated fluid-filled bowels.
• Delay in passage of meconium (Hirschsprung’s disease, atresias).
• Vomiting – bilious/non-bilious (Bilious vomiting is due to mechanical
obstruction until proven otherwise).
• Abdominal distension.
• Abdominal X-ray – dilated loops of bowel.
Management
• Evaluation – for onset of obstruction and associated anomalies
(including anorectal anomalies).
• Fluids – Intravenous fluids are essential.
• Boluses - 10-20 mls/kg Hartmann’s solution/Normal Saline to correct
dehydration and replace the measured orogastric losses.
• Maintenance - ½ Saline + 10% D/W + KCl as required.
• Orogastric tube – Gastric decompression is essential, a Size 6 or 8 Fr tube
is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage.
• If Hirschsprung’s disease is suspected, rectal washout can be performed
after consultation with a paediatrician or a paediatric surgeon.
• Warmth.
• Monitoring – vital signs and urine output.
• Air transport considerations during transfer to the referral centre.
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ANORECTAL MALFORMATIONS
• Incidence – 1: 4,000-5,000 live births
• Cause- unknown
• Newborn check – important to clean off the meconium to check if a
normal anus is present.
Classification (Pena)
Type Clinical Features Management
Boys
Perineal
(cutaneous) fistula
• Low type.
• Midline “snail-track”.
• “Bucket handle”.
No colostomy
required
Rectourethral fistula
• Bulbar
• Prostatic
• Most common.
• Pass meconium in urine.
Colostomy
Rectovesical fistula • High type.
• Associated sacral anomalies.
Colostomy
Imperforate anus
without fistula
• Usually Down syndrome.
• Sacrum/sphincter - normal.
Colostomy
Rectal atresia • Normal anal opening.
• Atresia-2cm from anal verge.
• Rare.
Colostomy
Girls
Perineal
(cutaneous) fistula
• Rectum and vagina well
separated.
No colostomy
required
Vestibular fistula • Common
• Fistula opening just posterior to
hymen.
• Common wall; rectum and vagina.
Colostomy
Persistent cloaca • Rectum, Urethra, Vagina:
Single common channel of
variable length.
• Single external opening.
• Associated urogenital anomalies.
Colostomy +
vesicostomy
+ vaginos-
tomy
Imperforate anus
without fistula
• Usually Down syndrome
• Sacrum/sphincter - normal
Colostomy
Rectal atresia • Rare.
• Normal anal opening.
• Atresia 2cm from anal verge.
Colostomy
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Associated Anomalies
• Sacrum and Spine
• Anomalies and spinal dysraphism is common.
• Good correlation between degree of sacral development and final
prognosis. Absence of more than 3 sacrum: poor prognosis.
• Urogenital
• Common anomalies – vesicoureteric reflux, renal agenesis.
• Incidence – low in low types and high in cloaca (90%).
• Vaginal anomalies – about 30%.
• Others
• Cardiac anomalies.
• Gastrointestinal anomalies e.g. duodenal atresia.
• Syndromes e.g. Trisomy 21.
Investigations
• Chest and Abdominal X-ray.
• Lateral Pronogram. (see Figure)
• Echocardiogram.
• Renal and Sacral Ultrasound.
• Micturating cystourethrogram.
• Distal loopogram.
Management
• Boys and Girls
• Observe for 12-24 hours.
• Keep nil by mouth.
• If abdomen is distended, to insert an orogastric tube for 4 hourly
aspiration and free drainage.
• IV fluids – ½ saline with 10% Dextrose Water with KCl. May need
rehydration fluid boluses if child has been referred late and dehydrated.
• Start IV antibiotics.
• Assess for urogenital, sacral and cardiac anomalies.
Boys
• Inspect the perineum and the urine – if there is clinical evidence of a low
type, the child needs to be referred for an anoplasty. If there is evidence
of meconium in the urine, the child requires a colostomy followed by the
anorectoplasty a few months later.
• If there is no clinical evidence, a lateral pronogram should be done to
check the distance of the rectal gas from the skin to decide if a primary
anoplasty or a colostomy should be done.
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Girls
• Inspect the perineum.
• If there is a rectovestibular fistula or a cutaneous fistula, then a primary
anoplasty or a colostomy is done.
• If it is a cloacal anomaly, the child needs to be investigated for associated
genitourinary anomalies. The baby then requires a colostomy with drain-
age of the bladder and hydrocolpos if they are not draining well. The
anorectovaginourethroplasty will be done many months later.
• If there is no clinical evidence, a lateral pronogram should be done to
check the distance of the rectal gas from the skin to decide if a primary
anoplasty or a colostomy should be done.
HIRSCHSPRUNG’S DISEASE
• Common cause of intestinal obstruction of the newborn.
Aetiology
• Aganglionosis of the variable length of the bowel causing inability of the
colon to empty due to functional obstruction of the distal bowel.
• The primary aetiology has been thought to be due to cellular and
molecular abnormalities during the development of the enteric
nervous system and migration of the neural crest cells into the developing
intestine.
• Genetic factors play a role with an increased incidence in siblings, Down
Syndrome, congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and other
syndromes.
Types
• Rectosigmoid aganglionosis: commonest, more common in boys.
• Long segment aganglionosis.
• Total colonic aganglionosis: extending into the ileum or jejunum,
almost equal male: female ratio.
Clinical Presentation
• May present as a neonate or later in life.
• Neonate.
• Delay in passage of meconium (94-98% of normal term babies pass
meconium in the first 24 hours).
• Abdominal distension.
• Vomiting – bilious/non-bilious.
• Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) – fever, foul smelling,
explosive diarrhoea, abdominal distension, septic shock. Has a high risk
of mortality and can occur even after the definitive procedure.
• Older child.
• History of constipation since infancy.
• Abdominal distension.
• Failure to thrive.
• Recurrent enterocolitis.
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Other causes of delay in passage of meconium
• Prematurity.
• Sepsis, including urinary tract infection.
• Intestinal atresias.
• Meconium ileus.
• Hypothyroidism.
Investigation
• Plain Abdominal X-ray – dilated loops of bowel with absence of gas in the
rectum, sometimes a megacolon is demonstrated. (Figure below)
• Contrast enema – presence of a transition zone with an abnormal
rectosigmoid index.
• Rectal Biopsy: Absence of ganglion cells and presence of acetylcholinesterase
positive hypertrophic nerve bundles confirms the diagnosis
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Management
• Enterocolitis (HAEC) – high risk of mortality. Can occur even after the
definitive procedure.
• Aggressive fluid resuscitation.
• IV broad-spectrum antibiotics.
• Rectal washouts-Using a large bore soft catheter inserted into the colon
past the transition zone, the colon is washed out with copious volumes of
warm normal saline (in aliqouts of 10-20mls/kg) till toxins are cleared.
(Figure below)
• If the decompression is difficult with rectal washouts, a colostomy or
ileostomy is required.
• Definitive surgery, with frozen section to confirm the level of
aganglionosis, is planned once the diagnosis is confirmed.
• Postoperatively, the child needs close follow-up for bowel management
and the development of enterocolitis.
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PERFORATED VISCUS
Causes
• Perforated stomach.
• Necrotising enterocolitis.
• Spontaneous intestinal perforations.
• Intestinal Atresias.
• Anorectal malformation.
• Hirschsprung’s disease.
Management
• Evaluation: These babies are usually septic with severe metabolic acidosis,
coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia.
• Diagnosis: A meticulous history of the antenatal, birth and postnatal
details may elicit the cause of the perforation. Sudden onset of increased
abdominal distension and deteriorating general condition suggests perfora-
tion.
• Supine abdominal x-ray showing free intraperitoneal gas. (Figure below)
• Ventilation: Most of the babies may require intubation and ventilation if
they are acidotic and the diaphragm is splinted.
• Fluids: Aggressive correction of the dehydration, acidosis and
coagulopathy should be done.
• Orogastric tube: It should be aspirated 4 hourly and left on free drainage.
• Urinary Catheter: Monitor hourly urine output
• Drugs: Will require antibiotics and possibly inotropic support
• Consultation with the paediatrician or paediatric surgeon of the regional
referral centre before transfer of the baby.
• Peritoneal Drain: If there is a perforation of the bowel, insertion of a
peritoneal drain (using a size 12-14 Fr chest tube or a peritoneal dialysis
drain into the right iliac fossa) with/without lavage with normal saline or an
isotonic peritoneal dialysate solution should be considered as a temporis-
ing measure while stabilising the baby prior to surgery. This can help to
improve the ventilation as well as the acidosis.
Loss of liver
shadow
Falciform ligament
visible
Rigler’s sign
PAEDIATRICSURGERY
532
PAEDIATRICSURGERY
References
Section 13 Paediatric Surgery
Ch 92 Appendicitis
1.Fyfe, AHB (1994) Acute Appendicitis, Surgical Emergencies in Children ,
Butterworth- Heinemann.
2.Anderson KD, Parry RL (1998) Appendicitis, Paediatric Surgery Vol 2, 5th
Edition Mosby
3.Lelli JL, Drongowski RA et al: Historical changes in the postoperative treat-
ment of appendicitis in children: Impact on medical outcome. J Pediatr.
Surg Feb 2000; 35:239-245.
4.Meier DE, Guzzetta PC, et al: Perforated Appendicitis in Children: Is there a
best treatment? J Pediatr. Surg Oct 2003; 38:1520-4.
5.Surana R, Feargal Q, Puri P: Is it necessary to perform appendicectomy in
the middle of the night in children? BMJ 1993;306:1168.
6.Yardeni D, Coran AG et al: Delayed versus immediate surgery in acute ap-
pendicitis: Do we need to operate during the night? J Pediatr. Surg March
2004; 39:464-9.
7.Chung CH, Ng CP, Lai KK: Delays by patients, emergency physicians and
surgeons in the management of acute appendicitis: retrospective study
HKMJ Sept 2000; 6:254-9.
8.Mazziotti MV, et al: Histopathologic analysis of interval appendectomy
specimens: support for the role of interval appendectomy. J Pediatr. Surg
June 1997; 32:806-809.
Ch 94 Intussusception
1.POMR Bulletin Vol 22 (Paediatric Surgery) 2004.
2.Navarro OM et al: Intussusception: Use of delayed, repeated reduction
attempts and the management of pathologic lead points in paediatric
patients. AJR 182(5): 1169-76, 2004.
3.Lui KW et al: Air enema for the diagnosis and reduction of intussusception
in children: Clinical experience and fluoroscopy time correlation. J Pediatr
Surg 36:479-481, 2001.
4.Calder FR et al: Patterns of management of intussusception outside tertiary
centres. J Pediatr Surg 36:312-315, 2001.
5.DiFiore JW: Intussusception.Seminars in Paediatric Surgery Vol 6, No 4:214-
220, 1999.
6.Hadidi AT, Shal N El: Childhood intussusception: A comparative study of
nonsurgical management. J Pediatr Surg 34: 304-7, 1999.
7.Fecteau et al: Recurrent intussusception: Safe use of hydrostatic enema. J
Pediatr Surg 31:859-61, 1996.
533
PAEDIATRICSURGERY
Ch 96 Undescended Testis
1.Bhagwant Gill, Stanley Kogan 1997 Cryptorchidism (current concept). The
Paediatric Clinics of North America 44: 1211-1228.
2.O’Neill JA, Rowe MI, et al: Paediatric Surgery, Fifth Edition 1998
Ch 99 Neonatal Surgery
1.Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Registry (CDHR) Report, Seminars in
Pediatric Surgery (2008) 17: 90-97
2.The Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group. Defect size determines
survival in CDH. Paediatrics (2007) 121:e651-7
3.Graziano JN:Cardiac anomalies in patients with CDH and prognosis: a report
from the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group. J Pediatr Surg
(2005) 40:1045-50
4.Hatch D, Sumner E and Hellmann J: The Surgical Neonate: Anaesthesia and
Intensive Care, Edward Arnold, 1995
5.Vilela PC, et al: Risk Factors for Adverse Outcome of Newborns with Gastro-
schisis in a Brazilian hospital. J Pediatr Surg 36: 559-564, 2001
6.Pierro A: Metabolism and Nutritional Support in the Surgical neonate. J
Pediatr Surg 37: 811-822, 2002
7.Haricharan RN, Georgeson KE: Hirschsprung Disease. Seminars in Paediatric
Surgery 17(4): 266-275, 2008
8.Waag KL et al: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Modern Day Approach.
Seminars in Paediatric Surgery 17(4): 244-254, 2008
534
PAEDIATRICSURGERY
535
Chapter 100: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
Definition
Definite arthritis of
• Unknown aetiology.
• Onset before the age 16 yrs.
• Persists for at least 6 wks.
Symptoms and Signs in JIA
Articular Extra-articular
Joint swelling General
• Fever, pallor, anorexia, loss of weight
Joint pain
Joint stiffness / gelling after
periods of inactivity
Growth disturbance
• General: growth failure, delayed puberty
• Local: limb length / size discrepancy,
micronagthia
Joint warmth
Restricted joint movements Skin
• subcutaneous nodules
• rash – systemic, psoriasis, vasculitis
Limping gait
Others
• Hepatomegaly, splenomegaly,
lymphadenopathy,
• Serositis, muscle atrophy / weakness
• Uveitis: chronic (silent), acute in Enthesitis
related arthritis (ERA)
Enthesitis*
* inflammation of the entheses (the sites of insertion of tendon, ligament
or joint capsule into bone)
Helpful pointers in assessing articular symptoms
Inflammatory Mechanical Psychosomatic
Pain +/- + +++
Stiffness ++ - +
Swelling +++ +/- +/-
Instability +/- ++ +/-
Sleep disturbance +/- - ++
Physical signs ++ + +/-
RHEUMATOLOGY
536
Diagnosis and Differential diagnosis
• JIA is a diagnosis of exclusion.
Differential diagnosis of JIA
Monoarthritis Polyarthritis
Acute JIA – polyarthritis (RF positive or
negative), ERA, psoriatic arthritis
Acute rheumatic fever
Reactive arthritis: Post viral/ post
enteric /post streptococcal infection
Reactive arthritis
Lyme disease
Septic arthritis / osteomyelitis SLE
Early JIA Other connective tissue diseases
Malignancy: leukaemia,
neuroblastoma
Inflammatory bowel disease
Haemophilia Sarcoidosis
Trauma Familial hypertrophic synovitis
syndromes
Chronic Immunodeficiency syndromes
JIA: oligoarthritis, ERA, psoriatic Mucopolysaccharidoses
Chronic infections: TB, fungal,
brucellosis
Pigmented villonodular synovitis
Sarcoidosis
Synovial haemangioma
Bone malignancy
Helpful pointers in diagnosis:
• avoid diagnosing arthritis in peripheral joints if no observed joint swelling.
• consider other causes, particularly if only one joint involved.
• active arthritis can be present with the only signs being decreased range of
movement and loss of function.
• in axial skeleton (including hips), swelling may not be seen. Diagnosis is
dependent on inflammatory symptoms (morning stiffness, pain relieved 	
by activity, pain on active and passive movement, limitation of movement).
Investigations to exclude other diagnosis are important.
• in an ill child with fever, loss of weight or anorexia, consider infection,
malignancy and other connective tissue diseases.
RHEUMATOLOGY
537
Investigations
• The diagnosis is essentially clinical; laboratory investigations are only
supportive.
• No laboratory test or combination of tests can confirm the diagnosis of JIA.
• FBC and Peripheral blood film – exclude leukaemia. BMA may be re-
quired if there are any atypical symptoms/signs even if PBF is normal
• ESR or CRP – markers of inflammation.
• X-ray/s of affected joint/s: esp. if single joint involved to look for malignancy.
• Antinuclear antibody – identifies a risk factors for uveitis
• Rheumatoid factor – assess prognosis in polyarthritis and need for
more aggressive therapy.
*Antinuclear antibody and Rheumatoid factor are NOT required to make a
diagnosis.
* Other Ix done as neccesary : complement levels, ASOT, Ferritin,
immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM), HLA B27, synovial fluid aspiration for
microscopy and culture, echocardiography, MRI/CT scan of joint, bone scan .
Management
• Medical treatment
• Refer management algorithm (see following pages)
Dosages of drugs commonly used in JIA
Name Dose Frequency
Ibuprofen 5 - 10 mg/kg/dose 3-4/day
Naproxen 5 - 10 mg/kg/dose 2/day
Indomethacin 0.5 - 1 mg/kg/dose 2-3/day
Diclofenac 0.5 - 1 mg/kg/dose 3/day
Methotrexate 10 - 15 mg/m2
/dose
(max 25 mg/dose)
1/week
Folic acid 2.5 - 5.0 mg per dose 1/week
Sulphasalazine 15 - 25 mg/kg/dose
(start 2.5 mg/kg/dose and double
weekly; max 2 Gm/day
2/day
Hydroxychloroquine 5 mg/kg/dose 1/day
Methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg/dose (max 1 Gm / dose) 1/day x 3 days
Prednisolone 0.1 - 2 mg/kg/dose 1-3/day
Note:
Patients on DMARDS (e.g. Methotrexate, Sulphasalazine) and long term
NSAIDs (e.g. Ibuprofen, Naproxen) require regular blood and urine
monitoring for signs of toxicity.
RHEUMATOLOGY
538
• Physiotherapy
• Avoid prolonged immobilisation
• Strengthens muscles, improves and maintains range of movement
• Improves balance and cardiovascular fitness
• Occupational Therapy
• Splinting when neccesary to reduce pain and preserve joint alignment.
• To improve daily quality of life by adaptive aids and modifying the
environment.
• Ophthalmologist
• All patients must be referred to the ophthalmologist for uveitis
screening (as uveitis can be asymptomatic) and have regular follow-up
even if initial screening normal.
• Others
• Ensure well balanced diet, high calcium intake.
• Encourage regular exercise and participation in sports and physical
education.
• Family support and counselling when required.
• Referral to other disciplines as required: Orthopaedic surgeons,
Dentist.
RHEUMATOLOGY
539
Oligoarthritis (1-4 joints)
Footnote:
*, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis;
Abbreviations:
IACI, Intra-articular corticosteroid injection; MTX , Methotrexate;
SZ, Sulphasalazine; HCQ, Hydroxychloroquine; DMARD, Disease modifying
anti-rheumatic drugs.
Remember to Screen for Uveitis
All patients with persistent inflammation should be on DMARDs within 6
months of diagnosis even if only having oligoarthritis.
Oligoarthritis *
cont NSAIDs x further 4-6 mths ,
then to taper off if well
• IACI of target joints
• Or/and optimize /
change NSAIDs
Review 4-6 wks
Start NSAIDs Start IACI, if can
be done quickly
Continue NSAIDs
• Start DMARD : MTX, SZ
or HCQ if mild disease
• Repeat IACI
• Or/and increase dose of NSAIDs
Review 2 mths
Review 4-6 wks
Review 3 mths
Improving
Inactive
Disease
No/inadequate improvement *
Inflammation improved, but
persistent or no improvement *
Persistent or
Recurrent disease
TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS
RHEUMATOLOGY
540
Polyarthritis ( 5 joints)
Footnote:
*, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis;
Abbreviations:
IACI, Intra-articular corticosteroid injection; MTX , Methotrexate;
SZ, Sulphasalazine; HCQ, Hydroxychloroquine; ERA,enthesitisrelatedarthritis;
DMARD, Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.
Remember to Screen for Uveitis
Best opportunity to achieve remission in first two years of disease
Avoid accepting low grade inflammation until all avenues explored
TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS
Polyarthritis *
• Optimise dose of DMARD
• IACI of target joints
or low dose Prednisolone
Start NSAIDs
Once diagnosis certain: *
• Start DMARD: oral MTX
• Consider SZ in ERA; HCQ in very mild disease
• Start steroids: pulsed IV Methylprednisolone (MTP) x 3/7
• or short pulse of oral Prednisolone x 4-8 wks
• or IACI of target joints
Review 3 mths
No/inadequate improvement *
Persistent
Inflammation *
Improving
• Change to s/c MTX
• Consider combination DMARD:
MTX + SZ +/- HCQ
• Consider alternative DMARDS
• Consider biologics
• Cont NSAIDs further 6 mths,
then stop
• Cont DMARDs at least 1 year
after onset of remission
 stopping steroids  NSAID
Review 1-2 mths
Review 2-3 mths
Remission
RHEUMATOLOGY
541
Systemic onset JIA
Remember to Screen for Uveitis
Avoid gold, penicillamine, SZ and caution with new drugs as risk of devel-
oping Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS)
• Start Oral MTX
• Consider IV MTP Pulse
• Ensure diagnostic certainty of systemic JIA *
• Do not misdiagnose infection, malignancy,
Kawasaki or connective tissue disease
• Start NSAIDs (consider indomethacin)
• Start steroids: IV MTP pulse x 3/7
or high dose oral Prednisolone
Yes
Still Persistently
Active Disease *
Persistently
Active Disease *
Arthritis only:
•  Change to SC MTX,
optimize dose
•  +/- IACI
•  Consider biologics
Continue tapering and
discontinue steroids after
6 mths without inflammation
Review Frequently
TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS
Footnote:
*, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis;
Abbreviations: as previous page; CYP,cyclophosphamide;IVIG,IVimmunoglobulins.
Able to Taper
Steroids?
Is Disease Inactive? No
Yes
No
Is there MAS?
Yes
• Refer patient *
• Consider IV MTP Pulse
• Consider Cyclosporin
Are systemic or articular
features active, or both ? *
No
Systemicsymptomsonly:
• ConsiderpulsedIVMTP
• ConsidercombinationRx
(Cyclosporin, IVIG,
HCQ, CYP)
• Considerbiologics
Arthritis and
Systemic symptoms:
• Combinationtreatment
as per arthritis and
systemic symptoms
RHEUMATOLOGY
542
RHEUMATOLOGY
References
Section 14 Rheumatology
Chapter 100 Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
1. Cassidy JT, Petty RE. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. In: Cassidy JT, Petty RE,
eds. Textbook of Pediatric Rheumatology. 4th Edition. Philadelphia: W.B.
Saunders Company, 2001.
2. Hull, RG. Management Guidelines for arthritis in children. Rheumatology
2001; 40:1308-1312
3. Petty RE, Southwood TR, Manners P, et al. International League of Associa-
tions for Rheumatology. International League of Associations for Rheu-
matology classification of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: second revision,
Edmonton, 2001. J Rheumatol. 2004;31:390-392.
4. Khubchandani RP, D’Souza S. Initial Evaluation of a child with Arthritis – An
Algorithmic Approach. Indian J of Pediatrics 2002 69: 875-880.
5. Ansell, B. Rheumatic disease mimics in childhood. Curr Opin Rheumatol
2000; 12: 445-447
6. Woo P, Southwood TR, Prieur AM, et al. Randomised, placebo controlled
crossover trial of low-dose oral Methotrexate in children with extended
oligoarticular or systemic arthritis. Arthritis Rheum 2000; 43: 1849-57.
7. Alsufyani K, Ortiz-Alvarez O, Cabral DA, et al. The role of subcutaneous
administration of methotrexate in children with JIA who have failed oral
methotrexate. J Rheumatol 2004; 31 : 179-82
8. Ramanan AV, Whitworth P, Baildam EM. Use of methotrexate in juvenile
idiopathic arthritis. Arch Dis Child 2003; 88: 197-200.
9. Szer I, Kimura Y, Malleson P, Southwood T. In: The Textbook of Arthritis in
Children and Adolescents: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. 1st Edition. Oxford
University Press, 2006
10. Wallace, CA. Current management in JIA. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol
2006; 20: 279-300.
543
Chapter 101: Snake Bite
Introduction
• In Malaysia there are approximately 40 species of venomous snakes
(18 land snakes and all 22 of sea snakes) belonging to two families
– elapidae and viperidae.
• Elapidae – have short, fixed front fangs. The family includes cobras,
kraits, coral snakes and sea snakes.
• Viperidae – have a triangular shaped head and long, retractable fangs.
The most important species in Malaysia are Calloselasma rhodostoma
(Malayan pit viper) and Trimeresurus genus (green viper). The Malayan pit
vipers are common especially in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia
and are not found in Sabah and Sarawak.
• Cobra and Malayan pit vipers cause most of the cases of snakebites in
Malaysia. Bites by sea snakes, coral snakes and kraits are uncommon.
• The snake venom are complex substances proteins with enzymatic
activity. Although enzymes play an important role the lethal properties are
caused by certain smaller polypeptides. Components such as procoagulant
enzymes activate the coagulation cascade, phospholipase A2 (myotoxic,
neurotoxic, cardiotoxic causes haemolysis and increased vascular perme-
ability), proteases (tissue necrosis), polypeptide toxins (disrupt neuromus-
cular transmissions) and other components.
Clinical features
• Cobra usually cause pain and swelling of the bite site but more worrying
is the neurological dysfunctions: ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, dysphagia,
aphasia and respiratory paralysis.
• Kraits cause minimal local effects but may cause central nervous system
manifestations. Sea snakes cause minimal local effects and mainly muscu-
loskeletal findings: myalgia, stiffness and paresis leading to myoglobinuria
and renal failure. Paralysis can also occur.
• Pit vipers – cause extensive local effects: immediate pain, swelling,
blisters and necrosis, vascular effects and hemolysis and systemic effects
such as coagulopathies. Bleeding occurs at bite site, gingival sulci and
venepuncture sites. Venom alters capillary permeability causing extrava-
sation of electrolytes, albumin and rbcs through the vessel wall into
envomated site.
• Note: There may be overlap of clinical features caused by venoms of
different species of snake. For example, some cobras can cause severe local
envenoming (formerly thought to be due to only vipers).
POISONSTOXINS
544
Management
First aid
• The aims are to retard absorption of venom, provide basic life support
and prevent further complications.
• Reassure the victim – anxiety state increases venom absorption.
• Immobilise bitten limb with splint or sling (retard venom absorption).
• Apply a firm bandage for elapid bites (delay absorption of neurotoxic
venom) but not for viper bites whose venom cause local necrosis.
• Leave the wound alone - DO NOT incise, apply ice or other remedies.
• Tight (arterial) tourniquets are not recommended.
• Do not attempt to kill the snake. However, if it is killed bring the snake to
the hospital for identification. Do not handle the snake with bare hands as
even a severed head can bite!
• Transfer the victim quickly to the nearest health facility.
Treatment at the Hospital
• Do rapid clinical assessment and resuscitation including Airway, Breathing,
Circulation and level of consciousness. Monitor vital signs (blood pressure,
respiratory rate, pulse rate).
• Establish IV access; give oxygen and other resuscitations as indicated.
• History: Inquire part of body bitten, timing, type of snake, history of atopy.
• Examine
• Bitten part for fang marks (sometimes invisible), swelling, tenderness,
necrosis.
• Distal pulses (reduced or absent in compartment syndrome)
• Patient for bleeding tendencies – tooth sockets, conjunctiva, puncture
sites.
• Patient for neurotoxicity – ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, bulbar and
respiratory paralysis.
• Patient for muscle tenderness, rigidity (sea snakes).
• Urine for myoglobinuria.
• Send blood investigations (full blood count, renal function tests,
prothrombin time /partial thromboplastin time, group and cross matching).
• Perform a 20-min Whole Blood Clotting Test. Put a few mls of blood in a
clean, dry glass test tube, leave for 20 min, and then tipped once to see if it
has clotted. Unclotted blood suggests hypofibrinogenaemia due to pit viper
bite and rules out an elapid bite.
• Review immunisation history: give booster antitetanus toxoid injection
if indicated.
• Venom detection kit is used in some countries to identify species of
snake. However, it is not available in Malaysia.
• Admit to ward for at least 24 hours (unless snake is definitely
non-venomous).
POISONSTOXINS
545
Antivenom treatment
• Antivenom is the only specific treatment for envenomation.
• Give as early as indicated for best result. Effectiveness is time and dose
related. It is most effective within 4 hrs after envenomation and less effec-
tive after 12 hrs although it may reverse coagulopathies after 24 hrs.
Indications for antivenom
• Should be given only in the presence of envenomation as evidenced by:
• Coagulopathy.
• Neurotoxicity.
• Hypotension or shock, arrhythmias.
• Generalised rhabdomyolysis (muscle aches and pains).
• Acute renal failure.
• Local envenomation e.g. local swelling more than half of bitten limb,
extensive blistering/bruising, bites on digit, rapid progression of swelling.
• Helpful laboratory investigations suggesting envenomation include
anaemia, thrombocytopenia, leucocytosis, raised serum enzymes
(creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase),
hyperkalaemia, and myoglobinuria.
Choice of antivenom
• If biting species is known, give monospecific (monovalent) antivenom
(more effective and less adverse reactions).
• If it is not known, clinical manifestations may suggest the species:
• Local swelling with neurological signs = cobra bites
• Extensive local swelling + bleeding tendency = Malayan Pit vipers
• If still uncertain, give polyvalent antivenom.
• No antivenom is available for Malayan kraits, coral snakes and some
species of green pit vipers. Fortunately, bites by these species are rare
and usually cause only trivial envenoming.
Dosage and route of administration
• Amount given is usually empirical. Recommendations from manufacturers
are usually very conservative as they are mainly based on animal studies.
Guide to initial dosages of important Antivenoms
Species Antivenom manufacturer Initial dose
Malayan pit viper Thai Red Cross (Monovalent) 100 mls
Cobra Twyford Pharmaceuticals
(monovalent)
Serum Institute of India;
Biological E. Limited, India
(Polyvalent)
50 mls (local)
100 mls (systemic)
50 mls (local)
100 - 150 mls (systemic)
King Cobra Thai Red Cross (Monovalent) 50 – 100 mls
Common sea
snake
CSL, Australia (polyvalent) 1 000 units (1 vial)
POISONSTOXINS
546
• Repeat antivenom administration until signs of envenomation resolved.
• Give through IV route only. Dilute antivenom in any isotonic solution
(5-10ml/kg, bigger children dilute in 500mls of IV solution) and infuse the
whole amount in one hour.
• Infusion may be discontinued when satisfactory clinical improvement
occurs even if recommended dose has not been completed
• Do not perform sensitivity test as it poorly predicts anaphylactic
reactions.
• Do not inject locally at the bite site.
• Prepare adrenaline, hydrocortisone, antihistamine and resuscitative
equipment and be ready if allergic reactions occur.
• Pretreatment with adrenaline SC remains controversial. Small controlled
studies in adults have shown it to be effective in reducing risk of reac-
tions. However, its effectiveness and appropriate dosing in children have
not been evaluated. There is no strong evidence to support the use of
hydrocortisone/antihistamine as premedications. Consider their use in the
patient with history of atopy.
Antivenom reactions occurs in 20% of patients
3 types of reactions may occur:
• Early anaphylactic reactions
• Occur 10-180 minutes after starting antivenom. Symptoms range from
itching, urticaria, nausea, vomiting, and palpitation to severe systemic
anaphylaxis: hypotension, bronchospasm and laryngeal oedema.
Treatment of anaphylactic reactions:
• Stop antivenom infusion.
• Give adrenaline IM (0.01ml/kg of 1 in 1000) and repeat every 5-10mins
till symptoms subside. In case of persistent hypotension, life threatening
anaphylaxis, adrenaline can be given IV 0.1mg of 1:10,000 dilution
bolus over 5 mins. If hypotension is refractory to bolus dose start
IV infusion at 1 microgm/kg/min. Close monitoring of heart rate is
required.
• Give antihistamine, e.g. chlorpheniramine 0.2mg/kg, hydrocortisone
4mg/kg/dose and IV fluid resuscitation (if hypotensive).
• Nebulised adrenaline in the presence of stridor or partial obstruction
• Nebulised salbutamol in the presence of bronchospasm or wheeze
• If only mild reactions, restart infusion at a slower rate.
• Pyrogenic reactions – develop 1-2 hours after treatment and are due to
pyrogenic contamination during the manufacturing process. Symptoms in-
clude fever, rigors, vomiting, tachycardia and hypotension. Give treatment
as above. Treat fever with paracetamol and tepid sponging.
• Late reactions – occur about a week later. It is a serum sickness-like
illness (fever, arthralgia, lymphadenopathy, etc).
Treat with Chlorpheniramine 0.2mg/kg/day in divided doses for 5 days.
If severe, give Oral prednisolone (0.7 – 1mg/kg/day) for 5-7 days.
POISONSTOXINS
547
When to restart the antivenom after a reaction:
• Once the patient has stabilized, BP under control, manifestations of the
reaction has subsided.
• In severe reactions restart antivenom under cover of adrenaline infusion.
Rate of antivenom infusion is decreased initially and done under close
monitoring in the ICU. Weigh the need for antivenom versus the potential
risk of a severe anaphylactic reaction.
Anticholinesterases
• They should always be tried in severe neurotoxic envenoming, especially
when no specific antivenom is available, e.g. bites by Malayan krait and
coral snakes. The drugs have a variable but potentially useful effect.
• Give test dose of Edrophonium chloride (Tensilon) IV (0.25mg/kg,
adult 10mg) with Atropine sulphate IV (50μg/kg, adult 0.6mg). If patients
respond convincingly, maintain with Neostigmine methylsulphate IV
(50-100μg/kg) and Atropine, four hourly by continuous infusion.
Supportive/ancillary treatment
• Clean wound with antiseptics.
• Give analgesia to relief pain (avoid aspirin). In severe pain, morphine
may be administered with care. Watch closely for respiratory depression.
• Give antibiotics if the wound looks contaminated or necrosed
e.g. IV Crystalline Penicillin +/- Gentamicin, Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid,
Erythromycin or a third generation Cephalosporin.
• Respiratory support – respiratory failure may require assisted ventilation.
• Watch for compartment syndrome – pain, swelling, cold distal limbs and
muscle paresis. Get early orthopaedic/surgical opinion.Patient may require
urgent fasciotomy but consider only after sufficient antivenom has been
given and correction of coagulation abnormalities with fresh frozen plasma
and platelets before any surgical intervention as bleeding may be uncon-
trollable.
• Desloughing of necrotic tissues should be carried out as required.
• For oliguria and renal failure, e.g. due to sea snake envenomation,
measure daily urine output, serum creatinine, urea and electrolytes. If
urine output fails to increase after rehydration and diuretics (e.g. frusem-
ide), start renal dose of dopamine (2.5µg/kg/minute IV infusion) and place
on strict fluid balance. Dialysis is rarely required.
POISONSTOXINS
548
Pitfalls in management
• Giving antivenom ‘prophylactically’ to all snakebite victims. Not all
snakebites by venomous snakes will result in envenoming. On average,
30% bites by cobra, 50% by Malayan pit vipers and 75% by sea snakes DO
NOT result in envenoming. Antivenom is expensive and carries the risk of
causing severe anaphylactic reactions (as it is derived from horse or sheep
serum). Hence, it should be used only in patients in whom the benefits of
antivenom are considered to exceed the risks.
• Delaying in giving antivenom in district hospitals until victims are
transferred to referral hospitals. Antivenom should be given as soon as it
is indicated to prevent morbidity and mortality. District hospitals should
stock important antivenoms and must be equipped with facilities and staff
to provide safe monitoring and care during the antivenom infusion.
• Giving polyvalent antivenom for envenoming by all type of snakes.
Polyvalent antivenom does not cover all types of snakes, e.g. Sii polyvalent
(imported from India) is effective in cobra and some kraits envenoming but
is not effective against Malayan pit viper. Refer to manufacturer drug insert
for details.
• Giving smaller doses of antivenom for children. The dose should be the
same as for adults. Amount given depends on the amount of venom
injected rather than the size of victim.
• Giving pretreatment with hydrocortisone / antihistamine for snakebite
victims. Snakebites do not cause allergic or anaphylactic reactions. These
medications may be considered in those who are given ANTIVENOM.
POISONSTOXINS
549
Chapter 102: Common Poisons
Principles in approach to poisoning
• There is no role for the use of emetics in the treatment of poisoning.
• The use of activated charcoal for reducing drug absorption should be
considered if patient presents within 1 hour of ingestion. A single dose of
1g/kg body wt can be given by mouth or nasogastric tube within 1 hour of
ingestion of a well charcoal absorbed poison and perhaps  1 hour in the
case of a slow release drug preparation.
• Gastric lavage is not recommended unless the patient has ingested a
potentially life threatening amount of a poison and the procedure can be
undertaken within 1 hour of ingestion.
• When in doubt about the nature of poison, contact the poison centre for
help:
National Poison Centre (Pusat Racun Negara)
Tel: 1800-888099 OR 04-6570099
Mon – Fri: 8.10 am – 4.40 pm; Sat: 8.10 am – 1 pm
Tel: 012-4309499
After Office Hours
Laboratory investigations
• A careful history may obviate the need for blood tests.
• Blood glucose should be taken in all cases with altered sensorium
• Blood gas analysis in any patient with respiratory insufficiency,
hyperventilation or metabolic acid base disturbance is suspected.
• Electrolyte estimation may be useful as hypokalaemia has been seen in
acute poisoning.
• A wide anion gap is seen in methanol, paraldehyde, iron, ethanol,
salicylate poisoning.
• Routine measurement of paracetamol level should be performed in
deliberate poisoning in the older child.
• Radiology may be used to confirm ingestion of metallic objects, iron
salts.
• ECG is an invaluable tool in detection of dysrhythmia and conduction
abnormalities such as widened QRS or prolonged QT interval. Tricyclic An-
tidepressant poisoning.may manifest as myocardial depression, ventricular
fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
POISONSTOXINS
550
PARACETAMOL
• Paracetamol is also called acetaminophen. Poisoning occurs when 
150mg/kg ingested. Fatality is unlikely if  225mg/kg is ingested.
	 Clinical Manifestations of Paracetamol poisoning
Stage 1 Nausea vomiting within 12 -24 hours, some asymptomatic.
Stage 2 Liver enzymes elevated by 24 hours after ingestion. Symptoms
often abate.
Stage 3 Liver enzymes abnormalities peak at 48 -72 hours and symp-
toms of nausea, vomiting and anorexia return. The clinical
course may result in recovery or hepatic failure. There may be
renal impairment.
Stage 4 Recovery phase lasts 7-8 days.
Most serious effect is liver damage which may not be apparent in the first
2 days.
	
POISONSTOXINS
NORMOGRAM FOR ACUTE PARACETAMOL POISONING.
Adapted from Rumack BH, Matthew H. Acetaminophen
poisoning and toxicity. Pediatrics1975;55(6):871–876
551
The most efficacius therapy involves the administration of N-acetylcysteine
which serves as a precursor to facilitate the synthesis of glutathione.
Management
• Measure the plasma paracetamol level at 4 hours after ingestion and then
4 hourly. Other investigations: RBS/LFT/PT/PTT/RFT daily for 3 days.
• Initiation of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) within 10 hours of ingestion but it is still
beneficial up to 24 hours of ingestion.	
• IV NAC if the 4 hour plasma paracetamol level exceeds 150µg/ml.
• Dose: 150mg/kg in 3mls/kg 5%Dextrose over 15 min, followed by 50mg/kg
in 7mls/kg 5% Dextrose over 4 hours,
then 100mg/kg in 14mls/kg 5% Dextrose over 16 hours.
• It is much less effective if given later than 15 hours after ingestion.
• Decision is based on the Rumack- Matthew normogram. Plot the serum
level of paracetamol drawn at least 4 hrs following ingestion.
• If patients are on enzyme-inducing drugs, they should be given NAC if the
levels are 50% or more of the standard reference line.
• If no blood levels are available, start treatment based on clinical history.
Therapy can be stopped once level obtained is confirmed in the non toxic
range.
• It may be necessary to continue the NAC beyond 24 hrs in massive overdose.
• The paracetamol level should be checked before disontinuing and if still
high rebolus and continue at 6-5 mg/kg till level is  10µg/ml. Advisable to
contact the poison centre.
• Ensure the NAC is appropriately diluted and patient does not become
fluid overloaded.
• Adverse reactions to NAC.
• Flushing, aching, rashes, angioedema, bronchospasm and hypertension.
• NAC should be stopped and if necessary, IV antihistamine given.
Once adverse reactions resolved, NAC restarted at 50mg/kg over 4 hrs
• If PT ratio exceeds 3.0, give Vitamin K 1 10mg IM.
FFP or clotting factor concentrate may be necessary.
• Treat complications of acute hepatorenal failure.
Management of a single overdose is straightforward and is guided by the above.
However when cases are associated with staggered overdoses or repeated
supratherapeutic doses, patients with high risk factors or late presentations, manage-
ment decisions become more complex.
POISONSTOXINS
552
HIGH RISK TREATMENT LINE
At Risk Patients
Regular use of enzyme inducing drugs
e.g. Carbamazepines, phenytoin, phenobarbitone, rifampicin
Conditions causing glutathione depletion
Malnutrition, HIV, eating disorders, cystic fibrosis
• Repeated supratherapeutic ingestion or when timing of ingestion is
uncertain:
• Children under 6 years of age who have ingested
200mg/kg or more over a single 24 hr period
150 mg/kg or more per 24 hr period for the preceding 48 hrs
100 mg/kg or more per 24 hr period for the preceding 72 hrs or longer
• Children over 6 years of age who have ingested
At least 10g or 200mg/kg (whichever is less) over a single 24 hr period
At least 6g or 150mg/kg (whichever is less) over a single 24 hr period
for the preceding 48hrs or longer.
• Levels are difficult to interpret, advice should be sought from the
Poison Centre. If in doubt treat first.
Prognosis
• Younger children who accidentally ingest a single dose were less at risk
for hepatotoxicity and have a good prognosis.
• Older children who self harm with overdoses and young children who
ingest repeated overdosings may suffer severe morbidity and mortality.
Indicators of severe paracetamol poisoning and when to refer to a
specialist centre:
• Progressive coagulopathy:
INR 2 at 24hrs, INR  4 at 48hrs or INR 6 at 72 hrs.
• Renal impairment creatinine  200 µmol/l.
• Hypoglycemia.
• Metabolic acidosis despite rehydration.
• Hypotension despite fluid resuscitation.
• Encephalopathy.
POISONSTOXINS
553
SALICYLATE
• Ingestion of  0.15 mg/kg will cause symptoms.
• The fatal dose is estimated to be 0.2 0.5g/kg.
• Its main effects are as a metabolic poison causing metabolic acidosis
and hyperglycaemia.
	 Clinical Manifestations of Salicylate poisoning
General Hyperpyrexia, profuse sweating and dehydration
CNS Delirium, seizures, cerebral oedema, coma, Reye’s
syndrome
Respiratory Hyperventilation
GIT Epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, UGIH, acute hepatitis
Renal Acute renal failure
Metabolic Hyper/hypoglycaemia, anion gap metabolic acidosis,
hypokalaemia
Cardiovascular Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema
Investigation : FBC, PCV, BUSE/Serum creatinine
	 LFT/PT/PTT, RBS; ABG
Serum salicylate level at least 6 hours after ingestion
	
Management
• Use activated charcoal to reduce absorption and alkalinisation to
enhance elimination. Activated charcoal 1-2g/kg/dose 4-8 hourly. Meticu-
lous monitoring of urine pH to avoid significant alkalemia
• Correct dehydration, hypoglycaemia, hypokalaemia, hypothermia and
metabolic acidosis.
• Give vitamin K if there is hypoprothrombinaemia.
• Plot the salicylate level on the normogram.
• Forced alkaline diuresis (* Needs close monitoring as it is potentially
dangerous) for moderate to severe cases.
(For salicylate level  35 mg/dl 6 hrs after ingestion )
• Give 30mls/kg in 1st hour (1/5 DS + 1ml/kg 8.4% NaHCO3).
Give IV Frusemide (1mg/kg/dose) after 1st hr and then 8hrly.
• Continue at 10mls/kg/hr till salicylate level is at a therapeutic range.
• Add 1g KCl to each 500mls of 1/5 DS to the above regime
(discontinue KCl if Se K+  5mmol/L).
• Aim for plasma pH of 7.5 and urine output of  3-6ml/kg/h.
• BUSE/RBS/ABG every 6 hrs.
• Treatment of Hypoglycaemia (5ml/kg of 10% dextrose).
POISONSTOXINS
554
Haemodialysis in
• Severe cases, blood level  100mg/dl.
• Refractory acidosis.
• Renal failure.
• Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema.
• Severe CNS symptoms e.g. seizures.
Prognosis
• The presence of coma, severe metabolic acidosis together with plasma
salicylate concentrate  900mg/L indicate a poor prognosis even with
intensive treatment.
POISONSTOXINS
DONE NORMOGRAM FOR ACUTE SALICYLATE POISONING.
Adapted from Done AK. Salicylate intoxication: Significance
of measurements of salicylate in blood in cases of
acute ingestion. Pediatrics 1960;26:800-7.
555
IRON
Dangerous dose of iron can be as small as 30mg/kg. The toxic effect of iron is
due to unbound iron in the serum.
	 Clinical Manifestations in Iron poisoning
Stage 1
(6 - 12hrs)
Gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting, abdominal pain,
diarrhoea, hypotension, dehydration, acidosis and coma.
Stage 2
(8 - 16hrs)
Symptom free period but has nonspecific malaise.
Stage 3
(16-24hrs)
Profound hemodynamic instability and shock.
Stage 4
(2 - 5wks)
Liver failure and gastrointestinal scarring with pyloric
obstruction.
Management
Emphasis is on supportive care with an individualised approach to
gastrointestinal decontamination and selective use of antidotes.
• Ingestion  30mg/kg - patients are unlikely to require treatment.
• Ingestion of  30mg/kg - perform an abdominal XRay. If pellets are seen
then use gastric lavage with wide bore tube or whole bowel irrigation with
polyethylene glycol if pellets are seen in small bowel.
(500ml/h in children  6 yrs, 1000ml/h in children 6-12 yrs and 1500 –
2000ml/h in children 12 yrs old.
Contraindications: Paralytic ileus, significant haematemesis, hypotension)
• Blood should be taken at 4 hrs after ingestion.
• If level  55µmol/l , unlikely to develop toxicity.
• If level 55-90µmol/l, observe for 24 – 48 hrs. Chelate if symptomatic
i.e. hemetemesis or malaena.
• If level  90µmol/l or significant symptoms, chelation with
IV Desferrioxamine 15 mg/kg till max of 80 mg/kg in 24 hours.
• If serum Iron is not available, severe poisoning is indicated by nausea,
vomiting, leucocytosis 15 X 109
and hyperglycaemia  8.3 µmol/l
• Administer Desferrioxamine with caution because of hypotension and
pulmonary fibrosis. Continue chelation therapy till serum Iron is normal,
metabolic acidosis resolved and urine colour returns to normal.
• If symptoms are refractory to treatment following 24 hrs of chelation, reduce
rate of infusion because of its association with acute respiratory distress
syndrome.
• Critical care management includes management of cardiopulmonary
failure, hypotension, severe metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia or hypergly-
caemia, anaemia, GIT bleed, liver and renal failure.
Prognosis
• Gastrointestinal bleeding, hypotension, metabolic acidosis, coma and
shock are poor prognostic features.
POISONSTOXINS
556
KEROSENE INGESTION AND HYDROCARBONS	
• Strict contraindication to doing gastric lavage and emesis: it increases
risk of chemical pneumonitis.
• Admit the child for observation for respiratory distress and treat
symptomatically.
• Cerebral effects may occur from hypoxia secondary to massive
inhalation.
• Antibiotics and steroids may be useful in lipoid pneumonia
(esp. liquid paraffin).
• Chest X ray.
TRICYCLIC ANTIDEPRESSANTS
	 Clinical Manifestations of Tricyclic Antidepressant poisoning
Anticholinergic
effects
Fever, dry mouth, mydriasis, urinary retention, ileus.
CNS Agitation, confusion, convulsion,drowsiness, coma
Respiratory Respiratory depression
Cardiovascular Sinus tachycardia, hypotension, complex arrhythmias
Management
• There is no specific antidote.
• Give activated charcoal 1-2 g/kg/dose 4-8hourly.
• Place patient on continuous ECG monitoring. Meticulous monitoring is
required. In the absence of QRS widening, cardiac conduction abnormality,
hypotension, altered sensorium or seizures within the 6 hours; it is unlikely
the patient will deteriorate.
• Treatment should be instituted for prolonged QRS and wide complex
arrythmias. QRS  100ms (seizures) and QRS 160ms (arrhythymia).
• Correct the metabolic acidosis. Give bicarbonate (1-2mmol/kg) to keep
pH 7.45 – 7.55 when QRS is widened or in the face of ventricular arrhthy-
mias. Administration of NaHCO3 is targeted at narrowing the QRS and is
titrated accordingly by bolus or by infusion. Watch out for hypokalemia and
treat accordingly.
• Convulsions should be treated with benzodiazepines.
• Use propranolol to treat life-threatening arrhythmias.
• If torsades de pointes occurs treat with MgSO4.
• Treat hypotension with Norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Dopamine is not effective.
• Haemodiaysis/PD is not effective as tricyclics are protein bound.
• Important to avoid the use of flumazenil for reversal of co-ingestion of
benzodiazepines as this can precipitate tricyclic induced seizure activity.
POISONSTOXINS
557
ORGANOPHOSPHATES
	 Clinical Manifestations in Organophosphate poisoning
Cholinergic effects Miosis, sweating, lacrimation, muscle twitching,
urination, excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea
CNS Convulsions, coma
Respiratory Bronchospasm, pulmonary oedema, respiratory
arrest
Cardiovascular Bradycardia, hypotension
Management
• Remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed areas with soap
and water.
• Gastric lavage and give activated charcoal.
• Resuscitate the patient. Protect the airway by early intubation.
Use only non depolarising neuromuscular agents
• Give IV atropine 0.05mg/kg every 15 minutes till fully atropinized.
Atropine administration is guided by the drying of secretions rather than
the heart rate and the pupil size.
• Keep patient well atropinized for the next 2-3 days.
• A continuous infusion of atropine can be started at 0.05mg/kg/hr
and titrated.
• Give IV Pralidoxime 25-50mg/kg over 30 min, repeated in 1-2 hrs and
at 10-12 hr intervals as needed for symptom control (max 12g/day) till
nicotinic signs resolves.
• Treat convulsions with Diazepam.
• IV Frusemide for pulmonary congestion after full atropinisation.
• A rapid sequence intubation involves the potential for prolonged paralysis.
PARAQUAT
Clinical features
• Ulcers in the mouth and oesophagus.
• Diarrhoea and vomiting.
• Jaundice and liver failure.
• Renal failure.
Management
• Remove contaminated cloth and wash with soap and water.
• Gastric lavage till clear.
• To give Fuller’s earth in large amounts.
• General supportive care.
POISONSTOXINS
558
POISONSTOXINS
559
Chapter 103: Anaphylaxis
Introduction
• Anaphylaxis is a severe, life threatening, generalised or systemic
hypersensitivity reaction. It is characterized by rapidly (minutes to hours)
developing life threatening airway and/or breathing and /or circulation
problems usually associated with skin and/ or mucosa changes.
Life threatening features
• Airway problems:
• Airway swelling e.g. throat and tongue swelling.
• Hoarse voice.
• Stridor.
• Breathing problems:
• Shortness of breath (bronchospasm, pulmonary oedema).
• Wheeze.
• Confusion cause by hypoxia.
• Cyanosis is usually a late sign.
• Respiratory arrest.
• Circulation problems
• Shock.
• Cardiovascular collapse with faintness, palpitations,
loss of consciousness.
• Cardiac arrest
Key points to severe reaction
• Previous severe reaction.
• History of increasingly severe reaction.
• History of asthma.
• Treatment with β blocker.
Approach to treatment (see following pages)
• The clinical signs of critical illness are generally similar because they
reflect failing respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological system.
• Use ABCDE approach to recognise and treat anaphylaxis.
Discharge Planning
• Prevention of further episodes.
• Education of patients and caregivers in the early recognition and
treatment of allergic reaction.
• Management of co-morbidities that increase the risk associated with
anaphylaxis.
• An adrenaline auto injector should be prescribed for those with history
of severe reaction to food, latex, insect sting, exercise and idiopathic
anaphylaxis and with risk factor like asthma.
POISONSTOXINS
560
POISONSTOXINS
GENERAL MANAGEMENT AND ASSESSMENT:
Airway
Breathing
Circulation
Disability
Exposure
Anaphylaxis reaction
• Call for help
• Remove allergens
When skill and equipment available:
• Establish airway
• High flow oxygen
• IV fluid challenge
• Anti-histamine (H1, H2 blockers)
• Hydrocortisone
• Monitor:
• Pulse oximetry
• ECG
• Blood pressure
Diagnosis- looks for:
• Acute onset illness
• Life threatening airway and/or
• Breathing and/or
• Circulation problems
• And usually skin changes
Adrenaline
561
POISONSTOXINS
Emergencytreatmentinanaphylaxis
DrugsinanaphylaxisDosagebyage
6months6mthsto6years6years-12years12years
AdrenalineIM-prehospitalpractitioners150micrograms
(0.15mlof1000)
300micrograms
(0.3mlof1:1000)
500microgram
(0.5mlof1:1000)
AdrenalineIM-inhospitalpractitioners
(rptafter5minsifnoimprovement)
10micrograms/kg
0.1ml/kgof1:10000(infants/youngchildren)OR0.01ml/kgof1:1000(olderchildren)
AdrenalineIVStartwith0.1microgram/kg/minandtitrateupto5microgram/kg/min*
Crystalloid20mls/kg
Hydrocortisone**
IMorSlowIV)
25mg50mg100mg200mg
• *Ifhypotensivepersistdespiteadequatefluid(CVP10),obtainechocardiogramandconsiderinfusingnoradrenaline
aswellasadrenaline.
• **Doseofintravenouscorticosteroidshouldbeequivalentto1-2mg/kg/doseofmethylprednisoloneevery6hours
(preventbiphasicreaction).
• Oralprednisolone1m/kgcanbeusedinmildercase.
• Antihistamineareeffectiveinrelievingcutaneoussymptomsbutmaycausedrowsinessandhypotension.
• Ifthepatientisonβ-blocker,theeffectofadrenalinemaybeblocked;Glucagonadministrationat20-30µg/kg,max1mgover
5minutesfollowedbyinfusionat5-15µg/minisuseful.
• Continueobservationfor6-24hoursdependingonseverityofreactionbecauseoftheriskofbiphasicreactionandthe
wearingoffofadrenalinedose.
562
POISONSTOXINS
Partial Obstruction/
Stridor
Assess AIRWAY
• Call for help
• Remove allergens
• Administer O2 via face mask
• Administer IM adrenaline
Assess BREATHING
ReAssess ABC
• Repeat adrenaline IM
if no response.
• Nebulised adrenaline,
rpt every 10 min as
required.
• Hydrocortisone
• Repeat adrenaline IM
if no response.
• Nebulised salbutamol,
repeat if required
• Hydrocortisone
• Consider Salbutamol IV
or aminophylline
• Repeat adrenaline IM
if no response.
• Crystalloid
• Adrenaline infusion
• Intubation or
• Surgical airway
• Bag ventilation via mask
or ET tube
• Repeat adrenaline IM
if no response
• Hydrocortisone
• Basic and advanced
life support
Complete
Obstruction
No Problem
No Problem
Assess CIRCULATION
No Problem
Apnoea Wheeze
No Pulse Shock
SPECIFIC TREATMENT AND INTERVENTION
563
POISONSTOXINS
References
Section 15 Poisons And Toxins
Ch 101 Snake Bite
1.Warrell DA. WHO/SEARO guidelines for the clinical management of snake
bites in the Southeast Asia region. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public
Health 1999;30 Supplement 1.
2.Gopalakrishnakone P, Chou LM (eds). Snakes of medical importance (Asia
- Pacific region). Venom and Toxin Research Group, Nat Univ Singapore 1990.
3.Soh SY, Rutherford G. Evidence behind the WHO Guidelines: hospital care
for children: should s/c adrenaline, hydrocortisone or antihistamines be
used as premedication for snake antivenom? J Trop Pediatr 2006;52:155-7.
4.Theakston RDG, Warrell DA, Griffiths E. Report of a WHO workshop on the
standardization and control of antivenoms. Toxicon 2003;41:541-57.
5.Ministry of Health Malaysia. Clinical protocol: Management of snake bite.
MOH/P/PAK/140.07 (GU), June 2008.
6.APLS manual 5th edition: approach to child with anaphylaxis.
Ch 102 Common Poisons
1.AL Jones, PI Dargon, What is new in toxicology? Current Pediatrics( 2001)
11, 409 – 413
2.Fiona Jepsen, Mary Ryan, Poisoning in children. Current Pediatrics 2005, 15
563 – 568
3.Rogers textbook of Pediatric Intensive Care 4th edition Chapter 31
4.Paracetamol overdose: an evidence based flowchart to guide management.
CI Wallace et al Emerg Med J 2002; 19:202-205
5.The management of paracetamol poisoning; Khairun et al Paediatrics and
Child Health 19:11 492-497
Ch 103 Anaphylaxis
1.Sheikh A,Ten Brock VM, Brown SGA, Simons FER H1- antihistamines for the
treatment of anaphylaxis with and without shock (Review) The Cochrane
Library 2012 Issue 4
2.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The practical approach 5th Edition 2011
Wiley- Blackwell; 279-289
3.J.K.Lee, P.Vadas Anaphylaxis: mechanism and management Clinical  Ex-
perimental Allergy Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2011 41, 923-938
4.F.Estelle, R. Simons Anaphylaxis and treatment. Allergy 2011 66 (Suppl 99)
31-34
5.K.J.L. Choo, E. Simons, A. Sheikh . Glucocorticoid for treatment of ana-
phyaxis: Cochrane systematic review. Allergy 2010 65 1205-1211
6.Graham R N, Neil HY. Anaphylaxis Medicine Elsevier 2008 37.2 57-60
7.Mimi LK Tang, Liew Woei Kang Prevention and treatment of anaphylaxis.
Paediatrics and Child Health Elsevier 2008 309-316
8.Sunday Clark, Carlos A, Camargo Jr Emergency treatment and prevention
of insect-sting anaphylaxis. Current Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2006 6:
279-283
564
POISONSTOXINS
565
Chapter 104: Recognition and Assessment of Pain
• The health care provider should decide on an appropriate level of pain
relief for a child in pain and also before a diagnostic or therapeutic
procedure.
• We can assess a child in pain using an observational-based pain score or
a self-assessment pain score. Repeated assessment needs to be done to
guide further analgesia.
Observational-based Pain Score: The Alder Hey Triage Pain Score
No. Response Score 0 Score 1 Score 2
1 Cry or voice No complaint
or cry
Normal
conversation
Consolable
Not talking
negative
Inconsolable
Complaining of
pain
2 Facial expres-
sion – grimace*
Normal Short grimace
50% time
Long grimace
50% time
3 Posture Normal Touching /
rubbing / spar-
ing / limping
Defensive /
tense
4 Movement Normal Reduced or
restless
Immobile or
thrashing
5 Colour Normal pale Very pale /
‘green’
*grimace – open mouth, lips pulled back at corners, furrowed forehead and
/or between eye-brows, eyes closed, wrinkled at corners.
From Appendix F, APLS 5th Edition; Score range from 0 to 10
SEDATION
566
SelfAssessmentPainScore:
ThetwoexamplesareFACESPainScale(WongBaker)andVerbalPainAssessmentScale(LikertScale).
FACESPainScale-Thechildismorethan3yearsoldandheorsheisaskedtochooseafaceonthescalewhichbestdescribeshis/her
levelofpain.Scoreis2,4,6,8,or10.
VerbalPainAssessmentScale
Achildwhoismorethan8yearsoldisaskedtoratehisorherpainbycirclingonanynumberonthescaleof0to10.
SEDATION
567
Chapter 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic
andTherapeutic Procedures
Definitions
• Sedation – reduces state of awareness but does not relieve pain.
• Analgesia – reduces the perception of pain.
Levels of sedation
Procedural sedation means minimal or moderate sedation / analgesia.
• Minimal sedation (anxiolysis) – drug-induced state during which patients
respond normally to verbal commands. Although cognitive function and
coordination may be impaired, ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are
unaffected.
• Moderate sedation / analgesia – drug-induced depression during which
patient respond to verbal commands either alone or accompanied by light
tactile stimulation. The airway is patent and spontaneous ventilation is
adequate. Cardiovascular function is adequate.
Note:
• Avoid deep sedation and general anesthesia in which the protective
airway reflexes are lost and patients need ventilatory support.
• Some children require general anesthesia even for brief procedures
whether painful or painless because of their level of distress.
Indications
• Patients undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Contra-indications
• Blocked airway including large tonsils or adenoids.
• Increase intracranial pressure.
• Reduce level of consciousness prior to sedation.
• Respiratory or cardiovascular failure.
• Neuromuscular disease.
• Child too distressed.
Patient selection
The patients should be in Class I and II of the ASA classification of sedation risk.
• Class I – a healthy patient
• Class II – a patient with mild systemic disease, no functional limitation
Preparation
• Consent
• Light restraint to prevent self injury
Personnel
• At least a senior medical officer, preferably PALS or APLS trained.
• A nurse familiar with monitoring and resuscitation.
SEDATION
568
Facilities
• Oxygen source.
• Suction.
• Resuscitation equipment.
• Pulse oximeter.
• ECG monitor.
• Non-invasive BP monitoring.
• Defibrillator.
Fasting
• Recommended for all major procedures:
	 Nil orally:	 no solid food for 6 hours
		 no milk feeds for 4 hours
• May allow clear fluids up to 2 hours before, for infants
Venous access
• Vein cannulated after applying local anaesthesia for 60 minutes.
Sedation for Painless Procedures
• Non-pharmacologic measures to reduce anxiety
• Behavioural management, child friendly environment
• Medication
• Oral Chloral hydrate (drug 1 in table) may be used.
Note:
• Opioids should not be used.
• Sedatives such as benzodiazepine and dissociative anaesthesia
ketamine should be used with caution and only by experienced senior
medical officers.
• A few children may need general anaesthesia and ventilation even for
painless procedure such as MRI brain if the above fails.
Sedation for Painful Procedures
• Non-pharmacologic measures to reduce anxiety
• Behavioural management, child friendly environment.
• Local anaesthesia
• Topical : Lignocaine EMLA ® 5% applied with occlusive plaster for
60 minutes to needle puncture sites, e.g. venous access, lumbar
puncture, bone marrow aspiration.
• Subcutaneous Lignocaine infiltrated to the anaesthesised area prior to
prolonged needling procedure, e.g. insertion of chest drainage.
SEDATION
569
• Medications (see table next page)
Many sedative and analgesic drugs are available; however, it is advisable
to use the following frequently used medications:
1. Narcotics (analgesia) also have sedative effects
• Fentanyl
• Naloxone (narcotic reversal)
- For respiratory depression* caused by narcotics.
• Morphine - general dissociative anaesthesia
2. Benzodiazepines (sedatives) have no analgesia effects
• Diazepam
• Flumazenil (benzodiazepine reversal)
- Can reverse respiratory depression* and paradoxical excitatory reactions
• Midazolam.
3. Ketamine (to be used by senior doctors preferably in the presence of an
anaesthesia doctor).
Adverse effects include
• Increased systemic, intracranial and intraocular pressures.
• Hallucinogenic emergence reactions (usually in older children).
• Laryngospasm.
• Excessive airway secretions.
*provide bag-mask positive pressure ventilation whilst waiting for reversal
agent to take effect.
Post sedation monitoring and discharge
Patient can be discharged when:
• Vital signs and SaO₂ normal.
And
• Arousable.
• Baseline level of verbal ability and able to follow age-appropriate
commands.
• Sit unassisted (if appropriate for age).
SEDATION
570
Drug dosages used for sedation and analgesia in children
Drug Dose Onset of
action
Duration of
action
Chloral
Hydrate
Oral 25 - 50 mg/kg; Max 2g.
For higher doses,
i.e. 50 -100 mg/kg, please
consult paediatrician or anaes-
thesiologist.
15 – 30 mins 2 -3 hours
Narcotics
Morphine IV
1 year: 200-500 mcg/kg
1 year: 80 mcg/kg
5 – 10 mins 2 – 4 hours
Fentanyl IV 1 – 2 mcg/kg 2 – 3 mins 20 -60 mins
Benzodiazepines
Midazolam IV 0.05 – 0.1 mg/kg, max single
dose 5 mg; may repeat up to
max total dose 0.4 mg/kg (10
mg)
1 -2 mins 30 – 60 mins
Diazepam IV 0.1 - 0.2 mg/kg 2 - 3 mins 30 – 90 mins
Ketamine IV 0.5 - 2.0 mg/kg 1 – 2 mins 15 – 60 mins
Reversal agents
Naloxone Repeated small doses
IV 1 - 10 mcg/kg every 1-2 mins
Flumazenil IV 0.01 – 0.02 mg / kg every
1 -2 minutes
up to a maximum dose of 1 mg
SEDATION
571
Chapter 108: Practical Procedures
Headings
1. Airway Access – Endotracheal Intubation
2. Blood Sampling  Vascular Access
2.1 Venepuncture  Peripheral Venous Cannulation
2.2 Arterial Blood Sampling  Peripheral Arterial Cannulation
2.3 Intra-Osseous Access
2.4 Neonates
2.4.1 Capillary Blood Sampling
2.4.2 Umbilical Arterial Catheterisation UAC
2.4.3 Umbilical Venous Catheterisation UVC
2.4 Central venous access - Femoral vein cannulation in children.
3. Body Fluid Sampling
3.1. CSF - Lumbar puncture
3.2. Chest tube insertion (open method)
3.3. Heart - Pericardiocentesis
3.4. Abdomen
3.4.1. Gastric lavage
3.4.2. Abdominal paracentesis
3.4.3. Peritoneal dialysis
3.4.4. Suprapubic bladder tap
3.4.5. Bladder catheterisation
3.5 Bone marrow aspiration  trephine biopsy
Selected sedation and pain relief is important before the procedures.
(see Ch 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures)
PROCEDURES
572
1. AIRWAY ACCESS - ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION
(Please request for assistance from the Doctor from Anaesthesiology Depart-
ment if necessary).
Introduction:
• APLS courses have been conducted locally since October 2010.
Kindly refer to APLS 5th Ed:-
• Chapter 20: Practical procedures: airway and breathing
• Chapter 21: Practical procedures: circulation
• The control of airway and breathing is very important in a patient with
respiratory or cardiopulmonary failure or collapse.
Indications
• When bag and mask ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure
(CPAP) is insufficient.
• For prolonged positive pressure ventilation.
• Direct suctioning of the trachea.
• To maintain and protect airway.
• Diaphragmatic hernia (newborn).
Contra-indications
• If the operator is inexperienced in intubation, perform bag and mask
ventilation till help arrives.
Equipment
• Bag and mask with high oxygen flow.
• Laryngoscope.
• Blades:
• Straight blade for infants, curved blades for an older child.
• Size 0 for neonates, 1 for infants, 2 for children.
• Endotracheal tube – appropriate size as shown.
• Stylet (optional).
• Suction catheter and device.
• Scissors and adhesive tape.
• Pulse oximeter.
• Sedation (Midazolam or
Morphine).
• Muscle relaxant
(Succinylcholine).
Size of ETT (mm):
2.5 for  1kg
3.0 for 1-2kg
3.5 for 2-3kg
3.5 - 4.0 for  3kg
Oral ETT length in cm for neonates:
6 + (weight in kg) cm
For Children  1 year:
ETT size (mm) = 4 plus (age in years /4)
Oral ETT length (cm) = 12 plus (age in years /2)
PROCEDURES
573
Procedure
1. Position infant with head in midline and slightly extended.
2. Continue bag and mask ventilation with 100% oxygen till well saturated. In
newborns adjust FiO2 accordingly until oxygen saturation is satisfactory.
(Refer NRP Program 6th edition).
3. Sedate the child with
• IV Midazolam (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) or IV Morphine (0.1-0.2 mg/kg).
• Give muscle relaxant if still struggling IV Succinylcholine (1-2 mg/kg).
Caution: must be able to bag the patient well or have good intubation
skills before giving muscle relaxant.
4. Monitor the child’s vital signs throughout the procedure.
5. Introduce the blade between the tongue and the palate with left hand
and advance to the back of the tongue while assistant secures the head.
6. When epiglottis is seen, lift blade upward and outward to visualize the
vocal cords.
7. Suction secretions if necessary.
8. Using the right hand, insert the ETT from the right side of the infant’s
mouth; a stylet may be required.
9. Keep the glottis in view and insert the ETT when the vocal cords are opened
till the desired ETT length while assistant applies cricoid pressure.
10. If intubation is not done within 20 seconds, the attempt should be aborted
and re-ventilate with bag and mask.
11. Once intubated, remove laryngoscope and hold the ETT firmly with left
hand. Connect to the self-inflating bag and positive pressure ventilation.
12. Confirm the ETT position by looking at the chest expansion, listen to lungs
air entry and also the stomach.
13. Secure the ETT with adhesive tape.
14. Connect the ETT to the ventilator or resuscitation bag.
15. Insert orogastric tube to decompress the stomach.
16. Check chest radiograph.
Complications and Pitfalls
• Oesophageal intubation.
• Right lung intubation.
• Trauma to the upper airway.
• Pneumothorax.
• Subglottic stenosis (late).
• Relative contra-indications for Succinylcholine are increased intra-cranial
pressure, neuromuscular disorders, malignant hyperthermia, hyperkalaemia
and renal failure.
Note: The drugs used in Rapid Sequence Intubation are listed in the PALS
Provider Manual.
PROCEDURES
574
2. BLOOD SAMPLING  VASCULAR ACCESS
2.1. VENEPUNCTURE  PERIPHERAL VENOUS LINE
Indications
• Blood sampling.
• Intravenous fluid, medications and blood components.
Equipment
• Alcohol swab.		
• Tourniquet.
• Topical anaesthetic (TA), e.g lignocaine EMLA® 5%.
• Catheter or needle; sizes 25, 23, 21 G.
• Heparinised saline, T-connector, rubber bung for setting an IV line.
Technique
1. Identify the vein for venepuncture. Secure the identified limb and apply
tourniquet or equivalent.
2. TA may be applied with occlusive plaster an hour earlier.
3. Clean the skin with alcohol swab.
4. Puncture the skin and advance the needle or catheter in the same direction
as the vein at 15-30 degrees angle.
5. In venepuncture, blood is collected once blood flows out from the needle.
The needle is then removed and pressure applied once sufficient blood is
obtained.
6. In setting an intravenous line, the catheter is advanced a few millimetres
further. Once blood appears at the hub, then withdraw the needle while
advancing the catheter.
7. Remove the tourniquet and flush the catheter with heparinised saline.
8. Secure the catheter and connect it to either rubber bung or IV drip.
9. Immobilise the joint above and below the site of catheter insertion with
restraining board and tape.
Complications
• Haematoma or bleeding.
• Thrombophlebitis.
• Extravasation can lead to soft tissue injury resulting in limb or digital loss
and loss of function.
This complication is of concern in neonates, where digital ischaemia,
partial limb loss, nerve damage, contractures of skin and across joints can
occur.
PROCEDURES
575
Extravasation injury
• Signs include:
• Pain, tenderness at insertion site especially during infusion or giving
slow bolus drugs.
• Redness.
• Swelling.
• Reduced movement of affected site.
(Note – the inflammatory response can be reduced in neonates especially
preterm babies)
• Observation
The insertion site should be observed for signs of extravasation:
• At least every 4 hours for ill patients.
• Sick preterm in NICU – observation should be done more often, that is,
every hour.
• Each time before, during and after slow bolus or infusion.
(Consider re-siting the intravenous catheter every 48 to 72 hours)
• If moderate or serious extravasation occurs, especially in the following
situation:
• Preterm babies.
• Delay in detection of extravasation.
• Hyperosmolar solutions or irritant drugs (glucose concentration 10g%,
sodium bicarbonate, calcium solution, dopamine, cloxacillin, fusidic acid)
Consider:
• Refer to plastic surgeon / orthopaedics surgeon.
• Performing ‘subcutaneous saline irrigation’ especially in neonates
(ref Davies, ADC, Fetal and Neonatal edition 1994).
Give IV analgesia morphine, then perform numerous subcutaneous
punctures around the extravasated tissue and flush slowly with generous
amount of normal saline to remove the irritant. Ensure that the
flushed fluid flows out through the multiple punctured sites.
Pitfalls
• If the patient is in shock, the venous flow back and the arterial flow
• (in event of accidental cannulation of an artery) is sluggish.
• BEWARE! An artery can be accidentally cannulated, e.g. brachial artery
at the cubital fossa and the temporal artery at the side of the head of a
neonate and be mistaken as a venous access. Check for resistance to flow
during slow bolus or infusion (e.g. frequent alarming of the perfusor pump)
or watch for pulsation in the backflow or a rapid backflow. Rapid bolus or
infusion of drugs can cause ischaemia of the limb. Where in doubt, gently
remove the IV cannula.
• Ensure prescribed drug is given by the proper mode of administration.
Some drugs can only be given by slow infusion (e.g.fusidic acid) instead of
slow bolus in order to reduce tissue damage from extravasation.
• Avoid medication error (correct patient, correct drug, correct DOSE,
correct route).
• Avoid nosocomial infection.
PROCEDURES
576
2.2. ARTERIAL BLOOD SAMPLING 
PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL LINE CANNULATION
Indications
• Arterial blood gases.
• Invasive blood pressure monitoring.
• Frequent blood taking.
Contra-indications
• Presence or potential of limb
ischaemia.
• Do not set arterial line if close
monitoring cannot be done.
Equipment
• Topical anaesthetic (TA) like
lignocaine EMLA® 5%.
• Alcohol swab.
• Needle size 27.
• Catheter size 25.
• Heparinised saline in 5cc syringe (1 ml for neonate), T-connector.
• Heparinised saline (1u/ml) for infusion.
Procedure
1. Check the ulnar collateral circulation by modified Allen test.
2. The radial pulse is identified. Other sites that can be used are posterior
tibial and dorsalis pedis artery.
3. TA may be applied with occlusive plaster an hour before procedure.
4. Clean the skin with alcohol swab.
5. Dorsiflex the wrist slightly. Puncture the skin and advance the catheter in
the same direction as the radial artery at a 30-40 degrees angle.
6. The catheter is advanced a few millimetres further when blood appears at
the hub, then withdraw the needle while advancing the catheter.
7. Aspirate to ensure good flow, then flush gently with a small amount of
heparinised saline.
8. Peripheral artery successfully cannulated.
• Ensure that the arterial line is functioning. The arterial pulsation is
usually obvious in the tubing.
• Connect to T-connector and 3-way stop-cock (red colour) to a syringe
pump.
• Label the arterial line and the time of the setting.
9. Run the heparinised saline at an appropriate rate:
• 0.5 to 1.0 mL per hour for neonates.
• 1.0 mL (preferred) or even up till 3.0 mL per hour for invasive BP line
(to avoid backflow in bigger paediatrics patients).
10. Immobilize the joint above and below the site of catheter insertion with
restraining board and tape, taking care not to make the tape too tight.
PROCEDURES
577
Complications and Pitfalls
• Arteriospasm which may lead to ischaemia and gangrene.
• Neonates especially – digital and distal limb ischaemia.
Precautions
Prevention of digital, distal limb ischaemia and gangrene
• AVOID end arteries e.g. brachial (in cubital fossa) and temporal artery
(side of head) in babies (BEWARE - both these arteries can be accidentally
cannulated and mistaken as ‘veins’ especially in ill patients with shock).
• Test for collateral circulation
• If a radial artery is chosen, please perform Allen’s test (to confirm the
ulnar artery collateral is intact) before cannulation.
• If either the posterior tibial or dorsalispedis artery on one foot is chosen,
ensure that these 2 arteries are palpable before cannulation.
• Circulation chart
Perform observation and record circulation of distal limb every hour in
the NICU/PICU, and whenever necessary to detect for signs of ischaemia,
namely:
• Colour - pale, blue, mottled.
• Cold, clammy skin.
• Capillary refill  2 seconds.
• Treatment of digital or limb ischaemia
• This is difficult as the artery involved is of small calibre.
• Remove IV cannula.
• Confirm thrombosis with ultrasound doppler.
• May consider warming the contralateral unaffected limb to induce
reflex vasodilatation if part of one limbis affected
(see Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis).
• Ensure good peripheral circulation and blood pressure
• Anticoagulant drugs and thrombolytic agents should be considered.
• Refer orthopaedic surgeon if gangrene is inevitable
• Reminders:
• PREVENTION of limb ischaemia is of utmost importance.
• Early detection of ischaemia is very important in order to avoid
irreversible ischaemia.
• If the patient is in shock, the risk of limb ischaemia is greater.
• Small and preterm babies are at greater risk for ischaemia.
• No fluid or medication other than heparinized saline can be given
through arterial line. This mistake can occur if the line is not properly
labelled, or even wrongly labelled and presumed to be a venous line.
PROCEDURES
578
2.3. INTRAOSSEOUS ACCESS
Notes:
• Intraosseous infusion can be used for all age groups.
• The most common site for IO cannulation is the anterior tibia
(all age groups). Alternate sites include:
• Infant – distal femur
• Child – anterior superior iliac spine, distal tibia.
• Adolescent/adult - distal tibia, medial malleolus, anterior superior iliac
spine, distal radius, distal ulna.
• All the fluids and medications can be given intraosseously.
• IO infusion is not recommended for use longer than a 24 hour period.
Indications
• Emergency access for IV fluids and medications when other methods of
vascular access failed.
• In certain circumstances, e.g. severe shock with severe vasoconstriction
or cardiac arrest, IO access may be the INITIAL means of vascular access
attempted.
Contra-indications
• Fractures, crush injuries near the access site.
• Conditions in which the bone is fragile e.g. osteogenesis imperfecta.
• Previous attempts to establish access inthe same bone.
• Infection over the overlying tissues.
Equipment
• Sterile dressing set.
• EZ-IO drill set if available.
• Intraosseous needle.
• Syringes for aspiration.
• Local anaesthesia.
Procedure
1. Immobilize the lower limb.
2. Support the limb with linen
3. Clean and draped the area
4. Administer LA at the site of insertion
5. Insert the IO needle 1-3 cm below and medial to the tibial tuberosity
caudally.
6. Advance needle at a 60-90o angle away from the growth plate until a
‘give’ is felt.
7. Remove the needle trocar stylet while stabilizing the needle cannula
8. Withdraw bone marrow with a 5cc syringe to confirm access
9. Infuse a small amount of saline and observe for swelling at the insertion
site or posteriorly in the extremity opposite the insertion site. Fluid
should flow in freely and NO swelling must be seen. (Swelling indicates
that the needle has penetrated into and through the posterior cortical
bone. If this happens remove the needle.)
PROCEDURES
579
10. Connect the cannula to tubing and IV fluids. Fluid should flow in freely
11. Monitor for any extravasation of fluids.
Complications
• Cellulitis.
• Osteomyelitis.
• Extravasation of fluids/compartment syndrome.
• Damage to growth plate.
2.4. NEONATES
2.4.1. CAPILLARY BLOOD SAMPLING
Indications
• Capillary blood gases
• Capillary blood glucose
• Serum bilirubin
Equipment
• Lancet or heel prick device.
• Alcohol swab.
Procedure
1. Either prick the medial or lateral aspect of the heel
2. For the poorly perfused heel, warm with gauze soaked in warm water.
3. Clean the skin with alcohol swab
4. Stab the sterile lancet to a depth of 2.5mm, then withdraw it.
Intermittently squeeze the heel gently when the heel is re-perfused until
sufficient blood is obtained.
Complications
• Cellulitis.
• Osteomyelitis.
PROCEDURES
580
2.4.2. UMBILICAL ARTERY CATHETERISATION (UAC)
Indications
• Repeated blood sampling in ill newborn especially those on ventilator.
• Occasionally it is used for continuous BP monitoring and infusion.
Contra-indications
• Local vascular compromise in lower extremities.
• Peritonitis, necrotising enterocolitis.
• Omphalitis.
Prior to setting
• Examine the infant’s lower extremities and buttocks for any signs of
vascular insufficiency.
• Palpate femoral pulses for their presence and equality.
• Evaluate the infant’s legs, feet, and toes for any asymmetry in colour,
visible bruising, or vascular insufficiency.
• Document the findings for later comparison. Do not set if there is any
sign of vascular insufficiency.
Equipment
• UAC/UVC set.
• Umbilical artery catheter, appropriate size.
• 5 cc syringes filled with heparinized saline.
• Three-way tap.
• Heparinized saline (1u/ml) for infusion.
Procedure
1. Clean the umbilicus and the surrounding area using standard aseptic
technique. In order to observe for limb ischaemia during umbilical arterial
insertion, consider exposing the feet in term babies if the field of sterility is
adequate.
2. Catheterise the umbilical artery to the desired position.
The formula for UAC is:
• (Body weight in kg x 3) + 9 + ‘stump length’ in cm
(high position - recommended)
• Height in kg + 7 cm (low position)
3. Cut the umbilicus horizontally
leaving behind a 1cm stump.
There are usually 2 arteries and
1 vein. The artery is smaller, white
and harder in consistency.
Use the curved artery forceps to
hold the umbilicus stump upright
and taut.
Use the probe to dilate the vessel.
Insert the catheter to the desired distance.
Size of UAC in mm:
3.5 for  1.25 kg
5.0 for 1.25 - 3.5 kg
PROCEDURES
581
4. Ensure the successful and correct cannulation of one umbilical artery.
• Tips for successful catheterisation of the umbilical artery:
- In a fresh and untwisted umbilical stump, the two arteries can be
clearly distinguished from the vein.
- The blood withdrawn is bright red.
- Visible arterial pulsations can be seen in the column of blood
withdrawn into the catheter. This pulsation in may not be seen in very
preterm babies and babies in shock, using the closed system.
• In accidental cannulation of the umbilical vein, the catheter tip can be in
the left atrium (via the foramen ovale from the right to left atrium) or
in the left ventricle.
• Stick the label of the catheter onto patient’s folder for future reference
(brand and material of catheter) in the event of limb ischaemia or
thrombosis of femoral artery occurring later.
5. Observe for signs of arterial occlusion to the lower limbs and buttocks
(colour, cold skin, capillary refill delayed, poor dorsalis pedis and posterior
tibial pulses) during and after the proceduredue to arterial vasospasm.
Lift the edge of the drape by an assistant to observe the lower limbs
circulation without compromising the sterility field.
6. If there are no complications (limb ischaemia – see pitfalls), secure the UAC
to avoid accidental dislodgement.
7. Perform a chest and abdominal X-ray to ascertain the placement of UAC tip
• Between T 6-9 vertebra (high position) - preferred
• At the L 3-4 vertebra (low position)
Withdraw the catheter to the correct position, as soon as position is
ascertained, if necessary.
8. Monitor the lower limbs and buttock area for ischaemic changes 2-4 hourly
9. Infuse heparinised saline continuously through the UAC at 0.5 to 1 U/hr to
reduce the risk of catheter occlusion and thrombotic events.
10. Note the catheter length markings every day and compare with the
procedure note at the time of insertion ( to check for catheter migration).
11. Remove the UAC as soon as no longer required to reduce the incidence of
thrombus formation and long line sepsis.
Complications
• Bleeding from accidental disconnection and open connection.
• Embolisation of blood clot or air in the infusion system.
• Vasospasm or thrombosis of aorta, iliac, femoral or obturator artery
leading to limb or buttock ischaemia.
(see Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis)
• Thrombosis of renal artery (hypertension, haematuria, renal failure),
mesenteric artery (gut ischaemia, necrotising enterocolitis).
• Vascular perforation of umbilical arteries, haematoma and retrograde
arterial bleeding.
• Infection.
PROCEDURES
582
2.4.3. UMBILICAL VEIN CATHETERISATION (UVC)
Indications
• UVC is used for venous access in neonatal resuscitation.
• As a venous access in preterm babies especially ELBW babies (1000g)
and also in sick babies in shock with peripheral vasoconstriction.
• For doing exchange transfusion for severe neonatal jaundice.
Contra-indications
• Omphalitis, omphalocoele.
• Necrotising enterocolitis.
• Peritonitis.
Equipment
• UVC set.
• Umbilical venous catheter, appropriate size.
• 5 cc syringes filled with heparinized saline.
• Three-way tap.
• Heparinized saline (1u/ml) for infusion.
Procedure
1. Clean umbilicus and its surroundings using standard procedures. In order to
observe for limb ischaemia during insertion (in the event of accidental arterial
catheterisation), consider exposing the feet in term babies if field of sterility is
adequate.
2. Formula for insertion length of UVC:
• [0.5 x UAC cm (high position)] + 1 cm.
(Refer to information on use of “Shoulder - umbilical length” ,
in Ch 13 NICU guidelines)
Or
• 2 x weight in kg + 5 + stump length in cm.
3. Perform the umbilical venous cannulation
• Tips for successful UV catheterisation:
- In a fresh (first few hours of life) and untwisted umbilical stump, the
umbilical vein has a thin wall, is patulous and is usually sited at the
12 o’clock position.
The two umbilical arteries which have a thicker wall and in spasm,
and sited at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions.
However, in a partially dried umbilical cord, the distinction between
the vein and arteries may not be obvious.
- The venous flow back is sluggish and without pulsation (in contrast to
the arterial pulsation of UAC).
- The blood is dark red in colour.
- Stand to the right of the baby (if you are right handed). Tilt the umbilical
stump inferiorly at an angle of 45 degrees from the abdomen. Advance
the catheter superiorly and posteriorly towards the direction of the
right atrium.
Size of UVC mm:
5.0 for 2kg
8.0 for 2-3.5kg
10.0 for3.5kg
PROCEDURES
583
• Central venous pressure
- The UVC tip is sited in the upper IVC (inferior vena cava).
The right atrial pressure in a term relaxed baby normally ranges from
-2 to + 6 mmHg (i.e. - 3 cm to + 9 cm water).
• Negative intrathoracic pressure and air embolism
- In a crying baby, the negative intrathoracic pressure can be significant
during deep inspiration.
- Ensure that no air embolism occurs during the procedure especially in
the presence of negative pressure when the catheter tip is in the right
atrium.
Air embolism can occur if the baby takes a deep inspiration when the
closed UVC circuit is broken.
• Stick the label of the catheter onto the patient’s folder for future
reference (brand and material of catheter) in the event of thrombosis
occurring in the cannulated vessel.
4. If there are no complications, secure the UVC to avoid accidental migration
of the catheter.
5. If the UVC is for longer term usage such as for intravenous access / TPN,
perform chest and abdominal radiograph to ascertain the tip of the catheter is
in the inferior vena cava above the diaphragm.
6. Consider removing the UVC after 5 - 7 days to reduce incidence of line sepsis or
thrombus forming around the catheter.
Complications
• Infections.
• Thrombo-embolic – lungs, liver, even systemic circulation.
• Pericardial tamponade, arrhythmias, hydrothorax.
• Portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension (manifested later in life).
Pifalls
• The umbilical artery can be mistakenly cannulated during umbilical venous
catheterisation.
• If you suspect that the umbilical artery was wrongly cannulated resulting
in limb ischaemia, please refer Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis.
PROCEDURES
584
2.5 CENTRAL VENOUS ACCESS: FEMORAL VEIN CANNULATION IN
CHILDREN
• The routes of central venous access includes peripherally inserted central
catheter - PICC (eg through cubital fossa vein into SVC) and femoral,
external / internal jugular and subclavian veins.
• These lines must be inserted by trained senior doctors in selected seriously
ill paediatrics patients requiring resuscitation and emergency treatment.
• The benefits of a successfully inserted central venous access must be
weighed against the numerous potential complications arising from the
procedure.
• This includes pneumothorax and life-threatening injuries of the airway,
lungs, great vessels and heart.
• The basic principle of Seldinger central line insertion applies to all sites
and the femoral vein cannulation is described.
• For insertion of central lines by experts in other sites, please refer to
Chapter 21, APLS 5th Ed 2011 and PALS 6 PALS 2002.
Indications
• Seriously ill ventilated paediatrics patients.
• To obtain central venous pressure.
• Longer term intravenous infusion (compared to IO access).
• Haemodialysis.
Contra-indications
• Absence of trained doctors for this procedure.
• Bleeding and clotting disorders.
• Risk of contamination of the cannulation site by urine and faeces.
Equipment
• Sterile set.
• Lidocaine (Lignocaine) 1% for local anaesthetic, 2 mL syringe, 23 G needle.
• 5 mL syringe and normal saline, t-connector and 3-way tap.
• Seldinger cannulation set – syringe, needle, guide wire, catheter.
• Sterile dressing.
PROCEDURES
585
Procedure
1. In a ventilated child, give a dose of analgesia (eg Morphine, Fentanyl) and
sedation (e.g. Midazolam).
2. In the supine position, expose the chosen leg and groin in a slightly
abducted position.
3. Clean the inguinal region thoroughly using iodine and 70% alcohol.
4. Infiltrate local lidocaine if necessary.
5. Identify the landmark by palpating the femoral artery pulse in the
mid-inguinal region. The femoral vein is medial to the femoral artery.
6. Insert the saline filled syringe and needle at 45 degrees angle to the skin
and 1 cm medial (depends on the age of child) and parallel to the femoral
artery pulsation. Pull the plunger gently and advance superiorly in-line
with the leg.
7. When there is a backflow of blood into the syringe, stop suction, and
disconnect the syringe from the needle. The guide wire is then promptly
and gently inserted into the needle.
8. Withdraw the needle gently without risking damage to the guide wire
9. Insert the cannula over the wire without risking displacement of the wire
into the patient.
10. Once the cannula has been inserted, remove the guide wire and attach
the infusion line securely onto the hub of the cannula. Check for easy
backflow by gentle suction on the syringe.
11. Secure the line using sterile dressing and ensure the insertion site is
clearly visible at all times.
Pitfalls
• Do not lose the guide wire (inserted too deep into patient)
• Do not fracture the guide wire accidentally with the needle
• Do not accidentally cannulate the femoral artery (blood pressure could
be low in a patient with shock)
• Beware of local haematoma at injection site.
• Always check the distal perfusion of the leg and toes before and after
procedure.
PROCEDURES
586
3. BODY FLUID SAMPLING
3.1. LUMBAR PUNCTURE
Indications
• Suspected meningitis / encephalitis.
• Intrathecal chemotherapy for oncology patients.
• In selected patients being investigated for neurometabolic disorders.
Contraindications
• Increased intracranial pressure (signs and symptoms, raised blood
pressure, fundoscopic signs).
• Bleeding tendency - platelet count 50,000/mm3
, prolonged PT or APTT.
• Skin infection over the site of lumbar puncture
• Patient with hypertensive encephalopathy
Equipment
• Sterile set.
• Sterile bottles for CSF, bottle for RBS (random blood sugar).
• Spinal needle 20-22G, length 1.5 inch with stylet; length 3.5 inches
for children  12 years old.
Procedure
1. Give sedation (midazolam), apply local anaesthetic.
2. Take a random blood sugar sample (RBS).
3. Place child in lateral recumbent position with neck, body, hips and knees
flexed. Monitor oxygen saturation continuously.
4. Visualise a vertical line between the highest point of both iliac crests and its
transection with the midline of the spine (at level between vertebrae L 3-4).
5. Clean area using standard aseptic techniques: povidone-iodine and 70%
alcohol.
6. Gently puncture skin with spinal needle at the identified mark and point
towards the umbilicus. The entry point is distal to the palpated spinous
process L4.
7. Gently advance a few millimetres at a time until there is a backflow of CSF
(there may be a ‘give’ on entering the dura mater before the CSF backflow).
Collect the CSF in the designated bottles.
8. Gently withdraw needle, spray with op-site, cover with gauze and bandage.
9. Ensure that the child lies supine for the next 4 to 6 hours, continue
monitoring child till he or she recovers from the sedation.
Complications
• Headache or back pain following the procedure (from arachnoiditis).
• Brain herniation associated with raised ICP.
• Bleeding into CSF, or around the cord (extraspinal haematoma).
PROCEDURES
587
3.2. CHEST TUBE INSERTION
Indications
• Pneumothorax with respiratory distress.
• Significant pleural effusion.
• Empyema.
Equipment
• Suturing set.
• Local anaesthetic +/- sedation.
• Chest tube, appropriate size.
• Underwater seal with sterile water.
• Suction pump – optional.
Procedure
1. Sedate the child.
2. Position the child with ipsilateral arm fully abducted.
3. Clean and drape the skin.
4. Infiltrate LA into the skin at 4th ICS, AAL or mid axillary line.
5. Check approximate length of the chest tube to be inserted.
For Open Method
i. The open method (without the metal introducer) of chest tube cannulation
is the preferred method except in neonates
ii. Make a small incision in the skin just above the rib. Bluntly dissect through
the subcutaneous tissue and puncture the parietal pleura with the tip of the
clamp. Put a gloved finger into the incision and clear the path into the
pleura. This will not be possible in a small child. Advance the chest tube into
the pleural space during expiration.
iii. For drainage of air, roll the child slightly to the opposite side for easier
manoeuvring and advancement of the chest tube. Place the tip of the chest
tube at the incision. Point the catheter tip anteriorly and slowly advance
the chest tube. However, for drainage of empyema, roll the child slightly
towards same side and point the catheter tip posteriorly and proceed with
the rest of the procedure.
iv. Connect the chest tube to underwater seal.
For Closed Method
i. Make a small incision just above the rib down to the subcutaneous tissue.
ii. Place the tip of the chest tube at the incision, point the tip anteriorly for
drainage of air and posteriorly for drainage of empyema. Slowly advance
the chest tube with introducer by exerting a firm continuous pressure
until a ‘give’ is felt.
iii. Withdraw the introducer partially and advance the chest tube till the
desired length.
iv. Remove introducer fully and clamp the chest tube.over a gauze. May not
be necessary if patient receiving positive pressure ventilation.
v. Connect the chest tube to underwater seal.
Size of chest tube (mm)
8 for  2kg
10 for  2kg
Older children
12-18 depending on size
PROCEDURES
588
Then continue with the following for both methods:
6. The water should bubble ( if pneumothorax) and the fluid moves with
respiration if chest tube is in the pleural space.
7. Secure the chest tube with pulse string sutures or sterile tape strips in
neonates.
8. Connect the underwater seal to suction pump if necessary.
9. Confirm the position with a chest X-ray.
NEEDLE THORACOTOMY
1. Indicated in tension pneumothorax as an emergency measure to
decompress the chest until a chest tube is inserted.
2. Done under strict aseptic technique. Attach a 5ml syringe to a 16 to 20
gauge angiocatheter. Gently insert catheter perpendicularly through the
second intercostal space, over the top of the third rib, at the midclavicular
line while applying a small negative pressure as the needle is advanced. Air
will be aspirated on successful needle thoracotomy. When this happens,
remove the needle while leaving the branula in situ to allow the tension
pneumothorax to decompress.
Insert a chest tube as described above as soon as feasible.
PROCEDURES
SITE FOR CHEST TUBE INSERTION
589
3.3. PERICARDIOCENTESIS
Indications
• Symptomatic collection of air.
• Blood or other fluids / empyema in pericardial sac.
Equipment
• Suturing set.
• Angiocatheter – size 20G for newborn,18G for older children.
• T connector.
• 3-way stopcock.
Procedure
1. Place patient in supine position and on continuous ECG monitoring.
2. Clean and drape the subxiphoid area.
3. Prepare the angiocatheter by attaching the T connector to the needle hub
and connect the other end of the T-connector to a 3-way stopcock which is
connected to a syringe.
4. Insert the angiocatheter at about 1cm below the xiphoid process at angle of
20-30o to the skin and advance slowly, aiming at the tip of the left shoulder
while applying light negative pressure with the syringe. Stop advancing the
catheter if there is cardiac arrhythmia
5. Once air or fluid returns in the T connector stop advancing the catheter and
aspirate a small amount to confirm positioning.
6. Remove the T connector from the angiocatheter and rapidly hold your
finger over the needle hub.
7. Advance the catheter further while removing the needle.
8. Reattach the T connector and resume aspiration of the air or fluid required.
9. Send any aspirated fluid for cell count, biochemistry and culture.
10. Suture the angiocatheter in place. Perform CXR to confirm positioning and
look for any complication.
11. The catheter should be removed within 72 hours. If further aspiration is
required, placement of a pericardial tube is an option.
Do not hesitate to consult cardiothoracic surgeon.
Complications
• Perforation of heart muscle leading to cardiac tamponade.
• Haemo / pneumo – pericardium
• Cardiac arrhythmias.
• Pneumothorax
PROCEDURES
590
3.4. ABDOMEN
3.4.1. GASTRIC LAVAGE
Indications
• Removal of toxins.
• Removal of meconium from stomach for newborn.
Equipment
• Nasogastric tube size 8-12.
• Syringes- 5cc for neonate, 25-50cc for older children.
• Sterile water.
Procedure
1. Put the child in left semiprone position.
2. Estimate the length of nasogastric tube inserted by measuring the tube
from the nostril and extending it over and around the ear and down to the
epigastrium.
For orogastric tube insertion, the length of tube inserted equal to the
bridge of the nose to the ear lobe and to appoint halfway between the
lower tip of sternum and the umbilicus.
3. Lubricate the tip of the tube with KY jelly. Insert the tube gently.
4. Confirm position by aspirating stomach contents. Re-check by plunging air
into stomach whilst listening with a stethoscope, or check acidity of
stomach contents.
5. Perform gastric lavage until the aspirate is clear.
6. If indicated, leave activated charcoal or specific antidote in the stomach.
decompress. Insert a chest tube as described above as soon as feasible.
Complications
• Discomfort.
• Trauma to upper GIT.
• Aspiration of stomach contents.
PROCEDURES
591
3.4.2. ABDOMINAL PARACENTESIS
Indications
• Diagnostic procedure.
• Drain ascites.
Equipment
• Dressing set.
• Cannula size 21,23.
• Syringes 10cc.
Procedure
1. Supine position. Catheterize to empty the bladder.
Clean and drape abdomen.
2. Site of puncture is at a point in the outer 1/3 of a line drawn from the
umbilicus to the anterior superior illiac spine.
3. Insert the catheter, connected to a syringe, into the peritoneal cavity
in a ‘Z’ track fashion.
4. Aspirate while advancing the catheter until fluid is seen in the syringe.
Remove the needle and reconnect the catheter to the syringe and aspirate
the amount required. Use a three-way tap if large amounts need to be
removed.
5. Once complete, remove the catheter. Cover puncture site with sterile
dry gauze.
Complications
• Infection.
• Perforation of viscus.
• Leakage of peritoneal fluid.
• Hypotension if excessive amount is removed quickly.
PROCEDURES
592
3.4.3. PERITONEAL DIALYSIS
(See Ch 61 Acute Peritoneal Dialysis)
3.4.4. SUPRAPUBIC BLADDER TAP
Indication
• Urine culture in a young infant.
Equipment
• Dressing set.
• Needle size 21, 23.
• Syringe 5cc.
• Urine culture bottle.
Procedure
1. Make sure bladder is palpable. If needed,encourage patient to drink half
to 1 hour before procedure.
2. Position the child in supine position. Clean and drape the lower abdomen.
3. Insert the needle attached to a 5cc syringe perpendicular or slightly caudally
to the skin, 0.5 cm above the suprapubic bone.
4. Aspirate while advancing the needle till urine is obtained.
5. Withdraw the needle and syringe.
6. Pressure dressing over the puncture site.
7. Send urine for culture.
Complications
• Microscopic hematuria.
• Infection.
• Viscus perforation.
PROCEDURES
593
3.4.5. BLADDER CATHETERIZATION
Indications
• Monitor urine output.
• Urinary retention.
• MCUG - Patient for MCU needs to given stat dose of IV Gentamicin or TMP
2mg/kg bd for 48 hours.
• Urine culture.
Equipment
• Dressing Set.
• Urinary catheter.
• LA / K-Y jelly.
• Syringe and water for injection.
Procedure
1. Position the child in a frog-leg position. Clean and drape the perineum.
2. In girls, separate the labia majora with fingers to expose the urethra opening.
3. In boys, hold the penis perpendicular to the body.
4. Pass catheter in gently till urine is seen then advance a few centimetres further.
5. Secure the catheter with adhesive tape to the body.
6. Connect the catheter to the urine bag.
Complications
• Infection.
• Trauma which lead to urethral stricture.
Size of Catheter:
Size 4 for 3kg
Size 6 for 3kg
Older children:
Foley’s catheter 6-10
PROCEDURES
594
3.5. BONE MARROW ASPIRATION AND TREPHINE BIOPSY
Indications
• Examination of bone marrow in a patient with haematologic or oncologic
disorder.
Contra-indications
• Bleeding tendency, platelet count  50,000/mm3
.
Consider transfusion of platelet concentrates prior to procedure.
Equipment
• Bone marrow set (Islam) 16 – 18G
Procedure
1. Sedate child, monitor continuously with pulse oximeter.
2. Position child - either as for lumbar puncture or in a prone position.
3. Identify site for aspiration - posterior iliac crest preferred, upper
anterior-medial tibia for child  3 months old.
4. Clean skin using standard aseptic technique with povidone-iodine and 70%
alcohol.
5. Make a small skin nick over the PSIS (posterior superior iliac spine). Hold
the trocar firmly and gently enter the cortex by a twisting action.
A ‘give’ is felt as the needle enters the bone marrow.
6. Trephine biopsy is usually done before marrow aspiration.
7. Withdraw needle, spray with op-site, cover with gauze and crepe bandage.
8. Lie child supine for the next 4 to 6 hours and observe for blood soaking
the gauze in a child with bleeding diasthesis.
Complications
• Bleeding, haematoma.
• Infection.
PROCEDURES
595
PROCEDURES
References
Section 16 Sedation, Procedures
Ch 104  105 Recognition and assessment of pain, Sedation and Analgesia
1.Management of pain in children, Appendix F. Advanced Paediatric Life Sup-
port 5th Edition 2011.
2.Safe sedation of children undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic proce-
dures. Scottish Intercolleagiate Guidelines Network SIGN, May 2004.
3.Guideline statement 2005: Management of procedure-related pain in
children and adolescents.
4. Paediatrics  Child Health Division, The Royal Australian College of Physi-
cians.
Chapter 106 Practical Procedures
1.Advanced Paediatric Life Support – The Practical Approach. BMJ Books,
APLS 5th Edition 2011, Chapters 20  21.
2.American Heart Association Textbook for Neonatal Resuscitation NRP 5th
Edition 2006.
3.American Heart Association Textbook of Paediatric Advanced Life Support
2002
4.APLS - The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Resource. Gausche-Hill M, Fuchs
S, Yamamoto L. 4th Edition 2004, Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
5.Chester M. Edelmann. Jr., Jay Berstein, S. Roy Meadow, Adrian Spitzer, and
Luther B. Travis 1992. Paediatric Kidney Diseases 2nd edition.
6.ForfarArneil’s Textbook of Paediatrics 5th edition:1829-1847
7.Ian A. Laing, Edward Dolye 1998. Practical Procedures.
8.Michele C. Walsh-Sukys, Steven E. Krug 1997. Procedures in infants and
children.
9.Newborn Resuscitation - Handbook of Emergency Protocols, algorithms
and Procedures by Kuala Lumpur General Hospital.
10.NRC Roberton 3rd Edition 1999. Iatrogenic disorders Chapter 37, pp 917-
938. Procedures Chapter 51, pp 1369-1384.
11.R.J. Postlethwaite 1994 Clinical Paediatric Nephrology 2nd edition.
12.The Harriet Lane Handbook 15th Edition 2000, Procedures Chapter 3, pp
43-72.
596
PROCEDURES
597
DRUG DOSES
Abacavir (ABC). 8mg/kg (adult
300mg) 12H oral.
Abacavir 600mg + lamivudine
300mg (Epzicom). 16yr: 1 tab
daily oral.
Abacavir 300mg + lamivudine
150mg + zidovudine 300mg
(Trizivir). 40kg: 1 tab 12H oral.
Abarelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 vial (de-
livers 100mg) IM on day 1, 15 and
29, and then every 28 days.
Abatacept. NOT/kg: 500mg (40-
60kg) 750mg (60-100 kg) 1g
(100kg) IV over 30min day 1,
2wk, 4wk, then every 4wk.
Abciximab. 0.25mg/kg IV stat 10min
before angioplasty, then 0.2mcg/
kg/min (max 10mcg/min) IV for
12hr.
Acamprosate. Adult (NOT/kg).
60kg: 666mg mane, 333mg noon
and nocte oral. 60kg: 666mg 8H.
Acarbose. 1-4mg/kg (adult 50-
200mg) 8H oral.
Acebutolol. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) 8-24H oral.
Aceclofenac. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
12H oral.
Acemetacin. 1.2mg/kg (adult 60mg)
8-12H oral.
Acenocoumarol. See nicoumalone.
Acetaminophen. See paracetamol.
Acetazolamide. 5-10mg/kg (adult
100-250mg) 6-8H (daily for
epilepsy) oral. TB hydrocephalus:
25-50mg/kg 6-8H plus frusemide
0.25mg/kg 6H; may cause severe
alkalosis.
Acetic acid. 1% 3 drops/ear 8H. Box
jellyfish: apply vinegar.
Acetohydroxamic acid. 5mg/kg
(adult 250mg) 6-8H oral.
Acetylcholine chloride. Adult (NOT/
kg): 1% instil 0.5-2ml into anterior
chamber of the eye.
Acetylcysteine. Paracetamol
poisoning (regardless of delay):
150mg/kg in 5%D IV over 1hr;
then 10mg/kg/hr for 20hr (delay
10hr), 32hr (delay 10-16hr),
72hr (delay 16hr) and longer
if still encephalopathic; oral
140mg/kg stat, then 70 mg/kg
4H for 72hr. Monitor serum K+.
Give if paracetamol 1000umol/L
(150mg/L) at 4hr, 500umol/L
8hr, 250umol/L 12hr. Lung dis-
ease: 20% soltn 0.1ml/kg (adult
5ml) 6-12H nebulised or intratra-
cheal. Meconium ileus equiva-
lent: 5ml (NOT/kg) of 20% soltn
8H oral; 60-100ml of 50mg/ml for
45 min PR. CF: 4-8mg/kg 8H oral.
Eye drop 5% + hypro¬mellose
0.35%: 1 drop/eye 6-8H.
Acetylsalicylic acid. See aspirin.
Acetyl sulfisoxazole. 1.16g = 1.0g
sulphafurazole (qv).
Aciclovir. EBV, herpes enceph, im-
munodef, varicella: 500 mg/m2
IV over 1hr every 18H (30wk),
12H (30-32wk), 8H (birth-12yr);
12yr 10mg/kg 8H IV over 1hr.
Cutan¬eous herpes 250mg/m2
(birth-12yr) 5mg/kg (12yr) 8H IV
over 1hr. Genital herpes (12yr
NOT/kg): 200mg oral x5/day for
10 days, then 200mg x2-3/day
for 6mo if reqd. Zoster (12yr
NOT/kg): 400 mg (2yr) or 800mg
(=2yr) oral x5/day for 7 days.
Cold sores: 5% cream x5/day. Eye:
3% oint x5/day.
Acipimox. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg)
8-12H oral.
The drug doses in the following pages are provided courtesy of
Professor Frank Shann, from the Intensive Care Unit, Royal Children’s Hospital,
Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia, and is current as of 12 March 2012.
DRUGS ARE LISTED BY GENERIC NAME
1/100=1%=10mg/ml, 1/1000=1mg/ml, 1/10000=0.1mg/ml.
DrugDoses
598
Acriflavine hydrochloride. 0.1%
soltn: apply 12-24H.
Acrivastine. 0.15mg/kg (adult 8mg)
8H oral.
Actinomycin D. See dactinomycin.
Acitretin. 0.5mg/kg (adult 25-50mg)
daily oral; occasionally up to
1mg/kg (adult 75mg) daily oral.
Activated charcoal. See charcoal,
activated.
Acyclovir. See aciclovir.
Adalimumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 40mg
every 1-2wk SC.
Adapalene. 0.1% gel: apply once a
day before bedtime.
Adapalene 0.1% + benzoyl peroxide
2.5% gel. Apply daily.
Adefovir. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg daily
oral.
Adenosine. Arrhythmia: 0.1mg/kg
(adult 3mg) stat by rapid IV push,
incr by 0.1mg/kg (adult 3mg)
every 2min to max 0.5 mg/kg
(adult 18mg). Pul hypertension:
50mcg/kg/min (3 mg/ml at 1ml/
kg/hr) into central vein.
Adrenaline. Asthma, bronchiolitis,
croup by inhaltn (2yr use 10 l/
min gas flow): 1% 0.05ml/kg di-
luted to 6ml, or 1/1000 0.5ml/kg
(max 6ml) diluted to 6ml. Cardiac
arrest (repeat if reqd): 0.1ml/kg
of 1/10,000 IV or intracardiac;
via ETT 0.1 ml/kg of 1/1000.
Anaphylaxis: IV 0.05-0.1ml/kg of
1/10,000, repeat if reqd; IM into
thigh: 0.01 mg/kg (0.01ml/kg of
1/1000) up to 0.1mg/kg, x3 doses
20 min apart if reqd. IV infsn
0.15mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at
1-10ml/hr (0.05-0.5 mcg/kg/min).
Adrenaline 0.1% + fluorouracil
3.33%. Gel: inject into each wart
x1/wk for up to 6wk.
Adrenocorticotrophic hormone
(ACTH). See cortico¬trophin.
Agalsidase alpha. 0.2mg/kg IV over
40min every 2wk.
Agalsidase beta. 0.2-1mg/kg IV over
40 min every 2wk.
Agar + paraffin 65%. NOT/kg: 6mo-
2yr 5ml, 3-5yr 5-10ml, 5yr 10ml
8-24H oral.
Agar + paraffin + phenolphthalein
(Agarol). NOT/kg: 6mo-2yr 2.5ml,
3-5yr 2.5-5ml, 5yr 5ml 8-24H
oral.
Agomelatine. Adult (NOT/kg): 25mg
(max 50mg) daily oral.
Alatrofloxacin. 4mg/kg (adult
200mg) daily IV over 60min. Se-
vere inftn: 6mg/kg (adult 300mg)
daily IV over 90min.
Albendazole. Pinworm, thread-
worm, roundworm, hook¬worm,
whipworm: 20mg/kg (adult
400mg) oral once (may repeat
after 2wk). Strongyloides,
cutaneous larva migrans, Taenia,
H.nana, O.viverrini, C.sinesis:
20mg/kg (adult 400mg) daily for
3 days, repeated in 3wk. 7.5mg/
kg (adult 400mg) 12H for 8-30
days (neurocysticercosis); 12H
for three 28 day courses 14 days
apart (hydatid).
Albumin. 20%: 2-5ml/kg IV. 4%: 10-
20ml/kg. If no loss from plasma:
dose (ml/kg) = 5 x (increase g/L) /
(% albumin).
Albuterol. See salbutamol.
Alclometasone. 0.05% cream or
ointment: apply 8-12H.
Alcohol. See chlorhexidine, ethanol.
Aldesleukin (synthetic IL-2). Ma-
lignancy: constant IV infsn less
toxic than bolus injtn: 3,000,000-
5,000,000u/m2
/day for 5 days, if
tolerated repeat x1-2 with 5 day
interval.
Alefacept. Adult (NOT/kg): 7.5mg IV,
15mg IM wkly 12wk.
Alemtuzumab. Adult (NOT/kg).
BCLL: 3mg daily IV over 2hr for
2-3 days, 10mg daily 2-3 days,
then 30mg x3/wk for up to 12wk.
MS: 12mg daily for 5days, then 3
days anually.
DrugDoses
599
Alendronate. 0.5mg/kg (adult 40mg)
daily oral. Postmeno¬pausal os-
teoporosis (adult, NOT/kg): 10mg
daily, or 70mg slow-release wkly.
Alendronate 70mg + vitamin D3
2800u. 1 tab each wk oral.
Alfacalcidol. 0.05mcg/kg (max
1mcg) daily oral or IV, ad¬justed
according to response.
Alfentanil. 10mcg/kg IV or IM stat,
then 5mcg/kg prn. Thea¬tre
(ventilated): 30-50mcg/kg IV over
5min, then 15mcg/kg prn or 0.5-
1mcg/kg/min. ICU: 50-100mcg/
kg IV over 10min, then 0.5-4mcg/
kg/min.
Alfuzosin. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg
daily oral.
Alginic acid (Gaviscon single
strength). 1yr: liquid 2ml with
feed 4H. 1-12yr: liquid 5-10ml, or
1 tab after meals. 12yr: liquid
10-20ml, or 1-2 tab after meals.
Alglucerase. Usual initial dose is
60u/kg every 2wk IV over 2hr,
adjusted according to response;
reduce every 3-6mo.
Alglucosidase alfa. 20mg/kg by IV
infusion every 2wk.
Alimemazine. See trimeprazine.
Aliskiren. Adult (NOT/kg): 150mg
(max 300mg) daily oral. Aliskiren/
hydrochlorothiazide 150/12.5,
150/25, 300/12.5, 300/25 (adult
NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral.
Aliskiren + valsarten 150/160mg,
300/320mg tabs. Adult (NOT/kg):
1 tab daily oral.
Alitretinoin. 0.1% gel: apply 6-12H.
Allopurinol. 10mg/kg (adult 300mg)
12-24H oral. Chemo¬therapy: 50-
100mg/m2 6H IV, oral.
Almotriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 6.25-
12.5mg oral, repeat in 2hr if reqd
(max 2 doses in 24hr).
Alosetron. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg
daily oral, incr if reqd after 4wk
to 1mg 12H (stop if no response
after 4wk).
Alpha1 proteinase inhibitor. See
alpha1 antitrypsin.
Alpha1 antitrypsin. 60mg/kg once
wkly IV over 30min.
Alpha tocopheryl acetate. One
alpha-tocopheryl (at) equivalent
= 1mg d-at = 1.1mg d-at acetate
= 1.5mg dl-at acetate = 1.5u vit E.
Abetalipoproteinaemia: 100mg/
kg (max 4g) daily oral. Cystic
fibrosis: 45-200mg (NOT/kg) daily
oral. Newborn (high dose, toxicity
reported): 10-25mg/kg daily IM
or IV, 10-100mg/kg daily oral.
Alprazolam. 0.005-0.02mg/kg (adult
0.25-1mg) 8H oral. Slow rel:
0.5-1mg daily, incr to 3-6mg (max
10mg) daily oral.
Alprenolol. 1-4mg/kg (max 200mg)
6-12H oral.
Alprostadil (prostaglandin E1,
PGE1). Maintain PDA: 60 mcg/
kg in 50ml 0.9% saline 0.5-3ml/
hr (10-60ng/kg/min). Erectile dys-
function (adult NOT/kg): 2.5mcg
intracavernous inj, incr by 2.5mcg
if reqd to max 60mcg (max 3
doses/wk).
Alteplase (tissue plasminogen
activator). 0.1-0.6mg/kg/hr IV for
6-12hr (longer if no response);
keep fibrinogen 100mg/dL (give
cryoprecipitate 1bag/5kg), give
heparin 10u/kg/hr IV, give fresh
frozen plasma (FFP) 10ml/kg IV
daily in infants. Local IA infsn:
0.05mg/kg/hr, give FFP 10ml/
kg IV daily. Blocked central line:
0.5mg/2ml (10kg) 2mg/2ml
(10kg) per lumen left for 2-4hr,
with¬draw drug, flush with saline;
repeat once in 24hr if reqd.
Altretamine. 150-300mg/m2 daily
oral.
Aluminium acetate. 13% soltn (Bur-
row’s lotion): for wet compresses,
or daily to molluscum contagio-
sum.
DrugDoses
600
Aluminium chloride hexahydrate.
20% lotion: x1-2/wk.
Aluminium hydroxide. 25mg/
kg (adult 0.5-1g) 4-6H oral. Gel
(64mg/ml) 0.1ml/kg 6H oral.
Aluminium hydroxide 40mg/ml, Mg
hydroxide 40mg/ml, simethicone
4mg/ml (Mylanta, Gelusil). 0.5-
1ml/kg (adult 10-20ml) 6-8H oral.
ICU: 0.5ml/kg 3H oral if gastric
pH 5.
Aluminium sulphate. 20% soltn:
apply promptly to sting.
Alverine. 1-2mg/kg (adult 60-
120mg) 8-12H oral.
Alvimopan. Adult (NOT/kg): 12mg
cap 1-5hr pre-op, then 12H start-
ing the day after surgery for up
to 7 days oral.
Amantadine hydrochloride. 2mg/
kg (adult 100mg) 12-24H oral. Flu
A prophylaxis (NOT/kg): 100mg
daily (5-9yr), 100mg 12H (9yr).
Ambenoium. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg
x3-4/day incr slowly to 5-25mg
(max 75mg) 6-8H oral.
Ambrisentan. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg
(max 10mg) daily oral.
Amcinonide. 0.1% lotion, cream,
ointment: apply 8-12H.
Amethocaine. Gel 4% in methylcel-
lulose (RCH AnGel): 0.5g to skin,
apply occlusive dressing, wait
30-60min, remove gel. 0.5%, 1%:
1 drop/eye.
Amifampridine. Adult (NOT/kg): 15
mg daily oral, incr every 5 days if
reqd to max 20mg 8H.
Amifostine. 910mg/m2 IV over
15min daily 30min before chemo-
therapy; reduce to 740mg/m2 if
severe side effects.
Amikacin. Daily dose IV or IM. Neo-
nate: 15mg/kg stat, then 7.5mg/
kg (30wk) 10mg/kg (30-35wk)
15mg/kg (term 1wk) daily. 1wk-
10yr: 25mg/kg day 1, then 18mg/
kg daily. 10yr: 20mg/kg day 1,
then 15mg/kg (max 1.5g) daily.
Trough level 5.0mg/L.
Amiloride. 0.2mg/kg (adult 5mg)
12-24H oral.
Aminoacridine hydrochloride. See
aminacrine.
Aminacrine hydrochloride. 0.02% 1
drop/eye 2-4H.
Aminobenzoic acid. 60mg/kg (max
3g) 6H oral.
Aminocaproic acid. 3g/m2 (adult
5g) over 1hr IV, then 1g/m2/hr
(adult 1-1.25g/hr). Prophylax:
70mg/kg 6H IV, oral.
Aminoglutethimide. Adult (NOT/kg):
250mg daily oral, incr over 4wk to
250mg 6H.
Aminohippuric acid (PAHA).
6-10mg/kg stat, then 0.2-0.5 mg/
kg/min IV gives 2mg/100ml in
plasma.
Aminolevulinic acid. 20% soltn:
apply to lesions, expose to 400-
450nm blue light for 1000sec (10
J/cm2) next day; repeat after 8wk
if reqd.
Aminophylline (100mg = 80mg
theophyl¬line). Load: 10 mg/
kg (max 500mg) IV over 1hr.
Main¬tenance: 1st wk life 2.5mg/
kg IV over 1hr 12H; 2nd wk life
3mg/kg 12H; 3wk-12 mo ((0.12 x
age in wk) + 3) mg/kg 8H; 12mo
and 35kg, 55 mg/kg in 50ml
5%dex-hep at 1ml/hr (1.1mg/
kg/hr) or 6mg/kg IV over 1hr 6H;
35kg and 17yr, or 17yr and
smoker, 25 mg/ml at 0.028ml/
kg/hr (0.7mg/kg/hr) or 4mg/
kg IV over 1hr 6H; 17yr non-
smoke 25mg/ml at 0.02ml/kg/
hr (0.5mg/kg/hr) or 3mg/kg IV
over 1hr 6H; elderly 25mg/ml at
0.014 ml/kg/hr (0.35mg/kg/hr)
or 2mg/kg IV over 1hr 6H. Level
60-80umol/L (neonate), 60-110
(asthma) (x0.18=mcg/ml).
Aminosalicylic acid (4-Aminosali-
cylic acid, ASA, 4-ASA, para-ASA,
PAS). 50-100mg/kg (adult 4g)
8H oral.
5-Aminosalicylic acid. See mesala-
zine.
DrugDoses
601
Amiodarone. IV: 15mg/kg in 50ml
5%dex (no heparin) at 5ml/hr
(25mcg/kg/min) for 4hr, then
1-3ml/hr (5-15mcg/kg /min, max
1.2g/24hr). Oral: 4mg/kg (adult
200mg) 8H 1 wk, 12H 1 wk, then
12-24H. After starting tablets,
taper IV infsn over 5 days. Reduce
dose of digoxin and warfarin.
Pulseless VF or VT: 5mg/kg IV
over 3-5 min.
Amisulpride. 1-6mg/kg (adult 50-
300mg) daily oral; acute psychosis
5-15mg/kg (adult 300-800mg)
12H.
Amitriptyline. Usually 0.5-1mg/kg
(adult 25-50mg) 8H oral. Enuresis:
1-1.5mg/kg nocte.
Amlexanox. 5% oral paste: apply to
ulcers x4/day.
Amlodipine. 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult
2.5-10mg) daily oral.
Amlodipine + olmesartan
(5mg/20mg, 5/40, 10/20, 10/40).
Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tablet daily
oral.
Amoldipine + telmisartan
(5mg/40mg, 5/80, 10/40, 10/80).
Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral.
Amlodipine + valsartan
(5mg/160mg, 5/320, 10/160,
10/320). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tablet
daily oral.
Amobarbital. See amylobarbitone.
Amodiaquine. Treatment: 10mg/kg
daily for 3 days oral. Prophylaxis:
5mg/kg once a wk.
Amorolfine. Nail lacquer 5%: apply
x1-2/wk.
Amoxapine. 0.5-2mg/kg (adult 25-
100mg) 8H oral.
Amoxicillin. See amoxycillin.
Amoxycillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult
0.25-1g) 8H IV, IM, oral; or
25-40mg/kg 12H. Slow release:
≥12yr 775mg tab daily oral.
Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g)
IV 12H (1st wk life), 6H (2-3wk),
4-6H or constant infsn (≥4wk).
H.pylori: omeprazole.
Amoxycillin + clavulanic acid. Dose
as amoxicillin, oral. 4:1 (non-Duo
products) 15-25mg/kg (adult
500/125mg) 8H; 7:1 (Duo) 20-
30mg/kg (adult 875/125mg) 12H;
or 16:1 (XR) 30-50mg/kg (adult
2000/125mg) 12H.
Amphetamine. See dexampheta-
mine.
Amphotericin B (Fungizone). Usu-
ally 1.5mg/kg/day (up to 2mg/
kg/day) by continuous infsn IV.
Central line: 1.5mg/kg in 50ml
5%dex-hep at 2ml/hr (up to
46kg); 1.5 mg/kg in 1.2 ml/
kg 5%dex-hep (1.25mg/ml) at
0.05ml/kg/hr (over 46kg). Periph-
eral IV: usually 1.5mg/kg in 12ml/
kg 5% dex-hep at 0.5ml/kg/hr
(higher concentrations may cause
thrombophlebitis). Oral (NOT/kg):
100mg 6H, 50mg 6H prophylaxis.
Bladder washout: 25 mcg/ml.
Cream, oint¬ 3%: apply 6-12H.
Amphotericin, colloidal dispersion
(Amphocil, Ampho¬tec). Usually
3-4mg/kg (up to 6mg/kg for as-
pergillus) daily IV at 2.5mg/kg/hr.
Amphotericin, lipid complex (Abel-
cet). 2.5-5mg/kg daily over 2hr IV,
typically for 2-4wk.
Amphotericin, liposomal (AmBi-
some). 3-6mg/kg (up to 15 mg/kg
if severe inftn) daily over 1-2hr IV,
typically for 2-4wk.
Ampicillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult
0.25-1g) 6H IV, IM or oral. Severe
inftn: 50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 12H
(1st wk life), 6H (2-4 wk), 3-6H or
constant infsn (4+ wk).
Ampicillin + flucloxacillin. NOT/
kg. 125mg/125mg or 250/ 250
(child), 250/250 or 500/500
(adult) 6H oral, IM or IV.
Ampicillin 1g + sulbactam 0.5g. 25-
50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) of ampicillin
6H IM or IV over 30min.
DrugDoses
602
Amprenavir. Age 4yr or more. Soltn
(max 2.8g/day): 22.5 mg/kg 12H,
or 17mg/kg 8H oral. Caps (max
2.4g/day): 20mg/kg 12H, or
15mg/kg 8H oral.
Amrinone. 4wk old: 4mg/kg IV
over 1hr, then 3-5mcg/kg /min.
4wk: 1-3mg/kg IV over 1hr, then
5-15mcg/kg/min.
Amsacrine. 450-600mg/m2 IV over
2hr daily for 3-5days.
Amylase. See pancreatic enzymes.
Amylmetacresol. 0.6mg lozenge as
reqd (max 8/day).
Amylobarbitone. 0.3-1mg/kg (adult
15-50mg) 8-12H, or 2-4mg/kg
(adult 200-400mg) at night, oral.
Anagrelide. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5mg
12H, incr slowly if reqd to max
2.5mg 6H oral.
Anakinra. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mg
daily SC.
Anastrozole. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg
daily oral.
Ancestim (human stem cell factor).
20mcg/kg/day SC.
Aneurine. See thiamine.
Anidulafungin. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) IV day 1, then 1-2mg/kg
(adult 50-100mg) daily.
Anisindione. 6mg/kg (adult 300mg)
oral day 1, 4mg/kg (adult 200mg)
day 2, 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
day 3, then 0.5-5 mg/kg/day
(adult 25-250mg) according to
prothrombin time.
Anistreplase. Adult (NOT/kg): 30u IV
over 5min.
Anthraquinone. See sennoside.
Anthrax vaccine (BioThrax). Inani-
mate. 0.5ml IM stat, 4wk, 6mo,
12mo, 18mo (5 doses). Boost
annually.
Antihaemophilic factor. See factor 8.
Anti-inhibitor coagulant complex.
See factor 8 inhibitor bypassing
fraction.
Antilymphocyte globulin. See im-
munoglobulin, antilym’te.
Antithrombin, antithrombin alfa,
antithrombin III, recom¬binant
human antithrombin (rhAT).
Adult: units = (100% - actual%)
x Wt / 2.2 load, then 23% of this
hrly; double dose in pregnancy.
Child: either 1000u in 20ml water
diluted to 50ml with saline: 2.5
ml/kg/hr (50u/kg/hr) for 3hr,
then 0.3 ml/kg/hr (6u/kg/hr) or
1750u in 10ml water diluted to
50ml with saline: 1.4ml/kg/hr
(49u/kg/hr) for 3hr, then 0.17ml
/kg/hr (6u/kg/hr). Monitor an-
tithrombin activity after 6hr, then
8-12H: if 80%, incr dose 30%; if
120%, reduce dose 30%.
Antithymocyte globulin. See immu-
noglobulin, antilymph’te.
Antivenom to Australian box jelly-
fish, snakes (black, brown, death
adder, sea, taipan, tiger), spiders
(fun¬nel-web) and ticks. Dose
depends on amount of venom in-
jected, not size of patient. Higher
doses needed for multiple bites,
severe symptoms or delayed
administration. Give adrenaline
0.005mg/kg (0.005ml/kg of 1 in
1000) SC. Initial dose usually 1-2
amp diluted 1/10 in Hartmann’s
soltn IV over 30min. Monitor PT,
PTT, fibrinogen, platelets; give
repeatedly if symptoms or coagu-
lopathy persist.
Antivenom to black widow spider
(USA), red back spi¬der (Aus-
tralia). 1amp IM, may repeat in
2hr. Severe envenomation: 2amp
diluted 1/10 in Hartmann soltn IV
over 30min.
Antivenom to coral snake (USA).
3-6 vials IV over 1-2hr, repeat
if signs progress. Premedicate
with diphenhydramine 5mg/kg
(adult 300mg) IV, have adrenaline
available.
DrugDoses
603
Antivenom to Crotalidae (pit vipers,
rattlesnakes - USA). 4-6 vials,
with higher dose for more severe
envenomation, diluted 1/10 in
saline IV over 1hr, repeated 1hr
later if reqd; then 2 vials 6H for
3 doses.
Antivenom, stonefish. 1000u (2ml)
per puncture IM. Severe: 1000u/
puncture dilutd 1/10 in Hartmann
soltn IV over 30min.
Apomorphine. Adult (NOT/kg): usu-
ally 2.4-3.6mg/dose (max 6mg)
prn to max 50mg/day SC. Infsn:
0.02-0.08 mg/kg/hr (max 200mg/
day) SC.
Apraclonidine. 1 drop/eye 8H
(0.5%), 12H (1%).
Aprepitant. Adult (NOT/kg): 125mg
oral 1hr before chemo, then
80mg on days 2 and 3.
Aprostadil. See alprostadil.
Aprotinin (1kiu = 140ng =
0.00056epu, 1mg = 7143kiu).
1,200,000 kiu/m2 IV over 1hr
(plus 1,200,000 kiu/m2
in prime),
then 300,000 kiu/m2
/hr; half
for “low dose”. Adult (NOT/kg):
2,000,000 kiu IV over 1hr (plus
2,000,000 kiu in prime), then
500,000 kiu/hr; half for “low
dose”. Prophy¬laxis: 4000 kiu/kg,
then 2000 kiu/kg 6H IV.
Arachis oil. 130ml enema as
required.
Arachis oil 57% + chlorbutol 5% +
dichlorobenzene 16% (Cerumol).
5 drops to ear 15-30min before
syringing.
Arformoterol. NOT/kg: 15mcg in 2ml
12H by nebulisation.
Argatroban. 2mcg/kg/min; adjust to
maintain APTT x1.5-3.
Arginine hydrochloride. Dose (mg) =
BE x Wt(kg) x 70; give half this IV
over 1hr, then repeat if reqd.
Arginine vasopressin, argipressin.
See vasopressin.
Aripiprazole. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg)
incr if reqd by 0.1mg/kg (adult
5mg) each wk to max 0.6mg/kg
(adult 30mg) daily.
Armodafinil. Adult (NOT/kg): 150mg
(max 250mg) daily oral.
Arsenic trioxide. 0.15mg/kg daily IV
until remission (max 60 doses),
wait 6wk, then 0.15mg/kg daily
for 25 days.
Artemether, oily soltn. 3.2mg/kg
IM stat, then 1.6mg/kg daily unitl
oral therapy possible.
Artemether 20mg + lumefantrine
120mg. NOT/kg: 1 tab (10-14kg),
2 tab (15-24kg), 3 tab (25-34kg),
4 tab (34kg) with fatty food (e.g.
milk) at 0hr, 8hr, 24hr, 36hr, 48hr
and 60hr. Repeat dose if vomit
within 1hr of ingestion.
Artemisinin. 25mg/kg oral day 1;
then 12.5mg/kg daily for 2 days
(with mefloquine 15-25mg/kg on
day 2), or for 4-6 days if meflo-
quine resistance.
Artesunate + mefloquine. Oral:
2.5mg/kg at 0, 12, 24 and 48
hours (with mefloquine 15-
25mg/kg on day 2), and daily for
another 2-4 days if mefloquine
resistance. IM, or IV over 1-2min:
2mg/kg stat, then 1mg/kg in 6hr
if hyper¬parasitic, then 2mg/kg
daily until oral therapy possible.
Artesunate + pyrimethamine +
sulphadoxine. Artesunate 4mg/
kg daily x3 days oral + pyrimeth-
amine 1.25 mg/kg (max 75mg)
and sulphadoxine 25 mg/kg (max
1.5g) on 1st day.
Articane 40mg/ml + adrenaline
1:100,000. Adult (NOT/kg) avge
dose 1.7ml (max 7mg/kg =
0.175ml/kg) by injection.
Ascorbic acid. Burn (NOT/kg):
200-500mg daily IV, IM, SC, oral.
Metabolic dis (NOT/kg): 250mg
(7yr) 500mg (7yr) daily oral.
Scurvy (NOT/kg): 100mg 8H oral
for 10 days. Urine acidification:
10-30mg/kg 6H.
DrugDoses
604
Asenapine. Adult (NOT/kg): 5-10mg
daily sublingual.
Asparaginase. See colaspase.
Aspirin. 10-15mg/kg (adult 300-
600mg) 4-6H oral. Antipla¬telet:
5mg/kg (max 100mg) daily. Kawa-
saki: 10mg/kg 6H (low dose) or
25mg/kg 6H (high dose) for 2wk,
then 3-5 mg/kg daily. Arthritis:
25mg/kg (max 2g) 6H for 3 days,
then 15-20mg/kg 6H. Salicylate
level (arthritis) midway between
doses 0.7-2.0 mmol/L (x13.81 =
mg/100ml).
Aspirin 25mg + dipyridamole
200mg. Adult (NOT/kg) 1 sus-
tained rel cap 12H oral.
Atazanavir (ATV). 16yr: 400mg/dai-
ly with food. Trough ≥150ng/ml.
Atazinavir 400mg + efavirenz 600mg
+ ritonavir 100mg. 16yr: all daily
oral, at different times (EFV not
with food).
Atazinavir + ritonavir. 15-24kg:
150/80mg daily with food oral;
25-31kg: 200/100mg daily; 32-
38kg: 250/100mg daily; ≥39kg:
300/100mg daily with food. ATV
trough ≥150ng/ml.
Atenolol. Oral: 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-
100mg) 12-24H. IV: 0.05 mg/kg
(adult 2.5mg) every 5min if reqd
(max 4 doses), then 0.1-0.2mg/
kg (adult 5-10mg) over 10min
12-24H.
Atomoxetine. 0.5mg/kg (70kg
40mg) daily oral, incr after at least
3 days to max 1.2mg/kg (70kg
100mg) as single daily dose or
divided 12H.
Atorvastatin. 0.2mg/kg (adult 10mg)
daily, incr if reqd every 4wk to
max 1.6mg/kg (adult 80mg) daily.
Atosiban. Adult (NOT/kg): 6.75mg
IV over 1min, then 300 mcg/min
for 3hr, then 100mcg/min for
max 45hr.
Atovaquone, micronised. Pneumo-
cystis: 3-24mo 45mg/kg, 24mo
30mg/kg (max 1500mg) daily
oral.
Atovaquone 250mg + proguanil
100mg (Malarone). Malaria treat:
20mg/kg of atovaquone (adult
1g) daily for 3 days oral; proph:
5mg/kg of atovaquone (adult
250mg) daily.
Atovaquone 62.5mg + proguanil
25mg (Malarone paed¬iatric).
Malaria prophylaxis: 5mg/kg
(adult 250mg) daily oral.
Atracurium besylate. 0.3-0.6mg/
kg stat, then 0.1-0.2mg/kg when
reqd or 5-10mcg/kg/min IV.
Atropine. 0.02mg/kg (max 0.6mg)
IV or IM, then 0.01mg/kg 4-6H.
Organophosphate poisoning:
0.05-1mg/kg (adult 2mg) IV, then
0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 2mg)
every 15-60min until atropin-
ised, then 0.02-0.08mg/kg/hr
for several days. Auto-injector
(adult, NOT/kg): 2mg + obidoxime
110mg IM.
Atropine 25mcg + diphenoxylate
2.5mg tab (Lomotil). Adult (NOT/
kg): 1-2 tab 6-8H oral.
Attapulgite. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.6-1.2g
3-6H oral.
Auranofin. 0.1mg/kg (adult 6mg)
daily oral, incr if reqd to max
0.05mg/kg (adult 3mg) 8H.
Aurothioglucose. 0.25mg/kg weekly
IM, incr to 1mg/kg (max 40mg)
weekly for 20wk, then every
1-4wk.
Azacitidine. 75mg/m2
SC daily for
7 days, repeated every 4wk; incr
if reqd after 2 cycles to 100mg/
m2
daily.
Azapropazone. 10mg/kg (max
600mg) 12H oral. Acute gout: 6H
(day 1), 8H (day 2), then 12H.
Azatadine. NOT/kg: 0.5-1mg (6y),
1-2mg (12y) 12-24H po.
Azathioprine. 25-75mg/m2 (approx
1-3mg/kg) daily oral, IV.
Azelaic acid. 20% cream, 15% gel:
apply 12H.
Azelastine. 0.1% spray, 5yr: 0.15ml
to each nostril 12H.
DrugDoses
605
Azidothymidine (AZT). See zidovu-
dine.
Azithromycin. Oral (only 40%
bioavailable): 15mg/kg (adult
500mg) on day 1 then 7.5mg/kg
(adult 250mg) days 2-5, or 15mg/
kg (adult 500mg) daily for 3 days;
trachoma 20 mg/kg (adult 1g)
wkly x3; MAC prophylaxis (adult)
1.2g wkly; Gp A strep 20mg/
kg daily x3. IV: 15mg/kg (adult
500mg) day 1, then 5mg/kg (adult
200mg) daily. 1% eye drops: 1
drop 12H for 2 days, then daily
for 5 days.
Aztreonam. 30mg/kg (adult 1g) 8H
IV. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult
2g) 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk),
6H or infsn (4+ wk). Nebulised
(adult, NOT/kg): 75mg 8H.
Bacampicillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult
400-800mg) 12H oral.
Becaplermin. Length 0.01% gel in
cm: ulcer length x width / 4 (15g
tube), or L x W / 2 (2g tube) daily;
wash off after 12hr.
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)
vaccine (CSL). Live. Intradermal
(1mg/ml): 0.075ml (3mo) or
0.1ml (3mo) once. Percutaneous
(60mg/ml suspension): 1 drop
on skin, inoculated with Heaf ap-
paratus, once.
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)
suspension, about 5 x 10^8 cfu/
vial. Adult: 1 vial (OncoTICE) or 3
vials (Immu¬Cyst) left in bladder
for 2hr each wk for 6wks, then at
3, 6, 12, 18 and 24mo.
Bacitracin 500u/g + polymyxin B
10,000u/g. Eye ointment: apply
x2-5/day.
Bacitracin 400u/g + polymyxin B
5000u/g + neomycin 5mg/g (Ne-
osporin). Ointment or eye oint-
ment: apply x2-5/day. Powder:
apply 6-12H (skin inftn), every
few days (burns). Eye drops: see
gramicidin.
Baclofen. 0.2mg/kg (adult 5mg) 8H
oral, incr every 3 days to 1mg/
kg (adult 25mg, max 50mg) 8H.
Intrathecal infsn: 2-20mcg/kg
(max 1000mcg) per 24hr.
Balsalazide. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.25g
8H oral (= 2.34g ¬mes¬alazine
daily).
Bambuterol. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult
10-20mg) nocte oral.
Basiliximab. 12mg/m2 (max 20mg)
IV 2hr preop and day 4.
BCG vaccine. See Bacillus Calmette-
Guerin vaccine.
Becaplermin. 0.01% gel: apply daily
for 10-20wk.
Beclomethasone dipropionate.
Rotacap or aerosol (NOT /kg):
100-200mcg (8yr), 150-400mcg
(8yr) x2/day (rare¬ly x4/day).
Nasal (NOT/kg): aerosol or pump
(50mcg /spray): 1spray 12H
(12yr), 2spray 12H (12yr).
Bemiparin. Surgery (adult, NOT/kg):
2500u (orthopaedics 3500u) SC
2hr pre-op or 6hr post-op, then
daily for 7-10 days. DVT: 115u/
kg daily 5-9 days (or until oral
anticoag).
Benazepril. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-
20mg) 12-24H oral.
Bendamustine. CLL: 100mg/m2
IV
on days 1 and 2 of 28-day cycle
for up to 6 cycles; 70mg/m2
with
rituximab. NHL: 120mg/m2
on
days 1 and 2 of 21-day cycle for
up to 8 cycles; 90mg/m2
with
rituximab.
Bendroflumethiazide. See bendro-
fluazide.
Bendrofluazide. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult
5-10mg) daily oral.
Benflumetol (lumefantrine). See
artemether.
Benorylate. 30mg/kg (adult 1.5g)
8H oral.
Benperidol. 5-15mcg/kg (adult 0.25-
1.5mg) 12-24H oral.
Benserazide. See levodopa + benser-
azide.
DrugDoses
606
Benzathine penicillin. See penicillin,
benzathine.
Benzatropine. See benztropine.
Benzbromarone. Adult (NOT/kg):
50-300mg daily oral, or 20-25mg
with allopurinol.
Benzhexol. 3yr: 0.02mg/kg (adult
1mg) 8H, incr to 0.1-0.3 mg/kg
(adult 1.5-5mg) 8H oral.
Benzocaine. 1%-20% topical: usually
applied 4-6H.
Benzoczine + cetylpyridinium.
Mouth wash (Cepacaine): apply
3H prn, do not swallow.
Benzocane + phenazone 5.4% (Au-
ralgin). 3 drops per ear 3 times a
day for 2-3 days.
Benzoic acid 6% + salicylic acid 3%.
Whitfield’s ointment: apply 12H.
Benzonatate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) 8H oral.
Benzoyl peroxide. Liquid, gel 2.5%-
10%: apply x1-3/day. See also
adapalene + benzoyl peroxide.
Benzphetamine. 25-50mg daily oral,
incr if reqd to 8H.
Benzquinamide. IM: 0.5-1mg/kg
(adult 50mg) stat and repeat in
1hr if needed, then 3-4H prn. IV
over 1-5min: 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult
25mg) once.
Benzthiazide 25mg + triamterene
50mg. Adult (NOT/kg): 1-2 tab on
alternate days, oral.
Benztropine. 3yr: 0.02mg/kg (adult
1mg) stat IM or IV, may repeat
in 15min. 0.02-0.06mg/kg (adult
1-3mg) 12-24H oral.
Benzydamine. 3% cream: apply 8H.
Benzyl benzoate. 25% lotion. Sca-
bies: apply neck down after hot
bath, wash off after 24hr; repeat
in 5days. Lice: apply to infected
region, wash off after 24hr; re-
peat in 7days.
Benzylpenicillin. See penicillin G.
Bevacizumab. 10mg/kg oral on days
1 and 15 every month.
Bepotastine. 1.5% ophthalmic soltn:
1 drop 12H.
Bepridil. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) daily oral.
Beractant (bovine surfactant,
Survanta). 25mg/ml soltn. 4ml/
kg intratracheal 2-4 doses in
48hr, each dose in 4 parts: body
inclined down with head to right,
body down head left, body up
head right, body up head left.
Besifloxacin. 0.6% eye ointment:
apply 8H.
Beta carotene. Porphyria: 1-5mg/kg
(adult 30-300mg) daily.
Betahistine. 0.15-0.3mg/kg (adult
8-16mg) 8H oral.
Betaine hydrochloride. Usually
60mg/kg (adult 3g) 12H oral, max
100mg/kg (adult 5g) 12H.
Betamethasone. 0.01-0.2mg/kg
daily oral. Betamethasone has
no mineralocorticoid action,
1mg = 25mg hydrocorti¬sone in
glucocorticoid action. Gel 0.05%;
cream, lotion or oint¬ment,
0.02%, 0.05%, 0.1%: apply
sparingly 8-24H. Eye 0.1%: ini-
tially 1drop/eye 1-2H, then 6H; or
0.6cm oint 8-12H.
Betamethasone acetate 3mg/
ml + betamethasone sodium
phosphate 3.9mg/ml (Celestone
Chronodose). Adult: 0.25-
2ml (NOT/kg) intramuscular,
intra-articular, or intra¬lesional
injection.
Betamethasone dipropionate.
0.064% + calcipotriol 0.005%
(Dovonex). Ointment: apply daily
to no more than 30% of body
for up to 4wk (max 100g/wk in
adult).
Betamethasone 0.1% + neomycin
0.5%. 1drop/eye 4-8H.
Betaxolol. 0.4-0.8mg/kg (adult
20-40mg) daily oral. Eye drops
0.25%-0.5%: 1 drop/eye 12H.
Bethanecol. Oral: 0.2-1mg/kg (adult
10-50mg) 6-8H. SC: 0.05-0.1mg/
kg (adult 2.5-5mg) 6-8H.
Bevacizumab. 5mg/kg IV every 14
days.
DrugDoses
607
Bexarotene. 300mg/m2
(range 100-
400mg/m2
) daily oral.
Bezafibrate. 4mg/kg (adult 200mg)
8H oral with food.
Bicalutamide. Adult (NOT/kg): 50-
150mg daily oral.
Bicalutamide + goserelin. Adult
(NOT/kg): 50mcg daily oral, +
goserelin 10.8mg implant 4wkly
or 10.8mg SC every 3mo.
Bicarbonate. Slow IV: dose (mmol)
= BE x Wt/4 (5kg), BE x Wt/6
(child), BE x Wt/10 (adult). These
doses correct half the base defi-
cit. Alkalinise urine: 0.25mmol/kg
6-12H oral.
Bifonazole. 1% cream: apply daily
for 2-4wk.
Bimatoprost. 0.03% drops: 1 drop/
eye each evening.
Bimatoprost 0.3mg/ml + timolol
5mg/ml. 1drop/eye daily.
Biotin (coenzyme R, vitamin H).
NOT/kg: 5-20mg daily IV, IM, SC
or oral.
Biperiden. 0.02-0.04mg/kg (adult
1-2mg) 8-12H oral. IM or slow IV:
0.05-0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5-5mg),
max x4/day.
Bisacodyl. NOT/kg: 12mo 2.5mg
PR, 1-5yr 5mg PR or 5-10mg oral,
5yr 10mg PR or 10-20mg oral.
Enema: half daily (6mo-3yr), 1
enema daily (3yr).
Bisacodyl 10mg + docusate sodium
100mg. 2yr half suppos, 1-11yr
half to 1 suppos, 11yr 1 suppos
daily.
Bismuth subgallate. See bismuth
subcitrate.
Bismuth subsalicylte. 5mg/kg (adult
240mg) 12H oral 30min before
meal. H.pylori, see omeprazole.
Bisoprolol. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-
20mg) daily oral.
Bitolterol. Resp soltn (0.2%): 1ml di-
luted to 4ml 3-6H (mild), 2ml diltd
to 4ml 1-2H (moderate), undiltd
constant (severe, in ICU). Aerosol
370mcg/puff: 1-2 puff 4-6H.
Bivalirudin. 0.75-1mg/kg IV stat,
then 1.75-2.5mg/kg/hr for 4hr,
then stop or give 1.75-2mg/kg/hr
for 14-20hr.
Bleomycin sulfate. 10-20u/m2
IM,
SC or IV over 15min x1-2/wk. Max
total dose 250u/m2.
Bortezomib. 1.3mg/m2
on days 1,
4, 8, 11; then 10 day rest (21 day
cycle, average 6 cycles). Stop if
toxicity, then use 1 mg/m2
/dose;
stop if toxicity recurs, then use
0.7mg/m2
/dose.
Bosentan. 1mg/kg (adult 62.5mg)
12H oral for 1-4wk, then 2mg/kg
(adult 125mg) 12H. IV: half oral
dose.
Botulinum toxin type A. NOT/kg:
1.25-2.5u/site (max 5u/site) IM,
max total 200u in 30 days. Oe-
soph achalasia: 100u per session
divided between 4-6 sites. Hyper-
hidrosis: 50u/2ml intradermal per
axilla (given in 10-15 sites).
Botulinum toxin type B. NOT/kg:
usual total dose 2,500-10,000u,
repeated every 3-4mo if reqd.
Bowel washout. See colonic lavage
soltn.
Bretylium tosylate. 5mg/kg IV in
1hr, then 5-30 mcg/kg/min.
Brimonidine. 0.2%: 1 drop/eye 12H.
Brimonidine 0.2% + timolol 0.5%. 1
drop/eye 12H.
Brinzolamide. 1%: 1 drop/eye
8-12H.
Bromazepam. 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult
1-3mg) 8H oral.
Bromhexine. 0.3mg/kg (adult 16mg)
8H oral for 7 days, then 0.15mg/
kg (adult 8mg) 8H.
Bromocriptine. 0.025mg/kg (adult
1.25mg) 8-12H, incr wkly to 0.05-
0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5-10mg) 6-12H
oral. Inhibit lactn, NOT/kg: 2.5mg
12H for 2wk.
Brompheniramine. 0.1-0.2mg/kg
(adult 5-10mg) 6-8H oral, SC, IM
or slow IV.
Buclizine. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 12.5-
50mg) 8-24H oral.
DrugDoses
608
Budesonide. Metered dose inhaler
(NOT/kg): 12yr 50-200 mcg
6-12H, reducing to 100-200mcg
12H; 12yr 100-600 mcg 6-12H,
reducing to 100-400mcg 12H.
Nebuliser (NOT/kg): 12yr 0.5-
1mg 12H, reducing to 0.25-0.5mg
12H; 12yr 1-2mg 12H, reducing
to 0.5-1mg 12H. Croup: 2mg
(NOT/kg) nebulised. Nasal spray,
aerosol (NOT/kg): 64-128 mcg/
nostril 12-24H. Crohns dis, adult
(NOT/kg): 9mg daily for 8wk, then
reduce over 4wk.
Budesonide + formoterol.
NOT/kg: 80mcg/4.5mcg or
160mcg/4.5mcg, two inhalations
12H.
Bumetanide. 25mcg/kg (adult
1mg) daily oral, may incr to max
50mcg/kg (adult 3mg) 8-12H.
Bupivacaine. Max dose: 2-3mg/kg
(0.4-0.6ml/kg of 0.5%). Intrathe-
cal: 1mgkg (0.2ml/kg of 0.5%).
Epidural: 2mg/kg (0.4ml/kg of
0.5%) stat intraop, then 0.25mg/
kg/hr (0.2 ml/kg/hr of 0.125%)
postop. Intrapleural: 0.5% 0.5ml/
kg (max 20ml) 8-12H, or 0.5ml/kg
(max 10ml) stat then 0.1-0.25ml/
kg/hr (max 10ml/hr). Epidural in
ICU: 25ml 0.5% + 1mg (20ml) fen-
tanyl + saline to 100ml at 2-8ml/
hr in adult.
Buprenorphine. Adult (NOT/kg):
200-800mcg 6-8H sublin¬gual, IM
or slow IV.
Bupropion. 2-3mg/kg (adult
75-150mg) 8-12H oral. NOT/
kg: sus¬tained 100-200mg 12H;
extended: 150-300mg daily.
Burrow’s solution. See aluminium
acetate soltn.
Buserelin. Adult, NOT/kg. Intranasal:
100mcg 4H, or 150 mcg each
nostril 8H. Prostate carcinoma:
0.5mg 8H SC for 7 days, then
100mcg dose of spray to each
nostril x6/day.
Buspirone. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg)
8-12H oral, incr to max 0.3mg/kg
(adult 15mg) 8-12H.
Busulfan. Induction: 0.06mg/kg
(max 4mg) daily oral if leuco-
cytes 20,000/mm3
and platelets
100,000/mm3
. Main¬tenance:
0.01-0.03mg/kg (max 2mg) daily.
Butabarbital. See secbutobarbitone.
Butalbital. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-
100mg) 8-24H oral.
Butenafine. 1% cream: apply 12-24H
for 1-4wk.
Butobarbitone. 2-4mg/kg (adult
100-200mg) nocte oral.
Butoconazole. 2% vaginal cream: 5g
(NOT/kg) nocte.
Butorphanol. IM: 0.02-0.1mg/kg
(adult 1-4mg) 3-4H. IV: 0.01-
0.05mg/kg (adult 0.5-2mg) 3-4H.
C1 esterase inhibitor. 1u = activity
1ml plasma. Prophylaxis (Cinryze):
10-50u/kg (adult 1000u) IV over
1hr every 3-4 days. Treatment:
20u/kg IV (Berinert).
Cabazitaxel. 25mg/m2 IV over 1hr
every 3wk.
Cabergoline. 10mcg/kg/wk (adult
0.5mg) in 1-2 doses, incr if reqd
monthly by 10mcg/kg/wk to
usually 20mcg/kg/wk (adult 1mg)
in 1-4 doses, max 90mcg/kg/wk
(adult 4.5mg). Inhibit lactation:
1mg oral stat.
Caffeine citrate. 2mg citrate = 1mg
base. 1-5mg/kg (adult 50-250mg)
of citrate 4-8H oral, PR. Neonate:
20mg/kg stat of citrate, then
5mg/kg daily oral or IV over
30min; weekly level 5-30mg/L
midway between doses.
Caffeine 100mg + ergotamine tar-
trate 1mg tabs. Adult (NOT/kg): 2
stat, then 1 ½hrly if reqd (max 6/
attack,10/wk).
DrugDoses
609
Cake, diablo. Fan oven 180o
C. Melt
180g dark cooking chocolate +
170g unsalted butter in double
boiler. Off heat, mix in 4 well-
whisked egg yolks, 170g sugar,
40g almond meal; sift in 80g self-
raising flour, mix. Fold in ⅓ of egg
whites (beaten stiff with pinch of
salt); fold back into rest of beaten
whites. Put in buttered + floured
20cm tin, tap out air, bake 30min.
Calcifediol (25-OH D3). Deficiency:
1-2mcg/kg daily oral.
Calciferol (Vitamin D2). See ergoc-
alciferol.
Calcipotriene. See calcipotriol.
Calcipotriol. 50mcg/g (0.005%)
ointment: apply 12-24H. See also
betamethasone + calcipotriol
ointment.
Calcitonin. Hypercalcaemia: 4u/kg
12-24H IM or SC, may incr up to
8u/kg 6-12H. Paget’s: 1.5-3u/kg
(max 160u) x3/wk IM or SC. Nasal
spray: 200u daily.
Calcitriol (1,25-OH vitamin D3).
Renal failure, vit D resist¬ant
rickets: 0.02mcg/kg daily oral,
incr by 0.02mcg/kg every 4-8wk
according to serum Ca (adult usu-
ally 0.25mcg 12H).
Calcium (as carbonate, lactate or
phosphate). NOT/kg. Neonate:
50mg x4-6/day; 1mo-3yr: 100mg
x2-5/day oral; 4-12yr: 300mg
x2-3/day; 12yr: 1000mg x1-2/
day.
Calcium carbimide. 1-2mg/kg (adult
50-100mg) 12H oral.
Calcium carbonate. Adult NOT/
kg: 1250-1500mg (500-600 mg
calcium) 8H oral with meals for
hyperphosphataemia.
Calcium chloride. 10% soltn
(0.7mmol/ml Ca): 0.2ml/kg (max
10ml) slow IV stat. Requirement
16yr 2ml/kg/day IV. Inotrope:
0.03-0.12ml/kg/hr (0.5-2mmol/
kg/day) via CVC.
Calcium edetate (EDTA). See sodium
calciumedetate.
Calcium folinate. NOT/kg: 5-15mg
oral, or 1mg IM or IV daily. Rescue
starting up to 24hr after metho-
trexate: 10-15 mg/m2
6H for
36-48hr IV. Methotrexate toxicity:
100-1000mg/m2 6H IV. Before a
fluorouracil dose of 370 mg/m2
:
200mg/m2 IV daily x5, repeat
every 3-4wk.
Calcium gluconate. 10% soltn
(0.22mmol/ml Ca): 0.5ml/kg (max
20ml) slow IV stat. Requirement
16yr 5ml/kg/day IV. Inotrope:
0.5-2mmol/kg/day (0.1-0.4ml/kg/
hr) via CVC.
Calcium heparin. See heparin.
Calcium levofolinate. Half the dose
of calcium folinate.
Calcium leucovorin. See calcium
folinate.
Calcium polystyrene sulfonate
(Calcium Resonium). 0.3-0.6g/
kg (adult 15-30g) 6H NG (+ lactu-
lose), PR.
Calfactant. 35mg/ml phosphlipids,
0.65mg/ml proteins: 1.5 ml/kg
intratracheal gradually over 20-30
breaths during inspiration with
infant lying on one side, then an-
other 1.5 ml/kg with infant lying
on other side.
Canakinumab. 2mg/kg (15-40kg)
150mg (40kg) SC every 8wk; if
poor response after 1wk repeat
initial dose, then give 4mg/
kg (15-40kg) 300mg (40kg) SC
every 8wk.
Candesartan. 0.1-0.3mg/kg (adult
4-16mg) daily oral.
Cannabidiol 25mg + delta-9-tetrahy-
drocannabinol 27mg per 100μL
spray. Titrate over 2wk to max
12 sprays/day. to different parts
of oral mucosa; review response
after 4wk.
DrugDoses
610
Cannabis. See cannabidiol.
Canrenoate. 3-8mg/kg (adult 150-
400mg) daily IV.
Capecitabine. 1250mg/m2
12H oral
for 2wk then 1wk off, in 3wk
cycles.
Capreomycin sulphate. 20mg/kg
(adult 1g) IM daily, decr after
2-4mo to 2-3 times per wk.
Capsaicin. Cream 0.025%, 0.075%.
Apply 6-8H.
Captopril. Beware hypotension.
0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5-5mg) 8H
oral, incr if reqd to max 2mg/kg
(adult 50mg) 8H. Less hypoten-
sion if mixed with NG feeds given
continuously (or 1-2H).
Carbachol. 0.01%: max 0.5ml in
anterior chamber of eye.
Carbamazepine. 2mg/kg (adult
100mg) 8H oral, may incr over
2-4wk to 5-10mg/kg (adult
250-500mg) 8H. Bipolar disorder
(adult, NOT/kg): 200mg as
slow-rel cap 12H oral, incr if
reqd to max 800mg 12H. Level
20-40umol/L (x0.24=mg/l).
Carbaryl. 0.5% lotion: rub into hair,
leave 12hr, shampoo.
Carbenicillin. 382mg tab, adult
(NOT/kg): 1-2 tab 4H oral.
Carbenoxolone sodium. Adult (NOT/
kg): 20-50mg 6H oral. Mouth gel
2%, or 2g granules in 40ml water,
apply 6H.
Carbetocin. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mcg
IV over 1min, or IM.
Carbidopa. See levodopa + carbi-
dopa.
Carbimazole. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg)
8-12H oral for 2wk, then 0.1mg/
kg (adult 5-10mg) 8-24H.
Carbinoxamine. NOT/kg: 2mg (1-
3yr), 2-4mg (3-6yr), 4-8mg (6yr)
6-8H oral.
Carbocisteine. 10-15mg/kg (adult
500-750mg) 8H oral.
Carbomer. 0.2% gel: 1 drop per eye
x3-4/day.
Carboplatin. 300-400mg/m2
IV over
60min every 4wk.
Carboprost (15-Me-PGF2-alpha).
Termination (NOT/kg): 250-
500mcg 1-4H (max total 12mg)
IM. Postpartum hge (NOT/kg):
250mcg every 15-120min IM
(max total 12mg).
Carglumic acid. 50mg/kg 12H oral,
incr to 6H if reqd; titrate dose to
plasma ammonia concentration.
Carisoprodol. 7mg/kg (adult 350mg)
6H oral.
Carmustine (BCNU). 200mg/m2
IV
over 2hr every 6wk (reduce if
leucocytes 3000/mm3
or plate-
lets 75,000). Wafers: implant 8
x 7.7mg wafers (total 61.6mg) at
surgery.
Carnitine, L form. IV: 5-15mg/kg
(max 1g) 6H. Oral: 25mg/kg 6-12H
(max 400mg/kg/day).
Carob bean gum (Carobel Instant).
NOT/kg: 1 scoop (1.8g) in 100ml
water, give 10-20ml by spoon; or
add half a scoop to every 100-
200ml of milk.
Carteolol. 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5-
10mg) daily oral. 1%, 2%: 1drop/
eye 12H.
Carvedilol. 0.1mg/kg (adult
3.125mg) 12H oral; if tolerated
incr by 0.1mg/kg (adult 3.125mg)
every 1-2wk to max 0.5-0.8mg/kg
(adult 25mg) 12H.
Casanthranol + docusate sodium.
Cap 30mg/100mg (NOT/kg):
adult 1-2cap 12-24H oral. Syrup
2mg/4mg per ml (NOT/kg): child
5-15ml bedtime, adult 15-30ml
12-24H.
Caspofungin. 70mg/m2
(max 70mg)
day 1, then neonate 25 mg/
m2, child 50mg/m2
, adult 50mg
(80kg 70mg) daily IV over 1hr.
Cefaclor. 10-15mg/kg (adult 250-
500mg) 8H oral; 12H used in
some mild infectns. Slow release
tab 375mg (adult, NOT/kg): 1-2
tab 12H oral.
Cefadroxil. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.5-
1g) 12H oral.
Cefalexin. See cephalexin.
DrugDoses
611
Cefamandole. See cephamandole.
Cefazolin. See cephazolin.
Cefdinir. 14mg/kg (adult 600mg)
daily (or 2 div doses) oral .
Cefditoren. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) 12H oral.
Cefepime hydrochloride. 25mg/kg
(adult 1g) 12H IM or IV. Severe in-
ftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) IV 8-12H
or constant infsn.
Cefixime. 5mg/kg (adult 200mg)
12-24H oral.
Cefodizime. 25mg/kg (max 1g) 12H
IV or IM.
Cefonicid. 15-50mg/kg (adult 0.5-
2g) IV or IM daily.
Cefoperazone. 25-60mg/kg (max
1-3g) 6-12H IV in 1hr or IM.
Cefotaxime. 25mg/kg (adult 1g)
12H (4wk), 8H (4+wk) IV. Severe
inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2-3g) IV
12H (preterm), 8H (1st wk life),
6H (2-4 wk), 4-6H or constant
infsn (4+ wk).
Cefotetan. 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 12H
IM, IV. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg
(max 2-3g) 12H or constant infsn.
Cefoxitin. 25-60mg/kg (adult 1-3g)
12H (1st wk life), 8H (1-4wk),
6-8H (4wk) IV.
Cefpirome. 25-50mg/kg (adult 1-2g)
12H IV.
Cefpodoxime. 5mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) 12H oral.
Cefradine. See cephradine.
Cefprozil. 15mg/kg (adult 500mg)
12-24H oral.
Ceftazidime. 15-25mg/kg (adult
0.5-1g) 8H IV or IM. Severe inftn,
cystic fibrosis: 50mg/kg (max 2g)
12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 6H
or constant infsn (4+ wk).
Ceftibuten. 10mg/kg (adult 400mg)
daily oral.
Ceftizoxime. 25-60mg/kg (adult
1-3g) 6-8H IV.
Ceftriaxone sodium. 25mg/kg
(adult 1g) 12-24H IV, or IM (in 1%
lignocaine). Severe inftn: 50mg/
kg (max 2g) daily (1st wk life), 12H
(2+ wk). Epiglottitis: 100mg/kg
(max 2g) stat, then 50mg/kg (max
2g) after 24hr. Meningococ proph
(NOT /kg): child 125mg, 12yr
250mg IM in 1% lignocaine once.
Cefuroxime. Oral (as cefuroxime
axetil): 10-15mg/kg (adult 250-
500mg) 12H. IV: 25mg/kg (adult
1g) 8H. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg
(max 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H
(2nd wk), 6H or constant infsn
(2wk).
Celecoxib. Usually 2mg/kg (adult
100mg) 12H, or 4mg/kg (adult
200mg) daily oral. Familial adeno-
matous polyposis (adult, NOT/kg):
400mg 12H oral.
Celiprolol. 5-10mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) daily oral.
Cephalexin. Skin or UTI: 12.5mg/
kg (adult 250mg) 6H, or 25mg/
kg (adult 500mg) 12H oral. Otitis:
25mg/kg 6H.
Cephalothin. 15-25mg/kg (adult
0.5-1g) 6H IV or IM. Severe inftn:
50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 4H or con-
stant infsn. Irrigation fluid: 2g/L
(2mg/ml).
Cephamandole. 15-25mg/kg (adult
0.5-1g) 6-8H IV over 10min or IM.
Severe inftn: 40mg/kg (adult 2g)
IV over 20min 4-6H or constant
infsn.
Cephazolin. 10-15mg/kg (adult 0.5g)
6H IV or IM. Severe inftn: 50mg/
kg (adult 2g) IV 4-6H or constant
infsn. Surgical proph: 50mg/kg IV
at induction.
Cephradine. Oral: 10-25mg/kg
(adult 0.25-1g) 6H. IM or IV: 25-
50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) 6H.
Certolizumab. Adult (NOT/kg):
400mg SC every 2wk for 3 doses,
then every 4wk if response.
Certoparin. Prophylaxis: 60u/kg
(adult 3000u) 1-2hr preop, then
daily SC.
DrugDoses
612
Cerumol. See arachis oil + chlorbutol
+ dichlorobenzene otic.
Cetirizine. NOT/kg: 2.5mg (6mo-
2yr), 2.5-5mg (2-5yr), 5-10mg
(5yr) daily oral.
Cetrimide. See chlorhexidine.
Cetrorelix (GnRH antagonist). Adult
(NOT/kg): 0.25mg SC on stimula-
tion day 5, then daily until hCG
given.
Cetuximab. 400mg/m2
IV over 2hr,
then 250mg/m2
wkly.
Cetylpyridinium. See benzocaine +
cetylpyridinium.
Cevimeline. 0.6mg/kg (adult 30mg)
8H oral.
Charcoal, activated. Check bowel
sounds present. 1-2g/kg (adult
50-100g) NG; then 0.25g/kg hrly
if redq. Laxative: sorbitol 1g/kg
(1.4ml/kg of 70%) once NG, may
repeat x1.
Chenodeoxycholic acid. 5-10mg/kg
12H oral.
Chickenpox vaccine. See varicella
vaccine.
Chlomethiazole. See clomethiazole.
Chloral betaine. 1.7mg = 1mg chlo-
ral hydrate.
Chloral hydrate. Hypnotic: 50mg/kg
(max 2g) stat (ICU up to 100mg/
kg, max 5g). Sedative: 10mg/kg
6-8H oral or PR.
Chlorambucil. Typically 0.1-0.2mg/
kg daily oral.
Chloramphenicol. Severe inftn:
40mg/kg (max 2g) stat IV, IM
or oral; then 25mg/kg (max 1g)
daily (1st wk life) 12H (2-4 wk)
8H (4wk) x5 days, then 6H. Eye
drop, oint: apply 2-6H. Ear: 4drop
6H. Serum level 20-30mg/L 2hr,
15mg/L trough.
Chlorbutol. See arachis oil + chlor-
butol + dichlorobenzene.
Chlordiazepoxide. 0.1mg/kg (adult
5mg) 12H oral, may incr to max
0.5mg/kg (adult 30mg) 6-8H.
Chlorhexidine. 0.1%: catheterisation
prep, impetigo. 0.2%: mouth-
wash. 1%: skin disinfection. 2-4%:
hand wash.
Chlorhexidine 0.5% + alcohol 70%.
Skin disinfection.
Chlorhexidine 1.5% + cetrimide
15%. 1/30 in water: cleaning
tissues, wounds or equipment.
140ml in 1L water: disinfecting
skin, equipment (soak 2min, rinse
in sterile water).
Chlorhexidine + cetrimide.
0.05%/0.5%, 0.1%/1%,
0.15%/0.15% soltn: wound
cleaning.
Chlorhexidine 1% + hexamidine
0.15%. Powder: wounds.
Chlormethiazole. See clomethiazole.
Chlormezanone. 5mg/kg (adult
200mg) 6-8H, or 10mg/kg (adult
400mg) at night oral.
Chlorophyllin copper complex.
2mg/kg 8-24H oral.
Chloroprocaine. Max 11mg/kg
(max 800mg). With adrenaline
(1/200,000) max 14mg/kg (max
1000mg).
Chloroquine, base. Oral: 10mg/kg
(max 600mg) daily x3 days. IM:
4mg/kg (max 300mg) 12H for 3
days. Prophylaxis: 5mg/kg (adult
300mg) oral x1/wk. Lupus, rheu
arth: 12mg/kg (max 600mg) daily,
reduce to 4-8mg/kg (max 400mg)
daily.
Chloroquine + pyrimethamine +
sulphadoxine. Chloroquine base
10mg/kg (max 600mg) daily for
3 days oral, plus pyrimethamine
1.25mg/kg (max 75mg) and sul-
phadoxine 25 mg/kg (max 1.5g)
on first day.
Chlorothiazide. 5-20mg/kg (adult
0.25-1g) 12-24H oral, IV.
Chlorphenamine. See chlorphe-
niramine.
Chlorphenasin. 1% ointment: apply
12H.
Chlorpheniramine. 0.1mg/kg (adult
4mg) 6-8H oral.
DrugDoses
613
Chlorpheniramine. 1.25mg + phe-
nylephrine 2.5mg in 5ml. Syrup
(NOT/kg): 1.25-2.5ml (0-1yr),
2.5-5ml (2-5yr), 5-10ml (6-12yr),
10-15ml (12yr) 6-8H oral.
Chlorpromazine. Oral or PR: 0.5-
2mg/kg (max 100mg) 6-8H; up
to 20mg/kg 8H for psychosis.
IM (painful) or slow IV (beware
hypotension): 0.25-1mg/kg (usual
max 50mg) 6-8H.
Chlorpropamide. Adult (NOT/kg):
initially 125-250mg oral, max
500mg daily.
Chlorquinaldol. 5% paste: apply
12H.
Chlortalidone. See chlorthalidone.
Chlortetracycline. 3% cream or oint-
ment: apply 8-24H.
Chlortetracycline 115.4mg + deme-
clocycline 69.2mg + tetracycline
115.4mg. NOT/kg. 12yr: 1 tab
12H oral.
Chlorthalidone. 2mg/kg (max
100mg) 3 times a wk oral.
Chlorzoxazone. 5-15mg/kg (adult
250-750mg) 6-8H oral.
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). 1
mcg = 40u = 1mcg ergocalciferol
(qv). Osteodystrophy: 0.2mcg/
kg (hepatic) 15-40mcg/kg (renal)
daily oral.
Cholera, whole cell plus toxin b
subunit recombinant vaccine
(Dukoral). Inanimate. Dissolve
granules in 150ml water. 2-6yr:
give 75ml x3 doses 1wk apart
oral, boost after 6mo. 6yr: give
150ml x2 doses 1wk apart, boost
after 2yr .
Cholestyramine. NOT/kg. 1g (6yr)
2-4g (6-12yr) 4g (12yr) daily oral,
incr over 4wk to max 1-2x initial
dose 8H.
Choline magnesium trisalicylate.
See aspirin.
Choline salicylate, mouth gel (Bon-
jela). Apply 3H prn.
Choline theophyllinate (200mg =
theophylline 127mg). See theo-
phylline.
Choriogonadotropin alfa. Adult
(NOT/kg): 250mcg SC.
Chorionic gonadotrophin. NOT/
kg. Cryptorchidism all ages: 500-
1000u x1-2/wk for 5wk. After
FSH: 10,000iu IM once. Men:
7000iu IM x2/wk, with 75iu FSH
and 75iu LH IM x3/wk.
Chymopapain. Adult (NOT/kg):
2000-4000 picokatal units per
disc, max 10,000 picokatal units
per patient.
Ciclesonide. Inhaltn (12yr): 80-
320mcg 12-24H. Nasal: 100 mcg/
nostril once daily.
Ciclopirox. 1% cream or lotion: apply
12H.
Cidofovir. 5mg/kg over 1hr IV on
day 0, day 7, then every 14 days
(given with probenecid). Papil-
loma: inject 6.25 mg/ml soltn
(max total 0.6mg/kg) at interval
of = 2wk.
Ciclosporin. See cyclosporin.
Cilazapril. Usually 0.02-0.1mg/kg
(adult 1-5mg) daily oral. Renal
hypertension: 0.005-0.01mg/kg
daily oral.
Cilostazol. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mg
12H oral.
Cimetidine. Oral: 5-10mg/kg
(adult 300-400mg) 6H, or 20
mg/kg (adult 800mg) nocte. IV:
10-15mg/kg (adult 200mg) 12H
(newborn), 6H (4wk).
Cinacalcet. Adult (NOT/kg) 30mg
daily oral, incr every 2-4wk (to
max 180mg) to control parathy-
roid hormone level. Parathyroid
carcinoma: 30mg 12H, incr every
2-4wk if reqd to control serum Ca
to max 90mg 6H oral.
Cinchocaine. Max dose 2mg/kg
(0.4ml/kg of 0.5%) by injec¬tion.
Oint 0.5% with hydrocortisone
0.5%: apply 8-24H.
Cinnarizine. 0.3-0.6mg/kg (adult
15-30mg) 8H oral. Periph vasc dis:
1.5mg/kg (adult 75mg) 8H oral.
Cinoxacin. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg)
12H oral.
DrugDoses
614
Ciprofibrate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) daily oral.
Ciprofloxacin. 5-10mg/kg (adult
250-500mg) 12H oral, 4-7mg/kg
(adult 200-300mg) 12H IV. Severe
inftn, or cystic fibrosis: 20mg/kg
(max 750mg) 12H oral, 10mg/kg
(max 400mg) 8H IV; higher doses
used occasionally. Meningococ-
cus proph: 15mg/kg (max 500mg)
once oral.
Ciprofloxacin, eye drops. 0.3%. Cor-
neal ulcer: 1drop /15min for 6hr
then 1drop/30min for 18hr (day
1), 1drop 1H (day 2), 1drop 4H
(day 3-14). Conjunctivitis: 1 drop
4H; if severe 1 drop 2H when
awake for 2 days, then 6H.
Ciprofloxacin, eye ointment. 0.3%.
Apply 1.25cm 8H for 3 days, then
12H for 3 or more days.
Cisatracurium. 0.1mg/kg (child) or
0.15mg/kg (adult) IV stat, then
0.03mg/kg if reqd or 1-3mcg/kg/
min. ICU: 0.15 mg/kg stat, then
(1-10mcg/kg/min) IV.
Cisplatin. 60-100mg/m2
IV over 6hr
every 3-4wk x6 cycles.
Citalopram. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg)
daily, incr if reqd over 4wk to max
0.4mg/kg (adult 60mg) daily oral.
Citric acid 0.25g + potassium citrate
1.5g. Urine alkalinisation 6yr
(NOT/kg): 2 tab 8-12H oral.
Cladribine. Hairy cell leuk: usually
0.09mg/kg/day for 7 days by
continuous IV infsn. Ch lymph
leuk: 0.12mg/kg/day over 2hr IV
on days 1-5 of 28 day cycle, max
6 cycles.
Clarithromycin. 7.5-15mg/kg (adult
250-500mg) 12H oral. Slow re-
lease tab, adult (NOT/kg): 0.5g or
1g daily. H.pylori, see omeprazole.
Clavulanic acid. See amoxycillin,
ticarcillin.
Clemastine. 0.02-0.06mg/kg (adult
1-3mg) 12H oral.
Clenbuterol. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mcg
(up to 40mcg) 12H oral.
Clevidipine. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg/hr
incr every 5min to 4-6mg/hr (max
16mg/hr) IV.
Clidinium. 0.05-0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5-
5mg) 6-8H oral.
Clindamycin. 6mg/kg (adult 150-
450mg) 6H oral. IV over 30 min,
or IM: 5mg/kg 12H (preterm
1wk old), 5mg/kg 8H (pre¬term
1wk, term 1wk), 7.5mg/kg 8H
(term 1wk), 28 days 10mg/kg
(adult 600mg) 8H. Severe inftn
(28 days): 15-20 mg/kg (adult
900mg) 8H IV over 1hr. Acne soltn
1%: 12H.
Clioquinol. 10mg/g cream, 100%
powder: apply 6-12H.
Clioquinol 1% + flumetasone 0.02%.
2-3 drops/ear 8-12H.
Clobazam. 0.1mg/kg (adult 10mg)
daily oral, incr if reqd to max
0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg) 8-12H
oral.
Clobetasol. 0.05% spray, cream,
ointment, gel, solution, foam,
lotion, shampoo: apply 12H.
Clobetasone. 0.1% soltn: 1drop/
eye 1-6H.
Clocortolone. Cream 0.1%: apply 8H.
Clodronate. 10-30mg/kg (adult 0.6-
1.8g) IV over 2hr every 2mo; or
6mg/kg (adult 300mg) IV over 2hr
daily x7 days, then 15-30/mg/kg
(adult 0.8-1.6g) 12H oral.
Clofarabine. 52mg/m2
IV over 2hr
for 5 days every 2-6wk.
Clofazimine. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
daily oral. Lepra reaction: up to
6mg/kg (max 300mg) daily for
max 3mo.
Clofibrate. 10mg/kg 8-12H oral.
Clomethiazole. Cap (192mg base)
equivalent action to 5ml syrup
(250mg edisilate). Adult (NOT/
kg): 1-2 cap, or 5-10ml syrup, at
bedtime oral.
Clomiphene. Adult (NOT/kg):
50mg daily for 5 days oral, incr
to 100mg daily for 5 days if no
ovulation.
DrugDoses
615
Clomipramine. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult
25-50mg) 12H oral, incr if reqd to
max 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8H.
Clonazepam. 1 drop = 0.1mg.
0.01mg/kg (max 0.5mg) 12H oral,
slowly incr to 0.05mg/kg (max
2mg) 6-12H oral. Sta¬tus (may
be repeated if ventilated), NOT/
kg: neonate 0.25mg, child 0.5mg,
adult 1mg IV.
Clonidine. Hypertension: 1-5mcg/
kg slow IV, 1-6mcg/kg (adult
50-300mcg) 8-12H oral. Migraine:
start with 0.5 mcg/kg (adult
50-75mcg) 12H oral. Analgesia:
2.5mcg/kg premed oral, 0.3 mcg/
kg/hr IV, 1-2mcg/kg local block;
ventld 0.5-2 mcg/kg/hr (12kg
1mcg/kg/hr is 50mcg/kg in 50ml
at 1ml/hr, 12kg 25 mcg/kg in
50ml at 2ml/hr) + midazolam
1mcg/kg/min (3 mg/kg in 50ml
at 1ml/hr).
Clopamide 5mg + pindolol 10mg.
Adult: 1-2 tab (max 3 tab) daily
oral.
Clopidogrel. Child 0.2mg/kg daily,
adult 75mg daily oral (note higher
dose in adults). Poor converters
to active form (15-30% CYP2C19
variant) need higher doses, or
pasugrel.
Clorazepate. 0.3-2mg/kg (adult
15-90mg) daily at night oral, or
0.1-0.5mg/kg (adult 5-30mg) 8H.
Clostridia antitoxin. See gas gan-
grene antitoxin.
Clotrimazole. Topical: 1% cream or
solution 8-12H. Vaginal (NOT/kg):
1% cream or 100mg tab daily for
6 days, or 2% cream or 500mg tab
daily for 3 days.
Cloxacillin. 15mg/kg (adult 500mg)
6H oral, IM or IV. Severe inftn: 25-
50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) IV 12H (1st
wk life), 8H (2-4wk), 4-6 H (4wk)
or constant infsn (4wk).
Clozapine. 0.5mg/kg (adult 25mg)
12H oral, incr over 7-14 days to
2-5mg/kg (adult 100-300mg)
8-12H; later reducing to 2mg/kg
(adult 100mg) 8-12H.
Coal tar, topical. 0.5% incr to max
10%, applied 6-8H.
Cocaine. Topical: 1-3mg/kg.
Codeine phosphate. Inactive in
≈10% of adults, poor activity in
children 5yrs. Analgesic: 0.5-
1mg/kg (adult 15-60mg) 4H oral,
IM, SC. Cough: 0.25-0.5mg/kg
(adult 15-30mg) 6H.
Codeine + guaiacol. 7mg/75mg per
5ml. Adult (NOT/kg): 10ml 8H
oral.
Co-danthramer, co-danthrusate.
See dantron.
Co-dergocrine mesylate. Adult
(NOT/kg): 3-4.5mg daily before
meal oral or subling; 300mcg
daily IM, SC or IV infsn.
Coenzyme Q10. See ubidecarenone.
Colaspase. Test 2-50u intradermal.
Typical dose 6000u/m2
every
3rd day x9 doses IV over 4hr, IM
or SC.
Colchicine. Acute gout: 0.02mg/kg
(adult 1mg) 2H oral (max 3 doses/
day). Chronic use (gout, FMF):
0.01-0.04mg/kg (adult 0.5-2mg)
daily oral.
Colesevelam. 625mg tab. Adult
(NOT/kg): 3 tab 12H oral, or 6 tab
daily. With statin: 4-6 tab/day (in
1-2 doses).
Colestipol hydrochloride. 0.1-0.2g/
kg (adult 5-10g) 8H oral.
Colestyramine. See cholestyramine.
Colfosceril palmitate (Exosurf
Neonatal). Soltn 13.5 mg/ml.
Prophylaxis: 5ml/kg intratracheal
over 5min straight after birth, and
at 12hr and 24hr if still ventilated.
Rescue: 5ml/kg intratracheal
over 5min, repeat in 12hr if still
ventilated.
Colistimethate. See colistin sulfo-
methate sodium.
DrugDoses
616
Colistin 3mg/ml + neomycin 3.3mg/
ml. Otic: 4 drops 8H.
Colistin sulphomethate sodium.
2.6mg = 1mg colistin base =
30,000u. IM, or IV over 5min:
40,000u/kg (adult 2 million u) 8H,
or 1.25-2.5mg/kg of colistin base
12H. Oral or inhaled: 30,000-
60,000 u/kg (adult 1.5-3 million
u) 8H.
Collagenase. Ointment 250u/g:
apply daily.
Colonic lavage, macrogol-3350 and
macrogol-4000 (polyethylene
glyol) 105g/L. Poisoning, severe
constipation: if bowel sounds pre-
sent, 25ml/kg/hr (adult 1.5L/hr)
oral or NG for 2-4hr (until rectal
effluent clear). Before colonos-
copy: clear fluids only to noon,
1 whole 5mg bisacodyl tab per
10kg (adult 4 tab) at noon, wait
for bowel motion (max 6hr), then
macrogol 4g/kg (adult 200g) in
40ml/kg fluid (adult 2L) over 2hr
oral or NG.
Colony stimulating factors. See
ancestrim, epoetin, fil¬grastim,
lenograstim, molgramostim,
sargramostim.
Coloxyl. See docusate sodium.
Conivaptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mg
over 30min IV, then 20mg (max
40mg) over 24hr by IV infusion.
Conjugated oestrogens (CO) +
medroxyprogesterone (MP).
NOT/kg. CO (NOT/kg): 0.625mg
(0.3-1.25mg) daily continuously,
with MP 10mg (up to 20mg) daily
oral for last 10-14 days of 28 day
cycle.
Co-cyprindiol. See cyproterone
acetate + ethinyloestradiol.
Corifollitropin alfa. Adult (NOT/kg):
100mcg (≤60kg) 150mcg (60kg)
SC, GnRH day 5-6, FSH for 6-18
days from day 8.
Corticorelin. 1-2mcg/kg (max
100mcg) IV.
Corticotrophin releasing factor,
hormone. See corticorelin.
Cortisone acetate. 1-2.5mg/kg 6-8H
oral. Physiological: 7.5 mg/m2
8H.
Cortisone acetate 1mg = hydro-
cortisone 1.25mg in mineralo-
and gluco-corticoid action.
Cosyntropin (ACTH subunit). NOT/
kg: 2yr 0.125mg, 2yr 0.25-
0.75mg IM, IV, or infused over
4-8hr.
Cotrimoxazole (trimethoprim 1mg
+ sulphamethoxazole 5mg).
TMP 4mg/kg (adult 80-160mg)
12H IV over 1hr or oral. Renal
proph: TMP 2mg/kg (max 80mg)
daily oral. Pneumocystis: proph
TMP 5mg/kg daily on 3 days/wk;
treat¬ment TMP 250mg/m2
stat,
then 150mg/m2
8H (11yr) or
12H ( 10yr) IV over 1hr; in renal
failure dose interval (hr) = serum
creatinine (mmol/l) x 135 (max
48hr); 1hr post-infsn serum TMP
5-10mcg/ml, SMX 100-200mcg/
ml. IV infsn: TMP max 1.6mg/ml
in 5% dext.
Coumarin. Oral: 1-8mg/kg (adult
50-400mg) daily. Cream 100mg/g:
apply 8-12H.
Coxiella burnetti vaccine. Inanimate.
0.5ml SC once.
Crisantaspase. See colaspase.
Cromoglycate. See sodium cromo-
glycate.
Cromolyn, sodium. See sodium
cromoglycate.
Crotamiton. 10% cream or lotion:
apply x2-3/day.
Cryoprecipitate. Low factor 8: 1u/
kg incr activity 2% (half life 12hr);
usual dose 5ml/kg or 1bag/4kg
12H IV for 1-2 infns (muscle,
joint), 3-6 infns (hip, forearm,
retroperito¬neal, oro¬pharynx),
7-14 infns (intracranial). Low
fibrinogen: usually 5ml/kg or
1bag/4kg IV. Bag usually 20-30ml:
factor 8 about 5u/ml (100u/
bag), fibrinogen about 10mg/ml
(200mg/bag).
DrugDoses
617
Cyanocobalamin (Vit B12). 20mcg/
kg (adult 1000mcg) IM daily for
7 days then wkly (treatment),
monthly (prophylaxis). IV danger-
ous in megaloblastic anaemia.
Maintenance treatment (adult
NOT/kg): 2mg daily oral; 50mcg
(incr if reqd to 100mcg) daily, or
500mcg wkly nasal.
Cyclizine. 1mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8H
oral, IM or IV.
Cyclizine 30mg + dipipanone 10mg.
Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab 6H oral, incr
dose by half tab if reqd to max 3
tab 6H.
Cyclobenzaprine. 0.2-0.4mg/kg
(adult 5-15mg) 8H oral. Extended-
release (adult, NOT/kg): 15mg or
30mg daily oral.
Cyclopenthiazide. 5-10mcg/kg
(adult 250-500mcg) 12-24H .
Cyclopentolate. 0.5%, 1%: 1 drop/
eye, repeat after 5min. Pilocar-
pine 1% speeds recovery.
Cyclophosphamide. A typical regi-
men is 600mg/m2
IV over 30min
daily for 3 days, then 600mg/m2
IV wkly or 10mg/kg twice wkly (if
leucocytes 3000/mm3
).
Cycloserine. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250-
500mg) 12H oral. Keep plasma
conc 30mcg/ml.
Cyclosporin. 1-3mcg/kg/min IV for
24-48hr, then 5-8mg/kg 12H
reducing by 1mg/kg/dose each
mo to 3-4 mg/kg/dose 12H
oral. Eczema, juvenile arthritis,
nephrotic, syndrome, psoriasis:
1.5-2.5mg/kg 12H. Usual target
trough levels by Abbott TDx
monoclonal specific assay (x 2.5 =
non-specific assay level) on whole
blood: 100-250 ng/ml (marrow),
300-400 ng/ml first 3mo then
100-300 ng/ml (kidney), 200-250
first 3mo then 100-125 (liver),
100-400ng/ml (heart, lung).
Cyclosporin ophthalmic. 0.05% 1
drop in each eye 12H.
Cyproheptadine. 0.1mg/kg (adult
4mg) 6-8H oral. Migraine 0.1mg/
kg (adult 4mg), repeated in 30min
if reqd.
Cyproterone acetate. 1mg/kg (adult
50mg) 8-12H oral. Prec puberty:
25-50mg/m2
8-12H oral. Hyperan-
drogenism: 50-100mg daily days
5-14, with oestradiol valerate
1mg daily days 5-25. Prostate
carcinoma (NOT/kg): 100mg
8-12H oral. See also oestradiol +
cyproterone.
Cyproterone acetate + ethiny-
loestradiol (2mg/35mcg) x 21
tab, + 7 inert tab. In females for
acne, contraception, or hirsutism:
1 tab daily, starting 1st day of
mensturation.
Cysteamine bitartrate. 0.05mg/m2
6H oral, incr over 6wk to 0.33mg/
m2
/dose (50kg) or 0.5mg/kg/
dose (50kg) 6H.
Cytarabine. Usually 100mg/m2
daily
for 10 days by IV injn or constant
infsn. Intrathecal: 30mg/m2
every
4 days until CSF normal (dissolve
in saline not diluent).
Cytomegalovirus immunoglobn. See
immunoglobn, CMV.
Dabigatran. Adult (NOT/kg): 220mg
daily oral.
Dacarbazine. 250mg/m2
IV daily for
5 days every 3wk.
Daclizumab. 1mg/kg IV over 15min
every 2wk for 5 doses.
Dactinomycin. Usually 400-600mcg/
m2
IV daily for 5 days, repeat after
3-4wk.
Dalfampridine. Slow release (adult,
NOT/kg): 10mg 12H oral.
Dalfopristin 350mg + quinupristin
150mg (Synercid IV 500mg vial).
7.5mg/kg (combined) 8H IV over
1hr.
DrugDoses
618
Dalteparin sodium. Proph (adult):
2500-5000u SC 1-2hr preop, then
daily. Venous thrombosis: 100u/
kg 12H SC, or infuse 200u/kg/
day IV (anti-Xa 0.5-1u/ml 4hr post
dose). Haemodialysis: 5-10u/kg
stat, then 4-5u/kg/hr IV (acute
renal failure, anti-Xa 0.2-0.4u/ml);
30-40u/kg stat, then 10-15u/kg/
hr (chronic renal failure, anti-Xa
0.5-1u/ml).
Danaparoid. Prevention: 15u/kg
(adult 750u) 12H SC. Heparin
induced thrombocytopenia: 30u/
kg stat IV, then 1.2-2u/kg/hr to
maintain anti-Xa 0.4-0.8u/ml.
Danazol. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) 6-12H oral.
Dantrolene. Hyperpyrexia: 1mg/kg/
min until improves (max 10mg/
kg), then 1-2mg/kg 6H for 1-3day
IV or oral. Spasticity: 0.5mg/kg
(adult 25mg) 6H, incr over 2wk if
reqd to 3mg/kg (adult 50-100mg)
6H oral.
Dantron + docusate (co-danthru-
sate). NOT/kg. 50/60mg cap:
7-12yr 1cap, adult 1-3cap at
night. 50/60mg in 5ml: 1-6yr
2.5ml, 7-12yr 5ml, adult 5-15ml
at night.
Dantron + poloxamer 188 (co-
danthramer). NOT/kg. 25/ 200mg
cap: 7-12yr 1cap, adult 1-3cap
at night. 25/200mg in 5ml: 1-6yr
2.5ml, 7-12yr 5ml, adult 5-15ml
at night.
Dapsone. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-
100mg) daily oral. Derm herpet:
1-6mg/kg (adult 50-300mg) daily
oral.
Dapsone 100mg + pyrimethamine
12.5mg (Maloprim). 1-4yr quarter
tab wkly, 5-10yr half tab, 10yr
1tab.
Daptomycin. 4mg/kg IV over 30min
daily.
Darbepoetin alfa. Incr or re¬duce
dose if reqd by 25% every 4wk.
Renal failure: 0.45mcg/kg wkly
(0.75mcg/kg wkly if not on dialy-
sis) SC or IV. Cancer: 6.75mcg/kg
every 3wk, or 2.25mcg/kg every
wk, SC or IV.
Darifenacin. Adult (NOT/kg): 7.5-
15mg daily oral.
Darunavir (DRV). Adult (NOT/kg):
600mg 12H with food oral.
Darunavir + ritonavir. 20-29kg:
375/50mg 12H with food;
30-39kg: 450/60mg 12H;
≥40kg: 600/100mg 12H. ≥18yr:
800/100mg (naïve) 600/100mg
(past Rx) daily with food.
Dasatinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 70mg (up
to 100mg) 12H oral.
Daunorubicin. 30mg/m2
wkly slow
IV, or 60-90mg/m2
every 3wk.
Max total dose 500mg/m2
.
DDAVP. See desmopressin.
Decitabine. 15mg/m2 IV over 3hr
8H for 3 days, repeated every 6wk
(minimum of 4 cycles).
Deferasirox. 20mg/kg (15-30mg/kg)
daily oral.
Deferiprone. 25mg/kg 8H (max
100mg/kg/day) oral.
Deferoxamine. See desferrioxamine.
Deflazacort. Usually 0.1-1.5mg/kg
(adult 5-90mg) 24-48H oral. 1.2
mg = 1mg prednisolone in gluco-
corticoid activity.
Degarelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 240mg in
two SC injections, then 80mg SC
every 4wk.
Delavirdine. Adult (NOT/kg): 400mg
8H, or 600mg 12H oral.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. See
cannabidiol.
Demecarium bromide. 0.125%,
0.25% ophthalmic soltn. Glau-
coma: 1 drop x2/day to x2/wk.
Strabismus: 1 drop daily for 2wk,
then 1 drop alternate days for
2-3wk.
DrugDoses
619
Demeclocycline. 8yr: 3mg/kg
(adult 150mg) 6H, or 6mg/kg
(adult 300mg) 12H oral. See also
chlortetracycline.
Denileukin diftitox. 9-18mcg/kg
daily IV over 15min for 5 consecu-
tive days every 21 days.
Denosumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 60mg
every 6mo SC, with calcium
1000mg daily and at least 400iu
vitamin D daily.
Dequalinium. NOT/kg: one 0.25mg
pastile 4H oral.
Deserpidine. 0.005-0.02mg/kg
(adult 0.25-1mg) daily oral.
Desflurane. Usually child 5-10%,
adult 3-8% by inhalation.
Desferrioxamine. Antidote: 10-
15mg/kg/hr IV for 12-24hr (max
6g/24hr) if Fe 60-90umol/l at
4hr or 8hr; some also give 5-10g
(NOT/kg) once oral. Thalassaemia
(NOT/kg): 500mg per unit blood;
and 5-6 nights/wk 1-3g in 5ml
water SC over 10hr, 0.5-1.5g in
10ml water SC over 5min.
Desipramine. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200), occasionally incr up to 6mg/
kg (adult 300mg), daily oral.
Desirudin. 0.3mg/kg (adult 15mg)
12H SC.
Desloratadine. 0.1mg/kg (adult
5mg) daily oral.
Desmopressin (DDAVP). 1u = 1mcg.
Nasal (NOT/kg): 5-10mcg (0.05-
0.1ml) per dose 12-24H; enuresis
10-40mcg nocte. IV: 0.5-2mcg in
1L fluid, and replace urine output
+ 10% hrly (but much better to
use vasopressin). Haemophilia,
von Willebrand: 0.3mcg/kg (adult
20mcg) IV over 1hr 12-24H. More
potent and longer acting than
vasopressin.
Desogestrel. Contraception: 75mcg
daily oral, starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Desogestrel + ethinyloestradiol
(150mcg/30mcg, 150/20) x21
tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception:
1 tab daily, starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Desonide. 0.05% cream, ointment,
lotion: apply 8-12H.
Desoximetasone. See desoxymetha-
sone.
Desoxymethasone. 0.05% or 0.25%
cream, oint, gel: apply 12H.
Desoxyribonuclease. See fibrinoly-
sin.
Desvenlafaxine. Adult (NOT/kg): 50-
100mg daily oral.
Dexamethasone. Biological half life
2-3 days. 0.1-1mg/kg daily oral,
IM or IV. Antiemetic: 0.5mg/kg
(adult 16mg) daily IM, IV, oral.
BPD: 0.4mg/kg daily for 3 days,
then 0.3mg/kg 3 days, 0.2mg/kg
3 days, 0.1mg/kg 3 days, 0.05mg/
kg 7 days. Cerebral oedema: 0.25-
1mg/kg (adult 10-50mg) stat,
then 0.6-1mg/kg (adult 4-8mg)
daily IV reducing over 3-5 days
to 0.1mg/kg (adult 2mg) daily.
Congenital adrenal hypoplasia:
0.27 mg/m2
daily oral. Severe
croup, extubtn stridor, bronchioli-
tis: 0.6 mg/kg (max 20mg) IV or
IM stat, then prednisolone 1mg/
kg 8-12H oral. Eye drops 0.1%: 1
drop/eye 3-8H. Dexamethasone
has no mineralocorticoid action;
1mg = 25mg hydrocortisone in
glucocorticoid action.
Dexamethasone 0.5mg/ml (0.05%)
+ framycetin 5mg/ml (0.5%) +
gramicidin 0.05mg/ml (0.005%)
(Sofradex). Eye 1 drop 1-3H, ear
2-3 drops 6-8H, ointment 8-12H.
Dexamethasone 0.1% + neomycin
0.35% + polymyxin 6000u/g.
1drop/eye 6-8H.
Dexamethasone 0.1% + tobramycin
0.3%. Usually 1drop/ eye 4-6H;
up to 2H for 2 days after surgery
if reqd.
DrugDoses
620
Dexamethasone 20mcg + tramazo-
line 120mcg per dose. Aerosol: 1
puff in each nostril 4-8H.
Dexamphetamine. 0.2mg/kg (max
10mg) daily oral, incr if reqd to
max 0.6mg/kg (max 40mg) 12H.
Dexchlorpheniramine maleate.
0.05mg/kg (adult 2mg) 6-8H oral.
Repetab (adult NOT/kg): 6mg
12H oral.
Dexibuprofen. Adult (NOT/kg):
400mg 12H (max 8H) oral.
Dexketoprofen. Adult (NOT/kg):
12.5mg 4-6H, or 25mg 8H (max
75mg/day) oral.
Dexlansoprazole. 1-2mg/kg (adult
30-60mg) daily oral.
Dexmedetomidine. ICU: 1mcg/kg IV
over 15min, then 0.2-0.7mcg/kg/
hr for max 24hr.
Dexmethylphenidate. NOT/kg,
given as two doses/day 4hr apart:
2.5mg/dose oral, incr if reqd to
10mg/dose. Long-acting (NOT/
kg): child 5-10mg (adult 5-20mg)
daily oral.
Dexpanthenol. 5-10mg/kg (adult
250-500mg) IM. 5% cream: apply
12-24H
Dexrazoxane. 10mg for each 1mg
doxorubicin IV. Extravasation
of anthracyclines: within 6hr
give 1g/m2
(max 2g) IV over 2hr,
repeated after 24hr; then 0.5g/m2
48hr after first dose.
Dextran 1 (Promit). 15% soltn.
0.3ml/kg IV 1-2min before giving
dextran 40 or dextran 70.
Dextran 40. 10% soltn: 10ml/kg x1-2
on day 1, then 10 ml/kg/day IV.
Half life about 3hr.
Dextran 70. 6% soltn: 10ml/kg x1-2
on day 1, then 10 ml/kg/day IV.
Half life about 12hr.
Dextroamphetamine. See dexam-
phetamine.
Dextromethorphan hydrobromide.
0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-20mg)
6-8H oral.
Dextromoramide. 0.1mg/kg (adult
5mg) 8H, may incr to 0.5mg/kg
(adult 20mg) 8H oral or PR.
Dextropropoxyphene. Hydrochlo-
ride 1.3mg/kg (adult 65mg) or
napsylate 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
6H oral.
Dextrose. Infant sedation (NOT/kg):
1ml 50%D oral. Hypoglycaemia:
0.5ml/kg 50%D or 2.5ml/kg 10%D
slow IV, then incr maintenance
mg/kg/min. Hyperkalaemia:
0.1u/kg insulin + 2ml/kg 50%D
IV. Neonates: 6g/kg/day (about
4mg/kg/min) day 1, incr to 12 g/
kg/day (up to 18g/kg/day with
hypoglycaemia). Infsn rate (ml/hr)
= (4.17 x Wt x g/kg/day) / %D =
(6 x Wt x mg/kg/min) / %D. Dose
(g/kg/day) = (ml/hr x %D) / (4.17
x Wt). Dose (mg/kg/min) = (ml/hr
x %D) / (6 x Wt). mg/kg/min = g/
kg/day / 1.44. 0.5ml/kg/hr of 50%
=6g/kg/day.
Dextrothyroxine. Adult (NOT/kg):
1-2mg daily oral, incr monthly if
reqd to max 4-8mg daily.
Dezocine. IM: 0.1-0.4mg/kg (adult
5-20mg) 3-6H. IV: 0.05-0.2mg/kg
(adult 2.5-10mg) 2-4H.
3,4-Diaminopyridine. Adult (NOT/
kg): 10mg 6-8H oral, incr if reqd
to max 20mg x5/day.
Diamorphine. Adult (NOT/kg):
5-10mg 4H IV, IM, SC, oral.
Diazepam. 0.1-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-
20mg) IV or PR. 0.04-0.2 mg/kg
(adult 2-10mg) 8-12H oral. Do not
give by IV infsn (binds to PVC);
emulsion can be infused. Premed:
0.2-0.4mg/kg oral, PR. 2-3mg =
1mg midazolam.
Diazoxide. Hypertension: 1-3mg/
kg (max 150mg) stat by rapid IV
injection (severe hypotension
may occur) repeat once if reqd,
then 2-5mg/kg IV 6H. Hyperinsu-
linism: 12mo 5mg/kg 8-12H oral;
12mo 30-100mg/m2
per dose
8H oral.
DrugDoses
621
Dibotermin alfa. 8ml of 1.5mg/ml
spread evenly on matrix.
Dibromopropamidine. 0.15% cream
on dressing prn.
Dibucaine. See cinchocaine.
Dichloralphenazone 100mg +
isometheptene mucate 65mg +
paracetamol 325mg (Midrin).
Adult (NOT/kg): 2 capsules stat,
then 1/hr if reqd (max 5cap in
12hr).
Dichlorobenzene. See arachis oil +
chlorbutol.
Dichlorphenamide. 2-4mg/kg (adult
100-200mg) stat, then 2mg/kg
(adult 100mg) 12H until response,
then 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 50mg)
8-24H oral.
Diclofenac. 1mg/kg (adult 50mg)
8-12H oral, PR. Eye drops 0.1%:
preop 1-5 drops over 3hr, postop
1 drop stat, then 1 drop 4-8H.
Topical gel 1% (arthritis) 3%
(keratoses): apply 2-4g 6-8H.
Patch 1.3% (180mg) 10x14cm:
apply 12H.
Diclofenac + misoprostal. Adult,
NOT/kg. 50mg/200mcg tab 8-12H
oral; 75mg/200mcg tab 12H oral.
Dicloxacillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult
250-500mg) 6H oral, IM or IV. Se-
vere inftn: 25-50mg/kg (max 2g)
IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk),
4-6H or constant infsn (4 wk).
Dicobalt edetate. 10mg/kg (adult
300mg) IV over 1-5min, repeat x2
if no response.
Dicyclomine. 0.5mg/kg (adult 10-
20mg) 6-8H oral.
Dicycloverine. See dicyclomine.
Didanosine (ddI). 3mo: 50mg/m2
12H oral; 3-8mo: 100 mg/m2
(max
200mg) 12H; 9mo-12yr: 120mg/
m2
(90-150 mg/m2
) 12H; 12yr:
250mg (60kg) 400mg (≥60kg)
daily oral. Adult with tenofovir:
200mg (60kg) 250mg (≥60kg).
CNS disease: 150mg/m2
12H.
Dideoxycytidine (ddC). See zalcit-
abine.
Dienestrol. See dienoestrol.
Dienoestrol. 0.01% vaginal cream:
1 applicatorful (5g) 12-24H for
1-2wk, reducing gradually to
x1-3/wk.
Dienogest (Di) + oestradiol valerate
OV). Contraception, daily: day
1-2 OV 3mg; day 3-7 Di 2mg + OV
2mg; day 8-24 Di 3mg + OV 2mg;
day 27-28 OV 1mg; (day 25-26)
placebo.
Diethylcarbamazine. 6mg/kg daily
for 12 days oral, or a single dose
of 6mg/kg repeated every 6-12
months.
Diethylpropion. 6-12yr: 25mg (NOT/
kg) 12H oral. 12yr: 25mg (NOT/
kg) 6-8H oral.
Diethylstilboestrol. See stilboestrol.
Difenoxin. See atropine + diphe-
noxylate.
Diflorasone. 0.05% cream, oint-
ment: apply 6-24H.
Diflunisal. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250-
500mg) 12H oral.
Digitoxin. 4mcg/kg (max 0.2mg)
12H oral for 4 days, then 1-6mcg/
kg (adult usually 0.15mg, max
0.3mg) daily.
Digoxin. 15mcg/kg stat and 5mcg/kg
after 6H, then 3-5 mcg/kg (usual
max 200mcg IV, 250mcg oral)
12H slow IV or oral. Level 6hr or
more after dose: 1.0-2.5 nmol/L
(x0.78=ng/ml).
Digoxin immmune FAB (antibodies).
IV over 30min. Dose (to nearest
40mg) = serum digoxin (nmol/L)
x Wt (kg) x 0.3, or mg ingested x
55. Give if 0.3mg/kg ingested, or
level 6.4 nmol/L or 5.0ng/ml.
Dihydrazaline. IV infusion: 0.1mg/
kg/hr titrated to effect (max 3.5
mg/kg/day). Oral: 0.25-1mg/kg
12H.
Dihydroartemisinin 40mg + pipe-
raquine 320mg. Oral daily for 3
days: dihydroartemisinin 2.5mg/
kg (adult 1.6mg/kg) + piperaquine
20mg/kg (adult 12.8mg/kg).
Dihydrocodeine. 0.5-1mg/kg 4-6H
oral.
DrugDoses
622
Dihydroergotamine mesylate.
Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg IM, SC or
IV, repeat hrly x2 if needed. Max
6mg/wk.
Dihydromorphinone. See hydromor-
phone.
Dihydrotachysterol (1-OH vitamin
D2). Renal failure, vit D resistant
rickets: 20mcg/kg daily oral, incr
by 20mcg/kg every 4-8wk accord-
ing to serum calcium.
Dihydrotestosterone. See stanolone.
Dihydroxyacetone. 5% soltn: apply
1-3 coats 1hr apart, every 1-3
days.
Diiodohydroxyquin. See di-iodohy-
droxyquinoline.
Di-iodohydroxyquinoline. 10-
13.3mg/kg (adult 650mg) 8H oral
for 20 days.
Diloxanide furoate. 10mg/kg (adult
500mg) 8H oral.
Diltiazem. 1mg/kg (adult 60mg) 8H,
incr if reqd to max 3mg/kg (adult
180mg) 8H oral. Slow release
(adult, NOT/kg): 120-240mg daily,
or 90-180mg 8-12H oral.
Dimenhydrinate. 1-1.5mg/kg (adult
50-75mg) 4-6H oral, IM or IV.
Dimercaprol (BAL). 3mg/kg (max
150mg) IM 4H for 2 days, then 6H
for 1 day, then 12H for 10 days.
Dimeticone. Infant colic (NOT/kg):
42mg/5ml, 2.5ml with feeds (max
x6/day). 10%, 15% barrier cream:
apply prn.
Dimethindene. 0.02-0.04mg/kg
(adult 1-2mg) 8H oral.
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). 50%
soltn: 50ml in bladder for 15 min
every 2wk.
Dinoprost (Prostaglandin F2 alpha).
Extra-amniotic: 1ml of 250mcg/
ml stat, then 3ml 2H. Intra-amniot-
ic: 40mg stat, then 10-40mg after
24hr if required.
Dinoprostone (Prostaglandin E2).
Labour induction: 1mg into
posterior vagina, may repeat dose
1-2mg after 6hr (max 60mcg/kg
over 6hr). Maintain PDA: 25mcg/
kg 1H (less often after 1wk) oral;
or 0.003-0.01mcg/kg/min IV.
Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate.
See docusate sodium.
Diphemanil methylsulphate.
20mg/g powder: apply 8-12H.
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride.
1-2mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) 6-8H
oral.
Diphenoxylate. See atropine +
diphenoxylate (Lomotil).
Diphtheria antitoxin (horse). IM
or IV (NOT/kg): 2500u (nasal),
10,000u (unilateral tonsillar),
20,000u (bilateral tonsillar),
30,000u (laryngeal), 50,000u
(beyond tonsillar fossa), 150,000u
(bullneck). Repeat dose may be
needed. See also immunoglobu-
lin, diphtheria.
Diphtheria vaccine, adult (CSL). In-
animate. 0.5ml IM stat, 6wk later,
and 6mo later (3 doses). Boost
every 10yr.
Diphtheria vaccine, child 8yr (CSL).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM stat, in 6wk,
then 6mo (3 doses). Boost with
adult vaccine.
Diphtheria + hepatitis B + pertus-
sis (acellular) + polio + tetanus
[DaPT-HepB-IPV] (Pediarix).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo,
6mo (3 doses), and (DaPT) 18mo.
Diphtheria + hepatitis B + pertussis
(acellular) + tetanus vaccine
[DaPT-hepB] (Infanrix Hep B).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo,
6mo (3 doses), and (without hep
B) 18mo.
Diphtheria + hepatitis B + Hib +
pertussis (acellular) + tetanus
vaccine [DaPT-hepB-Hib] (Infan-
rix Hexa). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at
2mo, 4mo, 6mo (3 doses).
DrugDoses
623
Diphtheria + Hib + pertussis (acellu-
lar) + polio + tetanus [DaPT-Hib-
IPV] (Infanrix Penta, Pediacel).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo,
6mo (3 doses), and (DaPT) 18mo.
Diphtheria + pertussis (whole cell)
+ tetanus vaccine [DPT] (Triple
Antigen). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at
2mo, 4mo, 6mo, 18mo and 4-5yr
of age (5 doses).
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) +
tetanus vaccine [DaPT] (Tripacel).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo,
6mo, 18mo and 4-5yr of age (5
doses).
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular)
+ tetanus vaccine, adult [daPt]
(Adacel, Boostrix). Inanimate.
≥10yr: 0.5ml IM.
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) +
polio + tetanus vaccine [DaPT-
IPV] (Quadracel). Inanimate.
0.5ml IM at 2, 4 and 6mo (3
doses).
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) +
polio + tetanus vaccine [DaPT-
IPV] (Infanrix-IPV). Inanimate.
16mo-13yr: 0.5ml IM once as
booster.
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular)
+ polio + tetanus vaccine [daPT-
IPV] (Repevax). Inanimate. 3yr:
0.5ml IM once as booster.
Diphtheria + pertussis (acellu-
lar) + polio + tetanus vaccine,
adult [daPt-IPV] (Adacel Polio,
Boostrix-IPV). Inanimate. ≥10yr:
0.5ml IM once as booster.
Diphtheria + polio + tetanus vaccine
[dT-IPV] (Revaxis). Inanimate.
6yr: 0.5ml IM once as booster.
Diphtheria + tetanus vaccine, adult
[dt] (ADT Booster). Inanimate.
0.5ml IM for revaccination after
primary course.
Diphtheria + tetanus vaccine, child
8yr [DT] (CDT). Inanimate. 0.5ml
IM, in 6wk, 6mo later (3 dose).
Boost with ADT.
Dipipanone. See cyclizine.
Dipivefrin. 0.1% soltn: 1 drop per
eye 12H.
Diprophylline. Usually 15mg/kg 6H
oral or IM.
Dipyridamole. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-
100mg) 6-8H oral. See also aspirin
+ dipyridamole.
Dirithromycin. 10mg/kg (adult
500mg) daily oral.
Disodium clodronate. See sodium
clodronate.
Disodium edetate. See trisodium
edetate.
Disodium etidronate. See etidon-
rate.
Disodium levofolinate. Half the
dose of calcium folinate.
Disodium pamidronate. See pa-
midronate.
Disodium tiludronate. See til-
udronate.
Disopyramide. Oral: 1.5-4mg/kg
(adult 75-200mg) 6H. IV: 2mg/
kg (max 150mg) over 5min, then
0.4mg/kg/hr (max 800mg/day).
Level 9-15umol/L (x0.3395 =
mcg/ml).
Distigmine. Neurogenic bladder,
megacolon: 0.01mg/kg (adult
0.5mg) IM daily, 0.1mg/kg (adult
5mg) oral daily. Myasth gravis:
0.1-0.2mg/kg 12-24H (max 20mg/
day) oral.
Disulfiram. Adult (NOT/kg): 500mg
oral daily for 1-2wk, then 125-
500mg daily.
Dithranol. 0.1%-2% cream, oint-
ment: start with lowest strength,
apply daily, wash off after 10min
incr to 30min.
Divalproex. see Sodium valproate.
Dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate. See
vitamin E.
DMSA. See succimer.
Dobutamine. 30kg: 15mg/kg in
50ml 0.9% saline with heparin
1u/ml at 1-4ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/
min) via CVC or periph IV; 30kg:
6mg/kg made up to 100ml with
0.9% saline with heparin 1u/ml at
5-20ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/min).
DrugDoses
624
Docetaxel. Initially 75-100mg/m2
over 1hr IV every 3wk.
Docosanol. 10% cream: apply 5
times a day.
Docusate sodium. NOT/kg: 100mg
(3-10yr), 120-240mg (10yr) daily
oral. Enema (5ml 18% + 155ml
water): 30ml (newborn), 60ml (1-
12mo), 60-120ml (12mo) PR.
Docusate sodium 50mg + sennoside
8mg, tab. 12yr: 1-4 tab at night
oral. See also bisacodyl; casan-
thranol; dantron.
Dofetilide. 10mcg/kg (adult 500mcg)
12H oral, less if renal impairment
or increased QTc interval.
Dolasetron. Cancer: 1.8mg/kg (adult
100mg) IV 30min before chemo,
or 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) oral 1hr
before chemo. Surgery: 1mg/kg
(adult 50mg) oral at induction,
or 0.25mg/kg (adult 12.5mg) IV
postop.
Domperidone. Oral: 0.2-0.4mg/
kg (adult 10-20mg) 4-8H. Rectal
suppos: adult (NOT/kg) 30-60mg
4-8H.
Donepezil. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg at
night oral, incr to 10mg after 1mo
if reqd.
Dopamine. 30kg: 15mg/kg in 50ml
5%dex-hep at 1-4ml/hr (5-20mcg/
kg/min) via CVC; 30kg: 6mg/kg
made up to 100ml in 5%dex-hep
at 5-20ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/min).
Dopexamine. IV infsn 0.5-6mcg/
kg/min.
Doripenem. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg)
8H IV.
Dornase alpha (deoxyribonuclease
I). NOT/kg: usually 2.5mg (max
10mg) inhaled daily (5-21yr), 12-
24H (21yr).
Dorzolamide. 2% drops: 1 drop/eye
8-12H.
Dorzolamide 2% + timolol 0.5%. 1
drop/eye 12H.
Dosulepin hydrochloride. See
dothiepin.
Dothiepin. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-
50mg) 8-12H oral.
Doxacurium. 50-80mcg/kg stat, then
5-10mcg/kg/dose IV.
Doxapram. 5mg/kg IV over 1hr, then
0.5-1mg/kg/hr for 1hr (max total
dose 400mg).
Doxazosin. Usually 0.02-0.1mg/kg
(adult 1-4mg) daily oral.
Doxepin. 0.2-2mg/kg (adult 10-
100mg) 8H oral. 5% cream: apply
x3-4/day.
Doxercalciferol (1,25-OH D2 ana-
logue). Initially 0.2mcg/kg (adult
10mcg) oral, or 0.08mcg/kg (adult
4mcg) IV, x3/wk at end of dialysis.
Aim for blood iPTH 150-300pg/ml.
Doxorubicin. 30mg/m2
IV over
15min wkly, or 30mg/m2
daily for
2-3days every 3-4wk. Max total
dose 480mg/m2
(300mg/m2
if
mediastinal irradiation).
Doxorubicin, liposomal. Carcinoma:
50mg/m2
IV every 3wk. Kaposi:
20mg/m2
IV every 2wk.
Doxycycline. Over 8yr: 2mg/kg
(adult 100mg) 12H for 2 doses,
then daily oral. Severe: 2mg/
kg 12H. Malaria proph: 2mg/kg
(adult 100mg) daily oral.
Doxycycline 30mg + 10mg slow re-
lease (Oracea). Rosacea in adults
(NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral.
Doxylamine succinate. 0.25-0.5mg/
kg (adult 12.5-25mg) 8H oral.
Hypnotic: 0.5-1mg/kg (adult
25-50mg).
D-penicillamine. See penicillamine.
Dronabinol. Initially 5mg/m2
2-4H
(max 4-6 doses per day) oral, slow
incr by 2.5mg/m2
/dose to max
15mg/m2
4H.
Dronedarone. 8mg/kg (adult
400mg) 12H oral.
Droperidol. Antiemetic: postop
0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 1.25mg)
4-6H IM or slow IV, chemother
0.02-0.1 (adult 1-5mg) 1-6H.
Psychiatry, neuroleptanalg, IM or
slow IV: 0.1 mg/kg (adult 2.5mg)
stat, incr to max 0.3mg/kg (adult
15 mg) 4-6H. Psychiatry, oral: 0.1-
0.4mg/kg (adult 5-20mg) 4-8H.
DrugDoses
625
Drospirenone + ethinyloestradiol
(3mg/30mcg) x 21 tab + 7 inert
tab. Contraceptn: 1 daily starting
1st day menstruation.
Drospirenone + ethinyloestradiol
(3mg/20mcg, 3mg/ 30mcg) x
24 tab, + 4 inert tab. Contracep-
tion: 1 daily starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Drotrecogin alfa (protein C), acti-
vated. 24mcg/kg/hr for 96hr IV.
Minor surgery: stop 2hr before,
restart straight after. Major
surgery: stop 2hr before, restart
12hr after.
Duloxetine. Adult, NOT/kg: 20-30mg
12H, or 60mg daily oral.
Dutasteride. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5mg
daily oral.
Dutasteride 0.5mg + tamsulosin
0.4mg. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 cap
daily oral.
Dyclonine hydrochloride. See dyclo-
caine hydrochloride.
Dydrogesterone. 0.2mg/kg (adult
10mg) 12-24H oral.
Dyphylline. See diprophylline.
Ecallantide. 0.6 mg/kg (adult 30mg/
kg) SC, repeat if reqd.
Econazole nitrate. Topical: 1%
cream, powder or lotion 8-12H.
Vaginal: 75mg cream or 150mg
ovule twice daily.
Ecothiopate iodide. 0.03%, 0.06%,
0.125%, 0.25% soltn: usually
0.125% 1 drop/eye every 1-2 days
at bedtime.
Eculizumab. 600mg IV over 35min
wkly for 4wk, 900mg the next wk,
then 900mg every 2wk.
Edrophonium. Test dose 20mcg/
kg (adult 2mg), then 1min later
80mcg/kg (adult 8mg) IV. SVT:
0.15mg/kg (max 2mg) incr to max
0.75mg/kg (max 10mg) IV, with
atropine if reqd.
EDTA. See sodium calciumedetate.
Efalizumab. 0.7mg/kg stat, then
1mg/kg wkly SC.
Efavirenz (EFV). Daily oral 10-14kg
200mg, 15-19mg 250mg, 20-24
kg 300mg, 25-32kg 350mg,
33-39kg 400mg, ≥40kg 600mg
(minimum trough 1000 ng/ml).
Efavirenz 600mg + emtricitabine
200mg + tenofovir disoproxil
fumarate 300mg (Atripla). ≥40kg:
1 tab daily.
Efavirenz + fosamprenavir + rito-
navir. 18yr: EFV 600mg daily
+ FPV 700mg 12H + RTV 100mg
12H oral. If Rx naïve, can use
EFV 600mg + FPV 1400mg + RTV
300mg daily.
Eflornithine. 13.9% cream: apply
12H.
Eformoterol. Caps 12mg (NOT/kg):
1cap (5-12yr) or 1-2 caps (adult)
inhaled 12H.
Electrolyte solution. See glucose
electrolyte solution.
Eletriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 20-
40mg, repeat after 2hr if reqd
(max 80mg/day).
Eltrombopag. Adult (NOT/kg): 25-
75mg daily oral.
EMLA cream. See lignocaine +
prilocaine.
Emedastine. 0.5mg/ml soltn: 1
drop/eye 12H.
Emtricitabine (FTC). 0-3mo: soltn
3mg/kg daily oral; 3mo: soltn
6mg/kg (adult 240mg) cap
(33kg) 200mg daily oral.
Emtricitabine 200mg + tenofovir
300mg (Truvada). ≥18yr: 1tab
daily oral. See also efavirenz.
Enalapril. 0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5mg)
daily oral, incr over 2wk if reqd
to max 0.5mg/kg (adult 5-20mg)
12H.
Enalaprilat. Usually 0.025mg/kg
(max 1.25mg) 6H IV, max 0.1mg/
kg (max 5mg) 6H.
Enflurane. 2-4.5% induction, then
0.5-3% by inhalation.
Enfuvirtide (ENF). ≥6yr: 2mg/kg
(max 90mg) 12H SC.
Enoxacin. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) 12H oral.
DrugDoses
626
Enoxaparin (1mg=100u). 1.5mg/
kg (2mo), 1mg/kg (2mo-18yr),
40mg (adult) 12H SC (anti-Xa 0.5-
1u/ml 4hr post dose). Prophy-
laxis: 0.75mg/kg 12H (2mo), 0.5
mg/kg 12H (2mo-18yr), 20-40mg
2-12hr preop, then daily (adult)
SC. Haemodialysis: 1mg/kg into
arterial line at start 4hr session.
Enoximone. IV: 5-20mcg/kg/min.
Oral: 1-3mg/kg (adult 50-150mg)
8H.
Entacapone. Adult (NOT/kg): 200mg
with each l-dopa/DDC inhibitor
dose (av 800-1400mg/day, max
2000mg) oral.
Entecavir. Hepatitis B (adult, NOT/
kg): 0.5mg daily oral; 1mg daily if
refractory to lamivudine.
Entravirine. See etravirine.
Enzymes, pancreatic. See pancreatic
enzymes.
Ephedrine. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 12.5-
60mg) 4-8H oral, IM, SC, IV. Nasal
(0.25%-1%): 1drop each nostril
6-8H, max 4 days.
Epinastine. 0.05% ophthalmic: 1
drop/eye 12H.
Epinephrine. See adrenaline.
Epirubicin. Adult: 75-90mg/m2
IV
over 10min every 3wk.
Eplerenone. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-
50mg) 12-24H oral.
Epoetin alfa, beta, delta, theta,
zeta. 20-50u/kg x3/wk, incr to
75-300u/kg/wk divided into 1-3
doses/wk SC, IV. If Hb 10g%: 20-
100u/kg x2-3/wk.
Epoprostenol (prostacyclin, PGI2).
Dilute in pharmacy, new syringe
every 8hr. 8kg: 12mcg/kg in
10ml diluent at 0.25-0.75ml/hr
(5-15ng/kg/min); 8kg: 500 mcg
in 50ml diluent at 0.03-0.09ml/
kg/hr (5-15ng/kg/ min). ECMO:
5ng/kg/min IV.Chronic pul ht:
2ng/kg/min IV, incr to 20-40ng/
kg/min.
Eprosartan. 12mg/kg (adult 600mg)
daily, incr if reqd to 6-8mg/kg
(adult 300-400mg) 12H oral.
Epsilon aminocaproic acid. See
aminocaproic acid.
Eptacog alfa (recombinant factor
7a). See factor 7a.
Eptifibatide. Adult (NOT/kg):
180mcg/kg stat IV, then 2 mcg/
kg/min for up to 72hr.
Erdosteine. Adult (NOT/kg): 300mg
12H oral.
Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2). 40u
= 1mcg = 1mcg cholecal¬ciferol
(D3). Cystic fib, cholestasis:
10-20mcg daily oral. Cirrhosis:
adult 40-120mcg daily oral.
Deficiency: 50-100mcg daily for
2wk oral, then 10-625mcg daily
(more if severe malabs); or 2.5-
5mg (100,000-200,000u) every
6-8wk. Monitor serum calcium;
measure alk phos and parathyroid
hormone after 6-8wk. See also
doxercalciferol.
Ergoloid mesylates. See co-dergo-
crine mesylate.
Ergometrine maleate. Adult (NOT/
kg): 250-500mcg IM or IV;
500mcg 8H oral, sublingual or PR.
Ergometrine maleate 0.5mg +
oxytocin 5u in 1ml. 1ml IM; may
repeat after 2hr, max 3 doses in
24hr.
Ergonovine maleate. See ergo-
metrine maleate.
Ergotamine tartrate. 10yr (NOT/
kg): 2mg sublingual stat, then
1mg/hr (max 6mg/episode,
10mg/wk). Suppos (1-2mg): 1
stat, may repeat once after 1hr.
See also caffeine + ergot.
Erlotinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 150 mg
daily oral; reduce to 100mg then
50mg daily if reqd.
Ertapenem. 20-40mg/kg (adult 1g)
daily IM, IV over 30min.
Erythromycin. Oral or slow IV (max
5mg/kg/hr): usually 10 mg/kg
(adult 250-500mg) 6H; severe
inftn 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.75-1g)
6H. Gut prokinetic: 2mg/kg 8H.
2% gel: apply 12H.
DrugDoses
627
Erythropoietin. See epoetin.
Escitalopram. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg
daily oral, incr if reqd to max
20mg daily.
Esketamine. See ketamine.
Eslicarbazepine. 8mg/kg (adult
400mg) daily oral, incr to 15 mg/
kg (adult 800mg) after 2wk; max
30mg/kg (adult 1800 mg) daily.
Esmolol. 0.5mg/kg (500mcg/kg)
IV over 1min, repeated if reqd.
Infsn (undiluted 10mg/ml soltn):
0.15-1.8ml/kg/hr (25-300mcg/kg/
min); rarely given for 48hr.
Esomeprazole. 0.4-0.8mg/kg (adult
20-40mg) daily oral. H.pylori, see
omeprazole.
Esomeprazole + naproxen (375/20,
500mg/20mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1
tab 12H before meal oral.
Estazolam. 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult
1-4mg) at night oral.
Estradiol. See oestradiol.
Estramustine. 200mg/m2 8H oral
(avoid milk).
Estriol. See oestriol, and oestradiol
+ oestriol.
Estrogens. See oestrogens.
Estrone. See oestrone.
Estropipate. 1mg = 0.83mg pipera-
zine oestrone sulphate. Not/kg:
induction puberty 0.19mg daily
oral, incr over 2-3yr to 1.5mg
(add progestogen for 12 days per
cycle); vasomotor symptoms or
vaginal atrophy 0.75-6mg daily;
hypogonadism 1.5-9mg daily for
21 days of 31-day cycle; osteopo-
rosis 0.75mg daily for 25 days of
31-day cycle.
Eszopiclone. Adult (NOT/kg): 2mg
(1-3mg) at night oral.
Etamsylate. 12.5mg/kg (adult
500mg) 6H oral.
Etanercept. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mg
weekly SC.
Ethacrynic acid. IV: 0.5-1mg/kg
(adult 25-50mg) 12-24H. Oral:
1-4mg/kg (adult 50-200mg)
12-24H.
Ethambutol hydrochloride. 25mg/
kg once daily for 8wk, then 15mg/
kg daily oral. Intermittent: 35mg/
kg x3/wk. IV: 80% oral dose.
Ethamsylate. 12.5mg/kg (max
500mg) 6H oral,IM,IV.
Ethanol. 10% ethanol 8ml/kg IV
over 1hr, then 0.8ml/kg/hr
(child) 1.4ml/kg/hr (adult) 2ml/
kg/hr (drinker) so blood ethanol
1-1.5mg/ml (22-33mmol/L)
until ethylene glycol 0.2g/L
(3.2mmol/L) or methanol 0.2g/L
(6.2mmol/L).
Ethanol, dehydrated (100%). Vessel
sclerosis: inject max of 1ml/kg.
Ethanolamine oleate. 5% soltn,
adult (NOT/kg): 1.5-5ml per varix
(max 20ml per treatment).
Ethchlorvynol. 10-20mg/kg (adult
0.5-1g) at night oral.
Ethinyloestradiol. 10-50mcg daily
for 21 days per month. See also
cyproterone; desogestrel.
Ethinyloestradiol + ethyno-
diol diacetate (50mcg/0.5mg or
50mcg/1mg) x 21 tab, + 7 inert
tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily,
starting 1st day of menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + gestodene
(30mcg/75mcg, 20/75) x 21 tab
+ 7 inert tab. 1 daily, starting 1st
day of menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + gestodene
(30mcg/50mcg x 6 tab + 40/70
x5 + 30/100 x10 + inert x7).
1 tab daily, starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel
(100mcg/0.5mg). Post-coital: first
dose within 72hr, rpt after 12hr.
Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel
(20mcg/90mcg). Contraception:
1 tab daily (with no hormone-free
interval).
Ethinyloestradiol + levonorg-
estrel (30mcg/150mcg or
50mcg/125mcg) x 21 tab, + 7
inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab
daily, starting 1st day of men-
struation.
DrugDoses
628
Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel
(30mcg/50mcg x6tab + 40/75
x5 + 30/125 x10 + inert x7).
1 tab daily, starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel
(30mcg/150mcg) x 84 tab,
then either 7 inert tab or 7 tab
ethinyloestradol 10 mcg. Contra-
ception: 1 daily, starting 1st day
menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + norelgestromin
(20mcg/150mcg, 0.75mg/6mg)
patches. Contraception: apply 1
patch wkly x3, wk 4 patch-free.
Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone
(35mcg/0.25mg, 30/0.5, 35/0.5,
35/0.75, 20/1, 35/1, 30/1.5) x 21
tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception:
1 tab daily, starting 1st day of
menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone
(20mcg/1mg) x 24 tab, + 4 inert
tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily,
starting 1st day of menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone
(35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/1 x14
+ inert x7). Contraception: 1 daily,
starting 1st day of menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone
(35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/1 x9 +
35/0.5 x5 + inert x7). Contracep-
tion: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day
of menstruation.
Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone
(35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/0.75 x7
+ 35/1 x7+ inert x7). Contracep-
tion: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day
of menstruation.
Ethionamide. TB: 15-20mg/kg
(max 1g) at night oral. Lep¬rosy:
5-8mg/kg (max 375mg) daily.
Ethoheptazine. 3mg/kg (adult
150mg) 6-8H oral.
Ethosuximide. 10mg/kg (adult
500mg) daily oral, incr by
50% each wk to max 40mg/
kg (adult 2g) daily. Trough level
0.3-0.7mmol/L.
Ethotoin. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) 6H
oral, incr to max 15mg/kg (adult
750mg) 6H.
Ethyl chloride. Spray on affected
area from a distance of 10-20cm
for 3-7sec (bottle) or 4-10sec
(aerosol can).
Ethynodiol. See ethinyloestradiol +
ethynodiol diacetate.
Etidocaine. 0.5%-1.5% soltn: max
6mg/kg (0.6ml/kg of 1%) paren-
teral, or 8mg/kg (0.8ml/kg of 1%)
with adrenaline.
Etidronate. 5-20mg/kg daily oral
(no food for 2hr before and after
dose) for max 6mo. IV: 7.5mg/kg
daily for 3-7 days.
Etidonate and calcium citrate.
Etidronate 400mg tab daily 14
days, then calcium citrate 500mg
daily for 76 days oral.
Etodolac. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) 6-8H oral.
Etomidate. 0.3mg/kg slow IV.
Etonogestrel. 68mg sub-dermal
implant lasts 3yr.
Etoposide. 50-60mg/m2
IV over
1hr daily for 5 days, repeat after
2-4wk. Oral dose 2-3 times IV
dose.
Etoricoxib. Adult (NOT/kg). 60-90mg
daily oral. Gout: 120 mg daily,
max 8 days.
Etravirine (ETR). 4mg/kg (adult
200mg) 12H oral after meal.
Etretinate. 0.25mg/kg 8-12H oral for
2-4wk, then 6H (max 75mg daily)
if reqd for 6-8wk, then 12-24H.
Etynodiol diacetate. Contraception:
500mcg daily oral, starting 1st day
of menstruation.
Everolimus. Adult (NOT/kg):10mg
(5mg if toxicity) daily oral.
Exemestane. Adult (NOT/kg): 25mg
daily oral.
Exenatide. Adult, NOT/kg: 5mcg
SC before morning and evening
meals, incr if reqd to 10mcg/dose
after 1mo.
Ezetimibe. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg
daily oral.
DrugDoses
629
Ezetimibe + simvastatin (10/20,
10/40, 10mg/80mg). Adult (NOT/
kg): 10/20mg tab daily oral, incr
strength 4wkly if reqd.
Factor 2. See factor 9 complex.
Factor 7a, recombinant (rFVIIa).
Usually 90mcg/kg IV 2H until
haemostasis, then 3-6H. See also
factor 9 complex.
Factor 8 concentrate (vial 200-
250u), recombinant antihaemo-
philic factor (rAHF). Joint 20u/kg,
psoas 30u/kg, cerebral 50u/kg. 2
x dose(u/kg) = % normal activity,
eg 35u/kg gives peak level of 70%
normal. See also Von Willebrand
factor / Factor VII concentrate.
Factor 8 inhibitor bypassing frac-
tion. IV max 2u/kg/min: joint
50u/kg 12H, mucous membranes
50u/kg 6H, soft tissue 100u/kg
12H, cerebral 100u/kg 6-12H.
Factor 9. IV infsn (max 2u/kg/min):
minor hemorrhage 25u/kg daily,
joint 40u/kg 12-24H, surgery
50u/kg stat then 30u/kg 12-24H,
major surgery 85u/kg stat then
50u/kg 12-24H. Proph: 25-40u/kg
x2/wk (trough 1u/dl). See also
factor 9 complex.
Factor 9 complex (Beriplex, Ocat-
plex). Factors 2, 7, 9, 10, protein
C, protein S: approx 25u/ml. 1ml/
kg (INR 2-3.9) 1.4ml/kg (INR 4-6)
2 ml/kg (INR 6) + phytomenadi-
one (if reversing warfarin).
Factor 9 complex (Prothrombinex-
VF). Factors 2, 9, 10 500u per
20ml vial, antithrombin III 25u/
vial, low levels factor 5 and 7.
1ml/kg slow IV daily. Risk of
thrombosis in acute liver failure.
Reverse warfarin: 1-2ml/kg +
phytomenadione (Vit K1) + FFP
5ml/kg.
Factor 10. See factor 9 complex.
Factor 13. Vial 250u. Prophylaxis:
10u/kg IV every 4wk. Pre-op: up
to 3u/kg just before surgery, then
10u/kg daily x5. Severe hemor-
rhage: 10-20u/kg daily.
Famciclovir. Severe infection:
320mg/m2
(adult 500mg) 8H
oral. Zoster, varicella: 160mg/m2
(adult 250mg) 8H oral for 7 days;
immunocompromised 320mg/
m2
(adult 500mg) 8H for 10 days.
Genital herpes (adult, NOT/kg):
125mg 12H oral for 5 days (treat),
250mg (suppress) 12H; im-
munocompromised 500mg 12H
for 7 days (treat), 500mg daily
(suppress).
Famotidine. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult
20-40mg) 12-24H oral. 0.5mg/kg
(max 20mg) 12H slow IV.
Fat emulsion 20%. See lipid emul-
sion.
Febuxostat. Adult (NOT/kg): 80mg
(max 120mg) daily oral.
Felbamate. 5mg/kg 6-8H (max
1200mg/day) oral, incr over
2-3wk to 15mg/kg 6-8H (max
3600mg/day).
Felbinac. 3% gel, foam: apply x2-4/
day.
Felodipine. 0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5mg)
daily, incr if reqd to 0.5 mg/kg
(adult 10mg) daily oral.
Fenbufen. 10mg/kg (adult 450mg)
12H oral.
Fenofibrate, fenofibric acid. Adult
(NOT/kg): 135-200mg daily oral
(better absorption with micron-
ised caps).
Fenoglide. Adult (NOT/kg): 40-
120mg daily oral.
Fenoldopam. 0.1mcg/kg/min IV
infsn incr gradually if reqd every
15-30min to max 1.6mcg/kg/min.
Fenoprofen. 4mg/kg (adult 200mg)
6-8H oral, may incr gradually to
12mg/kg/dose (max 800mg).
Fenoterol. Oral: 0.1mg/kg 6H. Resp
soltn 1mg/ml: 0.5ml diluted to
2ml 3-6H (mild), 1ml diluted to
2ml 1-2H (moderate), undiluted
continuous (severe, in ICU). Aero-
sol (200mcg/puff): 1-2 puffs 4-8H.
DrugDoses
630
Fentanyl. Not ventilated: 1-2 mcg/kg
(adult 50-100mcg) IM or IV; infsn
2-4mcg/kg/hr (10kg 100mcg/
kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 1-2ml/
hr; 10kg amp 50mcg/ml at
0.04-0.08ml/kg/hr). Ventilated:
5-10mcg/kg stat or 50mcg/kg IV
over 1hr; infuse amp 50mcg/ml
at 0.1-0.2ml/kg/hr (5-10 mcg/
kg/hr). Patch (lasts 72hr) in adult
(NOT/kg): 25 mcg/hr, incr if
reqd by 25 mcg/hr every 3 days.
Transmucosal tabs (adult, NOT/
kg): 100mcg between cheek and
upper gum until disolved (15-30
min) 4-8H, incr if reqd to max
800mg 4H. Buccal film: 200 mcg
incr to max 1200mcg x4/day.
Nasal spray (adult, NOT/kg): 50,
100 or 200mcg doses titrated to
response. Epidural: 0.5 mcg/kg
stat, or 0.4mcg/kg/hr.
Fenticonazole vaginal pessaries.
600mg nocte once, or 200mg
nocte for 3 nights.
Ferric carboxymaltose. Total Fe
dose (mg): 35kg = wt(kg) x (13
– actual Hb in g/dl) + 13mg/kg;
≥35kg = wt(kg) x (15 – actual Hb
in g/dl) + 500mg. IV bolus: max
200mg Fe x3/wk. IV over 15min:
max 1000mg wkly.
Ferrous salts. Prophylaxis 2mg/kg/
day elemental iron oral, treat-
ment 6mg/kg/day elemental
iron oral. Fumarate 1mg =
0.33mg iron. Gluconate 1mg =
0.12mg iron; so Fergon (60 mg/
ml gluconate) prophylaxis 0.3ml/
kg daily, treatment 1ml/kg daily
oral. Sulphate (dry) 1mg = 0.3mg
iron; so Ferro-Gradumet (350mg
dry sulphate) prophylaxis 7mg/
kg (adult 350mg) daily, treatment
20mg/kg (adult 1050mg) daily
oral.
Ferumoxides. Fe 11.2mg/ml.
0.05ml/kg (Fe 0.56mg/kg) in 2ml/
kg (adult 100ml) 5% dextrose IV
over 30min.
Ferumoxytol. 510mg in 17ml, total
dose (ml) = 0.08 x Wt in kg x (15
– Hb in g/dl) IV over 1min; adult
510mg IV stat and in 3-8 days.
Fesoterodine. Adult (NOT/kg):
4-8mg daily oral.
Fexofenadine. NOT/kg: 30mg 12H
(6-11yr), 60mg 12H or 180mg
daily (11yr) oral.
Fibrin glue. See thrombin glue.
Fibrinogen concentrate. 70mg/kg IV;
or mg/kg = (1 – measured level
g/L) / 0.17 = (100 – measured
mg/dL) / 1.7.
Fibrinolysin 8-10u/ml + desoxyribo-
nuclease 500-667 u/ml. Ointment
or soltn: apply topically 6-24H.
Filgrastim (granulocyte CSF). Idi-
opathic or cyclic neutro¬paenia:
5mcg/kg daily SC or IV over
30min. Cong neutro¬paenia:
12mcg/kg daily SC or IV over 1hr.
Marrow transplant: 20-30mcg/
kg daily IV over 4-24hr, reduce if
neutrophil 1x109
/L.
Finasteride. Adult (NOT/kg). Pros-
tatic hyperplasia: 5mg daily oral.
Alopecia: 1mg daily oral.
Flavocoxid. Adult (NOT/kg): 250-
500mg 12H oral.
Flavoxate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-
200mg) 6-8H, or single dose at
bedtime oral.
Flecainide. 2-3mg/kg (max 100mg)
12H oral, may incr over 2wk to
7mg/kg (max 200mg) 8-12H. IV
over 30min: 0.5-2mg/kg (max
150mg) 12H.
Floxuridine (FUDR). 100-300mcg/
kg/day by constant intra-arterial
infsn (400-600mcg/kg/day in he-
patic artery). Stop if WCC 3500/
mm3
or platelets 100,000/mm3
.
Flucloxacillin. Oral: 12.5-25mg/kg
(adult 250-500mg) 6H. IM or IV:
25mg/kg (adult 1g) 6H. Severe
inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) IV 12H
(1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 6H or
constant infsn (4 wk). See also
ampicillin + flucloxacillin.
DrugDoses
631
Fluconazole. 12mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) daily IV, higher doses if
very severe infection; if haemo-
filtered 12mg/kg (adult 600mg)
12H; neonate 12mg/kg 72H (14
days) 48H (15-28 days). Superfi-
cial inftn: 6mg/kg (adult 200mg)
stat, then 3mg/kg (adult 100mg)
daily oral or IV.
Flucytosine (5-fluorocytosine). 400-
1200mg/m2
(max 2g) 6H IV over
30 min, or oral. Peak level 50-
100mcg/ml, trough 25-50mcg/ml
(x7.75=umol/L).
Fludarabine. 25mg/m2
daily x5 IV
over 30min, every 28 days.
Fludrocortisone acetate. 150mcg/
m2
daily oral. Fludrocortisone
1mg = hydrocortisone 125mg in
mineralocorticoid activity, 10mg
in glucocorticoid.
Flumetasone. See clioquinol +
flumetasone.
Flumazenil. 5mcg/kg every 60sec to
max total 40mcg/kg (adult 2mg),
then 2-10mcg/kg/hr IV.
Flunarizine. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg
daily oral, reducing to 5 days/wk
with two successive days off.
Flunisolide. Asthma (250mcg/puff):
1-2 puffs 12H. Nasal (25mcg/
puff): 1-2 puffs/nostril 8-24H.
Flunitrazepam. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5-
2mg at night, oral.
Fluocinolone. See fluocinonide.
Fluocinonide. 0.025%, 0.05% cream
or oint: apply 6-12H.
Fluocortolone. 0.25% cream, oint-
ment: apply 8-12H.
Fluorescein. 1%, 2% drops: 1 drop/
eye. 10% (100 mg/ml), 25%
(250mg/ml): 8mg/kg (max
500mg) IV.
Fluorescein 0.25% + oxybuprocaine
0.4%. 1 drop/eye.
Fluoride. 0.25mg (3yr) 0.5mg
(3-6yr) 1mg (6yr) daily oral. See
also sodium fluoride.
5-Fluorocytosine. See 5-flucytosine.
9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone. See
fludrocortisone.
Fluorometholone. 0.1% soltn: 1
drop/eye 6-12H.
Fluorouracil. 15mg/kg (max 1g) IV
over 4hr daily until side effects,
then 5-10mg/kg wkly. See also
adrenaline + fluorouracil; and
folinic acid.
Fluothane. Induction 0.5-4%, then
0.5-1.5% inhalation.
Fluoxetine. 0.5mg/kg (max 20mg)
daily, incr to max 1mg/kg (max
40mg) 12H oral. Weekly 90mg
cap: 1 per wk.
Fluoxetine + olanzapine
(25mg/6mg, 25mg/12mg,
50mg/6mg, 50mg/12mg). Adult
(NOT/kg): 1cap daily oral.
Fluoxymesterone. 0.1-0.2mg/kg
(adult 5-10mg) daily oral.
Flupenthixol. Oral: 0.05-0.2mg/kg
(adult 3-9mg) 12H. Depot IM:
usually 0.4-0.8mg/kg (up to 5mg/
kg, max 300 mg) every 2-4wk
(1mg flupenthixol deconate =
0.625mg fluphenazine decanoate
= 1.25mg haloperidol).
Flupentixol. See flupenthixol.
Fluphenazine. 0.02-0.2mg/kg (adult
1-10mg) 8-12H oral.
Flurandrenolide. See flurandre-
nolone.
Flurandrenolone. 0.025%, 0.05%
cream, ointment or lotion: apply
6-24H. 4mcg/m2 tape: apply 12H.
Flurazepam. Adult (NOT/kg): 15-
30mg at night, oral.
Flurbiprofen. 1-2mg/kg (adult
50-100mg) 8H oral or PR. 0.03%
drops: 1 drop/eye every 30min
x4 doses.
Flutamide. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg
8H oral.
Fluticasone. Inhaled (NOT/kg):
50-100mcg (child), 100-500mcg
(adult) 12H. 0.05% soltn: 1-4
sprays /nostril daily. 0.05% cream:
apply sparingly daily.
DrugDoses
632
Fluticasone + salmeterol. NOT/
kg. Accuhaler: 100mcg/ 50mcg
(child), 250/50 or 500/50 (adult)
x1-2 inhltn 12H. MDI: 50/25
(child), 125/25 or 250/25 x1-2
inhltn 12H.
Fluvastatin. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg)
nocte oral, incr to 0.8 mg/kg
(adult 40mg) 12H if reqd. Slow
relse: 80mg nocte.
Fluvoxamine. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
8-24H oral. Slow-release (adult,
NOT/kg): 100-300mg at night oral.
Folic acid. NOT/kg. Deficiency:
50mcg (neonate), 0.1-0.25mg
(4yr), 0.5-1mg (4yr) daily IV, IM,
SC or oral. Metabolic dis: 5mg/
day oral. Pregnancy: 0.5mg (high
risk 4mg) daily oral.
Folinate or folinic acid. See calcium
folinate.
Follicle stimufating hormone (FSH).
Adult (NOT/kg), monitor urinary
oestrogen. Anovulation: usually
50-150iu SC daily for 9-12 days.
Superovulation (2wk after starting
GnRH agonist): 100-225iu/kg daily
starting day 3 of cycle.
Follitropin alpha, beta. See follicle
stimulating hormone.
Fomepizole. 15mg/kg load, then
10mg/kg 12H for 48hr, then
15mg/kg 12H IV until ethylene
glycol 0.2g/L (3.2mmol/L) or
methanol 0.2g/L (6.2mmol/L).
Fomivirsen. Intravitreal injection,
adult (NOT/kg). New disease:
165mcg/eye wkly x3, then every
2wk. Previously treated: 330mcg/
eye stat, in 2wk, then every 4wk.
Fondaparinux. See fondaparin.
Fondaparin. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg
SC 6hr postop, then daily for 5-9
days.
Formestane. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg
2wkly deep IM.
Formoterol. 4yr (NOT/kg). Powder:
12mcg inhalation 12H. Solutn:
20mcg in 2ml nebulised 12H. See
also budesonide.
Fosamprenavir (FPV). ≥2yr: 30mg/
kg (max 1400mg) 12H oral. Am-
prenavir trough ≥400ng/ml. See
also efavirenz.
Fosamprenavir + ritonavir. ≥6yr:
FPV 18mg/kg (max 700 mg) + RTV
3mg/kg (max 100mg) 12H oral.
If 18yr can use FPV 1400mg +
RTV 200mg (naïve) 100mg (past
Rx) daily.
Fosaprepitant. Adult (NOT/kg):
125mg oral or IV over 15min on
day 1, then 80mg on day 2 and
day 3.
Foscarnet. 20mg/kg IV over 30min,
then 200mg/kg/day by con-
stant IV infsn (less if creatinine
0.11mmol/l) or 60 mg/kg 8H IV
over 2hr. Chronic use: 90-120mg/
kg IV over 2hr daily.
Fosfestrol. Adult (NOT/kg). Initial:
0.5g IV over 1hr day 1, then 1g x5
days. Maintenance: 120-240mg
8H oral, later reducing to 120-
240mg daily.
Fosfomycin. 5.63g (3g base) sachet
mixed with water oral.
Fosinopril. 0.2-0.8mg/kg (adult 10-
40mg) daily oral.
Fosphenytoin. 75mg = 50mg phe-
nytoin (qv). Prescribed and dis-
pensed as phenytoin equivalents.
Fospropofol. Usually 6.5mg/
kg IV, then 1.6mg/kg no more
frequently than every 4min (0.3-
0.4mg/kg/min).
Fotemustine. IV over 1hr, or IA over
4hr: 100mg/m2
weekly x3, rest
4-5wk, then every 3wk.
Framycetin sulfate (Soframycin).
Subconjunctival: 500mg in 1ml
water daily x3 days. Bladder:
500mg in 50ml saline 8H x10
days. 0.5%: eye 1drop 8H, ear
3drops 8H, ointment 8H.
Framycetin sulfate 15mg/g + grami-
cidin 0.05mg/g. Cream or oint-
ment (Soframycin topical): apply
8-12H. See also dexamethasone +
framycetin + gramicidin.
DrugDoses
633
Frangula 8% + sterculia 62%. NOT/
kg: 1-2 sachets (or 1-2 5ml
spoon¬fuls) 12-24H oral.
Fresh frozen plasma. Contains all
clotting factors. 10-20 ml/kg IV. 1
bag is about 230ml.
Frovatriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg
oral (max 7.5mg/day).
Frusemide. Usually 0.5-1mg/kg
(adult 20-40mg) 6-24H (daily
if preterm) oral, IM, or IV over
20min (max 0.05 mg/kg/min IV).
IV infsn: 0.1-1mg/kg/hr (20kg
25 mg/kg in 50ml 0.9% saline
with heparin 1u/ml at 0.2-2 ml/
hr; 20kg amp 10mg/ml at 0.01-
0.1ml/kg/hr); protect from light.
Fulvestrant. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg
IM once a month.
Furazolidone. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
6H oral 7-10day.
Furosemide. See frusemide.
Fusafungine. 125mcg spray: oral
1spray/10kg (adult 5 sprays) x5/
day, nasal 1spray/20kg (adult
3sprays) x5/day.
Fusidate, sodium. See sodium
fusidate.
Fusidic acid. Fusidic acid (susp) ab-
sorption only 70% that of sodium
fusidate (tabs). Suspension: 15-
20mg/kg (adult 750mg) 8H oral.
Eye %: 1drop/eye 12H. For tablets
and IV, see sodium fusidate.
Gabapentin. Anticonvulsant: 10mg/
kg (adult 300mg) once day 1
oral, 12H day 2, 8H day 3 then
adjusted to 10-20 mg/kg (adult
300-1200mg) 8H. Premed: 25mg/
kg (adult 1200mg) 1hr preop.
Analgesia: 2mg/kg (adult 100mg)
8H, incr if reqd to 15mg/kg (adult
800mg) or higher if tolerated.
Gadobutrol. 0.1mmol/kg IV.
Gadopentetic acid. Adult (NOT/kg).
2mmol/l inj: finger 1-2ml, wrist
4ml, ankle-elbow-hip-shoulder
10-20ml, knee 25-50ml.
Gadoteridol. 0.1 (max 0.3) mmol/
kg IV.
Gadoxetic acid. 0.25mmol
(181.43mg) per ml: 0.1ml/kg IV.
Galantamine. Adult (NOT/kg): 4mg
12H for 4wk, then 8mg 12H, incr
after 4wk if reqd to 8-12mg 12H
oral.
Gallamine. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-
100mg) IV.
Gallium nitrate. 100-200mg/m2/day
x5days constant IV infsn.
Galsulfase. 1mg/kg (to nearest 5mg)
weekly IV over 4-20hr.
Gamma benzene hexachloride. See
lindane.
Gamma globulin. See immuno-
globulin.
Gamma hydroxybutyrate See
sodium oxybate.
Gamolenic acid. 2-5mg/kg (adult
120-240mg) 12H oral.
Ganciclovir. 5mg/kg 12H IV over
1hr for 2-3wk; then 5mg/kg IV
daily, or 6mg/kg IV on 6 days/wk,
or 20 mg/kg (adult 1g) 8H oral.
Congenital CMV: 7.5mg/kg 12H
IV over 2hr.
Ganirelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.25mg
daily SC from day 6 of FSH to day
of ovulation induction.
Gas gangrene (Clostridia) antitoxin.
Prophylaxis: 25,000u IM or IV.
Treatment: 75,000-150,000u IV
over 1hr, repeat x1-2 after 8-12hr;
if severe also give 100,000u IM.
Gatifloxacin. 8mg/kg (adult 400mg)
daily IV over 1hr. Gonorrh: 8mg/
kg (adult 400mg) once. 0.3%
ophthalmic: 1 drop/eye 2H when
awake days 1-2, then x4/day on
days 3-7.
Gaviscon. See alginic acid.
Gefitinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg
daily oral.
Gelatin, succinylated. 10-20ml/kg
(may be repeated). Volume effect
lasts 3-4hr.
Gemcitabine. 1g/m2
IV over 30min
wkly for 3wk, rest for 1wk, then
repeat 4wk cycle.
DrugDoses
634
Gemeprost (PGE1 analogue). Cervi-
cal dilatation: 1 pessary (1mg)
into posterior vagina 3hr before
surgery. Termination: 1 pessary
(1mg) into posterior vagina 3H
(max 5 pessaries).
Gemfibrozil. 10mg/kg (max 600mg)
12H oral.
Gemifloxacin. Adult (NOT/kg):
320mg daily oral.
Gemtuzumab ozogamicin. 9mg/m2
IV over 2hr, rpt after 14 days.
Gentamicin. IV or IM. 1wk-10yr:
8mg/kg day 1, then 6 mg/kg daily.
10yr: 7mg/kg day 1, then 5mg/
kg (max 240-360mg) daily. Neo-
nate, 5mg/kg dose: 1200g 48H
(0-7 days of life), 36H (8-30 days),
24H (30 days); 1200-2500g 36H
(0-7 days of life), 24H (7 days);
term 24H (0-7 days of life), then
as for 1wk-10yr. Trough level
1.0mg/L.
Gentamicin, eye drops. 0.3% 1drop/
eye every 15min if severe, reduc-
ing to 1drop 4-6H.
Gestodene. See ethinyloestradiol +
gestodene.
Gestrinone. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg
x2/wk on day 1 and 4 of men-
strual cycle, then on same days
each wk.
Gestronol. Adult (NOT/kg): 200-
400mg every 5-7 days IM.
Getfitinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg
daily oral.
Ginkgo biloba. Adult (NOT/kg):
1200mg 12H oral.
Glatiramer. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mg
daily SC.
Glibenclamide. Adult (NOT/kg):
initially 2.5mg daily oral, max
20mg daily.
Glibenclamide + metformin. Adult
(NOT/kg): 1.25mg/ 250mg
12-24H oral, incr if reqd to
2.5mg/500mg or 5mg/ 500mg
(max 10mg/1000mg) 12H.
Gliclazide. Adult (NOT/kg): initially
40mg daily oral, max 160mg 12H.
Glimepiride. Adult (NOT/kg): 2-4mg
(max 6mg) daily oral.
Glimepiride + pioglitazone
(2mg/30mg, 4mg/30mg). Adult
(NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral.
Glimepiride + rosiglitazone
(1mg/4mg, 2mg/4mg, 4mg/
4mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1-2 tab
daily (max 4mg/8mg) oral.
Glipizide. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg daily
oral, max 20mg 12H.
Gliquidone. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 15-
60mg) 8-12H oral.
Globulin. See immunoglobulin.
Glucagon. 1u=1mg. 0.04mg/kg
(adult 1-2mg) IV or IM stat, then
10-50mcg/kg/hr (0.5mg/kg in
50ml at 1-5ml/hr) IV. Beta-blocker
overdose: 0.1mg/kg IV stat, then
0.3-2 mcg/kg/min.
Glucosamine. Adult (NOT/kg):
1500mg daily oral.
Glucose. See dextrose.
Glucose electrolyte solution. Not
dehydrated: 1 heaped teaspoon
sucrose in large cup of water (4%
sucrose = 2% glucose); do NOT
add salt. Dehydrated: 1 sachet of
Gastrolyte in 200ml water; give
freqnt sips, or infuse by NG tube.
Glutamic acid. 10-20mg/kg (adult
0.5-1g) oral with meals.
Glutaraldehyde. 10% soltn: apply to
wart 12H.
Glyburide. See glibenclamide.
Glycerin. See sorbolene + glycerin
cream.
Glycerol. Suppos: 0.7-1g infant, 1.4-
2g child, 2.8-4g adult.
Glyceryl trinitrate. Adult (NOT/kg):
sublingual tab 0.3-0.9 mg/dose
(lasts 30-60min); sublingual aero-
sol 0.4-0.8 mg/dose; slow-release
buccal tab 1-10mg 8-12H; trans-
dermal 0.5-5cm of 2% ointment,
or 5-15mg patch 8-12H. IV infsn
0.5-5mcg/kg/min (30kg 3mg/kg
in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 0.5-5ml/hr;
30kg 3mg/kg made up to 100ml
in 5%dex-hep at 1-10ml/hr); use
special non-PVC tubing.
DrugDoses
635
Glycopyrrolate. To reduce secretions
or treat bradycardia: 5-10mcg/
kg (adult 0.2-0.4mg) 6-8H IV or
IM. With 0.05mg/kg neostigmine:
10-15mcg/kg IV. Anticholinergic:
0.02-0.04mg/kg (max 2mg) 8H
oral.
Glycopyrronium bromide. Dose as
for glycopyrrolate.
GM-CSF. See sargramostim.
Gold sodium thiomalate. See so-
dium aurothiomalate.
Golimumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mg
weekly (or monthly with metho-
trexate) SC.
Gonadorelin (GnRH or LHRH). Pitui-
tary function test, child or adult:
100mcg IV. See also leuprorelin.
Gonadotrophin. See chorionic
gonadtrn, and menotrophin.
Goserelin. Adult (NOT/kg): 3.6mg SC
every 28 days; implant 10.8mg SC
every 12wk. See also bicaluta-
mide.
Gramicidin 0.025% + neomycin
0.25% + nystatin 100,000 u/g
+ triamcinolone 0.1%. Kena-
comb ointment: apply 8-12H.
Kenacomb otic oint, drops: apply
8-12H (2-3 drops).
Gramicidin 25mcg/ml + neomycin
2.5mg/ml + polymyxin B 5000u/
ml (Neosporin). Eye drops: 1
drop/eye every 15-30min, reduc-
ing to 6-12H. See also dexametha-
sone.
Granisetron. 0.04mg/kg (adult 1mg)
IV over 5min daily. Chemothera-
py: 0.05mg/kg (adult max 1-3mg)
IV over 5min; up to 3 doses/
day, at least 10min apart; adult 1
patch daily for up to 7 days start-
ing 1-2 days before chemo.
Granulocyte-macrophage colony
stimulating factor (GM-CSF). See
lenograstim, sargramostim.
Grepafloxacin. 8-12mg/kg (adult
400-600mg) daily oral.
Griseofulvin (Grisovin, Fulcin). 10-
20mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) daily oral.
Griseofulvin, ultramicrosize (Gri-
seostatin). 5.5-7mg/kg (adult
330-660mg) daily oral.
Growth hormone. See somatropin.
Guaiacol. See codeine + guaiacol.
Guaifenesin. See guaiphenesin.
Guaiphenesin. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200-
400mg) 4H oral.
Guanabenz. 0.1mg/kg (max 4mg)
12H oral, incr to max 0.6mg/kg
(max 32mg) 12H.
Guanadrel. 0.1mg/kg (max 5mg)
12H oral, incr to max 0.5mg/kg
(max 25mg) 8-12H.
Guanethidine. 0.2mg/kg (max
10mg) daily oral, incr to 0.5-6mg/
kg (max 300mg) daily. Regnl symp
block (adult): cuff 55mmHg syst
BP, 10-20mg in 10-25ml saline
(arm) or 15-30mg in 15-50ml (leg)
IV, wait 10-20min, release cuff
over 5min; =7 days between
injctns (max 12/yr).
Guanfacine. 0.02mg/kg (max 1mg)
daily oral, incr over several wks to
max 0.06mg/kg (max 3mg) daily.
Guar gum. 1g/10kg (adult 5g) 8H
oral in fluid 40ml/g gum.
Haem arginate. 3-4mg/kg daily IV
over 30-60min.
Haemaccel. See polygeline.
Haemophilus influenzae type b,
vaccines. Inanimate. 12mo:
give diphtheria protein conjugate
(HibTITER, ProHIBiT), or tetanus
conjugate (Act-HIB, Hiberix) 0.5ml
IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo and 15mo;
or meningococcal con¬jugate
(Pedvax HIB) 0.5ml IM at 2mo,
4mo and 15mo. If 1st dose
18mo: give 1 dose of HibTITER
or Pedvax HIB.
Haemophilus influenzae type b +
hepatitis B vaccine (Comvax).
Inanimate. 0.5ml IM 2mo, 4mo,
12-15mo (3 doses).
Haemophilus influenzae type b +
meningococcus type c vaccine
(Menitorix). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM
2mo, 3mo, 4mo (3 doses); boost
from 12mo.
DrugDoses
636
Halcinonide. 0.1% cream: apply
sparingly 8-12H.
Halobetasol. 0.05% cream, oint-
ment: apply 12-24H.
Halofantrine. 10mg/kg (max 500mg)
6H for 3 doses oral, repeat after
1wk if nonimmune.
Haloperidol. 0.01mg/kg (max
0.5mg) daily, incr up to 0.1 mg/
kg 12H IV or oral; up to 2mg/kg
(max 100mg) 12H used rarely.
Acutely disturbed: 0.1-0.2mg/kg
(adult 5-10mg) IM. Long-acting
decanoate ester: 1-6mg/kg IM
every 4wk.
Halothane. 0.5-4% induction, then
0.5-2% inhalation.
Hemin. 1-3mg/kg 12-24H IV over
30min.
Heparin. 1mg=100u. Low dose:
75u/kg IV stat, then 500u/kg in
50ml 0.9% saline at 1-1.5ml/hr
(10-15u/kg/hr) IV. Full dose: 75u/
kg (adult 5000u) IV stat, then
500u/kg in 50ml saline at 2-4ml/
hr (20-40u/kg/hr)12mo, 2-3ml/
hr (20-30 u/kg/hr) child, 1.5-2ml/
hr (15-20u/kg/hr) adult; adjust to
give APTT 60-85 sec, or anti-Xa
0.3-0.7u/ml. Hep lock: 100u/ml.
Heparin calcium. Low dose: 75u/kg
SC 12H.
Heparin, low molecular weight. See
certoparin, dalteparin, danapar-
oid, enoxaparin, nadroparin.
Heparinoid 0.2% + lauromacrogol
5%. Oint: apply x1-4/day.
Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix). Inani-
mate. 0.5ml (child) or 1ml (adult)
IM stat, and in 6-12mo (2doses).
Boost every 5yr.
Hepatitis A vaccine (VAQTA).
Inanimate. 0.5ml (child) or 1ml
(17yr) IM stat, and after 6-18mo
(2 doses).
Hepatitis A + hepatitis B vaccine
(Twinrix). Inanimate. 1-15yr
0.5ml, 15yr 1ml IM stat, after
1mo, and after 6mo (3 doses).
Boost every 5yr.
Hepatitis B immune globulin. See
immunoglobulin, hep B.
Hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B,
HB Vax II). Inanimate. Engerix-
B 10mcg/dose (10yr), 20mcg
(9yr); HB Vax II 2.5mcg/dose
(10yr), 5mcg (10-19yr), 10mcg
(19yr), 40mcg (dialysis) IM stat,
after 1mo, and after 6mo (3
doses). Boost every 5yr. See diph-
theria and haemophilus vaccines.
Herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax).
Live. Age 50yr or more: 0.65ml SC
once. See also Immunoglobulin,
zoster.
Hetastarch. 6% 10-20ml/kg IV.
Hexachlorophane. 3% emulsion.
12mo: apply 5ml, scrub for
3min.
Hexamethylmelamine. 150-260mg/
m2
daily oral for 14-21 consecu-
tive days of a 28 day cycle.
Hexamidine. See chlorhexidine.
Hexamine. 20mg/kg (adult 1g) 6H
oral.
Hexaminolevulinate. Adult (NOT/
kg): instill 100mg in 50ml.
Hexetidine. 0.1% soln: rinse/gargle
15ml (NOT/kg) 8-12H.
Histamine phosphate. 1mg/ml base:
prick, puncture or scratch testing.
0.1mg/ml base: intradermal
testing.
Histrelin. Usually 10mcg/kg daily SC.
Homatropine. 2%, 5% soltn: 1 drop/
eye 4H.
Hormone replacement therapy.
With uterus: sequential combined
oestrogen (eg.oestradiol) and
progestogen (eg. norethisterone)
if perimenopausal; continuous
combined therapy if post-
menopausal. Without uterus:
oestrogen.
Human chorionic gonadotrophin.
Chorionic gonadotrophin.
Human papillomavirus vaccine
(Cervarix, Gardasil). Inanimate.
Females 10-46yr, males 9-15yr:
0.5ml IM, in 1-2mo, and 6mo
later (3 doses).
DrugDoses
637
Hyaluronic acid. Gel 20mg/ml: 0.7-
1.4ml injctd in wrinkles.
Hyaluronidase. Hypodermoclysis:
add 1-1.5u/ml fluid. Local anaes-
thesia: add 50u/ml soltn.
Hydralazine. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult
5-10mg) stat IV or IM, then
4-6mcg/kg/min (adult 200-
300mcg/min) IV. Oral: 0.4 mg/
kg (adult 20mg) 12H, slow incr to
1.5mg/kg (max 50mg) 6-8H.
Hydrochloric acid. Use soltn of
100mmol/L (0.1M = 0.1N =
100mEq/L); give IV by central line
only. Alkalosis: dose(ml) = BE x Wt
x 3 (give half this); maximum rate
2ml/kg/hr. Blocked central line:
1.5ml/lumen over 2-4hr.
Hydrochlorothiazide. 1-1.5mg/kg
(adult 25-50mg) 12-24H.
Hydrochlorothiazide + quinapril.
10/12.5, 20/12.5. Adult (NOT/kg):
10/12.5 tab daily oral, incr if reqd
to 20/12.5 tab, max two 10/12.5
tab daily.
Hydrochlorothiazide + telmisartan.
(12.5mg/40mg, 12.5/80, 25/80).
Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral.
Hydrochlorothiazide + valsar-
tan (12.5mg/80mg, 12.5/160,
25/160). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab
daily oral.
Hydrocodone. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (max
10-15mg) 4-6H oral.
Hydrocortisone. Usually 0.5-2mg/kg
(adult 25-50mg) 6-8H oral, reduc-
ing as tolerated. 0.5%, 1% cream,
ointment: apply 6-12H. 1% cream
+ clioquinol: apply 8-24H. 10%
rectal foam: 125mg/dose. 2.5%
eye ointment: apply 6H.
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate.
2-4mg/kg 3-6H IM, IV reducing
as tolerated. Physiological: 5mg/
m2
6-8H oral; 0.2mg/kg 8H IM,
IV. Physiological, stress: 1mg/kg
6H IM, IV.
Hydrocortisone 1% + pramocaine
1%. Cream, foam: apply 8-12H
after defaecation.
Hydroflumethiazide. 0.5-2mg/kg
(adult 25-100mg) 12-48H.
Hydrogen peroxide. 10 volume (3%).
Mouthwash 1:2 parts water. Skin
or ear disinfectant 1:1 part water.
Hydromorphone. Oral: 0.05-0.1mg/
kg (adult 2-4mg) 4H. IM, SC:
0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 1-2mg)
4-6H. Slow IV: 0.01-0.02mg/kg
(adult 0.5-1mg) 4-6H. Palliative
care: incr to 40-50mg/day (up to
500mg/day) oral in divided doses.
Hydroquinone. 3-4% cream: apply
12H.
Hydrotalcite. 20mg/kg (adult 1g)
6H oral.
Hydroxocobalamin (Vit B12).
20mcg/kg (adult 1000mcg) IM
daily for 7 days then wkly (treat-
ment), then every 2-3mo (pro-
phyl); IV dangerous in megalo-
blastic anaemia. Homocystinuria,
methylmalonic acidur: 1mg daily
IM; after response, some patients
maintained on 1-10mg daily oral.
Hydroxyapatite. 20-40mg/kg (adult
1-2g) 8H oral.
Hydroxycarbamide. See hydroxyu-
rea.
Hydroxychloroquine sulphate.
Doses as sulphate. Malaria:
10mg/kg (max 600mg) daily for
3 days; prophylaxis 5mg/kg (max
300mg) once a wk oral. Arthritis,
SLE: 3-6.5mg/kg (adult 200-
600mg) daily oral.
Hydroxyethylcellulose. 0.44% 1
drop per eye 6-8H.
Hydroxypropyl (methyl)cellulose.
See hypromellose.
Hydroxyethylrutosides. 5mg/kg
(adult 250mg) 6-8H for 3-4wk,
then 12-24H; or 10mg/kg (adult
500mg) 12H for 3-4wk, then daily
oral.
Hydroxyprogesterone. Adult (NOT/
kg): 250-500mg/wk IM.
Hydroxypropylcellulose. 5mg insert:
1 in each eye daily.
Hydroxyquinone. 4% cream: apply
12H.
DrugDoses
638
Hydroxyurea. 80
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Paediatric protocols 3rd edition 2012. (4) (1)

  • 1. PAEDIATRIC PROTOCOLS For Malaysian Hospitals Hussain Imam Hj Muhammad Ismail Ng Hoong Phak Terrence Thomas 3rd Edition Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia
  • 2. i PAEDIATRIC PROTOCOLS For Malaysian Hospitals Hussain Imam Hj Muhammad Ismail Ng Hoong Phak Terrence Thomas 3rd Edition Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia Scan this QR code to download the electronic Paediatric Protocol 3rd Edition
  • 3. ii
  • 4. iii FOREWORD BY THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF HEALTH Malaysia like the rest of the world has 3 more years to achieve the Millennium DevelopmentalGoals(MDG).MDG4isconcernedwithunder5mortality.Although we have done very well since lndependence to reduce our infant and toddler mortality rates, we are now faced with some last lap issues in achieving this goal. Despiteurbanizationtherearestillmanychildrenintheruralareas.Thisconstitutes a vulnerable group in many ways. Among the factors contributing to this vulner- ability is the distance from specialist care. There is a need to ensure that doctors in the frontline are well equipped to handle common paediatric emergencies so that proper care can be instituted from the very beginning. Although all doctors are now required to do 4 months of pre-registration training in Paediatrics, this is insufficient to prepare them for all the conditions they are likely to meet as Medical Officers in district hospitals and health clinics. Hence the effort made by the paediatricians to prepare a protocol book covering all the common paediatric problems is laudable. I would also like to congratulate them for bringing out a third edition within 4 years of the previous edition. l am confident that this third edition will contribute to improving the care of children attending the Ministry’s facilities throughout the country. Dato’Sri Dr Hasan Bin Abdul Rahman Director General of Health, Malavsia
  • 5. iv FOREWORD TO THE THIRD EDITION It has been 7 years since we produced the first edition of a national protocol book for Paediatrics. This effort was of course inspired by the Sarawak Paediatric Protocols initiated by Dr Tan Poh Tin. The 2nd edition in 2008 has proven to be very popular and we have had to recruit the services of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA) to produce extra copies for sale. It is now the standard reference for House officers in Paediatrics. In producing a third edition we have retained the size and style of the current ver- sion, essentially only updating the contents. Again it is targeted at young doctors in the service many of whom seem to have had a suboptimal exposure to paediatrics in their undergraduate years. It is hoped that the protocol book will help them fill in the gaps as they prepare to serve in district hospitals and health clinics. The Ministry of Health has once again agreed to sponsor the printing of 1000 books and 500 CDs for distribution to MOH facilities. We shall be soliciting the help of the MPA in producing extra books to be sold to those who wish to have a personal copy. As a result of the full PDF version being available on the MPA website, we have had requests from as far away as Kenya and Egypt to download and print the material for local distribution. We have gladly allowed this in the hope that it will contribute to better care of ill children in those and other neigh- bouring countries. As previously this new edition is only possible because of the willingness of busy clinicians to chip in and update the content for purely altruistic reasons and we hope this spirit will persist in our fraternity. Prof Frank Shann has gracefully agreed for the latest edition of his drug dosages handbook to be incorporated into the new edition. The Director General of Health has also kindly provided a foreword to this edition. We wish to thank all who have made this new edition possible and hope this combined effort will help in improving the wellbeing of the children entrusted to our care. Hussain Imam B. Hj Muhammad Ismail Ng Hoong Phak Terrence Thomas
  • 6. v LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Fazila Mohamed Kutty Neonatologist HospitalSerdang Dr. Fong Siew Moy PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant SabahWomen&Children’sHospital,Kota Kinabalu Dr. Fuziah Md. Zain ConsultantPaediatricEndocrinologist &Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics HospitalPutrajaya Dr. Hasmawati Hassan ConsultantNeonatologist, HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII, KotaBharu Dr. Hishamshah b. Mohd Ibrahim ConsultantPaediatricHaemato-Oncologist HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Hung Liang Choo ConsultantPaediatricCardiologist HospitalKualaLumpur Dato’ Dr. Hussain Imam B. Hj Muhammad Ismail ConsultantPaediatricNeurologist& Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Heng Hock Sin PaediatricNeurologist HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Irene Cheah Guat Sim ConsultantNeonatologist HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Janet Hong Yeow Hua ConsultantPaediatricEndocrinologist HospitalPutraJaya Dr. Jeyaseelan Nachiappan PediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant HospitalRajaPerempuanBainun,Ipoh. Dato’ Dr. Jimmy Lee Kok Foo ConsultantPaediatrician& Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics HospitalSultanahNurZahirah, KualaTerengganu Dr Airena Mohamad Nor, Paediatrician Hospital Tuanku Jaafar, Seremban. Dr. Alex Khoo Peng Chuan Paediatric Neurologist Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh. Dr. Amar-Singh HSS Consultant Community Paediatrician & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh Dr. Angeline Wan Consultant Neonatologist Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Pakar Sultanah Fatimah, Muar Ms. Anne John Consultant Paediatric Surgeon Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching Dr. Bina Menon Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Sessional) Dr. Chan Lee Gaik Consultant Neonatologist & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching Dr. Chee Seok Chiong Consultant Neonatologist Hospital Selayang Dr. Chin Choy Nyok Consultant Neonatologist & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan Dr. Chong Sze Yee Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology Fellow Hospital Selayang Dr. Eni Juraida Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Farah Inaz Syed Abdullah Consultant Neonatologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur
  • 7. vi Dr. Nazrul Neezam Nordin PaediatricGastroenterologist&Hepatologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Neoh Siew Hong ConsultantNeonatologist HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Ng Hoong Phak ConsultantinGeneralPaediatricsandChild Health, HospitalUmumSarawak,Kuching Dr. Ngu Lock Hock ConsultantinPaediatricMetabolicDiseases HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Nik Khairulddin PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant& Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII,KotaBharu Dr Noor Khatijah Nurani ConsultantinGeneralPaediatricsandChild Health, HospitalRajaPermaisuriBainun,Ipoh Dr. Nor Azni bin Yahya ConsultantPaediatricNeurologist, HospitalRajaPerempuanZainabII,KotaBharu. Dr. Norzila Bt. Mohd Zainudin Consultant,PaediatricRespiratoryDisease HospitalKualaLumpur Dr. Ong Gek Bee ConsultantPaediatricHaemato-Oncologist HospitalUmumSarawak,Kuching Dr. Pauline Choo Neonatologist HospitalTuankuJaafar,Seremban Dr Raja Aimee Raja Abdullah PaediatricEndocrinologist HospitalPutrajaya Dr. Revathy Nallusamy PaediatricInfectiousDiseaseConsultant& Head,Dept.ofPaediatrics HospitalPulauPinang Dr. Rozitah Razman Paediatrician Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Kamarul Razali Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Kew Seih Teck Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology Fellow Hospital Selayang Dr. Khoo Teik Beng Consultant Paediatric Neurologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Datuk Dr. Kuan Geok Lan Consultant General Paediatrician Hospital Melaka. Dr. Lee Ming Lee Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist Hospital Tuanku Ja’far, Seremban Dr. Leow Poy Lee Consultant Neonatologist Hospital Melaka. Dr. Lim Chooi Bee Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist Hospital Selayang Dr. Lim Yam Ngo Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Lynster Liaw Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist Hospital Pulau Pinang Dr Mahfuzah Mohamed Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Maznisah Bt Mahmood Pediatric Intensivist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Martin Wong Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching Dr. Mohd Nizam Mat Bah Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bharu
  • 8. vii Dr Thahira Jamal Mohamed Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. N. Thiyagar Consultant, Adolescent Medicine & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Setar Dr. Terrence Thomas Consultant Paediatric Neurologist KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Singapore Dr. Vidya Natthondan Neonatologist Hospital Putrajaya Dr. Vigneswari Ganesan Consultant Paediatric Neurologist Hospital Pulau Pinang Dr. Wan Jazilah Wan Ismail Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Selayang Dr. Wong Ann Cheng Paediatrician Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr Wong Ke Juin Pediatrician Sabah Women & Children’s Hospital, Kota Kinabalu Dr. Yap Yok Chin Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Yogeswery Sithamparanathan Consultant Neonatologist Hospital Tuanku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang Dr Zainah Sheikh Hendra, Consultant in General Paediatrics and Child Health, Hospital Batu Pahat Dr. Zuraidah Bt Abd Latif Consultant Neonatologist & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics, Hospital Ampang Dr. Zurina Zainudin Consultant Paediatrician Universiti Putra Malaysia Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Sabeera Begum Bt Kader Ibrahim Consultant Paediatric Dermatologist Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. See Kwee Ching Neonatologist Hospital Sungai Buloh Dr. Sharifah Ainon Bt Ismail Mokhtar Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist, Hospital Pulau Pinang Dr. Sheila Gopal Krishnan Specialist in General Paediatrics and Child Health Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Kulim Dr. Siti Aishah Bt Saidin Adolescent Medicine Specialist Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh Dr. Soo Thian Lian Consultant Neonatologist & Head, Dept. of Pediatrics Sabah Women &Children’s Hospital, Kota Kinabalu Dr. Susan Pee Consultant Paediatric Nephrologist & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics, Hosp Sultan Ismail, Pandan Dr. Tan Kah Kee Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant & Head, Dept. of Paediatrics Hospital Tuanku Ja’far, Seremban Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tang Swee Fong Consultant Paediatric Intensivist Hospital University Kebangsaan Malaysia Dr. Tang Swee Ping Consultant Paediatric Rheumatologist Hospital Selayang Dr. Teh Chee Ming Paediatric Neurologist Hospital Pulau Pinang Dato’ Dr. Teh Keng Hwang Consultant Paediatric Intensivist Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Star
  • 9. viii TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1 General Paediatrics Chapter 1: Normal Values in Children 1 Chapter 2: Immunisations 5 Chapter 3: Paediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Guidelines 19 Chapter 4: Developmental Milestones in Normal Children 27 Chapter 5: Developmental Assessment 31 Chapter 6: Developmental Dyslexia 37 Chapter 7: The H.E.A.D.S.S. Assessment 45 Chapter 8: End of Life Care in Children 49 Section 2 Neonatalogy Chapter 9: Principles of Transport of the Sick Newborn 55 Chapter 10: The Premature Infant 63 Chapter 11: Enteral Feeding in Neonates 67 Chapter 12: Total Parenteral Nutrition for Neonates 71 Chapter 13: NICU - General Pointers for Care and Review of Newborn Infants 77 Chapter 14: Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis 85 Chapter 15: Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant 91 Chapter 16: The Newborn and Acid Base Balance 93 Chapter 17: Neonatal Encephalopathy 97 Chapter 18: Neonatal Seizures 101 Chapter 19: Neonatal Hypoglycemia 107 Chapter 20: Neonatal Jaundice 111 Chapter 21: Exchange Transfusion 117 Chapter 22: Prolonged Jaundice in Newborn Infants 121 Chapter 23: Apnoea in the Newborn 125 Chapter 24: Neonatal Sepsis 127 Chapter 25: Congenital Syphilis 129 Chapter 26: Ophthalmia Neonatorum 131 Chapter 27: Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm 133 Chapter 28: Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension oftheNewborn 135 Chapter 29: Perinatally Acquired Varicella 139 Section 3 Respiratory Medicine Chapter 30: Asthma 149 Chapter 31: Viral Bronchiolitis 161 Chapter 32: Viral Croup 163 Chapter 33: Pneumonia 165
  • 10. ix TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 4 Cardiology Chapter 34: Paediatric Electrocardiography 171 Chapter 35: Congenital Heart Disease in the Newborn 173 Chapter 36: Hypercyanotic Spell 181 Chapter 37: Heart Failure 183 Chapter 38: Acute Rheumatic Failure 185 Chapter 39: Infective Endocarditis 187 Chapter 40: Kawasaki Disease 191 Chapter 41: Viral Myocarditis 195 Chapter 42: Paediatric Arrhythmias 197 Section 5 Neurology Chapter 43: Status Epilepticus 205 Chapter 44: Epilepsy 207 Chapter 45: Febrile Seizures 213 Chapter 46: Meningitis 215 Chapter 47: Acute CNS Demyelination 219 Chapter 48: Acute Flaccid Paralysis 221 Chapter 49: Guillain Barré Syndrome 223 Chapter 50: Approach to The Child With Altered Consciousness 225 Chapter 51: Childhood Stroke 227 Chapter 52: Brain Death 231 Section 6 Endocrinology Chapter 53: Approach to A Child with Short Stature 237 Chapter 54: Congenital Hypothyroidism 241 Chapter 55: Diabetes Mellitus 245 Chapter 56: Diabetic Ketoacidosis 255 Chapter 57: Disorders of Sexual Development 263 Section 7 Nephrology Chapter 58: Post-Infectious Glomerulonephritis 275 Chapter 59: Nephrotic Syndrome 279 Chapter 60: Acute Kidney Injury 285 Chapter 61: Acute Peritoneal Dialysis 293 Chapter 62: Neurogenic Bladder 299 Chapter 63: Urinary Tract Infection 305 Chapter 64: Antenatal Hydronephrosis 313
  • 11. x TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 8 Haematology and Oncology Chapter 65: Approach to a Child with Anaemia 321 Chapter 66: Thalassaemia 325 Chapter 67: Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura 331 Chapter 68: Haemophilia 337 Chapter 69: Oncology Emergencies 343 Chapter 70: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia 353 Section 9 Gastroenterology Chapter 71: Acute Gastroenteritis 359 Chapter 72: Chronic Diarrhoea 365 Chapter 73: Approach to Severely Malnourished Children 373 Chapter 74: Gastro-oesophageal Reflux 377 Chapter 75: Acute Hepatic Failure in Children 383 Chapter 76: Approach to Gastrointestinal Bleeding 387 Section 10 Infectious Disease Chapter 77: Sepsis and Septic Shock 391 Chapter 78: Pediatric HIV 397 Chapter 79: Malaria 413 Chapter 80: Tuberculosis 419 Chapter 81: BCG Lymphadenitis 425 Chapter 82: Dengue and Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever with Shock 427 Chapter 83: Diphteria 439 Section 11 Dermatology Chapter 84: Atopic Dermatitis 445 Chapter 85: Infantile Hemangioma 451 Chapter 86: Scabies 455 Chapter 87: Steven Johnson Syndrome 457 Section 12 Metabolic Disorders Chapter 88: Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to Diagnosis and Early Management in a Sick Child 461 Chapter 89: Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM) in a Child with Chronic Symptoms 471 Chapter 90: Approach to Recurrent Hypoglycemia 483 Chapter 91: Down Syndrome 489
  • 12. xi TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 13 Paediatric Surgery Chapter 92: Appendicitis 495 Chapter 93: Vomiting in the Neonate and Child 497 Chapter 94: Intussusception 507 Chapter 95: Inguinal hernias, Hydrocoele 511 Chapter 96: Undescended Testis 513 Chapter 97: The Acute Scrotum 515 Chapter 98: Penile Conditions 519 Chapter 99: Neonatal Surgery 521 Section 14 Rheumatology Chapter 100: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) 535 Section 15 Poisons and Toxins Chapter 101: Snake Bite 543 Chapter 102: Common Poisons 549 Chapter 103: Anaphylaxis 559 Section 16 Sedation and Procedures Chapter 104: Recognition and Assessment of Pain 565 Chapter 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures 567 Chapter 108: Practical Procedures 571
  • 13. xii Acknowledgements Again, to Dr Koh Chong Tuan, Consultant Paediatrician at Island Hospital, Penang for his excellent work in proof reading the manuscript.
  • 14. 1 VITAL SIGNS Respiratory (Breath) Rate Normal, Breath rate at rest Abnormal Age (years) Rate/min These values defineTachypnoea 1 30-40 Age Rate/min 1-2 25-35 2 months 60 2-5 25-30 2 mths - 1 year 50 5-12 20-25 1-5 years 40 Heart (Pulse) Rate Abnormal Normal Abnormal Age (years) Low (Bradycardia) Average High (Tachycardia) Newborn 70/min 125/min 190/min 1-11 months 80/min 120/min 160/min 2 years 80/min 110/min 130/min 4 years 80/min 100/min 120/min 6 years 75/min 100/min 115/min 8 years 70/min 90/min 110/min 10 years 70/min 90/min 110/min Ref: NelsonTextbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition Blood Pressure Hypotension if below Normal (average) Age (years) 5th centile for age 50th centile for age 1 year 65 - 75 mmHg 80 - 90 mmHg 1-2 years 70 - 75 mmHg 85 - 95 mmHg 2-5 years 70 - 80 mmHg 85 - 100 mmHg 5-12 years 80 - 90 mmHg 90 - 110 mmHg 12 years 90 - 105 mmHg 100-120 mmHg Calculation for Expected Systolic Blood Pressure = 85 + (2 x age in years) mmHg for 50th centile - Median Blood Pressure = 65 + (2 x age in years) mmHg for 5th centile - Hypotension if below this value Ref:Advanced Paediatric Life Support:The Practical Approach, Fifth Edition 2011 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Chapter 1: NormalValues in Children
  • 15. 2 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Blood Pressure in Hypertension Age Significant Hypertension Severe Hypertension 1 week Systolic 96 mmHg Systolic 106 mmHg 1 wk - 1 mth Systolic 104 mHg Systolic 110 mmHg Infant Systolic 112 mmHg Systolic 118 mmHg Diastolic 74 mmHg Diastolic 82 mmHg 3-5 years Systolic 116 mmHg Systolic 124 mmHg Diastolic 76 mmHg Diastolic 86 mmHg 6-9 years Systolic 122 mmHg Systolic 130 mmHg Diastolic 78 mmHg Diastolic 86 mmHg 10-12 years Systolic 126 mmHg Systolic 134 mmHg Diastolic 82 mmHg Diastolic 90 mmHg 13-15 years Systolic 136 mmHg Systolic 144 mmHg Diastolic 86 mmHg Diastolic 92 mmHg 16-18 years Systolic 142 mmHg Systolic 150 mmHg Diastolic 92 mmHg Diastolic 98 mmHg
  • 16. 3 ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS Age Weight Height Head size birth 3.5 kg 50 cm 35 cm 6 months 7 kg 68 cm 42 cm 1 year 10 kg 75 cm 47 cm 2 years 12 kg 85 cm 49 cm 3 years 14 kg 95 cm 49.5 cm 4 years 100 cm 50 cm 5-12 years 5 cm/year 0.33 cm/year Points to Note Weight • In the first 7 - 10 days of life, babies lose 10 - 15% of their birth weight. • In the first 3 months of life, the rate of weight gain is 25 gm/day • Babies regain their birth weight by the 2nd week, double this by 5 months age, and triple the birth weight by 1 year of age • Weight estimation for children (in Kg): Infants: (Age in months X 0.5) + 4 Children 1 – 10 years: (Age in yrs + 4) X 2 Head circumference • Rate of growth in preterm infants is 1 cm/week, but reduces with age. Head growth follows that of term infants when chronological age reaches term • Head circumference increases by 12 cm in the 1st year of life (6 cm in first 3 months, then 3 cm in second 3 months, and 3 cm in last 6 months) Other normal values are found in the relevant chapters of the book. References: 1. Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The Practical Approach Textbook, 5th Edition 2011 2. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 19. 6 General Notes • Many vaccines (inactivated or live) can be given together simultaneously (does not impair antibody response or increase adverse effect). But they are to be given at different sites unless given in combined preparations. Vaccines are now packaged in combinations to avoid multiple injections to the child. • sites of administration - oral – rotavirus, live typhoid vaccines - intradermal (ID) - BCG. Left deltoid area (proximal to insertion deltoid muscle) - deep SC, IM injections. (ALL vaccines except the above) • anterolateral aspect of thigh – preferred site in children • upper arm – preferred site in adults • upperouterquadrantofbuttock-associatedwithlowerantibodylevelproduction Immunisation : General contraindications • Absolute contraindication for any vaccine: severe anaphylaxis reactions to previous dose of the vaccine or to a component of the vaccine. • Postponement during acute febrile illness: Minor infection without fever or systemic upset is NOT a contraindication. • A relative contraindication: avoid a vaccine within 2 weeks of elective surgery. • Live vaccine: Absolute contraindications - Immunosuppressed children -malignancy; irradiation, leukaemia, lymphoma, primary immunodeficiency syndromes (but NOT asymptomatic HIV). - On chemotherapy or 6 months after last dose. - On High dose steroids, i.e. Prednisolone ≥ 2 mg/kg/day for 7 days or low dose systemic 2 weeks: delay vaccination for 3 months. - If topical or inhaled steroids OR low dose systemic 2 weeks or EOD for 2 weeks, can administer live vaccine. - If given another LIVE vaccine including BCG 4 weeks ago. (Give live vaccines simultaneously. If unable to then give separately with a 4 week interval). - Within 3 months following IV Immunoglobulin (11 months if given high dose IV Immunoglobulins, e.g. in Kawasaki disease). 3 weeks 3 months Live Vaccine HNIG Live vaccine (Human Normal Immunoglobulin) - Pregnancy (live vaccine - theoretical risk to foetus) UNLESS there is significant exposure to serious conditions like polio or yellow fever in which case the importance of vaccination outweighs the risk to the foetus. • Killed vaccines are generally safe. The only absolute contraindications are SEVERE local (induration involving 2/3 of the limbs) or severe generalised reactions in the previous dose. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 20. 7 The following are not contraindications to vaccination • Mild illness without fever e.g. mild diarrhoea, cough, runny nose. • Asthma, eczema, hay fever, impetigo, heat rash (avoidinjectioninaffectedarea). • Treatment with antibiotics or locally acting steroids. • Child’s mother is pregnant. • Breastfed child (does not affect polio uptake). • Neonatal jaundice. • Underweight or malnourished. • Over the recommended age. • Past history of pertussis, measles or rubella (unless confirmed medically) • Non progressive, stable neurological conditions like cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, simple febrile convulsions, controlled epilepsy, mental retardation. • Family history of convulsions. • History of heart disease, acquired or congenital. • Prematurity (immuniseaccordingtoscheduleirrespectiveofgestationalage) Vaccination: Special Circumstances • Measures to protect inpatients exposed to another inpatient with measles: - Protect all immunocompromised children with Immunoglobulin (HNIG) 0.25-0.5 mls/kg. (Measles may be fatal in children in remission from leukaemia) - Check status of measles immunisation in the other children. Give measles monocomponent vaccine to unimmunised children within 24 hrs of exposure. Vaccination within 72 hours aborts clinical measles in 75% of contacts - Discharge the inpatient child with uncomplicated measles. - Do not forget to notify the Health Office. • Immunisation in children with HIV (Please refer to Paediatric HIV section) • In patients with past history or family history of febrile seizures, neurological or developmental abnormalities that would predispose to febrile seizures:- - Febrile seizures may occur 5 – 10 days after measles (or MMR) vaccination or within the first 72 hours following pertussis immunisation. - Give Paracetamol (120 mg or ¼ tablet) prophylaxis after immunisation (esp. DPT) 4-6 hourly for 48 hours regardless of whether the child is febrile. This reduces the incidence of high fever, fretfulness, crying, anorexia and local inflammation. • Maternal Chicken Pox during perinatal period. (Please refer to Perinatally acquired varicella section) • Close contacts of immunodeficient children and adults must be immunized, particularly against measles and polio (use IPV). • In contacts of a patient with invasive Haemophilus influenzae B disease: - Immunise all household, nursery or kindergarden contacts 4 years of age. - Household contacts should receive Rifampicin prophylaxis at 20 mg/kg once daily (Maximum 600 mg) for 4 days (except pregnant women - give one IM dose of ceftriaxone ) - Index case should be immunised irrespective of age. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 21. 8 • Children with Asplenia (Elective or emergency splenectomy; asplenic syndromes; sickle cell anaemia) are susceptible to encapsulated bacteria and malaria. - Pneumococcal, Meningococcal A, C, Y W-135, Haemophilus influenza b vaccines should be given. - For elective splenectomy (and also chemotherapy or radiotherapy): give the vaccines preferably 2 or more weeks before the procedure. However, they can be given even after the procedure. - Penicillin prophylaxis should continue ideally for life. If not until 16 years old for children or 5 years post splenectomy in adults. • Babies born to mothers who are HbeAg OR HbsAg positive should be given Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (200 IU) and vaccinated with the Hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours and not later than 48 hours. Given in different syringes and at different sites. • Premature infants may be immunised at the same chronological age as term infants. (Please refer section on The premature infants for more discussion) GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 22. 9 Vaccines,indications,contraindications,dosesandsideeffects VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes BCGTobegivenatbirth andtoberepeated ifnoscarispresent Nottobegiventosympto- maticHIVinfectedchildren. Canbegiventonewborns ofHIVinfectedmotheras theinfantisusuallyasymp- tomaticatbirth. BCGadenitismayoccur.Intradermal. Localreaction:apapuleat vaccinationsitemayoccur in2-6weeks.Thisgrows andflattenswithscaling andcrusting.Occasionallya dischargingulcermayoccur. Thishealsleavingascarof atleast4mminsuccessful vaccination. HepatitisBAllinfants, includingthoseborn toHBsAgpositive mothers Allhealthcare personnel. Severehypersensitivityto aluminium.Thevaccineis alsonotindicatedforHBV carrierorimmunedpatient (i.e.HBsAgorAbpositive) Localreactions.Feverand flu-likesymptomsinfirst 48hours.Rarely,erythema multiformeorurticaria. Intramuscular. GivewithHepBimmuno- globulinforinfantsofHBsAg positivemothers. Diphtheria, Tetanus (DT) Allinfantsshould receive5doses includingbooster dosesat18months andStandard1 Severehypersensitivityto aluminiumandthiomersal Swelling,rednessandpain Asmallpainlessnodulemay developatinjectionsite– harmless. Transientfever,headaches, malaise,rarelyanaphylaxis. Neurologicalreactionsrare. Intramuscular GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 23. 10 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes PertussisAllinfantsshould receive4doses includingboosterat 18months Itisrecommended thatboosterdoses begivenatStd1 andatForm3due toincreasedcases ofPertussisamongst adolescentsin recentyears Anaphylaxistoprevious dose;encephalopathy developswithin7daysof vaccination Precautions:severereaction topreviousdose(systemic orlocal)andprogressive neurologicaldiseases. Localreaction.Severeif involve2/3limbs Severesystemicreaction: Anaphylaxis(2per100000 doses),encephalopathy(0– 10.5permilliondoses),high fever(fever40.5),fitswithin 72hours,persistentincon- solablecrying(0.1to6%), hyporesponsivestate. AcellularPertussisvaccine associatedwithlessside effects Intramuscular. Staticneurologicaldiseases, developmentaldelay,personal orfamilyhistoryoffitsare NOTcontraindications. Inactivated PolioVaccine (IPV) Allinfantstobe given4doses includingboosterat 18months. Allergiestoneomycin,poly- myxinandstreptomycin Previoussevereanaphylactic reaction Localreactions.Intramuscular. Haemophilus Influenzae typeB(Hib) Allinfantsshould receive4doses includingboosterat 18months. Patientswithsplenic dysfunction,and postsplenectomy. Confirmedanaphylaxisto previousHibandallergies toneomycin,polymyxinand streptomycin Localswelling,rednessand painsoonaftervaccination andlastupto24hoursin 10%ofvaccinees Malaise,headaches,fever,ir- ritability,inconsolablecrying. Veryrarelyseizures. Intramuscular GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 24. 11 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes MeaslesSabah,OrangAsli populationat6mths. Notusuallygivento children12mth.If thereisameasles outbreak,canbe giventochildren6 -11mthsage.This islaterfollowedby MMRat12mths and4-6yearsage. Avoidinpatientswith hypersensitivitytoeggs, neomycinandpolymyxin. Pregnancy. Childrenwithuntreated leukemia,TBandother cancers. Immunodeficiency. Transientrashin5%. MayhavefeverbetweenD5- D12postvaccination. URTIsymptoms. Febrileconvulsions(D6-D14) in1:1000–9000dosesofvac- cine.(Naturalinfection1:200) Encephalopathywithin30days in1:1,000,000doses.(Natural infection1:1000-5000) Intramuscular. **Longtermprospectivestud- ieshavefoundnoassociation betweenmeaslesorMMRvac- cineandinflammatorybowel diseases,autismorSSPE. Measles, Mumps,Ru- bella(MMR) Allchildrenfrom 12to15months. Boosterat4-6yrs (oratStd1). Severereactiontohen’s eggsandneomycin. Pregnancy Measles:AsaboveIntramuscular. Canbegivenirrespectiveof previoushistoryofmeasles, mumpsorrubellainfection. MumpsRarelytransientrash,pruri- tisandpurpura. Parotitisin1%ofvaccinees, 3weeksaftervaccination. Orchitisandretrobulbar neuritisveryrare. Meningoencephalitisismild andrare.(1:800,000doses). (naturalinfection1:400). Intramuscular GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 25. 12 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes RubellaRash,fever,lymphadenopa- thy,thrombocytopenia, transientperipheralneuritis. Arthritisandarthralgiaoc- cursinupto3%ofchildren and20%ofadults. GivenasMMR Japanese Encephalitis (JE) GiveninSarawakat 9,10and18months Boosterat4years. Immunodeficiencyand malignancy,diabetes,acute exacerbationofcardiac, hepaticandrenalconditions Localredness,swelling, pain,fever,chills,headache, lassitude.. Inactivatedvaccine. Subcutaneous. Protectiveefficacy95%. HumanPap- illomaVirus (HPV) Indicatedfor femalesaged9-45 years. Notrecommendedin pregnantpatients. Headache,myalgia,injec- tionsitereactions,fatigue, nausea,vomiting,diarrhoea, abdominalpain,pruritus, rash,urticaria,myalgia, arthralgia,fever. 2vaccinesavailable: Cervarix(GSK):bivalent. Gardasil(MSD):quadrivalent. -3dosescheduleIM(0, 1-2month,6month). Recombinantvaccine. Protectiveefficacyalmost 100%inpreventingvaccine typecervicalcancerinfirst 5years. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 26. 13 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes Pneumo- coccal (conjugate) vaccine:PCV 13/PCV7 Dosage: Infants2-6mthage. 3-doseprimary seriesatleast1mth apartfrom6wks ofage. Booster:1dose between12-15mths ofage. Unvaccinated: infants7-11mths 2doses1month apart,followedbya 3rddoseat12-15 months;children12- 23months2doses atleast2months apart;healthy children2-5years: Singledose Unvaccinatedhigh riskchildren2-5yrs agemaybegiven 2doses(6-8wks apart) Childrenwhohavesevere allergicreactiontoprevious pneumococcalvaccine Healthychildrenunder6 weeksandmorethan59 monthsofage Decreasedappetite, irritability,drowsiness, restlesssleep,fever,injsite erythema,indurationor pain,rash. NotinBlueBook Immunogenicinchildren 2years Inactivatedvaccine. Intramuscular Highriskchildren: immunosuppression(includ- ingasymptomaticHIV), asplenia,nephroticsyndrome andchroniclungorheart disease. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 27. 14 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes Pneumococ- cal(polysac- charide vaccine) Recommendedfor childrenathighrisk. 2yearsold. Singledose. Boosterat3-5years onlyforhighrisk patients. Age2yearsold. Revaccinationwithin3years hashighriskofadverse reaction; Avoidduringchemotherapy orradiotherapyandless than10dayspriortocom- mencementofsuchtherapy –antibodyresponseispoor. Pregnancy. Hypersensitivityreactions.ListedinBlueBook. Intramuscular,Subcutaneous Immunogenicinchildren≥2 yrs.Against23serotypes. Highrisk:immunosuppression, asymptomaticHIV,asplenia, nephroticsyndrome,chronic lungdisease.Ifthesechildren are2yrsold,theyshould firstreceivepneumococcal conjugatevaccine;when2 yrs,thenthepolysaccharide vaccineisused. RotavirusFirstdosegivento infants≥6wksold. Rotateq(3doses) Subsequentdoses givenat4-10wksin- terval.3rddosegiven ≤32weeksage. Rotarix(2doses).2nd dosetobegivenby 24weeksage.Inter- valbetweendoses shouldbe4wks. Priorhypersensitivitytoany vaccinecomponent. UncorrectedcongenitalGIT malformation,e.g.Meckel’s diverticulum Severecombinedimmuno- deficiencydisease(reported prolongedsheddingofvac- cinevirusreportedininfants whohadliveRotavirus vaccine) Lossofappetite,irritability, fever,fatigue,diarrhoea, vomiting,flatulence,ab- dominalpain,regurgitation offood. Orallive-attenuatedvaccine. Protectiveefficacy88-91% foranyrotavirusgastroen- teritisepisode;63-79%forall causesofgastroenteritis. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 28. 15 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes Varicella Zoster 12mthsto12yrs: Singledose 12yrs: 2doses≥4wksapart. Nonimmunesus- ceptiblehealthcare workerswhoregu- larlycomeincontact withVZVinfection Asymptomatic/mildly symptomaticchildren withHIV(withCD4% 15%);2dosesat3 mthsinterval. Childreninremission fromleukemiafor≥1 yr,have700/mlcir- culatinglymphocytes mayreceivevaccine underpaediatrician supervision(2doses). Pregnantpatients. Patientsreceivinghighdose systemicimmunosuppres- siontherapy. Patientswithmalignancy especiallyhaematologi- calmalignanciesorblood dyscrasias. Hypersensitivitytoneomycin. Occasionally,papulovesicu- lareruptions,injectionsite reactions,headache,fever, paresthesia,fatigue Liveattenuatedvaccine. Subcutaneous. 70–90%effectiveness. HepatitisAForchildren1yr. 2doses.,given6-12 monthsapart. Severehypersensitivityto aluminiumhydroxide,phe- noxyethanol,neomycin Localreactions.Flu-like symptomslasting2daysin 10%ofrecipients Intramuscular. Inactivatedvaccine. Protectiveefficacy94%. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 29. 16 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes CholeraChildren2-6yrs: 3dosesat1-6wk interval. Children6yrs: 2dosesat1-6wks interval. Boosterdose2yrs. GastroenteritisOralinactivatedvaccine. Protectiveefficacy80-90% after6mthswaningto60% after3yrs. InfluenzaSingledose. Minage6mths. Unprimedindividuals require2nddose4- 6wksafter1stdose. Recommendedfor childrenwith: chronicdecompen- satedrespiratoryor cardiacdisorders, e.g.cyanoticheart diseaseschroniclung disease,HIVinfection. Inadvanceddisease, vaccinationmaynot induceprotective antibodylevels. Hypersensitivitytoeggor chickenprotein,neomycin, formaldehyde. Febrileillness,acuteinfec- tion. Transientswelling,redness, painandindurationlocally. Myalgia,malaiseand feverfor1–2daysstarting withinafewhourspost vaccination.Veryrarely, neurological(Guillain-Barre), glomerulonephritis,ITPor anaphylacticreactionoccurs. Intramuscular. Inactivatedvaccine. Protectiveefficacy70-90% Requireyearlyrevaccination forcontinuingprotection. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 30. 17 VaccineIndication/DoseContraindicationPossibleSideEffectsNotes RabiesPre-exposure:3dosesatDay0, 7,28.Boosterevery2-3yrs. Post-exposuretreatment: Fullyimmunised:2dosesat Day0,Day3.RabiesImmune Globulin(RIG)unnecessary. Unimmunised:5dosesatDay 0,3,7,14and28.RIG(20IU/ kggivenhalfaroundthewound andtherestIM. Headache,dizziness,malaise, abdominalpain,nausea,my- algia.Injectionsitereactions suchasitching,swelling,pain. Inactivatedvaccine. (AvailableinMalay- siaasPurifiedVero CellRabiesVaccine (PVRV). Intramuscular. Meningococ- cusA,C,Y W-135 Singledose. Immunityupto3yrs. Localreactions.Irritability, feverandrigorsfor1-2days. Veryrarely,anaphylaxis. Intramuscular. Typhoid (TyphimVi) Singledose.Seroconversionin 85-95%ofrecipients;confers 60-80%protectionbeginning 2wksaftervaccination. Boostersevery3yrs. Children2yrs. (Immunogenicity2yrsof agehasnotbeenestab- lished) Localreactions.Myalgia, malaise,nausea,headaches andfeverin3%ofrecipients. Intramuscular. Polysaccharide vaccine Typhoid (Ty21avac- cine) Threedosestwodaysapart. Effective7daysafterlast dose.Boosterevery3years. Infant6mth. Congenitaloracquired immunodeficiency.Acute febrileillnessacuteintes- tinalinfection. Veryrarely:mildGIT disturbancesoratransitory exanthema. Oral.Liveattenu- atedvaccine. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 31. 18 Recommended Immunisation Schedule for Infants and Children Not Immunised at the Recommended Time Time of Immunisation Ageatfirstvisit Between 6 wks -12 mths 12 months and older 1st visit BCG, DPT/DTaP, Hib1, IPV1, HBV1 BCG, DPT/DTaP1, Hib1, IPV1, HBV1, measles (footnote2)at6 or 9 mths, MMR at 12 mths of age 2nd visit (1 mth later) DPT/DTaP2, IPV2, HBV2, Hib2 3rd visit (1 mth later) DPT/DTaP2,Hib2, IPV2, HBV2 DPT/DTaP3, IPV3, 4th visit (4mthsafter 3rdvisit) DPT/DTaP3,Hib3, IPV3, HBV3, DPT/DTaP4, IPV4, 2-8 mths later HBV3, DTaP4, Hib4 IPV4 (booster), measles in Sabah at 9 mths age, MMR at 12 mths age Polio, DT/DTaP, MMR (at school entry) Footnotes: 1. For infants 6 wks age, use “Recommended Immunisation Schedule for Infants Children”. 2. Measles vaccine should be given only after 9 mths. (exception - given at 6 months in Sabah) 3. For special groups of children with no regular contact with Health Services and with no immunisation records, BCG, HBV, DTaP- Hib-IPV and MMR can be given simultaneously at different sites at first contact. 4. It is not necessary to restart a primary course of immunisation regardless of the period that has elapsed since the last dose was given. Only the subsequent course that has been missed need be given. (Example. An infant who has been given IPV1 and then 9 months later comes for follow-up, the IPV1 need not be repeated. Go on to IPV2.). Only exception is Hepatitis A vaccine. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 32. 19 Well children with Normal hydration Very few well children require intravenous fluids (IV). Whenever possible use an enteral (oral) route for fluids. These guidelines apply to children who are unable to tolerate enteral fluids. The safe use of IV fluid therapy in children requires accurate prescribing of fluids and careful monitoring because incorrectly prescribed or administered fluids are hazardous. If IV fluid therapy is required then maintenance fluid requirements should be calculated using the Holliday and Segar formula based on weight. However this should be only be used as a starting point and the individuals’ response to fluid therapy should be monitored closely by clinical observation, fluid balance, weight and a minimum daily electrolyte profile. Prescribing Intravenous fluids Fluids are given intravenously for the following reasons: • Circulatory support in resuscitating vascular collapse. • Replacement of previous fluid and electrolyte deficit. • Maintenance of daily fluid requirement. • Replacement of ongoing losses. • Severe dehydration with failed nasogastric tube fluid replacement (e.g. on-going profuse losses, diarrhoea or abdominal pain). • Certain co-morbidities, particularly GIT conditions (e.g. short gut or previous gut surgery) Resuscitation Fluids appropriate for bolus administration are: Crystalloids 0.9% Normal Saline Ringer’s Lactate @ Hartmann’s solution Colloids Gelafundin,Voluven 4.5% albumin solution Blood products Whole blood, blood components • Fluid deficit sufficient cause impaired tissue oxygenation (i.e. clinical shock) should be corrected with a fluid bolus of 10-20mls/kg. • Always reassess circulation - give repeat boluses as necessary. • Look for the cause of circulatory collapse - blood loss, sepsis, etc. This helps decide on the appropriate alternative resuscitation fluid. • Fluid boluses of 10mls/kg in selected situations - e.g. diabetic ketoacidosis, intracranial pathology or trauma. • Avoid low sodium-containing (hypotonic) solutions for resuscitation as this may cause hyponatremia. • Check blood glucose: treat hypoglycemia with 2mls/kg of 10% Dextrose solution. Chapter 3: Paediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Guidelines GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 33. 20 • Measure Na, K and glucose at the outset and at least 24hourly from then on. More frequent testing is indicated in ill patients or those with co-morbidities. Rapid results of electrolytes can be done with blood gases measurements. • Consider septic work-up or surgical consult in severely unwell patients with abdominal symptoms (i.e. gastroenteritis). Maintenance • Maintenance fluid is the volume of daily fluid intake. It includes insensible losses (from breathing, perspiration, and in the stool), and allows for excretion of the daily production of excess solute load (urea, creatinine, electrolytes) in the urine. • Most children can safely be managed with solution of 0.45% saline with added glucose (i.e. 0.45% saline in 5% glucose or 0.45% saline in 10% glucose) depending on glucose requirement. • Sodium chloride 0.18 saline with glucose 5% should not be used as a maintenance fluid and is restricted to specialist area to replace ongoing loses of hypotonic fluids. These areas include high dependency, renal, liver and intensive care. • Most children will tolerate standard fluid requirements. However some acutely ill children with inappropriately increased anti-diuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) may benefit from their maintenance fluid requirement being restricted to two-thirds of the normal recommended volume. • Children who are at high risk of hyponatremia should be given isotonic solutions (i.e. 0.9% saline ± glucose) with careful monitoring to avoid iatrogenic hyponatremia in hospital. These include children with the following conditions: • Peri-or post-operative • Require replacement of ongoing losses • A plasma Na at lower normal range of normal (definitely if 135mmol/L) • Intravascular volume depletion • Hypotension • Central nervous system (CNS) infection • Head injury • Bronchiolitis • Sepsis • Excessive gastric or diarrhoeal losses • Salt-wasting syndromes • Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis and pituitary deficits. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 34. 21 Calculation of Maintanence Fluid Requirements The following calculations approximate the maintenance fluid requirement of well children according to weight in kg. (Holliday-Segar calculator) Weight Total fluids Infusion rate First 10 Kgs 100 ml/kg 4 mls/kg/hour Subsequent 10 Kgs 50 ml/kg 2 mls/kg/hour All additional Kg 20 ml/kg 1 mls/kg/hour Example: A Child of 29 kg will require: 100mls/kg for first 10kg of weight 10 x 100 = 1000 mls 50mls/kg for second 10kg of weight 10 x 50 = 500 mls 20mls/kg for all additional weight 9 x 20 = 180 mls Total = 1680 mls Rate = 1680/24 = 70mls/hour Composition of commonly used intravenous solution Osmolality Na content Osmolality Tonicity Fluid (mOsm/l) (mmol/l) compared to plasma with ref to cell membrane Na chloride 0.9% 308 154 IsoOsmolar Isotonic Na chloride 0.45% 154 77 HypoOsmolar Hypotonic Na chloride 0.9% + Glucose 5% 586 150 HyperOsmolar Isotonic Na chloride 0.45% + Glucose 5% 432 75 HyperOsmolar Hypotonic Na chloride 0.18% + Glucose 5% 284 31 IsoOsmolar Hypotonic Dextrose 5% 278 Nil IsoOsmolar Hypotonic Dextrose 10% 555 Nil HyperOsmolar Hypotonic Hartmann’s 278 131 IsoOsmolar Isotonic GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 35. 22 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Deficit • A child’s water deficit in mls can be calculated following an estimation of the degree of dehydration expressed as % of body weight. Example: A 10kg child who is 5% dehydration has a water deficit of 500mls. Maintenance 100mls/kg for first 10 kg = 10 × 100 = 1000mls Infusion rate/hour = 1000mls/24 hr = 42mls/hr Deficit (give over 24hours) 5% dehydration (5% of body water): 5/100 × 10kg × 1000mls = 500mls Infusion rate/hour (given over 24 hrs) = 500mls/24 hr = 21mls/hr • The deficit is replaced over a time period that varies according to the child’s condition. Precise calculations (e.g. 4.5%) are not necessary. The rate of rehydration should be adjusted with ongoing clinical assessment. • Use an isotonic solution for replacement of the deficit, e.g. 0.9% saline. • Reassess clinical status and weight at 4-6hours, and if satisfactory continue. If child is losing weight, increase the fluid and if weight gain is excessive decrease the fluid rate. • Replacement may be rapid in most cases of gastroenteritis (best achieved by oral or nasogastric fluids), but should be slower in diabetic ketoacidosis and meningitis, and much slower in hypernatremic states (aim to rehydrate over 48-72 hours, the serum Na should not fall by 0.5mmol/l/hr). Ongoing losses (e.g. from drains, ileostomy, profuse diarrhoea) • These are best measured and replaced. Any fluid losses 0.5ml/kg/hr needs to be replaced. • Calculation may be based on each previous hour, or each 4 hour period depending on the situation. For example; a 200mls loss over the previous 4 hours will be replaced with a rate of 50mls/hr for the next 4 hours). • Ongoing losses can be replaced with 0.9% Normal Saline or Hartmann’s solution. Fluid loss with high protein content leading to low serum albumin (e.g. burns) can be replaced with 5% Human Albumin.
  • 36. 23 SODIUM DISORDERS • The daily sodium requirement is 2-3mmol/kg/day. • Normal serum sodium is between 135-145mmol/l. Hypernatremia • Hypernatremia is defined as serum Na+ 150mmol/l, moderate hypernatremia is when serum Na+ is 150-160mmol/l, and severe hypernatremia is when serum Na+ 160mmol/l. • It can be due to: • water loss in excess of sodium (e.g. diarrhoea) • water deficit (e.g. diabetes insipidus) • sodium gain (e.g. large amount of NaHCO3 infusion or salt poisoning). • If the cause of the hypernatremia is central diabetes insipidus, it is advisable to consult Endocrinology team regarding management. • In hypernatremia the child appears sicker than expected for the degree of dehydration. • Shock occurs late because intravascular volume is relatively preserved. Signs of hypernatremic dehydration tend to be predominantly that of intracellular dehydration and neurological dysfunction. Management This will depend on the cause of hypernatremia. For hypernatremic dehydration with Na+ 150mmol/l • If the patient is in shock, give volume resuscitation with 0.9% Normal saline as required with bolus/es. • Avoid rapid correction as this may cause cerebral oedema, convulsion and death. • Aim for correction of deficit over 48-72 hours and a fall of serum sodium concentration not more than 0.5mmol/l/hour. • Give 0.9% saline to ensure the drop in sodium is not too rapid. • Remember to also give maintenance and replace ongoing losses following the recommendation above. • Repeat blood urea and electrolytes every 6 hours until stable. Special considerations • A slower rate will be required for children with chronic hypernatremia (present for more than 5 days). • Calcium and glucose need to be checked as hypernatremia can be associated with hypocalcaemia and hyperglycemia, these conditions need to be corrected concurrently. Clinical signs of Hypernatremic dehydration Irritability Skin feels “doughy” Ataxia, tremor, hyperreflexia Seizure Reduced awareness, coma GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 37. 24 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Hyponatremia • Hyponatremia is defined when serum Na+ 135mmol/l. • Hyponatremic encephalopathy is a medical emergency that requires rapid recognition and treatment to prevent poor outcome. • As part of the general resuscitative measures, bolus of 4ml/kg of 3% sodium chloride should be administered over 30 minutes. This will raised the serum sodium by 3mmol/l and will usually help stop hyponatremic seizures. • Gradual serum sodium correction should not be more than 8mmol/day to prevent osmotic demyelination syndrome. Calculating sodium correction in acute hyponatremia mmol of sodium required = (135-present Na level)× 0.6 × weight(kg) The calculated requirements can then be given from the following available solutions dependent on the availability and hydration status: 0.9% sodium chloride contains 154 mmol/l 3% sodium chloride contains 513mmol/l • Children with asymptomatic hyponatremia do not require 3% sodium chloride treatment and if dehydrated may be managed with oral fluids or intravenous rehydration with 0.9% sodium chloride. • Children who are hyponatremic and have a normal or raised volume status should be managed with fluid restriction. • For Hyponatremia secondary to diabetic ketoacidosis; refer DKA protocol. POTASSIUM DISORDERS • The daily potassium requirement is 1-2mmol/kg/day. • Normal values of potassium are: • Birth - 2 weeks: 3.7 - 6.0mmol/l • 2 weeks – 3 months: 3.7 - 5.7mmol/l • 3 months and above: 3.5 - 5.0mmol/l Hyperkalemia • Causes are: • Dehydration • Acute renal failure • Diabetic ketoacidosis • Adrenal insufficiency • Tumour lysis syndrome • Drugs e.g. oral potassium supplement, K+ sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors. Treatment: see algorithm on next page
  • 38. 25 Hyperkalemia Treatment Algorithm Drug doses: • IV Calcium 0.1 mmol/kg. • Nebulised Salbutamol: Age ≤2.5 yrs: 2.5 mg; Age 2.5-7.5 yrs: 5 mg; 7.5 yrs: 10 mg • IV Insulin with Glucose: Start with IV Glucose 10% 5ml/kg/hr (or 20% at 2.5 ml/kg/hr). Once Blood sugar level 10mmol/l and the K+ level is not falling, add IV Insulin 0.05 units/kg/hr and titrate according to glucose level. • IV Sodium Bicarbonate: 1-2 mmol/kg. • PO or Rectal Resonium : 1Gm/kg. ECG changes in Hyperkalemia Tall, tentedT waves Prolonged PR interval Prolonged QRS complex Loss of P wave, wide biphasic QRS Stop all K+ supplementation Stop medication causing hyperK+ Cardiac monitoring Hyperkalemia K+ 5.5 mmol/l Transfer to tertiary centre? Exclude pseudo hyperkalemia Recheck with venous sample Child stable, asymptomatic Normal ECG K+ ≥ 5.5, ≤ 6.0 mmol/L Child unstable or symptomatic Abnormal ECG K+ 7.0 mmol/l Child stable, asymptomatic Normal ECG K+ 6, ≤ 7 mmol/L Discuss for dialysis IV Calcium Neb Salbutamol IV Insulin with glucose IV Bicarbonate ± PR/PO Resonium Neb Salbutamol IV Insulin with glucose ± IV Bicarbonate if acidosis ± PR/PO Resonium Consider treatment ? ± Neb Salbutamol ± IV Bicarbonate if acidosis ± PR/PO Resonium GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 39. 26 Hypokalemia • Hypokalemia is defined as serum Na+ 3.4 mmol/l (Treat if 3.0mmol/l or Clinically Symptomatic 3.4 mmol/l) • Causes are: • Sepsis • GIT losses - diarrhoea, vomiting • Iatrogenic- e.g. diuretic therapy, salbutamol, amphotericin B. • Diabetic ketoacidosis • Renal tubular acidosis • Hypokalaemia is often seen with chloride depletion and metabolic alkalosis. • Refractory hypokalaemia may occur with hypomagnesaemia. Treatment • Identify and treat the underlying condition. • Unless symptomatic, a potassium level of 3.0 and 3.4 mmol/l is generally not supplemented but rather monitored in the first instance. • The treatment of hypokalaemia does not lend itself to be incorporated into a protocol and as a result each patient will need to be treated individually. Oral Supplementation • Oral Potassium Chloride (KCL), to a maximum of 2 mmol/kg/day in divided doses is common but more may be required in practice. Intravenous Supplementation (1gram KCL = 13.3 mmol KCL) • Potassium chloride is always given by IV infusion, NEVER by bolus injection. • Maximum concentration via a peripheral vein is 40 mmol/l (concentrations of up to 60 mmol/l can be used after discussion with senior medical staff). • Maximum infusion rate is 0.2mmol/kg/hr (in non-intensive care setting). Intravenous Correction (1gram KCL = 13.3 mmol KCL) • K+ 2.5 mmol/L may be associated with significant cardiovascular compromise. In the emergency situation, an IV infusion KCL may be given • Dose: initially 0.4 mmol/kg/hr into a central vein, until K+ level is restored. • Ideally this should occur in an intensive care setting. ECG changes of Hypokalemia These occur when K+ 2.5mmol/l Prominent U wave ST segment depression Flat, low or diphasicT waves Prolonged PR interval (severe hypoK+ ) Sinoatrial block (severe hypoK+ ) GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 40. 27 Chapter4:DevelopmentalMilestonesinNormalChildren AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 6wksPulltosit:Headlag,rounded back VentralSuspension:Head brieflyinsameplaneasbody. Prone:Pelvishigh,kneesno longerunderabdomen.Chin raisedoccasionally. Fixatesandfollowsto90 degrees Vocalisingby8weeks.Quiets tosound.Startlestosound. Smilesresponsively. 3mthsPulltosit:Slightheadlag.Head occasionallybobsforward. VentralSuspension:Headabove planeofbody. Prone:Pelvisflat.Liftsheadup 45°-90°. Handregard.Followsobject fromsidetoside(180°).Hands heldloosely.Graspsobject placedinhand. Notreachingout. Squealswithdelight. Turnsheadtosound. Laughs. 5mthsPulltosit:Noheadlagandsits withstraightback. Lyingsupine:Feettomouth. Reachesforobjects. Playswithtoes. Mouthing. 6mthsPullstosit:Liftsheadinan- ticipation.Sitswithsupport. Bearsweightonlegs.Prone: Supportsweightonhands; chest,upperabdomenoff couch.Rollspronetosupine. Palmargraspofcube,ulnar approach.Moveshead,eyesin alldirections.Nosquint(after 4months). GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 41. 28 AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 18mthsGetsupanddownstairs holdingontorailorwith onehandheld.Pullstoy orcarriesdoll.Throwsball withoutfalling. Sitsonachair. Towerof3cubes. Scribblesspontaneously. Visualtest:Picturecharts. Handedness Pointsto2-3bodyparts. PictureCards-identifyone. Imitateshousework. Toilettrained.Usesspoon well.Castingstops. 2yrsGoesupanddownstairs alone,2feetperstep.Walks backwards(21months) Runs.Picksuptoywithout falling. Throws,kickballwithout falling. Towerof6cubes. Imitatescubesoftrainwith nochimney. Imitatesstraightline. Visualtest:Snellen’schart. 2-3wordsentences.Uses ‘you’‘me’‘I’.names3 objects.Obeys4simple commands.Pointsto4body parts. Putsonshoes,socks,pants. Drybyday. Playnearotherchildrenbut notwiththem. 2.5yrsJumpsonbothfeet. Walksontiptoes. Towerof8. Imitatestrainwith chimney. Holdspencilwell. Imitatesand Knowsfullnameandgender. Namesonecolour. 3yrsGoesupstairsonefootper step. Downstairs2feetperstep. Jumpsoffbottomstep. Standson1footfor seconds. Ridestricycle. Towerof9. Imitatesbridgewithcubes: Copies OImitates Drawamantest.(3-10y) Cancountto10.Names2 colours.Nurseryrhymes. Understands“on”,“in”, “under”. Dresses,undresseswith help.Drybynight. Playswithothers. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 42. 29 AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 4yrsGoesupanddownstairs onefootperstep. Skipsononefoot. Hopsononefoot. Imitatesgatewithcubes. Copies Goodenoughtest4. Names3colours.Fluent conversation.Understands “infrontof”,“between”, behind”. Buttonsclothesfully.Attends toowntoiletneeds. 4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes. Copiessquare. Drawsrecognisablemanand house. 5yrsSkipsonbothfeet. Runsontoes. Copies‘X’(5years) Copies(5½years)triangle. Goodenoughtest8. KnowsAGE.Names4 colours. Tripleorderpreposition. Tell’sthetime. Tiesshoelaces. Dressesandundresses alone. 6yrsWalksheeltotoe Kicking,throwing,climbing. Copies: Goodenoughtest12. Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10 cubes Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture). AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 4yrsGoesupanddownstairs onefootperstep. Skipsononefoot. Hopsononefoot. Imitatesgatewithcubes. Copies Goodenoughtest4. Names3colours.Fluent conversation.Understands “infrontof”,“between”, behind”. Buttonsclothesfully.Attends toowntoiletneeds. 4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes. Copiessquare. Drawsrecognisablemanand house. 5yrsSkipsonbothfeet. Runsontoes. Copies‘X’(5years) Copies(5½years)triangle. Goodenoughtest8. KnowsAGE.Names4 colours. Tripleorderpreposition. Tell’sthetime. Tiesshoelaces. Dressesandundresses alone. 6yrsWalksheeltotoe Kicking,throwing,climbing. Copies: Goodenoughtest12. Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10 cubes Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture). AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 4yrsGoesupanddownstairs onefootperstep. Skipsononefoot. Hopsononefoot. Imitatesgatewithcubes. Copies Goodenoughtest4. Names3colours.Fluent conversation.Understands “infrontof”,“between”, behind”. Buttonsclothesfully.Attends toowntoiletneeds. 4.5yrsCopiesgatewithcubes. Copiessquare. Drawsrecognisablemanand house. 5yrsSkipsonbothfeet. Runsontoes. Copies‘X’(5years) Copies(5½years)triangle. Goodenoughtest8. KnowsAGE.Names4 colours. Tripleorderpreposition. Tell’sthetime. Tiesshoelaces. Dressesandundresses alone. 6yrsWalksheeltotoe Kicking,throwing,climbing. Copies: Goodenoughtest12. Imitatesorcopiesstepswith10 cubes Note:Goodenoughtest:3+a/4years(a=eachfeaturerecordedinhispicture). GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 43. 30 AgeGrossMotorFineMotorSpeech/LanguageSocial 7mthsSitswithhandsoncouchfor support. Rollsfromsupinetoprone. Feedsselfwithbiscuits. Transfersobjects-handto hand. Rakesatpea. Babblinginsinglesyllables. (combinedsyllablesat8 months).DistractionTest. Strangeranxiety. 9mthsSitssteadily.Leansforward butcannotpivot. Standsholdingon. Pullsselftosit. Inferiorpincergrasp (Scissorsgrasp) Localisessoundat3feet, aboveandbelowtheear level. Feedswithspoonoccasion- ally. Looksforfallentoys. Understands“NO!” 10mthsCrawlsonabdomen. Pullselftostand. Indexapproach.Usesindex fingertopokeatpea. Letsgoofcubeinhand. Waves“Byebye” Plays“Pat-a-Cake” 11mthsCreepingonallfours. Pivoting.Cruising.Walkswith bothhandsheld. Onewordwithmeaning.Plays“peek-a-boo” 1yearGetsfromlyingtosittingto crawlingtostanding. Walkslikeabear.Walkswith onehandheld. Walkswell(13months). Standsalone Neatpincergrasp.Bangs2 cubes. Seesandpicksuphundreds andthousands. Understandsphases;2-3 wordswithmeaning.Localis- ingsoundabovehead. Casting(13months) Lessmouthing. Shy. 13mthsCreepsupstairs. Stoopsfortoyandstandsup withoutsupport.(bestat18 months) Towerof2cubes. Scribblesspontaneously(15- 18months) Morewords. Pointstoobjectshewants. Continualjabberandjargon. Takesoffshoe. Feedsselfwithcupandspoon (butspills).Mouthingstops GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 44. 31 Chapter 5: Developmental Assessment Development is the progressive, orderly, acquisition of skills and abilities as a child grows. It is influenced by genetic, neurological, physical, environmental and emotional factors. Important points to note: • child must be co-operative, not tired, fretful, hungry nor sick. Remember that a child may behave differently in an unfamiliar environment • allowance must be made for prematurity up to two years. • take note of parental account of what child can or cannot do. Note parental comments on abnormal gait, speech defects, etc. • normal development is dependent on integrity of child’s hearing and vision. • normal pattern of speech and language development is essential for a normal social, intellectual and emotional development. • delay in development may be global i.e. affecting all areas equally, or specific areas only e.g. oro-motor dysfunction causing speech delay. Key Developmental Warning Signs 1 Discrepant head size or crossing centile lines (too large or too small). 2 Persistence of primitive reflexes 6 months of age 3 No response to environment or parent by 12 months 4 Not walking by 18 months 5 No clear spoken words by 18 months 6 No two word sentences by 2 years 7 Problems with social interaction at 3 years 8 Congenital anomalies, odd facies 9 Any delay or failure to reach normal milestones Note: Parental concerns must always be taken seriously Assessment of children with suspected developmental delay History • consanguinity • family history of developmental delay • maternal drugs, alcohol, illness and infection in pregnancy • prematurity, perinatal asphyxia • severe neonatal jaundice, hypoglycaemia or seizures • serious childhood infections, hospital admissions or trauma • home environment conditions (environmental deprivation) Physical examination • head circumference, dysmorphic features • neurocutaneous markers • neurological abnormalities • full developmental assessment GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 45. 32 Investigations (individualised according to history and physical findings) • Visual and auditory testing • T4, TSH • Chromosomal Analysis • Consider - Creatine kinase in boys - MRI Brain - Metabolic screen - Specific genetic studies (Fragile X, Prader Willi or Angelman syndrome) - Refer to a geneticist - EEG if history of seizures Assessment of Children with Suspected Hearing Impairment or Speech Delay History • Congenital infection • Perinatal medications • Severe neonatal jaundice • Family history of deafness or speech delay • Chronic ear infections • Quality, quantity of speech Physical examination • Examine ears • Dysmorphic features • Distraction Test • Assess expressive, receptive speech • Neurological / development assessment Management • Formal hearing assessment • Speech-language assessment and interventions Consider Hypothyroidism Chromosomal anomaly Cerebral palsy Congenital intrauterine infection Congenital brain malformations Inborn errors of metabolism Autistic spectrum disorder Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Prior brain injury, brain infections Neuroctaneous disorders Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy Warning Signs for Hearing Impairment 1 Child appears not to hear 2 Child makes no attempt to listen. 3 Does not respond to name,“No” or clue words e.g.“Shoe”, by 1 yr age 4 Any speech/language milestone delay Consider Congenital sensorineural deafness Familial, genetic deafness Congenital rubella infection Oro-motor dysfunction GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 46. 33 HearingTests at different ages Age Test Comments Newborn screening Automated Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) test Determines cochlear function. Negative test in conductive hearing loss, middle ear infections, or in moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss. Any age Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BAER) Measures brainstem responses to sound. Negative test in sensorineural hearing loss 7-9 months Infant DistractionTest (IDT) Determines response to sound whilst presented during a visual distraction. Infants Behavioural Observation Assessment (BOA) test Audiologist identifies bod- ily reactions to sound, i.e. cessation of activity, body movement, eye widening and opening suckling rate. 2.5 years Conditioned Play Audiometry Earphones placed on child and various games are done when test tone is heard. Older Children PureTone Audiometry Patient presses a response button or raises a hand when the test tone is heard Assessment of Children with SuspectedVisual Impairment Children at risk • Prematurity. • Intrauterine Infection (TORCHES) • Family history of cataracts, retinoblastoma or squint. • Previous meningitis, asphyxia • Dysmorphic babies Warning Signs forVisual Impairment 1 Does not fix on mother’s face by 6 wks 2 Wandering or roving eyes after 6 wks 3 Abnormal head postures 4 Leukocoria (white eye reflex) 5 Holds objects very close to eye. 6 Squint after 6 months of age. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 47. 34 Assessment of Children with Suspected Learning Difficulties It is sometimes a challenge to identify the primary cause of the learning difficulty as conditions like dyslexia , ADHD and intellectual impairment share common symptoms. A. History (A thorough history is important) • Antenatal perinatal and postnatal complications • High risk behaviour like substance abuse in mother • Family history of development delay, learning difficulties etc. • Detailed developmental milestones • When learning problems were first noted (preschool achievement, etc. as children with dyslexia or ADHD will have symptoms in early childhood) • Past and current education performance • Areas of learning difficulties • Specific: e.g. reading difficulties (dyslexia) , writing difficulties (dysgraphia) but extremely good in tasks that require visual stimulation, e.g. art, music • General : more commonly seen in children with some degree of intellectual impairment or from an extremely understimulated environment • Strength of the child perceived by parents and teachers • Who is the main caregiver at home ? • Social background of the family B1. Review School concerns with the patient, parents teachers (always ask for teachers report). Common symptoms • Apathy towards school • Avoidance or poor performance in specific subject areas • Disruptive or negative behaviour in certain classes B2. Review all school workbooks (not only report card) C. Basic Cognitive (intellectual functioning) screening tool in a Pediatric Clinic: • Ask child to tell about a recent event : birthday, visit to grandparents etc. (note whether language is fluent, coherent, organized) • Ask parents whether child has difficulty taking retaining classroom instructions or instructions at home (short term memory) • Observe the child using a pencil to copy symbols and words (visual perceptual motor disorder characterized by confusing symbol, easy distractibility , inability to copy information) • Ask the child to perform a 3-step command (sequencing ability to communicate and understand information in a orderly and meaningful manner) • Ask the child to repeat four words , remember them and repeat them again when asked in 5 -10 minutes (memory , attention) • Ask the child to repeat three, then four digits forward then repeat three, then four digits backward (concentration) GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 48. 35 D. Physical Examination • Anthropometric measurement • General alertness and response to surrounding (Children with dyslexia will be very alert and usually very enterprising) • Dysmorphism • Look for neurocutaneous stigmata • Complete CNS examination including hand eye coordination as children may have a associated motor difficulties like dyspraxia • Complete developmental assessment. • Ask child to draw something he or she likes (this can help to get a clearer picture about intellect of the child) Block and Pencil test (From Parry TS: Modern Medicine, 1998) Age Block Test Pencil Test 3 - 3.5 yrs Build a bridge Draw a circle 3.5 - 4 yrs Draw a cross 3 - 4.5 yrs Build a gate Draw a square 5 - 6 yrs Build steps Draw a triangle This test screens cognitive and perceptual development for age. Block test: build the structure without child observing then ask the child to copy the structure. Pencil test: Draw the object without child observing then ask the child to copy it. E. Differential Diagnosis that need to be ruled out: Common causes • Autism • ADHD or combination of both • Specific learning difficulty like Dyslexia • Limited environmental stimulation Genetic or a chromosomal disorder • Fragile X • Hypothyroidism • Intellectual impairment • Tourette • Neurofibromatosis Neurological • Seizures • Neurodegenerative condition O GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 49. 36 Miscellanous causes • Anaemia • Auditory or visual impairment • Toxins (fetal alcohol syndrome, prenatal cocaine exposure, lead poisoning) F. Plan of Management Dependent on the primary cause for learning difficulties • Dyslexia screening test if available • DSM 1V for ADHD or Autistic Spectrum Disorder (Refer CPG for management of children and adolescents with ADHD :2008) • Refer Occupational therapist for school preparedness (pencil grip, attention span etc) or for associated problems like dyspraxia • Refer speech therapist if indicated • Assess vision and hearing as indicated by history and clinical examination • Targeted and realistic goals set with child and parents • One-to-one learning may be beneficial • Registration as a Child with Special Needs as per clinical indication and after discussion with parents G. Investigations Clinical impressions guides choice. Consider: • DNA analysis for Fragile X syndrome for males with Intellectual impairment • Genetic tests, e.g. Prader Willi, Angelman, DiGeorge, Williams syndromes • Inborn errors of metabolism • TSH if clinically indicated • Creatine Kinase if clinically indicated • MRI brain study abnormal neurological examination • EEG only if clinically indicated When is IQ Testing Indicated? When diagnosis is unclear and there is a need to determine options for school placement. If unsure of diagnosis refer patient to a Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatri- cian, Pediatric Neurologist, Child Psychiatrist and Child Psychologist depending on availability of services in your area. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 50. 37 Chapter 6: Developmental Dyslexia GENERALPAEDIATRICS Some first signs suggestibe of dyslexia Preschool and Kindergarten Language • May have difficulty pronouncing words and slow to add new vocabulary words • May be unable to recall the right word • Trouble learning nursery rhymes or playing rhyming • Trouble learning to recognize letters of the alphabet (important predictor of later reading skills: recognition of letters of alphabets starts before decoding ) Memory • Difficulty remembering rote information (name, phone number, address) Fine motor skills • Fine motor skills may develop more slowly than in other children Lower Grades in School Language • Delayed decoding abilities for reading • Trouble following directions • Poor spelling and using of pronouns, verbs Memory • Slow recall of facts • Organizational problems • Slow acquisition of new skills Attention • Impulsive, easily distractible and careless errors Fine motor skills • Unstable pencil grip • Trouble with letter formation Visual skills • Confuses words, e.g. at –to, does –goes, etc • Consistent reading and spelling errors • Transposes number sequence, maths signs (+,- X/=) Middle Grades of School Language • Poor reading comprehension • Trouble with word problems • Lack of verbal participation in class Memory • Slow or poor recall of math facts and failure of automatic recall Attention • Inconsistency and poor ability to discern relevant details Fine motor skills • Fist-like or tight pencil grip • illegible, slow or inconsistent writing Visual skills • May reverse sequences (e.g.: soiled for solid )
  • 51. 38 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Higher Grades in School Language • Weak grasp of explanation • Poor written expressions • Trouble summarizing Memory • Trouble studying for test • Slow work pace Attention • Memory problems due to poor attention • Mental fatigue Fine motor skills • Less significant Visual skills • Misreads information • Trouble taking multiple choice questions • Difficulty with sequencing (maths, music and science: physics) Essentials in making a diagnosis of dyslexia History (A thorough history is important) • When reading problems was first noted • What were the problems? • What is the current reading problem faced by the child at school • Neurodevelopment (esp speech delay) • Family history (esp. speech delay and learning disability) • Significant birth and medical history • Assessment of school work (esp. exam papers and teacher’s report) . • Strength of the child • Any educational interventions or others attempted before Physical Examination Look for this, as some of these findings may be associated with features of dyslexia: • Microcephaly • Vision and Hearing problems • Syndromic facies • Neurocutaneous stigmata • Neurodevelopmental examination Neurodevelopmental assessment Look specifically for problems in the following areas: Gross motor • Coordination (some can be “clumsy”) • Motor planning • Visual motor spatial functioning.
  • 52. 39 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Fine motor • Small muscle manipulation (dyspraxia) Visual motor integration • Spatial relationship • Patterns in written material • Meaning of maths symbols Temporal sequential organization • Auditory sequencing • Understanding time • Organization planning Language • Receptive and Expressive language. • Comprehension. • Grammar • Spoken and written instructions Behavior • Attention • Adaptation • Self monitoring Investigations Tailored to patients needs. • IQ testing for those where diagnosis or underlying cause is unclear e.g. Borderline intellectual impairment with dyslexic features. Differential Diagnosis • Hearing and visual problems. • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) • Global developmental delay • Intellectual impairment Minimum Interventions that can be done: • Advocate for the educational needs of the child • Network for services that child may need out of the school, e.g. one-to-one tuition • Discuss with parents how to tackle child’s difficulties, best school placements, registration as a child with special needs, etc. • Refer to other disciplines e.g. Dyspraxia and Pencil grip: Occupational therapist • May need referral to speech therapist
  • 53. 40 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Suggestions for School Based Interventions • A phonics-based reading program that teaches the link between spoken and written sounds • A multi-sensory approach to learning, which means using as many different senses as possible such as seeing, listening, doing and speaking • Arrangements with the child’s school - for example, for them to take oral instead of written tests • Learning via audiotape or videotape • Arrange for extra time for exams • Arrange for readers for UPSR students (need to write to JPN one year ahead of the UPSR exams) Features of Dyslexia that can be elicited in the General Pediatric Clinic Setting (tables in following pages) • Assessment needs to be done in accordance to the child’s cooperativeness level (may require 2-3 visits for a thorough assessment) • This is not a validated assessment checklist, when in doubt refer to a Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatrician or an Educational Psychologist, depending on services available at your hospital. At the end of the assessment, please answer these 2 questions below, and tick the appropriate column. Question Yes No 1. Does the limitation in reading, spelling and writing cause significant learning difficulty in school? 2. From your clinical assessment do you agree that the IQ of the child is appropriate for age? If the answer to the both the above questions is “yes” then the probable diagnosis is Dyslexia. If unsure about diagnosis please refer to Pediatrician, Developmental Pediatri- cian or Educational Psychologist depending on services available in your area. References 1.Shaywitz, NEJM 1998 2.Kenneth L.Grizzle Pedia N Am 54; 2007 3. Center for community child health 4. Dyslexia screening Test 5. Dr Khoo Teik Beng’s Dyslexia Clinic
  • 54. 41 GENERALPAEDIATRICS SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic ReadingUnabletoreadappropriatelyforageGiveageappropriatepas- sageorbooks Listentothechildreadaloudfromhis orherowngradelevelreader.(Keep asetofgradedreadersavailablein yourclinic) Childmayappearvisiblytiredafter readingforonlyashorttime Readingwillbeslow,labored,inac- curatereadingofevensinglewords (ensurethatthereisnovisualcues whiledoingthis) SingleWordReading •Boy •Chair •Kite •Hope Showsinglewordsassuggestedand askchildtoread. Unabletoreadunfamiliarwordsor pseudowordsandusuallywilltryto guessormakeupwordsbecauseof somefamiliarity. •Pilau=Pulau •Karusi=Kerusi •Maja=Meja Phonological processing/ awareness Difficultyindifferentiatingwordsthat soundsalike •Mana •Nama •Mama •Dapat •Padat Considertheeducationalbackground ofthechild Letter Indentification Difficultytonamelettersofthe alphabet A,B,C,D,E...Prepareatableofalphabetsandask childtoreadout(ensureyoupointto thealphabetsthatyouwantthechild toread).Takenotethatchildmaybe abletorecitefrommemory
  • 55. 42 GENERALPAEDIATRICS SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic Letter-Sound Association Difficultyidentifyingwordsbeginning withthesameletter •Doll,Dog,etc •Buku,buka,etc SegmentationDifficultyinidentifyingwordthat wouldremainifaparticularsound wereremoved •Whatremainsifthe/k/ soundwastakenaway from“cat”=at •Whatremainsifthe/Ta/ soundtakenawayfrom “table”=ble •Whatremainsifthe/p/ soundwastakenaway from“paku”=aku •Whatremainsifthesound /ma/soundtakenaway from“mata”=mata Shortterm Verbalmemory (eg,recallinga sentenceora storythatwas justtold) Difficultyrecallingasentenceora storythatwasjusttold Narratestorytothechild thenaskquestionslike: •ApanamakuchingAli? •Tompoksukamakanapa? •DimanaAlipergi memancing? Haveashortstorywhichgoeslike this:“Aliadaseekorkuchingbernama Tompok.Tompoksukamakanikan.Ali pergimemancingikandisungaidan memberikanikanitukepadaTompok.”
  • 56. 43 GENERALPAEDIATRICS SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic RapidNamingDifficultyinrapidlynamingacontinu- ousseriesoffamiliarobjects,digits, letters,orcolors Useflashcardswith picturesonly,coloursor numbers Canusenumbersforrapidnamingor totestabilityofrememberingnumbers inareverseorder. Askchildtonamecolours.Ifchildnot beabletodosoaskchildtopointtoa particularcolourinabook.Usuallythe childwillnothavedifficultyindoingso. Expressive vocabularyor wordretrieval Difficultyinlistingoutnameofanimals orobjects Givemethenamesofanimalsyou know RotememoryDifficultyinmemorizingnon-meaning- fulfacts(factsthatarenotpersonally interestingandpersonallyrelevant) •Multiplicationtables •Daysoftheweekor monthsoftheyearin order Askchildtorecitesimplemultiplica- tiontableortosayoutdaysofthe weekormonthsoftheyearinorder. Sequencing stepsinatask Difficultyinperformingtaskthatneeds sequencing •Tyingshoelaces •Printingletters:can’t rememberthesequence ofpencilstrokes necessarytoformthat letter.Maywriteainan oddway
  • 57. 44 SkillFeaturesExamplesHowtoTestinClinic SpellingDifficultyinspellingevensimplewords thatisageappropriate •Buku,meja,mata, sekolah,etc Askchildtodosimplespellingwith2 syllablesfirstifabletodothen proceedtomultisyllablewords DirectionalityLeft-Rightconfusion Up-Downconfusion •Substitution:b-pord-q, n-u,andm-w •Confusionabout directionalitywords: First-last,before-after, next-previous,over-under DysgraphiaPoor,nearlyillegiblehandwritingor difficultyinwritingonastraightline. Difficultyindifferentiatingsmallorbig letters. Unusualspatialorganizationofthe page. •Wordsmaybewidely spacedortightlypushed together. •Marginsareoften ignored. Observeschoolworkbookforwriting problems. CopyingDifficultyincopyingfromblackboard Takesalongtimetocopyandcopied workwillhavealotofmistakes •Tyingshoelaces •Printingletters:can’t rememberthesequence ofpencilstrokes necessarytoformthat letter.Maywriteainan oddway Observeschoolworkbookwhich needscopying GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 58. 45 A Psychosocial Interview for Adolescents Introduction Adolescence is the developmental phase between childhood and adulthood and is marked by rapid changes in physical, psychosocial, sexual, moral and cognitive growth. Dr. Cohen refined a system for organizing the developmentally-appropriate psychosocial history that was developed in 1972 by Dr. Harvey Berman. The approach is known by the acronym HEADSS (Home, Education /employ- ment, peer group Activities, Drugs, Sexuality, and Suicide/depression). It was subsequently expanded to HEEADSSS by adding Eating and Safety. Preparing for the Interview Parents, family members, or other adults should not be present during the HEADSS assessment unless the adolescent specifically gives permission, or asks for it. Starting the interview 1. Introduction Set the stage by introducing yourself to the adolescent and parents. If the parents are present before the interview, always introduce yourself to the adolescent first. 2. Understanding of Confidentiality Ask the adolescent to explain their understanding of confidentiality. 3. Confidentiality Statement After the adolescent has given you his/her views, acknowledge his/her response and add your views accordingly (confidentiality statement), based on the particular situation. The HEADSS assessment Items are in listed in the following pages Suggestions for ending interviews with adolescents • give them an opportunity to express any concerns you have not covered, and ask for feedback about the interview. • ask if there is any information you can provide on any of the topics you have discussed. Try to provide whatever educational materials young people are interested in. Chapter 7:The H.E.A.D.S.S. Assessment GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 59. 46 GENERALPAEDIATRICS ItemExamplesofQuestions Home•Wholivesathomewithyou?Wheredoyoulive?Doyouhaveyourownroom? •Howmanybrothersandsistersdoyouhaveandwhataretheirages? •Areyourbrothersandsistershealthy? •Areyourparentshealthy?Whatdoyourparentsdoforaliving? •Howdoyougetalongwithyourparents,yoursiblings? •Isthereanythingyouwouldliketochangeaboutyourfamily? Education•Whichschooldoyougoto?Whatgradeareyouin?Anyrecentchangesinschools? •Whatdoyoulikebestandleastaboutschool?Favouritesubjects?Worstsubjects? •Whatwereyourmostrecentgrades?Arethesethesameordifferentfromthepast? •Howmuchschooldidyoumisslast/thisyear?Doyouskipclasses?Haveyouever beensuspended? •Whatdoyouwanttodowhenyoufinishschool? •Howdoyougetalongwithteachers?Howdoyougetalongwithyourpeers? •Inquireabout“bullying”. Employment•Areyouinanyfulltimeorparttimejob? Eating•Whatdoyoulikeandnotlikeaboutyourbody? •Hastherebeenanyrecentchangeinyourweight? •Haveyoudietedinthelastoneyear?How?Howoften? •Howmuchexercisedoyougetonanaverageday?Week? •Doyouworryaboutyourweight?Howoften? •Doesiteverseemasthoughyoureatingisoutofcontrol? •Haveyouevermadeyourselfthrow-uponpurposetocontrolyourweight?
  • 60. 47 ItemExamplesofQuestions Activities•Aremostofyourfriendsfromschoolorsomewhereelse?Aretheythesameageasyou? •Doyouhangoutwithmainlypeopleofyoursamesexoramixedcrowd? •Doyouhavealotoffriends? •Doyouseeyourfriendsatschoolandonweekends,too? •Doyoudoanyregularsportorexercise?Hobbiesorinterests? •HowmuchTVdoyouwatch?Whatareyourfavouriteshows? •Daveyoueverbeeninvolvedwiththepolice?Doyoubelongtoagrouporgang? Drugs•Whenyougooutwithyourfriends,domostofthepeoplethatyouhangoutwithdrinkorsmoke? Doyou?Howmuchandhowoften? •Haveyouoryourfriendsevertriedanyotherdrugs?Specifically,what? •Doyouregularlyuseotherdrugs?Howmuchandhowoften? Sexuality•Haveyoueverbeeninarelationship?When? •Haveyouhadsex?Numberofpartners?Usingcontraception? •Haveyoueverbeenpregnantorhadanabortion? •Haveyoueverbeencheckedforasexuallytransmittedinfection(STI)? •KnowledgeaboutSTIsandprevention? •Forfemales:Askaboutmenarche,lastmenstrualperiod(LMP),andmenstrual cycles.Alsoinquireaboutbreastselfexamination(BSE)practices. •Formales:Askabouttesticularself-examination(TSE)practices. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 62. 49 Introduction Paediatric palliative care has been defined as ‘an active and total approach to care embracing physical, emotional and spiritual elements. It focuses on qual- ity of life for the child and support for the family and includes management of distressing symptoms, provision of respite and care through death and bereavement’. 1 Causes of Paediatric Mortality (Malaysian Public Hospitals) • In paediatric departments at Malaysian public hospitals, 70% of deaths occur in neonates and 30% are in older children. 2 • Under Five Mortality Study data shows that 76% are hospital deaths; 24% are non hospital deaths. • A third (33%) of hospital deaths were congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities; 5% had oncology disorders. It is difficult to ascertain the exact percentage who require palliative care in the latter group. The data suggests that there is plenty of work to be done in paediatric pallia- tive medicine and end of life care. Why is this important? Impact of the lost of a child • The care of dying children is different from adults as the dying process of a child affects many individuals with grief over the loss that is more intense, long lasting and complicated.3 This is because children are generally expected to outlive their parents. • Parental grief is the most severe form of grief 4 ; with an associated increase in morbidity and mortality.5 It often intensifies in 2nd or 3rd year (when friends and relatives expect them to be ‘over it’). • For parents who have lost a child , there is an increased risk of psychiatric hospitalisation. 6 This risk is higher in bereaved mothers than bereaved fathers, the risk is highest in the 1st year following their child’s death, and remains elevated for ≥ 5 years.7 • Care-related factors may influence parents’ psychological outcomes.8 Among factors that continued to affect parents 4-9 years following their child’s death was the memory of the child having had unrelieved pain and experienced a ‘difficult moment of death’. Interviews with 449 bereaved parents suggest that the child’s physical pain and circumstances at the moment of death contributed to parents’ long term distress.9 Quality of End of Life Care Parents associated quality end of life care with physicians.10 • Giving clear information about what to expect in the End of Life period • Communicating with care and sensitivity • Communicating directly with child where appropriate • Preparing the parent for circumstances surrounding the child’s death As healthcare providers we have the unique opportunity to contribute towards quality end of life care. A bereavement clinic follow up, or home visit, can be arranged in 6-12 weeks after death. Chapter 8: End of Life Care in Children GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 63. 50 GENERALPAEDIATRICS End of life Care for Paediatric Patients When the disease trajectory of a patient has reached the final days, and the family or caregivers understand the situation, the following steps can be taken to help the patient and family. Existing medical orders and management strate- gies should be reviewed with the goal of enhancing comfort and decreasing noxious and invasive interventions. Aspects of care that should be addressed are • Discontinue parenteral nutrition. Enteral feeding reduced, discontinued or offered as a comfort measure; breastfeeding may be offered if desired by mother and baby; a lactation referral for breastfeeding mothers to stop milk production. • Discontinue tests and treatments to minimize noxious or painful procedures. • Intravenous access maintained for medications to decrease pain, anxiety or seizures. Alternatives to IV access are oral, sublingual or rectal medications. • Discontinue antibiotics. • Discontinue cardiac sustaining medications e.g. dopamine, adrenaline. • Ventilator support: parents must be included in the decision to disconitnue mechanical ventilation support and should be provided with information about the expected sequence of events surrounding disconnection from the ventilator as well as the infant’s physical response, including the possibility that the infant may not die immediately. 12 • Moral and ethical issues e.g. do not resuscitate status; Do not resuscitate (DNR) orders should be explicit and developed collaboratively with the family. • Pain management; comfort measures e.g. discontinue non essential investigations, observations for pain, agitation, nausea and vomiting; appropriate management to improve the quality of life; give additional morphine for breakthrough pain. • Communication with care givers; their understanding of what to expect, choice of place where they prefer the child to die; how the rest of the family is coping or understands; patient’s desire or wish list ; organ donation. • Religious and spiritual needs of the parents and family. • For the child dying in hospital, whether the family wants to take the body home, how will the body be transported; are there any specific religious requirements, and does the family want symbolic memorials (e.g. hand prints, hair lock). • Transitional care, family support, sibling support, staff support, organ donation, follow up support for family.
  • 64. 51 Neonatal Palliative Care Plan for the Infant with Lethal Anomalies “The goal of palliative care is the best quality of life for patients and their families” The following is a list of lethal congenital anomalies: • Genetic Trisomy 13 or 18, triploidy, thanatophoric dwarfism or lethal forms of osteogenesis imperfecta; inborn errors of metabolism that are lethal even with available therapy. • Renal (with oligo/anhydramnios and pulmonary hypoplasia) Potter’s syndrome, renal agenesis, multicystic or dysplastic kidneys, polycystic kidney disease, renal failure that requires dialysis. • Central nervous system Anencephaly, holoprosencephaly, complex, severe meningomyelocele, large encephaloceles, hydranencephaly, congenital severe hydrocephalus with absent or minimal brain growth; neurodegenerative diseases, e.g. spinal muscular atrophy type 1. • Cardiac Acardia, Inoperable heart anomalies, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, pentalogy of Cantrell (ectopia cordis). • Other structural anomalies Certain cases of giant omphalocoele, severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia with hypoplastic lungs; inoperable conjoined twins. Some of these conditions may be prenatally diagnosed – thus allowing the paediatric palliative care team to be activated early. Others may need further evaluation to ensure certainty – in these cases it is advisable to do what is medically necessary to support the baby. The life sustaining medical support can be withdrawn once a definitive diagnosis or prognosis is established. GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 65. 52 Neonatal Palliative Care Plan for the Infant with Lethal Anomalies Comfort measures for babies: • dry and warm baby, provide warm blankets. • provide a hat. • allow mothers to room-in. • minimize disruptions within medically safe practice for mother • lower lights if desired. • allow presence of parents and extended family as much as possible without disruption to work flow in the unit. • make siblings comfortable; they may wish to write letters or draw for the baby. • begin bereavement preparation and memory building, if indicated, to include hand and footprints, pictures, videos, locks of hair. • encourage parent/child bonding and interaction: bathe, dress baby; feeds, diaper change. Selected medical interventions • Humidified oxygen ( _____________ % ) • Nasal cannula oxygen ( _____________ L/min) • Suctioning of airway and secretions. • Morphine sublingual 0.15 mg/kg or IV 0.05 mg/kg, as needed. • Buccal midazolam or oral clonazepam as needed. • Artificial hydration or nutrition : ________________________________ • natural hydration or nutrition : _________________________________ Note: Avoid distressing delays in treating symptoms by making medications available in all available concentrations and doses. Spiritual care • religious preference: __________________________________ • identified religious leader: __________________________________ • religious ritual desired at or near time of death: __________________________________ In the event of child’s death in hospital • Diagnostic procedures: __________________________________ • Autopsy preference: __________________________________ • Tissue/organ procurement preferences: __________________________________ • Funeral home chosen by family:__________________________________ • Rituals required for body care: __________________________________ Please notify:__________________________________________________ GENERALPAEDIATRICS
  • 66. 53 GENERALPAEDIATRICS References Section 1 General Paediatrics Chapter 1 Normal Values 1.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The Practical Approach Textbook, Fifth Edition 2011. 2.Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 18th Edition Chapter 2 Immunisations 1.Ministry Of Health Malaysia. 2.Health Technology Assessment Expert Committee report on immunisation (MOH Malaysia). 3.Malaysian Immunisation Manual 2nd Edition. College of Paediatrics, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia. 2008. 4.AAP Red Book 2009. 5.Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices (ACIP). Chapter 3 Fluid and Electrolytes 1.Mohammed A et al. Normal saline is a safe rehydration fluid in children with diarrhea-related hypernatremia. Eur J Pediatric 2012 171; 383-388 2.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The practical approach 5th Edition 2011 Wiley- Blackwell; 279-289 3.Manish Kori, Nameet Jerath. Choosing the right maintenance intravenous fluid in children, Apollo Medicine 2011 December Volume 8, Number 4; pp. 294-296 4.Corsino Rey, Marta Los-Arcos, Arturo Hernandez, Amelia Sanchez, Juan Jse Diaz, Jesus Lopez Herce. Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids in critically ill children: a multicenter prospective randomized study, Acta Paediatrica 2011, 100; pp.1138-1143 5.Mark Terris, Peter Crean. Fluid and electrolyte balance in children, Anaes- thesia and intensive care medicine 13.1 2011 Elsevier; pp. 15-19 6.Michael L. Moritz, Juan C Ayus. Intravenous fluid management for the acutely ill child, Current opinion in Pediatrics 2011, 23; pp.186-193 7.Davinia EW. Perioperative Fluid Management.Basics. Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain in Neonates and Children Springer-Verlag Italia 2009; 135- 147 8.Michael Y, Steve K. Randomised controlled trial of intravenous maintenance fluid. Journal of Paediatric and Child Health 2009 45; 9-14 9.Malcolm A Holliday, Patricio E ray, Aaron L Friedman. Fluid therapy for chil- dren: facts, fashion and questions, Arch Dis Child 2007, 92; pp.546-550 10.B Wilkins. Fluid therapy in acute paediatric: a physiological approach. Cur- rent Paediatrics 1999 9; 51-56 11.Anthony L. Paediatric fluid and electrolytes therapy guidelines. Surgery 2010 28. 8 369-372 12.Clinical practice guideline RCH. Intravenous fluid therapy.
  • 67. 54 GENERALPAEDIATRICS Chapters 4 and 5 Developmental Milestones and Assessment 1.RS. Illingworth. The Development of the Infant and Young Child. 2.First L, Palfrey J. The infant or young child with developmental delay. NEJM 1994;330:478-483 3.Shevell M, et al. Practice parameter: Evaluation of the child with global devel- opmental delay. Neurology 2003;60:367-380 4.Joint Committee on Infant Hearing Year 2000 Position Statement: Principles and Guidelines for Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Programs. Pedi- atrics. 2000; 106:798-817. http://www.infanthearing.org/jcih/ 5.R.R. Anand: Neuropsychiatry of Learning Disabilities, 2007 6.Trevor S Parry Assessment of developmental learning and behavioural prob- lems in children and young people. MJA 2005 7.Assessment and investigation of the child with disordered development . Arch Dis Child Edu Practice 2011. Chapter 8 End of Life Care 1.A Guide to the Development of Chidren’s Palliative Care Services, Update of a Report by THE ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDREN WITH LIFE THREATENING OR TERMINAL CONDITIONS AND THEIR FAMILIES. THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH. 2nd edition Sept 2003. ACT Promoting Palliative Care for Children. 2.A study on the Under Five Mortality in Malaysia in the Year 2006 , Ministry of Health Malaysia. Dr Wong Swee Lan et al p37/8 3.Papadatou D (1997) Training health professionals in caring for dying children and grieving families. Death studies.21;6,575-600. 4.Li J, Laursen TM Precht DH et al Hospitalisation for mental illness among parents after the death of a child. N E J Med 2005;352:1190-6 5.Li J, Precht DH, Mortenson PB et al Mortality in parents after death of a child in Denmark: a nationwide follow up study. Lancet 2003; 361:363-7 6.Mack JW, Hilden JM, Watterson J et al. Parent and Physician perspective on quality of life at the end of life care in children with cancer J Clin Oncol 2005;23:9155-61 7.Gay Gale, Alison Brooks Implementing a palliative care program in a new- born intensive care unit. Advances in Neonatal Care; 2006;6(1):37.e1-37.e21 8.Malaysian CPG on withdrawal and withholding care in children. 9.Steven R Leuthner. Palliative Care of the infant with lethal anomalies. Pediat- ric Clinics of North America 51(2004)749-759. Chapter 6 Developmental Dyslexia 1.Shaywitz SE. Dyslexia. N Engl J Med. 1998;338:307-12. 2.Dyslexia screening Test Chapter 7 HEADSS Assessment 1.Goldenring J, Cohen, E. Getting into adolescents heads. Contemporary Pedi- atrics 1988: 75-80. 2.Goldenring JM, Rosen DS. Getting into Adolescent Heads: An essential up- date. Contemporary Paediatrics 2004 21:64.
  • 68. 55 Chapter 9: Principles of Transport of the Sick Newborn Introduction • Transport of neonates involves pre-transport intensive care level resuscitation and stabilisation and continuing intra-transport care to ensure that the infant arrives in a stable state. • Organized neonatal transport teams bring the intensive care environment to critically ill infant before and during transport. • Good communication and coordination between the referring and receiving hospital is essential. • There is rarely a need for haste. • However, there must be a balance between the benefits of further stabilization versus anticipated clinical complications that may arise due to delay in the transport. Special Considerations in Neonates Apnoea Premature and septic babies are especially prone to apnoea Bradycardia Hypoxia causes bradycardia followed by heart block and asystole Oxygen toxicity to the lungs and retina especially important in the premature infant Reversal to fetal circulation (Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate,PPHN) Precipitating factors: hypoxia, hypercarbia, acidosis and sepsis Hypothermia Thermoregulation is less developed, infant has a larger body surface area to mass ratio. If bowels are exposed, heat and fluid loss are compounded by evaporation.The effects of hypothermia are acidosis and subsequent PPHN, impaired immune function and delayed wound healing. Hypoglycemia The neonate lacks glycogen stores in liver and fat deposits. Mode of transport Careful consideration must be made as to the mode of transport. • The best mode of transfer is “in utero”, e.g. a mother in premature labour should be managed in a centre with NICU facilities or for an antenatally detected surgical, the mother should be advised to deliver at a centre with paediatric surgical facilities. • The advantages and disadvantages of road, air (helicopter / commercial airlines) and riverine transport must be considered in each child • Transport incubators with monitors, ventilators, oxygen and suction equipment are ideal. NEONATOLOGY
  • 69. 56 Air Transport Patients can be transported by either commercial airlines with pressurised cabins or by helicopters flying without pressurised cabins at lower altitudes. There are special problems associated with air transport: • Changes in altitude – Reduced atmospheric pressure causes decreased oxygen concentration and expansion of gases. This may be important in infants with pneumothorax, pneumoperitoneum, volvulus and intestinal obstruction. These must be drained before setting off as the gases will expand and cause respiratory distress. Infants requiring oxygen may have increased requirements and become more tachypnoeic at the higher altitude in non-pressurised cabins. • Poor lighting - Can make assessment of child difficult . • Noise and Vibration – May stress the infant and transport team; May also cause interference with the monitors, e.g. pulse oximeters. Use ear muffs if available. It is also impossible to perform any procedures during transport. • Limited cabin space – Limits access to the infant especially in helicopters. Commercial aircraft and helicopters are unable to accommodate transport incubators. The infant is thus held in the arms of a team member. • Weather conditions and availability of aircraft – Speed of transfer may be compromised by unavailability of aircraft/flight or weather conditions. Stress and safety to the infant and team during poor weather conditions needs to be considered. • Take off and landing areas – special areas are required and there will be multiple transfers: hospital – ambulance – helicopter – ambulance - hospital. • Finances – Air transport is costly but essential where time is of essence. Pre-transport Stabilisation Transport is a significant stress and the infant may easily deteriorate during the journey. Hypothermia, hypotension and metabolic acidosis has a significant negative impact on the eventual outcome. Procedures are difficult to do during the actual transport. Therefore, pre-transport stabilization is critical. The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate (see tables on following pages) Airway Breathing Circulation, Communication Drugs, Documentation Environment, Equipment Fluids – electrolytes, glucose Gastric decompression NEONATALOGY
  • 70. 57 The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate Airway Establish a patent airway Evaluate the need for oxygen, frequent suction (Oesophageal atresia) or an artificial airway (potential splinting of diaphragm). Security of the airway – The endotracheal tubes (ETT) must be secure to prevent intra-transport dislodgement Chest X-ray – to check position of the ETT Breathing Assess the need for intra-transport ventilation. Does the infant have: • Requirement of FiO2 60% to maintain adequate oxygenation. • ABG – PaCO2 60mmHg. • Tachypnoea and expected respiratory fatigue. • Recurrent apnoeic episodes. • Expected increased abdominal/bowel distension during air transport. If there is a possibility that the infant needs mechanical ventilation during the transfer, it is safer to electively intubate and ventilate before transport. Check the position of the Endotracheal tube before setting off. In certain conditions it may be preferable not to ventilate, e.g. tracheo- oesophageal fistula with distal obstruction. If in doubt, the receiving surgeon/paediatrician should be consulted. If manual ventilation is to be performed throughout the journey, possible fatigue and the erratic nature of ventilation must be considered. Circulation Assess: • Heart rate, Urine output, Current weight compared to birth weight - are good indicators of hydration status of the newborn infant. Also note that: • Blood pressure in infants drops just before the infant decompensates. • Minimum urine output should be 1-2 mls/kg /hr. • The infant can be catheterised or the nappies weighed (1g = 1 ml urine) • Ensure reliable intravenous access (at least 2 cannulae) before transport. • If the infant is dehydrated, the infant must be rehydrated before leaving. NEONATOLOGY
  • 71. 58 The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate Communication Good communication between referring doctor, transport team and neonatologist / paediatric surgeon aids proper pre-transfer stabilization, coordination, timing of transfer, and preparedness of receiving hospital. • Inform receiving specialist, emergency department of receiving hospital. • Provide Name and telephone contact of referring doctor and hospital • Provide patient details • Give a clear history, physical findings, provisional diagnosis, investigations • Detail current management and status of the infant • Discuss mode of transport, expected departure time, arrival at referral centre • Decide on destination of the patient (e.g. AE, NICU, Ward) Drugs as required • Antibiotics – needed in most sick neonates • Analgesia or Sedation – if infant has peritonitis or is intubated • Inotropes • Vitamin K • Sodium bicarbonate Documentation • History including antenatal and birth history, physical findings, diagnosis • Previous and current management • Previous operative and histopathology notes, if any • Input/output charts • Investigation results, X-rays • Consent – informed and signed by parents for high risk infants and especially if parents are not accompanying child. • Parents’ contact address, telephone numbers, if not accompanying infant. • 10 mls of Mother’s blood for cross match, if she is not accompanying infant. Environment Maintain a Neutral Thermal Environment Optimal temperature for the neonate (axilla) – 36.5 0 C– 37.0 0 C. Prevention of heat loss involves maintaining an optimal ambient temperature as well as covering the exposed surfaces. • Transport Incubator – would be ideal. • Wrap limbs of the infant with cotton, metal foil or plastic. • Do not forget a cotton-lined cap for the head. • Remove all wet linen as soon as possible. • Care of exposed membranes. (See section on Abdominal Wall Defects) • Warm intravenous fluids. • ELBW placed in polyethylene bags for newborn infants to prevent heat loss by evaporation. NEONATALOGY
  • 72. 59 The principles of initial stabilisation of the neonate Environment (continued) Special Consideration. In Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy, therapeutic hypothermia may be indicated. Please discuss with receiving neonatal team prior to transfer. Equipment (see Table at end of chapter) Check all equipment: completeness and function before leaving hospital. • Monitors- Cardiorespiratory monitor/ Pulse oximeter for transport. If unavailable or affected by vibration, a praecordial stethoscope and a finger on the pulse and perfusion will be adequate. • Syringe and/or infusion pumps with adequately charged batteries. If unavailable, intravenous fluids prepared into 20 or 50ml syringes can be administered manually during the journey via a long extension tubing connected to the intravenous cannulae. • Intubation and ventilation equipment; Endotracheal tubes of varying sizes. • Oxygen tanks – ensure adequacy for the whole journey. • Suction apparatus , catheters and tubings. • Anticipated medication and water for dilution and injection. • Intravenous fluids and tubings. Pre-draw fluids, medication into syringes if required during the journey. Fluid therapy Resuscitation Fluid • Give boluses of 10 - 20 mls/kg over up to 2 hours as per clinical status • Use Normal Saline or Hartmann’s solution. • If blood loss then use whole blood or pack red cells. This fluid is also used to correct ongoing measured (e.g. orogastric) or third space losses as required. The perfusion and heart rates are reliable indicators of the hydration. • If ongoing or anticipated losses in surgical neonates, e.g. gastroschisis, intestinal obstruction, , then use 0.45% Saline + 10% Dextrose • Watch out for hyponatraemia and hypoglycemia. Gastric decompression • An orogastric tube is required in most surgical neonates, especially in intestinal obstruction, congenital diaphragmatic hernia or abdominal wall defects. • The oral route is preferred as a larger bore tube can be used without compromising nasal passages (neonates are obligatory nasal breathers). • As an orogastric tube is easily dislodged, check the position regularly. • 4 hourly aspiration and free flow of gastric contents is recommended. NEONATOLOGY
  • 73. 60 Immediately before Departure • Check vital signs and condition of the infant. • Check and secure all tubes. • Check the equipment. • Re-communicate with receiving doctor about current status and expected time of arrival. Intra-transport Care • Transport Team. Ideally, there should be a specialised neonatal transport team. Otherwise, a neonatal-trained doctor with/without a neonatal-trained staff nurse should escort the infant. A minimum of 2 escorts will be required for a ventilated/critically ill infant. The team should be familiar with resuscitation and care of a neonate. • Safety of the team must be a priority. Insurance, life jackets and survival equipment should be available. • Monitoring. Regular monitoring of vital signs, oxygenation and perfusion of the infant should be performed. • Fluids. Intravenous fluids must be given to the ill infant to prevent dehydration and acidosis during the transport. Boluses need to be given as necessary depending on the haemodynamic assessment . If catheterised, the urine output can be monitored. The orogastric tube should be aspirated and kept on free drainage. Losses are replaced as required. • Temperature Regulation. Check temperature intermittently. Wet clothes should be changed especially in the infant with abdominal wall defects. Disposable diapers and one way nappy liners are useful. Arrival at the Receiving Hospital • Reassessment of the infant • Handover to the resident team Intrahospital Transport • Use transport incubator if available. • Ensure all parties concerned are ready before transfer. • Send team member ahead to commandeer lifts, clear corridors. • Ensure patient is stable before transport. • Skilled medical and nursing staff should accompany patient. • Ensure adequate supply of oxygen. • Prepare essential equipment and monitors for transport. • Ensure venous lines are patent, well secured. • Infusion pumps should have charged batteries. To decrease bulk of equipment, consider cessation of non-essential infusions. NEONATALOGY
  • 74. 61 Pre-Departure Checklist Equipment Transport incubator (if available) Airway and intubation equipment are all available and working (ET tubes of appropriate size, laryngoscope, Magill forceps) Batteries with spares Manual resuscitation (Ambu) bags, masks of appropriate size Suction apparatus Oxygen cylinders-full and with a spare Oxygen tubing Nasal oxygen catheters and masks, including high-flow masks Infusion pumps Intravenous cannulae of various sizes Needles of different sizes Syringes and extension tubings Suture material Adhesive tape, scissors Gloves, gauze, swabs (alcohol and dry) Stethoscope, thermometer Nasogastric tube of different sizes Pulse oximeter Cardiac monitor if indicated PortableVentilator if indicated Patient Status Airway is secured and patent (do a post-intubation chest X-ray before departure to make sure ET tube is at correct position.) Venous access is adequate and patent (at least 2 IV lines ) and fluid is flowing well. Patient is safely secured in transport incubator or trolley. Vital signs are charted. Tubes - all drains (if present) are functioning and secured . NEONATOLOGY
  • 75. 62 Pre-Departure Checklist (continued) Medications Intravenous fluids • 0.9% Normal Saline • Hartmann’s solution • 5% Albumin in Normal Saline • 0.18% Saline with 10% Dextrose • 0.45% Saline with10% Dextrose • 10% Dextrose water Inotropes • Dopamine • Dobutamine • Adrenaline Sedative/ Analgesia • Morphine • Midazolam Blood product if indicated Others • Atropine • Sodium bicarbonate • Sterile water for injection • Normal saline for injection • Antibiotics if indicated Documentation Patient notes, referral letter X-rays Consent form Vital signs chart Input, Output charts Maternal blood (for infant less than 6 months) NEONATALOGY
  • 76. 63 Introduction • The Premature infant: 37 weeks gestation • Low Birth Weight (LBW): 2500 g • Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW): 1500 g • Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW): 1000 g • Small for Gestational Age: 10th centile of birth weight for age. Early and Late Complications in premature infants Hypothermia Respiratory distress syndrome, Apnoea Hypotension, Patent ductus arteriosus Intraventricular haemorrhage, Periventricular leukomalacia Gastrointestinal: Paralytic ileus, Necrotizing enterocolitis Hypoglycaemia, Hyperglycaemia Neonatal Jaundice Hypoprothrombinaemia Fluid and Electrolyte disorders: hyponatraemia, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis Septicaemia Anaemia Osteopaenia of prematurity Retinopathy of prematurity Chronic lung disease Neuro-developmental disability Psychosocial problems Management Before and During Labour • Prewarmed incubator and appropriate equipment for neonatal intensive care should always be kept ready in the labour room or operating theatre. Adequate Resuscitation Transfer from Labour Room (LR) to NNU (Neonatal Unit) • Use prewarmed transport incubator if available. If not the baby must be wiped dry and wrapped in dry linen before transfer. For extremely low birth weight infant, from birth, the infant should be wrapped up to the neck with polyethylene plastic wrap or food plastic bag to prevent evaporative heat loss. Chapter 10: The Premature Infant
  • 77. 64 • If infant’s respiration is inadequate, keep the infant intubated with manual bag ventilation with oxygen during the transfer. • For those with mild respiratory distress, preferably initiate CPAP in labour room, and if tolerated CPAP during transport. Use a pulse oxymeter where available. Admission Routine • Ensure thermoneutral temperature for infant. An incubator or radiant warmer is necessary for more premature and ill infants. • Ventilation in NICU is often necessary if ventilated during transfer. However, some infants take longer to adapt to extrauterine life and may not require ventilation especially those with no risk factors and given a full course of antenatal steroids. For the larger preterm infants above 1250 grams, review the required ventilation to maintain a satisfactory blood gas and consider extubation if the ventilator requirements are low, patient has good tone and good spontaneous respiration. • Maintain SaO₂ between 89-92% for ELBW; 90-94% for the larger preterm • Head circumference (OFC), length measurements, bathing can be omitted. • Quickly and accurately examine and weigh the infant. • Assess the gestational age with Dubowitz or Ballard score when stable (see end of this section for score). • Monitor temp, HR, RR, BP and SaO₂. Immediate Care for Symptomatic infants • Investigations are necessary as indicated and include: • Blood gases. • Blood glucose (dextrostix) • Full blood count with differential WBC and IT ratio (if possible) • Blood culture. • CXR (if respiratory signs and symptoms are present) • Start on 10% dextrose drip. • Correct anaemia. • Correct hypotension (keep mean arterial pressure (MAP) gestational age (GA) in wks). Ensure hyperventilation is not present (a cause of hypotension). If the baby has good tone and is active, observe first as the BP may rise after first few hours of life towards a MAP approximating GA in weeks. • Correct hypovolaemia: Give 10 ml/kg of Normal Saline over 20-30 mins, or packed cells if anaemic. Avoid repeat fluid boluses unless there is volume loss. • Start inotrope infusion if hypotension persists after volume correction. • Start antibiotics after taking cultures e.g. Penicillin and Gentamycin • Start IV Aminophylline or caffeine in premature infants 32-34 weeks. • Maintain SaO₂ at 89-92% and PaO₂ at 50 –70 mmHg.
  • 78. 65 NEONATOLOGY General Measures for Premature infants • Monitor vitals signs (colour, temperature, apex beat, respiratory rate). Look for signs of respiratory distress (cyanosis, grunting, tachypnoea, nasal flaring, chest recessions, apnoea). In VLBL and ill infants pulse oximetry and blood pressure monitoring are necessary. • Check Blood Sugar (see Hypoglycaemia protocol). • Keep warm in incubator at thermoneutral temperature for age and birth weight. ELBW should preferably have humidified environment at least for the first 3 days. • Ensure adequate nutrition. • Provide parental counselling and allow free parental access. • Infection control: observe strict hand washing practices. • Immunisation: • Hep B vaccine at birth if infant stable and BW is 1.8 kg. Otherwise give before discharge. • Ensure BCG vaccine is given on discharge. • For long stayers other immunisation should generally follow the schedule according to chronological rather than corrected age. • Defer immunisation in the presence of acute illnesses. • Supplements: • At birth: IM Vitamin K (0.5 mg for BW2.5 kg; 1 mg for BW ≥ 2.5 kg) • Once on full feeding, give Infant Multivitamin drops 1 mls OD (continue till fully established weaning diet). For preterm infants, use a formulation with Vit D 400 IU, and Folic acid 1 mg OD. • Starting at about 4 weeks of life: Elemental Iron 2-3 mg/kg/day – to be continued for 3-4 months. ICU care and Criteria for Replacement Transfusion in Neonates See relevant chapter. Discharge • Cranial Ultrasound for premature infants ≤ 32 weeks is recommended at: • Within first week of life to look for intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH). • Around day 28 to look for periventricular leucomalacia (PVL). • As clinically indicated. • Screening for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) at 4-6 weeks of age is recommended for • All infants ≤ 32 weeks gestation at birth or birth weight 1500 g. • All preterms 36 weeks who received oxygen therapy depending on individual risk as assessed by the clinician. • The infants are discharged once they are well, showing good weight gain, established oral feeding and gestational age of at least 35 weeks.
  • 79. 66 Prognosis • Mortality and morbidity are inversely related to gestation and birth weight. • Complications include retinopathy of prematurity, chronic lung disease, neurodevelopmental delay, growth failure, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, epilepsy, blindness and deafness.
  • 80. 67 Chapter 11: Enteral Feeding in Neonates Introduction • The goal of nutrition is to achieve as near to normal weight gain and growth as possible. • Enteral feeding should be introduced as soon as possible. This means starting in the labour room itself for the well infant. • Breast milk is the milk of choice. All mothers should be encouraged to give breast milk to their newborn babies. • Normal caloric requirements in: Term infants: 110 kcal/kg/day Preterm infants : 120 – 140 kcal/kg/day • Babies who have had a more eventful course need up to 180kcal/kg/day to have adequate weight gain. Types of milk for Newborn feeding There are three choices: • expressed breast milk • normal infant formula • preterm infant formula Breast Milk Breast milk is preferred as studies have shown that breast fed babies had low risk for necrotising enterocolitis and had better development quotients. However, expressed breast milk (EBM) alone is not adequate for the nutritional needs of the very preterm infant as it: • Has insufficient calories and protein to for optimal early growth at 20 kcal/30mls. • Has insufficient sodium to compensate for high renal sodium losses. • Has insufficient calcium or phosphate - predisposes to osteopenia of prematurity. • Is low in vitamins and iron relative to the needs of a preterm infant. Human Milk Fortifier (HMF) • It is recommended to add HMF to EBM in babies 32 wks or 1500 grams. • HMF will give extra calories, vitamins, calcium and phosphate. • HMF should be added to EBM when the baby is feeding at 75 mls/kg/day. • VLBW infants on exclusive breastmilk may require sodium supplementation until 32-34 weeks corrected age. Infant Formula Infant formula should only be given if there is no supply of EBM. There are 2 types of infant formula: Preterm formula and Normal Term Formula. • Preterm formula : for babies born 32 weeks or 1500 grams. • Normal infant formula : for babies born ≥ 32 weeks or 1500 grams. NEONATOLOGY
  • 81. 68 Strategies of administering enteral feeding Orogastric Route • Neonates are obligate nose breathers thus nasogastric tubes can obstruct the nasal passage and compromise breathing. Thus the orogastric route is preferable. Continuous vs. intermittent bolus feeding • Bolus fed babies tolerate feeds better and gained weight faster. Babies on continuous feeding have been shown to take longer to reach full feeding but there is no difference in days to discharge, somatic growth and incidence of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Cup feeding • If the baby is able to suckle and mother is not with the baby, cup feeding is preferable to bottle feeding to prevent nipple confusion. When to start milk? • As soon as possible for the well term babies • However, in very preterm infants there may be an increased risk for NEC if feeding is advanced too rapidly, although early feeds with EBM is to be encouraged. Studies suggest that rapid increments in feeds has a higher risk for NEC than the time at which feeding was started. • Minimal enteral feeding (MEF) is recommended in very preterm infants. The principle is to commence very low volume enteral feeds on day 1 - 3 of life (i.e. 5 - 25 mls/kg/day) for both EBM and formula milk. MEF enhances gut DNA synthesis hence promotes gastrointestinal growth. This approach allows earlier establishment of full enteral feeds and shorter hospital stays, without any concomitant increase in NEC. How much to increase? • Generally the rate of increment is about 20 to 30 mls/kg/day. • Well term babies should be given breastfeeding on demand. • Milk requirements for babies on full enteral feed from birth: Day 1 60 mls/kg/day Day 2 – 3 90 mls/kg/day Day 4 – 6 120 mls/kg/day Day 7 onwards 150 mls/kg/day Add 15% if the babies is under phototherapy • In babies requiring IV fluids at birth: The rate of increment need to be individualized to that baby. Babies should be observed for feeding intolerance (vomit or large aspirate) and observe for any abdominal distention before increasing the feed. NEONATALOGY
  • 82. 69 What is the maximum volume? • Target weight gain should be around 15g/kg/day (range 10-25g/kg/day). Less weight gain than this suggests a need to increase calories especially protein calories.. More weight gain than 30g/kg/day should raise the possibility of fluid overload particularly in babies with chronic lung disease. • Preterm infants • Increase feed accordingly to 180 to 200 mls/kg/day. (This should only be achieved by Day 10 to Day 14 respectively if baby had tolerated feeds well from Day 1) • If on EBM, when volume reaches 75 mls/kg/day: add HMF. • Term infants: allow feeding on demand. When to stop HMF or Preterm Formula? • Consider changing preterm to standard formula and stop adding HMF to EBM when babies are breastfeeding on demand or have reached their expected growth curve. • Preterm with poor weight gain can be given specially formulated post discharge formula for preterm infants. Preterm formula meant for newborn preterm infants should not be given to infants 2 months post conceptual age in view of potential Vitamin A and D toxicity. Vitamin and mineral supplementation • Vitamins: a premature infant’s daily breast milk/ breast milk substitute intake will not supply the daily vitamin requirement. Multivitamins can be given after day 14 of life when on feeding of 150 ml/s kg/day. Vitamin supplements at 0.5 mls daily to be continued for 3-4 months post discharge. • Iron: Premature infants have reduced intra uterine iron accumulation and can become rapidly depleted of iron when active erythropoiesis resumes. Therefore babies of birth weight 2000g should receive iron supplements. Iron is given at a dose of 3 mg/kg elemental iron per day. • Ferric Ammonium Citrate (400mg/5mls) contains 86 mg/5 mls of elemental iron. • Start on day 42, continue until 3-4 months post discharge or until review. • Babies who have received multiple blood transfusions may not require as much iron supplementation. Special Cases • IUGR babies with reversed end-diastolic flow on antenatal Doppler: Studies have show that these babies are at risk of NEC. Thus feeds should be introduced slowly and initially use only EBM. NEONATOLOGY
  • 84. 71 Chapter 12: Total Parenteral Nutrition for Neonates NEONATOLOGY Introduction • Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is the intravenous infusion of all nutrients necessary for metabolic requirements and growth. • Earlier introduction and more aggressive advancement of TPN is safe and effective, even in the smallest and most immature infants. • Premature infants tolerate TPN from day 1 of post-natal life. The goal of TPN is to • Provide sufficient nutrients to prevent negative energy and nitrogen balance and essential fatty acid deficiency. • Support normal growth rates without increased significant morbidity. Indication for TPN • Birth weight 1000 gm • Birth weight 1000-1500 gm and anticipated to be not on significant feeds for 3 or more days. • Birth weight 1500 gm and anticipated to be not on significant feeds for 5 or more days. • Surgical conditions in neonates: necrotizing enterocolitis, gastroschisis, omphalocoele, tracheo-esophageal fistula, intestinal atresia, malrotation, short bowel syndrome, meconium ileus and diaphragmatic hernia. Components of TPN The essential components of parenteral nutrition are: • Fluids • Carbohydrate • Protein • Lipids • Electrolytes • Vitamins • Trace minerals Goal is to provide 120-130 KCal/kg/day. • 10% dextrose solution provides 0.34 KCal/ml. • 10% lipid solution gives 0.9 KCal/ml; 20% lipid solution gives 1.1 KCal/ml. • Protein/Energy ratio: 3-4 gm/100 KCal is needed to promote protein accretion. A baby given only glucose will lose 1.5 grams body protein/day. Thus it is important to start TPN within the first 24 hours of life in the smaller preterm infants 1250 grams birth weight. Fluid • Fluid is an essential component. • Usually started at 60-80 ml/kg/day (if newborn), or at whatever stable fluid intake the baby is already receiving. • Postnatal weight loss of 5 - 15 % per day in the ELBW is acceptable. Volumes are increased over the first 7 days in line with the fluids and electrolytes protocol with the aim to deliver 120-150 ml/kg/day by day 7.
  • 85. 72 NEONATALOGY Amino acids • Amino acids prevents catabolism; prompt introduction via TPN achieves an early positive nitrogen balance. • Decreases frequency and severity of neonatal hyperglycaemia by stimulating endogenous insulin secretion and stimulates growth by enhancing the secretion of insulin and insulin-like growth factors. • Protein is usually started at 2g/kg/day of crystalline amino acids and subsequently advanced, by 3rd to 4th postnatal day, to 3.0 g/kg/day of protein in term and by 5th day 3.7 to 4.0 g/kg/day in the extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants. • Reduction in dosage may be needed in critically ill, significant hypoxaemia, suspected or proven infection and high dose steroids. • Adverse effects of excess protein include a rise in urea and ammonia and high levels of potentially toxic amino acids such as phenylalanine. Glucose • There is a relatively high energy requirement in the ELBW and continuous source of glucose is required for energy metabolism. • In the ELBW minimum supply rate is 6 mg/kg/min to maintain adequate energy for cerebral function; additional 2-3 mg/kg/min (25 cal/kg) of glucose per gram of protein intake is needed to support protein deposition. Maximum rate: 12 - 13 mg/kg/min (lower if lipid also administered) but in practice often limited by hyperglycaemia. • Hyperglycaemia occurs in 20-80% of ELBW as a result of decreased insulin secretion and insulin resistance, presumably due to to glucagon, catecholamine and cortisol release. • Hyperglycaemia in the ELBW managed by decreasing glucose administration, administering intravenous amino acids and/or infusing exogenous insulin. • Glucose administration is started at 6 mg/kg/min, advancing to 12-14 mg/kg/min and adjusted to maintain euglycaemia. • If hyperglycaemia develops glucose infusion is decreased. Insulin infusion is generally not required if sufficient proteins are given and less glucose is administered during the often transient hyperglycaemia. Insulin infusion, if used for persistent hyperglycaemia with glycosuria, should be titrated to reduce risk of hypoglycaemia. Lipid • Lipids prevent essential fatty acid deficiency, provide energy substrates and improve delivery of fat soluble vitamins. • LBW infants may have immature mechanisms for fat metabolism. Some conditions inhibit lipid clearance e.g. infection, stress, malnutrition. • Start lipids at 1g/kg/day, at the same time as amino acids are started, to prevent essential fatty acid deficiency; gradually increase dose up to 3 g/kg/day (3.5g/kg/day in ELBW infants). Use smaller doses in sepsis, compromised pulmonary function, hyperbilirubinaemia. • It is infused continuously over as much of the 24 hour period as practical. • Avoid concentrations 2g/kg/day if infant has jaundice requiring phototherapy.
  • 86. 73 NEONATOLOGY • Preparation of 20% emulsion is better than 10% as 20% solutions require less fluid volume and provide a lower phospholipid-to-triglyceride ratio. 10% solution interferes with triglyceride (TG) clearance leading to higher TG and cholesterol values. Use of preparations containing lipids from fish oil and olive oil may reduce the risk of cholestasis with prolonged TPN. • Heparin at 0.5 to 1 units/mL of TPN solutions (max 137 units/day) can facilitate lipoprotein lipase activity to stabilize serum triglyceride values. • Lipid clearance monitored by plasma triglyceride (TG) levels. (Max TG concentration ranges from 150 mg/dl to 200 mg/dl). • Exogenous lipid may interfere with respiratory function. Suggested mechanisms include impaired gas exchange from pulmonary intravascular accumulation or impaired lymph drainage resulting in oedema. Lipid may also aggravate pulmonary hypertension in susceptible individuals. • The syringe and infusion line should be shielded from ambient light. Electrolytes • The usual sodium need of the newborn infant is 2-3 mEq /kg/day in term and 3-5 mEq/kg/day in preterm infants after the initial diuretic phase(first 3-5 days). Sodium supplementation should be started after initial diuresis(usually after the 48 hours), when serum sodium starts to drop or at least at 5-6% weight loss. Failure to provide sufficient sodium may be associated with poor weight gain. • Potassium needs are 2-3 mEq/kg/day in both term and preterm infants. Start when urine output improves after the first 2-3 days of life. Minerals, Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P) And Magnesium • In extrauterine conditions, intrauterine calcium accretion rates is difficult to attain. Considering long-term appropriate mineralization and the fact that calcium retention between 60 to 90 mg/kg/d suppresses the risk of fracture and clinical symptoms of osteopenia, a mineral intake between 100 to 160 mg/kg/d of highly-absorbed calcium and 60 to 75 mg/kg/d of phosphorus could be recommended. • Monitoring for osteopaenia of prematurity is important especially if prolonged PN. • A normal magnesium level is a prerequisite for a normal calcaemia. In well balanced formulations, however, magnesium level does not give rise to major problems. Trace Elements • Indicated if PN is administered for ≥ 1 week. Commercial preparations are available. Vitamins • Both fat and water soluble vitamins are essential. It should be added to the fat infusion instead of amino-acid glucose mixture to reduce loss during administration.
  • 87. 74 NEONATALOGY Administration • TPN should be delivered where possible through central lines. • Peripheral lines are only suitable for TPN ≤ 3 days duration and dextrose concentration ≤ 12.5%. • Peripheral lines are also limited by osmolality (600 mOsm/L) to prevent phlebitis. • Percutaneous central line: confirm catheter tip position on X-ray prior to use. • Ensure strict aseptic technique in preparation and administration of TPN. • Avoid breakage of the central line through which the TPN is infused, though compatible drugs may be administered if necessary. Caution • Hyperkalaemia. Potassium is rarely required in first 3 days unless serum potassium 4 mmol/l. Caution in renal impairment. • Hypocalcaemia. May result from inadvertent use of excess phosphate. Corrects with reduction of phosphate. • Never add bicarbonate, as it precipitates calcium carbonate • Never add extra calcium to the burette, as it will precipitate phosphates. Complications Delivery The line delivering the TPN may be compromised by; • Sepsis - minimized by maintaining strict sterility during and after insertion • Malposition. X-ray mandatory before infusion commences • Thrombophlebitis - with peripheral lines; requires close observation of infusion sites. • Extravasation into the soft tissue, with resulting tissue necrosis. Metabolic complications • Hyperglycaemia • Hyperlipidaemia • Cholestasis Monitoring Before starting an infant on parenteral nutrition, investigation required: • Full blood count, haematocrit • Renal profile • Random blood sugar/dextrostix • Liver function test, serum bilirubin
  • 88. 75 While on TPN, monitoring required : Laboratory • Full blood count, plasma sodium, potassium and creatinine. Daily for 1 week then 2-3 times a week until stable. • Plasma calcium, magnesium, phosphate. Twice/wk until stable then weekly. • Triglyceride levels. After dose changes then weekly. • Liver function test: If long term TPN ( 2 weeks duration). Clinical • Blood sugar / dextrostix, 4-6 hrly first 3 days, twice a day once stable. • Daily weight • Meticulous care of the catheter site and monitoring for infection. Prevention of hospital acquired infection • Aseptic precautions during preparation of PN. • Use of laminar air flow. • No compromise on disposables. • Trained staff. • No reuse of the PN solutions. • No interruption of the venous line carrying PN. • Use of bacterial filter in AA-glucose line. NEONATOLOGY
  • 90. 77 Chapter 13: NICU - General Pointers for Care and Review of Newborn Infants NEONATOLOGY Checklist for Review of an infant in Intensive Care • Age of infant If 72 hours state in exact hours of age. Beyond this, state in completed days. • Weight Note birth weight and current weight. Initial drop in weight is expected for newborn infants, term up to 10% BW in first 3-5 days, preterms up to 15% in first 1 week. Less weight loss is expected with use of humidified incubators. Abnormal weight gain/loss in the first days implies suboptimal fluid therapy. • General condition. Note: ill, unstable, handles poorly e.g. desaturates on handling, stable, active, responsive to handling, improving, or good tone. • Cardiopulmonary system • Check for: (i) Adequacy of the blood pressure – an estimate of normal BP for preterm infant is that of the gestational age at birth. However, there is no necessity to treat immediately if the baby is stable, responsive and of good tone. Review after one hour to check for improvement in the BP. (ii) Signs of poor perfusion (with poor peripheral pulses, rapid pulse, poor capillary refilling and cold peripheries) – but these signs have not been found to be very reliable for hypotension. Hypothermia can also be a cause of poor perfusion. (iii) Examine for presence of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants. • If BP is low and there has been a history of volume loss at birth or risk of sepsis, infuse a fluid bolus of 10 ml/kg of Normal Saline. This may be repeated if there is no improvement. After the 2nd dose of normal saline 5% albumin can be considered for volume expansion in severely hypotensive infants. Caution: Risk of IVH in repeat doses especially in ELBW or ill preterm infants – check first for volume loss or reduced vascular volume due to extravascular fluid losses such as in sepsis or intestinal obstruction. Albumin is required only in severe sepsis such as in NEC. • Inotropic agents like adrenaline, dobutamine or dopamine may be needed. Consider hydrocortisone in ill preterm infant at birth if no response to volume or inotropes. Check that there is no iatrogenic hyperventilation as a cause of hypotension. • Fluids and Electrolytes • Is the volume and type of fluid given to the child appropriate? • Empiric fluid therapy for newborns: 0-24 hours : 60 ml/kg/day 24-48 hours : 90 ml/kg/day 48-72 hours : 120 ml/kg/day 72 hours : 150 ml/kg/day • Slower rates of increment for preterm infants, i.e. of 20 mls/kg/day. More increments may be needed if evidence of dehydration, i.e. excessive weight loss and hypernatraemia 145 mmol/l.
  • 91. 78 NEONATALOGY • Generally, 10% Dextrose fluid is given on the 1st day; and Sodium and Potassium added on the second/third day. • Total parenteral nutrition should be started as soon as possible for the infant below 1000 -1250 grams, preferably within the first day of life. Larger preterm infants may be started on parenteral nutrition if expected to not able to be fed enterally for 5 or more days ( for eg congenital diaphragmatic hernia, omphalocele/gastrochiasis) . • Empirically: - A preterm infant need 4-5 mmol/kg/day of sodium and 2-3 mmol/kg/day of potassium, after the first few days of life. - ELBW infants are prone for hyperkalaemia and adjustments should be made based on serum electrolytes. - Term infants need 2-3 mmol/kg/day of both sodium and potassium. • Fluid and electrolyte therapy are influenced by underlying illness, complications: make neccesary adjustments based on these conditions, intake/output, weight, blood urea and electrolytes (BUSE). - Monitor BUSE; correct any imbalances after considering underlying cause. - Ensure the urine output is 1 ml/kg/hr after the first day of life.5 • Infection • Is there a possibility of infection? Is the child on antibiotics? • Fungal infection should be considered if the infant is a preterm infant who has been on several courses of broad spectrum antibiotics and on total parenteral nutrition. Consider discontinuing antibiotics if the blood culture is negative and the patient improved “too quickly” after starting antibiotics, probably responding to other measures to improve dehydration or inadequate ventilatory support. • Feeding • Enteral feeds can be given via oro or nasogastric tube. Orogastric tube is preferred in small infants as it prevents blockage of airway. • Encourage expressed breast milk to be started within the first 2 days of life. • Temperature Control • Use of cling wrap/plastic wrap with cap for preterm infants soon after delivery will help maintain normothermia. • Under the radiant warmer, covering the open area of open hoods with cling wrap and increasing water content with a humidifier will help in temperature control and fluid regulation of the ELBW infant. Transfer to a closed humidified incubator as soon as possible. Ensure thermoneutral environment. Humidity is essential to maintain temperature in the extremely preterm infants and reduce excessive weight loss in the first few weeks of life. Below is a humidification guide for preterm infants.
  • 92. 79 NEONATOLOGY 26 weeks gestation and below 27-30 weeks gestation 80% Humidity for at least 4 wks (may require higher % to cope with increased sodium) 80% Humidity for at least 2 wks The infant’s skin should have keratinised fully at the end of this period, therefore the humidity can be gradually reduced, as tolerated, to maintain a satisfactory axillary temperature Reduce the humidity gradually according to the infant’s temperature (70% - 60% - 50%) until 20-30% is reached before discontinuing. • Skin care • A vital component of care especially for the premature infants. • Avoid direct plastering onto skin and excessive punctures for blood taking and setting up of infusion lines. • Meticulous attention must be given to avoid extravasation of infusion fluid and medication which can lead to phlebitis, ulceration and septicaemia. • Group your blood taking together to minimise skin breaks/ breakage of indwelling arterial lines. • Observe limbs and buttocks prior to insertion of umbilical lines and at regular intervals afterwards to look for areas of pallor or poor perfusion due to vascular spasm. • Central nervous system • Check fontanelle tension and size, condition of sutures i.e. overriding or separated, half-hourly to hourly head circumference monitoring (when indicated e.g. infants with subaponeurotic haemorrhage). • Sensorium, tone, movement, responses to procedures e.g. oral suctioning, and presence or absence of seizure should be noted. • Ventilation • Check if ventilation is adequate. Is the child maintaining the optimum blood gases? Can we start weaning the child off the ventilator? • Overventilation is to be avoided as it may worsen the infant’s condition.
  • 93. 80 NEONATALOGY Endotracheal tube (ETT) Care Infant weight ETT size ETT position (oral)1,2,3 1000g 2.5 1000g-2000g 3.0 7 cm 2000g-3000g 3.5 8 cm 3000g 3.5-4.0 9 cm Footnotes: 1. oral ETT “tip-to-lip” distance; 2. or weight in kg + 6 3. for nasal ETT: add 2 cm respectively; For 1 kg and below - add 1.5 cm Note: The length of ETT beyond the lips should be checked as to be just sufficient for comfortable anchoring and not excessively long so as to reduce dead space. Suction of ETT • Performed only when needed, as it may be associated with desaturation and bradycardia. • During suctioning, the FiO2 may need to be increased as guided by the SaO₂ monitor during suctioning. • Remember to reduce to the level needed to keep SaO₂ 89-95%. Umbilical Arterial Catheter (UAC) and Umbilical Venous Catheter (UVC) care • Do not use iodine to prepare the skin for UAC or UVC placement . • Do not allow the solution to pool under the infant as it may burn the skin particularly in the very low birthweight infant. • Change any damp or wet linen under the infant immediately following the procedure. • Sterile procedure is required for inserting the lines. • For other than the time of insertion, wash hands or use alcohol rub before taking blood from the UAC. • Ensure aseptic procedure when handling the hub or 3 way tap of the line to withdraw blood. • UAC position • Length to be inserted measured from the abdominal wall is: 3 X BW(kg) + 9 cm. • Confirm with X-ray to ensure that the tip of the UAC is between T6 to T9 or between L3-L4. • Reposition promptly if the tip is not in the appropriate position. The high positioning of the UAC is associated with less thrombotic events than the low position. • The UAC is kept patent with a heparin infusion (1U/ml) at 1 ml/hr and can be attached to the intra-arterial blood pressure monitor.
  • 94. 81 NEONATOLOGY • UVC position • Length to be inserted measured from the abdominal wall is: ½ UAC length as calculated above +1 cm. • This usually put the tip above the diaphragm. However, this formula is not as accurate as using catheter length based on shoulder umbilical length. (Check available graph) . The shoulder umbilical length is taken as a perpendicular line dropped from the shoulder to the level of the umbilicus. • Placement of the catheter tip in the portal circulation or liver is not acceptable and catheter should be removed and a new catheter inserted under sterile technique. In an emergency situation, it can be withdrawn to the level of the umbilical vein to be used for a short period until an alternative venous access is available. • Remember to add on the length of the umbilical stump for calculating the length of both UAC and UVC. Ventilation • Initial ventilator setting (in most situations): Total Flow: 8 - 10 litres/min Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP): 20-25 mmHg (lower in ELBW infants and those ventilated for non-pulmonary cause, i. e normal lungs) Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP): 4 - 5 mmHg Inspiration Time: 0.3- 0.35 sec Ventilation rate: 40- 60 / min FiO₂: 60 to 70% or based on initial oxygen requirement on manual positive pressure ventilation. When Volume Guarantee is used: VG = 4 – 6 ml/kg • The ventilator setting is then adjusted according to the clinical picture, pulse oximetry reading and ABG which is usually done within the 1st hour. • Note: • The I:E ratio should not be inverted (i.e. 1) unless requested specifically by a specialist. • Tailor the ventilation settings to the baby’s ABG. Keep: pH 7.25 - 7.40 PaO₂ 50 - 70 mmHg for premature infants 60 - 80 mm Hg for term infants PaCO₂ 40 - 60 (NB. the trend is not to ‘chase’ the PaCO₂ by increasing ventilator settings unless there is respiratory acidosis). SaO₂ 89 - 92% for preterm infants.
  • 95. 82 NEONATALOGY • Changing of ventilator settings: • To produce an increase in PaO₂ either: - - Increase FiO2 concentration. - Increase PEEP. - Increase PIP (increases minute volume). - rarely, increase I/E ratio (prolong inspiration). • To produce a decrease in PaCO₂ either: - - Increase Rate (increases minute volume). - Decrease I/E ratio (prolong expiration). - Increase PEEP in worsening lung disease. - Decrease PEEP in recovery phase. - Increase Targeted Volume in Ventilation • Do the opposite to decrease PaO₂ or to increase PaCO₂. • Minute volume = tidal volume (volume per breath) x rate per minute. Minute volume should be about 0.1 – 0.3L/kg/min • With volume-limited settings, minute volume can be calculated (use tidal volume = 4-6 ml/kg). • With pressure-limited mode - increasing peak inspiratory pressure results in increased minute volume. Sedation and Ventilation • Avoid the use of paralysing agents as far as possible. Paralysis has been shown to result in poorer lung function, more dependent oedema and longer duration of ventilation. • Use morphine infusion as an analgesia and sedative, if required.
  • 96. 83 Consider the following if the child deteriorates on ventilation: Worsening of primary condition, e.g. RDS or congenital pneumonia Mechanical problems : • ETT Dislodged or Obstructed • ETT displaced/ too deep • Pneumothorax • Ventilator tubes disconnected • Ventilator malfunction Overventilation of the lung Pneumonia such as nosocomial pneumonia PDA or heart failure Persistent pulmonary hypertension High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation (HFOV) Indications • When conventional ventilation fails HFOV should be considered. This is to be discussed with the specialist. • Care should be taken not to overinflate the lungs as this can lead to further deterioration of child’s condition – i.e. worsening saturation, hypotension. Practical management • Switching from conventional ventilation to HFOV : - Initial setting • Leave FiO₂ level at the same level as that on conventional ventilation. • MAP - For RDS, start at 2 cmH2O above the MAP of conventional ventilation. In cases of air trapping, start MAP at same level as conventional ventilation and adjust according to CXR and blood gas. • Amplitude - 50-100% (Draeger Babylog 8000), Amplitude in Sensor Medic (start with twice MAP value); adjust until chest and upper abdomen vibrates but not whole abdomen. • Frequency - 10Hz. • Tidal volume - about 2 to 2.5ml/kg. (VThf on Draeger Babylog 8000) - Continuation of HFOV • Chest X-ray after 30-60 minutes, aim for lung expansion to 8-9th rib level • Hypoxia - increase MAP or FiO₂ if not already on FiO₂ of 1.0 • Hyperoxia - reduce FiO₂ or decrease MAP (MAP to be reduced first if CXR shows diaphragm to be below T9 or flattened or hyperinflated lung fields) • Hypercapnia - Increase amplitude - Decrease frequency - Increase MAP (if persistent or lung volume still poor) NEONATOLOGY
  • 97. 84 • Hypocapnia - Decrease amplitude. - Increase frequency. - Decrease MAP. • Overinflation - Reduce MAP. - Consider discontinuing HFOV. - Weaning • Reduce FiO2 to 0.3-0.5. • Reduce MAP by 1 to 2 mbar per hour until 8 to 9 mbar. • Reduce amplitude. • Extubate to head box/CPAP or change to conventional ventilation. Guidelines for packed red blood cells (PRBCs) transfusion thresholds for preterm neonates. 28 days age, and • Assisted ventilation with FiO2 0.3: Hb 12.0 gm/dL or PCV 40% • Assisted ventilation with FiO2 0.3: Hb 11.0 g/dL or PCV 35% • CPAP: Hb 10 gm/dL or PCV 30% 28 days age, and • Assisted ventilation: Hb 10 gm/dL or PCV 30% • CPAP: Hb 8 gm/dL or PCV 25% Any age, breathing spontaneously, and • On FiO2 0.21: Hb 8 gm/dL or PCV 25%* • On Room Air: Hb 7 gm/dL or PCV 20%* *Consider transfusion if there is poor weight gain or metabolic acidosis as an indication of tissue hypoxia. Guidelines for platelet transfusions in non-immune thrombocytopaenic neonates Platelet count 30,000/mm3 • Transfuse all neonates, even if asymptomatic Platelet count 30,000/mm3 - 50,000/mm3 Consider transfusion in • Sick or bleeding newborns • Newborns 1000 gm or 1 week of age • Previous major bleeding tendency (IVH grade 3-4) • Newborns with concurrent coagulopathy • Requiring surgery or exchange transfusion Platelet count 30,000/mm3 - 99,000/mm3 • Transfuse only if actively bleeding. NEONATALOGY
  • 98. 85 Chapter 14: Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis NEONATOLOGY Thromboembolism (TE) is being increasingly recognised as a significant complication of intravascular catheters in sick newborn infants. Many factors contribute to neonatal catheter-related thrombosis, including the small caliber of the vessel, endothelial damage, abnormal blood flow, design and site, duration of catheterisation and composition of the infusate, in addition to the increased risk of thrombus formation in sick infants. Sepsis and catheters are the most common correlates of thrombosis in the NICU. Definitions • Vascular spasm – transient, reversible arterial constriction, triggered by intravascular catheterisation or arterial blood sampling. The clinical effects of vascular spasm usually last 4 hours from onset, but the condition may be difficult to differentiate from the more serious TE. The diagnosis of vascular spasm may thus only be made retrospectively on documenting the transient nature of the ischaemic changes and complete recovery of the circulation. • Thrombosis – complete or partial occlusion of arteries or veins by blood clot(s). Assessment Clinical diagnosis • Peripheral arterial thrombosis/ vasospasm – pallor or cyanosis of the involved extremity with diminished pulses or perfusion. • Central venous line (CVL) associated venous thrombosis – CVL malfunction, superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome, chylothorax, swelling and livid discolouration of extremity. • Aortic or renal artery thrombosis – systemic hypertension, haematuria, oliguria. Diagnostic imaging • Contrast angiography is the “gold standard”, but difficult to perform in critically ill neonates and requires infusion of radiocontrast material that may be hypertonic or cause undesired increase in vascular volume. • Doppler ultrasonagraphy – portable, non-invasive, useful to monitor progress over time. False positive and false negative results may occur, as compared to contrast angiography. Additional diagnostic tests • Obtain detailed family history in all cases of unusual or extensive TE. • In the absence of predisposing risk factors for TE, consider investigations for thrombophilic disorders: anticardiolipin, antithrombin III, protein C, protein S deficiency. Management of vascular spasm • Immediate measures to be taken: - Lie the affected limb in horizontal position - If only one limb is affected, warm (using towel) opposite unaffected leg to induce reflex vasodilatation of the affected leg. - Maintain neutral thermal environment for the affected extremity, i.e. keep heat lamps away from the area.
  • 99. 86 NEONATALOGY • Inform the paediatrician immediately. • Consider removing the catheter. If mild cyanosis of the fingers or toes is noted after insertion of an arterial catheter, but peripheral pulses are still palpable, a trial of reflex vasodilatation with close observation is reasonable – check continuously to see that the cyanosis is improving within a few minutes. A white or “blanched” appearing extremity is an indication for immediate removal of the catheter. • Other risk factors contributing to thrombosis includes dehydration, sepsis, and polycythaemia. These factors may need to be corrected immediately. • Maintain good circulatory volume. If there is no immediate improvement with removal of catheter, try volume expansion 10 mls/kg of normal saline. • Topical nitroglycerine – using patch or topical 2% ointment at a dose of 4 mm/kg body weight, applied as a thin film over the affected body area; may be repeated after 8 hours. Monitor for hypotension and be prepared to treat immediately. • If the limb ischaemia persists for 1 hour without any improvement, refer urgently to the radiologist if available. An urgent doppler ultrasound scan is needed to ascertain whether the limb ischaemia is caused by vasospasm or thrombosis. Management of catheter-related thromboembolism • Management of vascular TE may involve one or more of the following: supportive care, anticoagulation, fibrinolytic therapy, surgical intervention. • Treatment for neonates is highly individualised and is determined by the extent of thrombosis and the degree to which diminished perfusion to the affected extremity or organ affects function. • Consultation with a paediatric haematologist, orthopaedic or vascular surgeon may be required. • Initial management • As for vascular spasm for peripheral arterial ischaemia • Removal of catheter as soon as blanching is seen. • Supportive care – correct volume depletion, electrolyte abnormalities, anaemia and thrombocytopaenia; treat sepsis. • Anticoagulant/ thrombolytic therapy • The risk of serious bleeding associated with antithrombotic therapy in neonates must be balanced against the possibility of organ or limb loss or death without appropriate treatment. Adequate randomised trials to guide therapy in neonates are not available. • Contraindications: - Major surgery within the preceding 10 days. - Major bleeding: intracranial, pulmonary, gastrointestinal. - Pre-existing cerebral ischaemic lesions. - Known history of heparin induced thrombocytopaenia or allergy to heparin.
  • 100. 87 NEONATOLOGY • Relative contraindications – - Platelet count 50,000 x 10⁹ /L. - Fibrinogen levels 100mg/dL. - Severe coagulation factor deficiency. - Hypertension. Note: anticoagulation/thrombolytic therapy can be given after correcting these abnormalities. • Precautions: - no arterial punctures - no subcutaneous or IM injections - no urinary catheterisations - avoid aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs - monitor serial ultrasound scans for intracranial haemorrhage • Anticoagulants • Standard or unfractionated heparin (UFH) - Anticoagulant, antithrombotic effect limited by low plasma levels of antithrombin in neonates. For dosage see Table below. - Optimal duration is unknown but therapy is usually given for 5-14 days - Monitor thrombus closely during and following treatment. - Anti- Factor X activity (if available) aimed at 0.3-0.7 U/mL. - Baseline aPTT is prolonged at birth and aPTT prolongation is not linear with heparin anticoagulant effect. Therefore Anti factor X activity more effectively monitors UFH use in newborn infants. Stage Description aPTT (s) Bolus (U/kg) Hold (min) % Rate change Repeat aPTT I Loading dose 75 IV over 10 mins II Initial maintainence dose 28/h III Adjustment 50 50 0 +10 4 hrs 50-59 0 0 +10 4 hrs 60-85 0 0 0 next day 85-95 0 0 -10 4 hrs 96-120 0 30 -10 4 hrs 120 0 60 -15 4 hrs • A loading dose of 75 U/kg over 10 min followed by a maintainence dose of 28 units/kg (infants 1 year) is recommended. • An aPTT should be checked 4h after the heparin loading dose and 4h after every change in infusion rate. Once aPTT is in therapeutic range, a complete blood count and aPTT should be checked daily or as clinically indicated. • For preterm infants, loading dose is 50U/kg. • Initial maintenance dose for newborn 28 weeks: 15U/kg/hr, newborn 28-36 weeks : 20U/kg/hr Abbreviations: aPTT, activated partial thromboplastin time.
  • 101. 88 NEONATALOGY - Complications: bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia. - Antidote: Protamine sulphate – see Table below for dosage. Heparin:Time since last dosing Protamine dose 30 min 1 mg/100 u heparin received 30-60 min 0.5 - 0.75 mg/100 u heparin received 60-120 min 0.375 - 0.5 mg/100 u heparin received 120 min 0.25 - 0.375 mg/100 u heparin received Maximum dose 50 mg Infusion rate 10 mg/ml solution; rate 5 mg/min • Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) - Advantages: Subcutaneous administration. Heparin induced thrombocytopaenia is rarely associated with LMWH. - Antidote: Omit 2 doses if an invasive procedure is required. Protamine is partially effective, dosage 1mg/100U heparin given within the last 3-4 hrs. Age Initial treatment dose Prophylactic dose 2 months 1.5 mg/kg q12h 0.75 mg/kg q12h 2 months 1 mg/kg q12h 0.5 mg/kg q12h Therapeutic dose range may vary from 0.95-3.5mg/kg/q12h. Note : - LMWH has specific anti-factor Xa activity. -Therapy is monitored using anti-Factor Xa and not APTT (aim for anti-Factor Xa levels of 0.5-1U/mL), monitoring 4 hours after dosage adjustment; weekly once therapeutic level attained. - Monitoring of anti-FXa levels may not be available in some laboratories. • Thrombolytic agents • Consider thrombolytic agents (r-tPA: recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, streptokinase) if there is major vessel occlusion causing critical compromise of organs or limbs. • Supplemental plasminogen (in the form of FFP) enhances thrombolytic effect. • Thrombi already present for several days may be resistant to thrombolysis (failure rates ≈ 50%). • Monitoring - Monitor fibrinogen levels, thrombin time, plasminogen levels before starting, 3-4 hrs after starting and 3-4 times daily thereafter. Stop if fibrinogen 100 mg/dL. - Imaging studies q4-12 hr to allow discontinuing treatment as soon as clot lysis achieved. - Complications: bleeding, embolisation.
  • 102. 89 NEONATOLOGY Thrombolytic regimen in neonates Drug IV bolus dose IV Maintenance dose Streptokinase 1000 units/kg 1000 units/kg/hr Urokinase 4,400 U/kg over 20 mins 4,400 units/kg/hr for 6-12 hrs Tissue plasminogen activator (dose for direct infu- sion into thrombus) 0.5 mg/kg over 10 mins 0.015-0.2 mg/kg/hr Recommendations for management of thrombolytic therapy Before initiating therapy: • Exclude contraindications. • Monitor full blood count, including platelets, fibrinogen. • Obtain blood type, cross match. • Ensure adequate supply of blood products, cryoprecipitate, aminocaproic acid. • Obtain cranial ultrasound. • Ensure adequate venous access for infusion and monitoring. • Have compresses and topical thrombin available in case of localised bleeding. During therapy: • Post sign on bed that patient is receiving thrombolytic therapy. • Monitor PT, PTT, fibrinogen level every 4 h during infusion and 4h and 12h after infusion. • Daily cranial ultrasound. • Maintain fibrinogen 150 mg/dlL with cryoprecipitate (1 unit/5 kg); expect 20-50% decrease. • Maintain platelet count 100,000/ml. • No IM injections. • No urinary catheterisation, rectal temperatures or arterial puncture. • Minimal manipulation of patient. • Avoid warfarin, antiplatelet agents.
  • 104. 91 Chapter 15: Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant NEONATOLOGY • Surfactant therapy for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is standard care for preterm infants, based on numerous randomised controlled trials demonstrating decreased mortality. • Surfactant therapy reduces mortality rates most effectively in infants 30 weeks and those of birthweight 1250 gm. • The guideline below is to address how to optimally use surfactant and in which subpopulation of preterm infants. • The approach should be an individualised one based on clinical appraisal as given in the guideline below. • Not all preterm infants have RDS and many of them initially have sufficient surfactant to establish relatively normal ventilation before other factors such as hypothermia, atelectasis or ventilation trauma inactivates the surfactant. • The use of antenatal steroids has also reduced the incidence of RDS. Who to give surfactant to? • Depressed preterm infants who have no spontaneous respiration after 30 seconds of ventilation with T-piece resuscitator or resuscitation bag with CPAP attachment and pressure manometers, and thus require positive pressure ventilation (PPV). • Preterm infants below 28 weeks gestation who are given only CPAP from birth in delivery room, i.e. the infant has spontaneous respiration and good tone at birth. Surfactant to be given within 30 minutes after birth. Decision as to whether to leave the patient intubated after surfactant depends on the lung compliance, severity of RDS and degree of prematurity • Preterm infants between 28-32 weeks – to have CPAP from birth in delivery room. To assess requirement for surfactant in NICU based on oxygen requirement of FiO2 30% and respiratory distress. To consider INSURE technique – INtubate, SURfactant, Extubate to CPAP • More mature or larger infants should also be given surfactant if the RDS is severe i.e. arterial alveolar (a/A) PO2 ratio of 0.22 or Fraction of inspired (FiO2) 0.5 Calculation for a/A PO2 ratio : PaO2 (mmHg) (760-47)FiO2 –PaCO2 (mmHg) • To be considered in severe meconium aspiration syndrome with type II respiratory failure – to be used prior to high frequency oscillatory ventilation and nitric oxide to allow the lungs to “open” optimally. Timing of therapy • Attempts to treat with surfactant before the infant can breathe resulted in more bronchopulmonary dysplasia than early treatment in delivery room because it interferes with initial stabilisation of the infant. Therefore surfactant delivery within the first minute of life is not indicated.
  • 105. 92 NEONATALOGY • The first dose has to be given as early as possible to the preterm infants requiring mechanical ventilation for RDS. The repeat dose is given 4-6 hours later if FiO2 is still 0.30 with optimal tidal volume settings forthose below 32 weeks and if FiO2 0.40 and CXR still shows moderate to severe RDS (“white” CXR) for those infants 32 weeks gestational age. Types of surfactant and dosage There are two types of surfactant currently available in Malaysia • Survanta , a natural surfactant, bovine derived Dose : 4 ml/kg per dose. • Curosurf , a natural surfactant, porcine derived (not in Blue Book) Dose: 1.25 mls/kg per dose. Method of administration • Insert a 5 Fr feeding tube that has been cut to a suitable length so as not to protrude beyond the tip of the ETT on insertion, through the ETT. If the surfactant is given soon after birth, it will mix with foetal lung fluid and gravity will not be a factor. Therefore no positional changes are required for surfactant given in delivery room. • Surfactant is delivered as a bolus as fast as it can be easily be pushed through the catheter. Usually this takes 2 aliquots over a total of a few minutes. Continue PPV in between doses and wait for recovery before the next aliquot, with adjustments to settings if there is bradycardia or desaturation. Administration over 15 minutes has been shown to have poor surfactant distribution in the lung fields. • Alternatively the surfactant can be delivered through the side port on ETT adaptor without disconnecting the infant from the ventilator. There will be more reflux of surfactant with this method. Monitoring • Infants should be monitored closely with a pulse oximeter and regular blood gas measurements. An indwelling intra-arterial line wiould be useful. Ventilator settings must be promptly wound down to reduce the risk of pneumothorax and ventilator induced lung injury. Consider extubation to CPAP if the oxygen requirement is less than 30% and there are minimal pressure requirements.
  • 106. 93 Chapter 16: The Newborn and Acid Base Balance NEONATOLOGY The rate of metabolism in infants is twice as great in relation to body mass as in adults, which means twice as much acid is formed which leads to a tendency toward acidosis. Functional development of kidneys is not complete till the end of the first month and hence renal regulation of acid base may not be optimal. Causes of Acidosis Metabolic acidosis Respiratory acidosis Renal failure Asphyxia (injury to respiratory centre) Septicaemia Hypoxia Obstruction to respiratory tract e.g. secretions, blocked endotracheal tube Hypothermia Hypotension Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) Cardiac failure Pneumonia Dehydration Pulmonary oedema Hyperkalaemia Apnoea Hyperglycaemia Anaemia Intraventricular haemorrhage Drugs (e.g. acetazolamide) Metabolic disorders Causes of Alkalosis Metabolic alkalosis Respiratory alkalosis Sodium bicarbonate Asphyxia (overstimulation of respiratory centre) Pyloric stenosis Hypokalaemia Over-ventilation while on mechanical ventilation Drugs (e.g.thiazides and frusemide) Effects of acidosis and alkalosis in the body • Acidosis - Depression of central nervous system (CNS) - Disorientation and coma. - Increased depth and rate of respiration in metabolic acidosis and depressed respiration in respiratory acidosis. - High PaCO₂ in respiratory acidosis increases cerebral blood flow and risk of intraventricular haemorrhage.
  • 107. 94 NEONATALOGY • Alkalosis - Over-excitability of the central nervous system. - Decreased cerebral blood flow - causing cerebral ischaemia, convulsions Measurement of Acid Base Status • Done by analyzing following parameters in an arterial blood gas sample: Normal values: pH 7.34-7.45 PaCO2 5.3-6.0 kpa (40-45 mmHg) HCO3 - 20-25 mmol/L PaO2 8-10 kpa (60-75 mmHg) BE ± 5 mmol/L Interpretation of Blood Gases • pH 7.34 : acidosis - If PaCO₂ and HCO₃ are low and base deficit is high: metabolic acidosis. - If PaCO₂ and HCO₃ are high and base excess is high: respiratory acidosis. - If both PaCO₂ and base deficit are high: mixed metabolic and repiratory acidosis. • pH 7.45: alkalosis - If PaCO₂ is low: respiratory alkalosis - If HCO₃ and base excess are high: metabolic alkalosis Acidosis and alkalosis may be partially or fully compensated by the opposite mechanism. • Low PaCO₂: hypocarbia; high PaCO₂: hypercarbia Permissive hypercapnia (PCO2 45-55 mmHg) is an important ventilation technique to reduce the risk of volume trauma and chronic lung disease. • Low PaO₂: hypoxaemia; high PaO₂: hyperoxaemia Management of Metabolic Acidosis and Alkalosis • Treat underlying cause when possible. • Do not treat acute metabolic acidosis by hyperventilation or by giving bicarbonate. This may correct pH but has deleterious effects on cardiac output and pulmonary blood flow. The use of sodium bicarbonate in acute resuscitative conditions is not advocated by the current body of evidence. • Volume expansion (i.e., bolus 10 mL/kg of 0.9% Normal Saline) should not be used to treat acidosis unless there are signs of hypovolemia. A volume load is poorly tolerated in severe acidosis because of decreased myocardial contractility. • NaHCO₃ should be used only in the bicarbonate-losing metabolic acidoses such as diarrhea or renal tubular acidosis. • Dose of NaHCO₃ for treatment of metabolic acidosis can be calculated by: Dose in mmol of NaHCO3 = Base deficit (mEq) x Body weight (kg) x 0.3 • Do not give NaHCO₃ unless infant is receiving assisted ventilation that is adequate. With inadequate ventilation, NaHCO₃ will worsen acidosis from liberation of CO₂.
  • 108. 95 NEONATOLOGY • For chronic mild metabolic acidosis in small premature infants on hyperalimentation, maximize acetate and minimize chloride in the solution. • Metabolic alkalosis: usually iatrogenic in premature infants - diuretic use, gastrointestinal losses, and occurs in combination with contracted intravascular and ECF volumes. Treatment of respiratory acidosis and alkalosis • A steadily rising PaCO₂ at any stage in the disease is an indication that ventilatory assistance is likely to be needed. • A sudden rise may be an indication of acute changes in the infant’s condition e.g. pneumothorax, collapsed lobes, misplaced endotracheal tube. . (DOPE mnemonic: Displacement, Obstruction, Pneumothorax and Equipment Failure) • A swift rise in PaCO₂ often accompanied by hypoxia following weaning is often an indication that the infant is not ready for weaning. • A gradual rise in PaCO₂ at the end of the first week in a LBW infant on ventilator may be an indicator of the presence of a patent ductus arteriosus. • Low PaCO₂ in a infant on a ventilator means overventilation, hence treatment is to wean down the ventilation settings. Interpretation of Blood Gases Examples of Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Interpretation 1. A 29 weeks’ gestation and 1.1 kg BW infant has RDS. He is 20 hours old and is being nursed on nasal CPAP. His ABG shows: Question (Q): What does the ABG show? Answer (A): Mild respiratory acidosis due to worsening Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Q: What is the next appropriate mode of therapy? A: Mechanical ventilation 2. Below is the ABG of a 10 hour old 28 weeks’ gestation infant : Q: What does the ABG show? A: Mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis Q: Name a likely diagnosis A: Respiratory distress syndrome pH 7.21 PaCO₂ 6.6 kPa PaO₂ 7.5 kPa HCO₃ 20 mmol/L BE -4 mmol/L pH 7.22 PaCO₂ 7.0 kPa PaO₂ 10.0 kPa HCO₃ 17 mmol/L BE -8 mmol/L
  • 109. 96 NEONATALOGY 3. The following is the ABG of a 40 day old 26 weeks’ gestation baby: Q: What does the ABG show? A: Compensated respiratory acidosis Q: What is a likely diagnosis? A: Chronic lung disease. 4. An infant of 30 weeks’ gestation and BW 1.3 kg is on a ventilator. ABG shows: Q: Interpret the ABG A: Compensated metabolic acidosis by respiratory alkalosis and hyperoxaemia Q: What is your next course of action? A: Reduce FiO₂, treat any contributory cause of acidosis and wean down ventilation settings. 5. A term infant is being ventilated for meconium aspiration. His ABG is as follows : Q: What is likely to have happened? A: Pneumothorax Q: What is your interpretation of the ABG A: Mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis with hypoxaemia. 6. A 6 day old infant is being ventilated for a cyanotic heart disease. ABG shows : Q: What does the ABG show? A: Metabolic acidosis with severe hypoxaemia. Q: What is your next course of action ? A: Consider prostaglandin infusion, confirm heart defect by Echocardiography, consider reducing ventilation. Pearls Conversion of kPa to mmHg is a factor of 7.5. pH 7.35 PaCO₂ 3.0 kPa PaO₂ 15.0 kPa HCO₃ 12 mmol/L BE -12 mmol/L pH 7.16 PaCO₂ 10.0 kPa PaO₂ 6.0 kPa HCO₃ 16 mmol/L BE -10 mmol/L pH 7.38 PaCO₂ 8.0 kPa PaO₂ 8.0 kPa HCO₃ 35 mmol/L BE +10mmol/L pH 7.2 PaCO₂ 4.5 kPa PaO₂ 3.0 kPa HCO₃ 8 mmol/L BE -15mmol/L
  • 110. 97 Chapter 17: Neonatal Encephalopathy NEONATOLOGY • Neonatal Encephalopathy (NE) is a clinical syndrome of disturbed neurological function, caused by failure to make a successful transition to extrauterine gas exchange • Manifests in a difficulty in initiating and maintaining spontaneous respiration, depression of muscle tone and reflexes, depressed consciousness and often seizures. • Occurs in 3.5 - 6/1000 live births; usually affects full term infants. • The terminology NE is preferred to Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) as it is not always possible to document a significant hypoxic-ischemic insult and there are other aetiologies such as CNS malformation, infection, multiple gestation, IUGR, maternal autoimmune disorders, metabolic disorders, drug exposure, and neonatal stroke as possible causes of the encephalopathy. • Risk factors for neonatal encephalopathy were mainly seen in the antenatal period (69%) as compared to the intrapartum period (25%) in a large Western Australian study. Only 4% were due to intrapartum hypoxia. HIE in newborn requires the presence of all 3 of the following criteria: 1. Presence of a clinically recognized encephalopathy within 72 hrs of birth. AND 2. Three or more supporting findings from the following list: • Arterial cord pH 7.00 • Apgar score at 5 minutes of 3 or less • Evidence of multiorgan system dysfunction within 72 hours of birth • Evidence of foetal distress on antepartum monitoring: persistent late decelerations, reversal of end-diastolic flow on Doppler flow studies of the umbilical artery or a biophysical profile of 2 or less • Evidence of CT, MRI, technetium or ultrasound brain scan performed within 7 days of birth of diffuse or multifocal ischaemia or of cerebral oedema. • Abnormal EEG: low amplitude and frequency, periodic, paroxysmal or isoelectric. AND 3. The absence of an infectious cause, a congenital malformation of the brain, an inborn error of metabolism or other condition, which could explain the encephalopathy. • In HIE, the brain injury is caused by a deficit in oxygen supply. • This can occur by • Hypoxemia - a decrease in oxygen saturation in the blood supply, or • Ischaemia - a decrease in the amount of blood perfusing the brain or both processes.
  • 111. 98 NEONATALOGY Staging of Neonatal Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) This done using the Sarnat and Sarnat Staging system (facing page). This is mainly used in term infants or infants 35 weeks gestation. It is not useful in premature infants. Management • Adequate and effective resuscitation. • Commence cooling therapy within 6 hours of life for moderate to severe HIE in those more than or equal to 35 weeks gestation. • Vital sign monitoring. Monitoring of blood gases, urine output, blood sugar and electrolytes. • Management is supportive. • Avoid hyperthermia that may be associated with adverse outcome • Maintain normoglycaemia, both hypo- and hyperglycemia can be harmful. • Review infection risk and cover with antibiotics if necessary • Maintain adequate hydration (do not dehydrate or over hydrate). • Cerebral protection measures • Maintain normal Blood Pressure. If necessary, consider use of inotrope infusion rather volume expander unless there is hypovolaemia. • Treat seizures (see chapter on Neonatal Seizures) • Mechanical ventilation to maintain normocarbia. • Treat other systemic complications that arise: • Renal. Acute tubular necrosis. If oliguria with urine output 1ml/kg/hr, check for prerenal cause and treat accordingly. If in established renal failure, restrict fluid and maintain normal electrolyte levels. • Cardiac. Hypoxic damage to myocardium with cardiogenic shock and failure. Use of inotropes and careful fluid balance. • Lungs. Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension (PPHN). See relevant chapter on PPHN • Gastrointestinal. Stress ulcers, feed intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis. Enteral feeding is preferable to parenteral but avoid rapid increase in volume of feeds to decrease risk of necrotizing enterocolitis. • Haematology. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation. Correct coagulopathy as indicated. • Others. SIADH, hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia, and hypomagnesaemia Restrict fluids in SIADH. Correct hypoglycaemia and electrolyte imbalances.
  • 112. 99 NEONATOLOGY Staging of Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) Only for term infants or 35 weeks gestation. Not for use in premature infants. Variable Stage I Stage II Stage III Level of consciousness Alert Lethargy Coma Muscle tone Normal or hypertonia Hypotonia Flaccidity Tendon reflexes Increased Increased Depressed or absent Myoclonus Present Present Absent Seizures Absent Frequent Frequent, then subsides Complex reflexes Suck Moro Grasp Doll’s eyes Poor Exaggerated Normal or exaggerated Normal Weak Incomplete Exaggerated Overactive Absent Absent Absent Reduced or absent Autonomic function Pupils Respirations Heart rate Salivation Dilated, reactive Regular Normal or tachycardia Sparse Constrictive, reactive Variation in rate, depth; Periodic Bradycardia Profuse Variable or fixed Ataxic, apneic Bradycardia Variable Electroencephalogram Normal Early Low voltage- continuous, Later Periodic, paroxysmal Early Periodic, Burst suppression Later Isoelectric Outcome No impairment 25% Impaired 92% Impaired
  • 113. 100 NEONATALOGY Investigations Investigation Indication Cranial Ultrasound To exclude haemorrhage and other intracerebral abnormalities. Doppler studies (done after 24 hours of life) suggest that a resistive index of less than 0.5-0.6 is consistent with the diagnosis of HIE. Brain CT scan To exclude haemorrhage, cerebral oedema and other intracerebral abnormalities. May assist with prognosis. Extensive areas of low attenuation with apparent brightness of basal ganglia are associated with very poor prognosis (done after 1st week of life). Brain MRI MRI may provide prognostic information. Thalamic, basal ganglia abnormalities are associated with a risk of abnormal neuro-developmental outcome. Superior to CT scans. Amplitude intergrated Electroencephalogram (aEEG) Overall risks for death or disability were 95% for a severely abnormal aEEG, 64% for a moderately abnormal aEEG and 3 % for a normal or mildly abnormal aEEG. Follow up • All infants with NE should be followed up to look for development and neurological problems. • Manage epilepsy (see Ch 44: Epilepsy), developmental delay, cerebral palsy, learning difficulty as appropriate. • To evaluate hearing and vision on follow-up and manage appropriately.
  • 114. 101 Chapter 18: Neonatal Seizures NEONATOLOGY Seizures are the most frequent manifestation of neonatal neurological diseases. It is important to recognize seizures, determine aetiology and treat them as: 1. The seizures may be related to diseases that require specific treatment. 2. The seizures may interfere with supportive measures e.g. feeding and assisted respiration for associated disorders. 3. The seizures per se may lead to brain injury. Etiology Determination of etiology is critical because it gives the opportunity to treat specifically and also to make a meaningful prognosis. Etiology Onset1 Frequency2 0-3 days 3 days Preterm Term Hypoxic - ischemic encephalopathy + +++ +++ Intracranial hemorrhage + + ++ + Intracranial infections + + ++ ++ Brain malformations + + + ++ Hypoglycaemia + + + Hypocalcaemia + + + + Metabolic disturbances,inborn errors + + Epileptic Syndromes + + + Footnote: 1, Postnatal age; 2, Relative frequency of seizures among all etiologies: +++ most common, ++ less common, + least common. From JJVolpe: Neurology of the Newborn 4th edition. Page 190 Notes: • Hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy • Usually secondary to perinatal asphyxia. • Most common cause of neonatal seizures (preterm and term) • Seizures occur in the first day of life (DOL) • Presents with subtle seizures; multifocal clonic or focal clonic seizures • If focal clonic seizures may indicate associated focal cerebral infarction • Intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) • Principally germinal matrix-intraventricular (GM-IVH), often with periventricular haemorrhagic (PVH) infarction in the premature infant • Severe GM-IVH: onset of seizures in first 3 DOL (usually generalized tonic type with subtle seizures). • With associated PVH usually develop seizures after 3 DOL. • In term infants ICH are principally subarachnoid (may occur with HIE) and subdural (often associated with a traumatic event, usually presenting with focal seizures in the first 2 DOL).
  • 115. 102 NEONATALOGY ClassificationofNeonatalSeizures ClinicalSeizureEEGseizureManifestation SubtleCommon•Ocularphenomena •Tonichorizontaldeviationofeyescommoninterminfants. •Sustainedeyeopeningwithfixationcommoninpreterminfants. •Blinking. •Oral-buccal-lingualmovements •Chewingcommoninpreterminfants. •Lipsmacking,cry-grimace. •Limbmovements •Pedaling,stepping,rotaryarmmovements •Apnoeicspellscommoninterminfants Clonic Focal Multifocal Common Common Welllocalizedclonicjerking,infantusuallynotunconscious Multifocalclonicmovements;simultaneous,insequenceornon-ordered(non-Jacksonian)migration Tonic Focal Generalized Common Uncommon Sustainedposturingofalimb,asymmetricalposturingoftrunkorneck •Tonicextensionofupperandlowerlimbs(mimicdecerebrateposturing) •Tonicflexionofupperlimbsandextensionoflowerlimbs(mimicdecorticateposturing) •ThosewithEEGcorrelates;autonomicphenomena,e.g.increasedBPareprominentfeatures. Myoclonic Focal,Multifocal Generalized Uncommon Common Welllocalized,singleormultiple,migratingjerksusuallyoflimbs Single/severalbilateralsynchronousjerksorflexionmovementmoreinupperthanlowerlimbs.
  • 116. 103 NEONATOLOGY • Intracranial Infection • Common organisms are group B streptococci, E. coli., toxoplasmosis, herpes simplex, coxsackie B, rubella and cytomegalovirus. • Malformations of cortical development • Neuronal migration disorder resulting in cerebral cortical dysgenesis • Metabolic disorder • Hypoglycemia. It may be difficult to establish hypoglycemia as the cause of seizures because of associated hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, hypocalcaemia or hemorrhage. • Hypocalcaemia has 2 major peaks of incidences: - First 2 - 3 days of life, in low birth weight infants, infant of a diabetic mother or history of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. A therapeutic response to IV calcium will help in determe if low serum calcium is the cause of the seizures. Early hypocalcaemia is more commonly an associated factor rather than the cause of seizures. - Later-onset hypocalcaemia is associated with endocrinopathy (maternal hypoparathyroidism, neonatal hypoparathyroidism) and heart disease (+/- Di George Syndrome); rarely with nutritional disorders (cow’s milk, high phosphorus synthetic milk). Hypomagnesemia is a frequent accompaniment. • Other metabolic disorders, e.g. intoxication with lidocaine, hypo- and hyper-natraemia, hyperammonemia amino acidopathy, organic acidopathy, non-ketotic hyperglycinemia, mitochondrial diosrders, pyridoxine dependency (recalcitrant seizures cease with IV pyridoxine) and glucose transporter defect (GLUT1 deficiency: low CSF glucose but normal blood glucose - treated with a ketogenic diet). Seizures versus Jitteriness and Other Non-epileptic Movements Jitteriness and other normal movement during sleep (Myoclonic jerks as infant wakes from sleep) or when awake/ drowsy (roving sometimes dysconjugate eye movements, sucking not accompanied by ocular fixation or deviation) in newborns may be mistaken for seizures. Clinical Manifestation Jitteriness Seizure Abnormality of gaze or eye movement 0 + Movements exquisitely stimulus sensitive + 0 Predominant movement Tremors1 Clonic, jerking2 Movements stop with passive flexion of affected limb + 0 Autonomic changes (tachycardia, high BP, apnoea, salivation, cutaneous vasomotor phenomena) 0 + Footnote:1,Tremors – alternating movements are rhythmical and of equal rate and amplitude;2,Clonic,jerking – movements with a fast and slow component Adapted from JJVolpe:Neurology in the Newborn 4th Edition.Page 188
  • 117. 104 NEONATALOGY Management • Ensure adequate respiratory effort and perfusion. • Correct metabolic and electrolyte disorders. • No consensus on the treatment of minimal or absent clinical manifestations. • Anticonvulsant treatment prevents potential adverse effects on ventilatory function, circulation and cerebral metabolism (threat of brain injury). • Little evidence for use of any anticonvulsant drugs currently prescribed in the neonatal period. Also lack of consensus on optimal treatment protocol. • Controversy regarding identification of adequacy of treatment, elimination of clinical seizures or electrophysiology seizures. Generally majority attempt to eliminate all or nearly all clinical seizures. • Anticonvulsant drugs may not treat electroencephalographic seizures even if they are effective in reducing or eliminating the clinical manifestations (electro-clinical dissociation). • Uncertainty exists over when to commence anticonvulsant drugs. Consider anticonvulsant drugs to treat seizures when seizures: • Are prolonged – greater than 2-3 minutes. • Are frequent– greater than 2-3 per hour. • Disrupt of ventilation and/or blood pressure homeostasis. • Administer anti convulsant drugs: • Intravenously to achieve rapid onset of action and predictable blood levels. • To achieve serum levels in the high therapeutic range. • To maximum dosage before introducing a second drug. • Requirement for maintenance and duration of therapy is not well defined. Keep duration of anti convulsant drug treatment as short as possible. However, this depends on diagnosis and likelihood of seizure recurrence. • Maintenance therapy may not be required if loading doses of anticonvulsant drugs control clinical seizures. • Babies with prolonged or difficult to treat seizures and those with abnormality on EEG may benefit from continuing anticonvulsant treatment. Duration of Anticonvulsant Therapy- Guidelines Duration of therapy depends on the probability of recurrence of seizures if the drugs are discontinued and the risk of subsequent epilepsy. This can be determined by considering the neonatal neurological examination, cause of the seizure and the EEG. Neonatal Period • If neonatal neurological examination becomes normal, discontinue therapy • If neonatal neurological examination is persistently abnormal, • Consider etiology and obtain electroencephalogram (EEG). • In most cases – continue phenobarbitone, discontinue phenytoin. • And re-evaluate in one month.
  • 118. 105 One Month after Discharge • If neurological examination has become normal, discontinue phenobarbitone over 2 weeks. • If neurological examination is persistently abnormal, obtain EEG. • If no seizure activity or not overtly paroxysmal on EEG, discontinue phenobarbitone over 2 weeks. • If seizure activity is overtly paroxysmal continue phenobarbitone until 3 months of age and reassess in the same manner. Prognosis Prognosis according to aetiology of neonatal seizures Neurological disorder Normal Development (%)1 Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy 50 Severe Intraventricular Haemorrhage with periventricular hemorrhagic infarction 10 Hypocalcaemia Early onset (depends on prognosis of complicating illness, if no neurological illness present prognosis approaches that of later onset ) Later onset (nutritional type) 50 100 Hypoglycemia 50 Bacterial meningitis 50 Malformation of Cortical Development 0 Footnote:1, Prognosis based cases with the stated neurological disease when seizures are a manifestation.This will differ from overall prognosis of the disease. From JJVolpe: Neurology in the Newborn:4th edition. Page 202 NEONATOLOGY
  • 119. 106 Investigations to consider: • Blood sugar, Ca, Mg, electrolytes • Septic screen: FBC, Blood CS, LP, TORCHES • Metabolic screen:ABG,ammonia, amino acids, organic acids • Neuroimaging: US, CT, MRI Brain • Electroencephalography (EEG) Assess ABCs. Ensure adequate ventilation, perfusion Infant with Clinical Seizures No hypoglycemia IV 10% Dextrose at 2 ml/kg (200mg/kg) Then IV Glucose infusion at 8 mg/kg/min infusion Capillary Blood Sugar STAT IV Phenobarbitone 20mg/kg slow infusion over 30 mins If seizures continue, Give another 5-10mg/kg until either seizures stop or a total dose of 40mg/kg Hypoglycemia ! Seizures still ! IV Phenytoin 10mg/kg slow infusion (max rate 0.5mg/kg/min) Repeat a 2nd loading dose if fits recur. Monitor Cardiac rate and rhythm during infusion Seizures still ! IV Diazepam 0.3mg/kg/h infusion,OR IV Midazolam 0.15mg/kg over minimum of 5 minutes or as an infusion 1-4mcg/kg/min Seizures still ! Consider: IV Calcium Gluconate,10% solution: 0.5 ml/kg IV Magnesium sulfate, 50% solution: 0.2 ml/kg IV Pyridoxine 50-100mg Maintenance therapy: IV or PO 3-5mg/kg/d q12h, Given 12-24 h after loading AE : Respiratory depression, hypotension Maintenance therapy: 4-8mg/kg/d q12h, IV Given 12-24 h after loading AE: Heart block, hypotension Note: oral absorption erratic Alert: AE: Respiratory depression, hypotension (if injected rapidly or concomitant narcotic treatment), myoclonus in preterm, urinary retention Management of Neonatal Seizures NEONATALOGY
  • 120. 107 Chapter 19: Neonatal Hypoglycemia NEONATOLOGY Introduction The authors of several literature reviews have concluded that there is not a specific plasma glucose concentration or duration of hypoglycemia that can predict permanent neurologic injury in high-risk infants. • Neonatal glucose concentrations decrease after birth, to as low as 30 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/dL) during the first 1 to 2 hours after birth, and then increase to higher and relatively more stable concentrations, generally above 45 mg/dL (2.5 mmol/L) by 12 hours after birth. • From birth to 4 hours, glucose level of above 25 mg/dL (1.5 mmol/L) is acceptable if the infant is asymptomatic. • Hypoglycaemia is defined as 2.6 mmol/L after first 4 hours of life. • There is no specific plasma glucose concentration or duration of hypoglycemia that predicts permanent neurologic injury in high-risk infants. High Risk Infants • Infants of Diabetic Mothers. • Small for Gestational Age infants. • Preterm infants including late preterm infants. • Macrosomic infants / Large for gestational age infants 4.0kg. • Ill infants including those with: • Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. • Rhesus disease. • Polycythaemia. • Sepsis. • Hypothermia. Clinical Features Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include: • Jitteriness and irritability. • Apnoea and cyanosis. • Hypotonia and poor feeding. • Convulsions. Note: Hypoglycaemia may be asymptomatic therefore monitoring is important for high risk cases. Management Prevention and Early Detection – at birth. • Identify at risk infants. • Well infants who are at risk: • Immediate feeding – first feed can be given in Labour Room. • Supplement feeding until breastfeeding established. • Unwell infants: • Set up dextrose 10% drip. • Regular glucometer monitoring: • On admission and at 1, 2 and 4 hours after admission. • 3 -6 hourly just prior to feeding once stable for 24-48 hours.
  • 121. 108 NEONATALOGY Hypoglycaemia • Repeat the capillary blood sugar sampling and send RBS stat. • Examine and document any symptoms. • Note when the last feeding was given. • If on IV drip, check that IV infusion of glucose is adequate and running well. • Blood Sugar Level 1.5mmol/l or if the baby is symptomatic: • GIve IV bolus Dextrose 10% at 2-3 ml/kg. • Followed by dextrose 10% drip at 60-90ml/kg/day (for day 1 of life) to maintain normal blood glucose. • If baby is already on dextrose 10% drip, consider increasing the rate or the glucose concentration (usually require 6-8 mg/kg/min of glucose delivery). • If blood sugar level (BSL) 1.5 – 2.5 mmol/l and asymptomatic: • Give supplementary feed (EBM or formula) as soon as possible. • If BSL remains 2.6 mmol/l and baby refuses feeds, give dextrose 10% drip. • If baby is on dextrose 10% drip, consider stepwise increment of glucose infusion rate by 2 mg/kg/min until blood sugar is 2.6 mmol/L. • Glucose monitoring (capillary blood sugar - dextrostix, glucometer): • If blood sugar is 2.6 mmol/l, re-check glucometer 1 /2 hourly. • If blood sugar 2.6 mmol/l for 2 readings: Monitor hourly x 2, Then 2 hourly X 2, Then to 4-6 hourly if blood sugar remains normal. • Start feeding when capillary blood sugar remains stable and increase as tolerated. Reduce the IV infusion rate one hour after feeding increment. Persistent Hypoglycaemia If hypoglycaemia persists despite intravenous dextrose, consult MO/ specialist and for district hospitals, consider early referral. • Re-evaluate the infant • Confirm hypoglycaemia with RBS but treat as such while awaiting RBS result. • Increase volume by 30ml/kg/day and/or increase dextrose concentration to 12.5% or 15% . Concentrations 12.5% must be infused through a central line. • If hypoglycaemia still persists despite glucose delivery 8-10 mg/kg/min, consider glucagon 40 mcg/kg stat then 10-50mcg/kg/h. Glucagon is only useful where there is sufficient liver stores, thus should not be used for SGA babies or in adrenal insufficiency. • In others especially SGA, give IV Hydrocortisone 2.5 -5 mg/kg /dose bd. There may be hyperinsulinaemia in growth retarded babies as well. Prescription to make up a 50mL solution of various dextrose infusions : Infusion concentration Volume of 10% Dextrose Volume of 50% Dextrose 12.5 % 46.5 ml 3.5 ml 15 % 44.0 ml 6.0 ml Glucose requirement (mg/kg/min) = % of dextrose x rate (ml/hr) weight (kg) x 6
  • 122. 109 NEONATOLOGY Recurrent or resistant hypoglycaemia • Consider this if failure to maintain normal blood sugar levels despite a glucose infusion of 15 mg/kg/min, or • When stabilization is not achieved by 7 days of life. High levels of glucose infusion may be needed in the infants to achieve euglycemia. Differential diagnoses include: • Hyperinsulinaemic states (e.g.Beckwith-Wiedemann syndr, Nesidioblastosis) • Adrenal insufficiency. • Galactosaemia. • Metabolic (e.g. fatty acid oxidation disorders) and mitochondrial disorders. Investigations • Insulin , cortisol, growth hormone levels • Serum ketones • Urine for organic acids Take blood investigations before an increase in rate of glucose infusion when hypoglycaemia persists despite glucose infusion. Further investigation is directed by the results of these tests and the differential diagnosis above. Medical treatment • As per protocol for Management of Persistent Hypoglycaemia. • PO Diazoxide 10-25mg/kg/day in three divided doses - Reduces insulin secretion, therefore useful in hyperinsulinaemia. - Not to be used in SGA infants. • SC Octreotide (synthetic somatostatin) 2-10 μg/kg/day bd/tds or as infusion. Pearls and Pitfalls in Management • Depending on severity of hypoglycaemia, maintain some oral feeds as milk has more calories than 10% dextrose. Breastfeeding should be encouraged as it is more ketogenic. • Feed baby with as much milk as tolerated and infuse glucose at a sufficient rate to prevent hypoglycaemia. The glucose infusion is then reduced slowly while milk feeds is maintained or increased. • Avoid giving multiple boluses as they can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose concentration which may be harmful to neurological function and may be followed by rebound hypoglycaemia. • Any bolus given must be followed by a continuous infusion of glucose, initially providing 4-8 mg/kg/ min. There is no place for treatment with intermittent glucose boluses alone. • Ensure volume of IV fluid is appropriate for patient, taking into consideration concomitant problems like cardiac failure, cerebral oedema and renal failure. If unable to increase volume further, increase dextrose concentration. • RBS should be taken to correlate with low capillary blood sugar level as some glucose monitors are not as accurate for neonatal blood which has a higher haematocrit. Management can be instituted first whilst waiting for RBS results to be available.
  • 123. 110 If glucose delivery 8 -10mg/kg/min and Persistent Hypoglycaemia: • IV Glucagon 40 mcg/kg stat then 10-50mcg/kg/h. Not to be used in SGA or adrenal insufficiency. • IV Hydrocortisone 2.5 - 5 mg/kg/dose bd in others, esp. SGA. • PO Diazoxide 10 – 25 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses Useful in hyperinsulinaemia, not to be used in SGA. • SC Octreotide 2 – 10 mcg/kg/day 2 - 3 times/day or as infusion. BG 1.5 mmol/L or symptomatic Hypoglycaemia Blood Glucose (BG) 2.6 mmol/L IV 10% Dextrose 2-3 ml/kg bolus IV Dextrose10% drip at 60 to 90 ml/kg/day Repeat BG in 30 minutes Management of Persistent Hypoglycaemia NEONATALOGY BG 1.5 – 2.6mmol/L and asymptomatic (0-4 hours of life) Give supplement feeding ASAP If refuses to feed, IV Dextrose10% drip 60ml/kg/day if still Hypoglycaemia: Re-evaluate* Increase Concentration to D12.5%-D15%# if still Hypoglycaemia: Re-evaluate* Increase Volume by 30ml/kg/day Repeat BG in 30 minutes Repeat BG in 30 minutes Consider further workup in Recurrent or Persistent Hypoglycaemia if: • Failure to maintain normal BG despite Glucose infusion rate of 15mg/kg/min, or •When stabilization is not achieved in 7 days of life. * If BG 1.5mmol/L or symptomatic : Give IV D10% 2-3ml/kg bolus, then proceed with flowchart. # Give via a Central Line Note: Once Blood Glucose level 2.6mmol/L for 2 readings, monitor hourly x 2,then 2 hourly x 2,then 4 – 6 hourly.
  • 124. 111 Chapter 20: Neonatal Jaundice NEONATOLOGY Introduction Jaundice can be detected clinically when the level of bilirubin in the serum rises above 85 μmol/l (5mg/dl). Causes of neonatal jaundice • Haemolysis due to ABO or Rh-isoimmunisation, G6PD deficiency, microspherocytosis, drugs. • Physiological jaundice. • Cephalhaematoma, subaponeurotic haemorrhage. • Polycythaemia. • Sepsis septicaemia, meningitis, urinary tract infection, intra-uterine infection. • Breastfeeding and breastmilk jaundice. • Gastrointestinal tract obstruction: increase in enterohepatic circulation. Approach to an infant with jaundice History • Age of onset. • Previous infants with NNJ, kernicterus, neonatal death, G6PD deficiency. • Mother’s blood group (from antenatal history). • Gestation: the incidence of hyperbilirubinaemia increases with prematurity. • Presence of abnormal symptoms such as apnoea, difficulty in feeding, feed intolerance and temperature instability. Physical examination • General condition, gestation and weight, signs of sepsis, hydration status. • Signs of kernicterus: lethargy, hypotonia, seizure, opisthotonus, high pitch cry. • Pallor, plethora, cephalhaematoma, subaponeurotic haemorrhage. • Signs of intrauterine infection e.g. petechiae, hepatosplenomegaly. • Cephalo-caudal progression of severity of jaundice. Management Indications for referral to hospital: • Jaundice within 24 hours of life. • Jaundice below umbilicus (corresponds to serum bilirubin 200-250 μmol/L). • Jaundice extending to soles of feet: Urgent referral, may need exchange transfusion ! • Family history of significant haemolytic disease or kernicterus. • Any unwell infant with jaundice. • Prolonged Jaundice of 14 days. - Refer infants with conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia urgently to a hospital. - Infants with unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia can be investigated and referred only if the jaundice does not resolve or a definitive cause found. (ref Ch 22: Prolonged Jaundice in the Newborn). Risk factors for Bilirubin Encephalopathy Preterm infants Small for gestational age Sepsis Acidosis Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy Hypoalbuminaemia Jaundice 24 hours of age
  • 125. 112 NEONATALOGY Investigations • Total serum bilirubin • G6PD status • Others as indicated: • Infant’s blood group, maternal blood group, Direct Coombs’ test (indicated in Day 1 jaundice and severe jaundice). • Full blood count, reticulocyte count, peripheral blood film • Blood culture, urine microscopy and culture (if infection is suspected) Clinical Assessment of Neonatal Jaundice Zone Jaundice (detected by blanching the skin with finger pressure) Estimated Serum Bilirubin (µmol/L) 1 Head and neck 68 -135 2 Over upper trunk above umbilicus 85 - 204 3 Lower trunk and thighs 136 - 272 4 Over arms,legs and below knee 187 - 306 5 Hands,feet 306 Note: This may be difficult in dark skinned infants DO NOT rely onVisualAssessment of Skin alone to Estimate the Bilirubin Level Treatment Avoid sunlight exposure due to risk of dehydration and sunburn. Phototherapy • Phototherapy lights should have a minimum irradiance of 15 µW/cm2 /nm. Measure intensity of phototherapy light periodically using irradiance meters. “Intensive phototherapy” implies irradiance in the blue-green spectrum of at least 30 μW/cm2 /nm measured at the infant’s skin directly below the center of the phototherapy unit. • Position light source 35-50 cm from top surface of the infant (when conventional fluorescent photolights are used). • Expose infant adequately; Cover infant’s eyes. • Monitor serum bilirubin levels as indicated. • Monitor infant’s temperature 4 hourly to avoid chilling or overheating. • Ensure adequate hydration and good urine output. Monitor for weight loss. Adjust fluid intake (preferably oral feeds) accordingly. Routine fluid supplementation is not required with good temperature homeostasis. • Allow parental-infant interaction. • Discontinue phototherapy when serum bilirubin is below phototherapy level. • Turn off photolights and remove eyepads during feeding and blood taking. • Once the baby is on phototherapy, visual observation as a means of monitoring is unreliable. Serum bilirubin levels must guide the management.
  • 126. 113 NEONATOLOGY • In infants without haemolytic disease, the average increase of bilirubin level in rebound jaundice after phototherapy is 1 mg/dl (17 µmol/L). Hospital discharge need not be delayed to observe for rebound jaundice, and in most cases, no further measurement of bilirubin is necessary. Intensive phototherapy (KIV Exchange transfusion) indications: Total bilirubin 300 umol/L Early onset jaundice (First 24 hours) Rapidly rising jaundice (more than 8.5µmol/L/hr) If the total serum bilirubin does not decrease or continues to rise in an infant receiving intensive phototherapy, this strongly suggests hemolysis. Guidelines for Phototherapy and Exchange Transfusion (ET) in hospitalized infants of ≥ 35 weeks’ gestation (derived from fig 1, next page) Hours ofLife Total Serum Bilirubin levels mg/dL (μmol/L) Low risk ≥ 38 wk and well Medium risk ≥38wk+riskfactorsor 35to38wkandwell High risk 35 to 38 wk + risk factors Intensive phototherapy ET Intensive phototherapy ET Intensive phototherapy ET 24 * 24 12(200) 19(325) 10(170) 17(290) 8(135) 15(255) 48 15(255) 22(375) 13(220) 19(325) 11(185) 17(290) 72 18(305) 24(410) 15(255) 21(360) 13(220) 18.5(315) 96 20(340) 25(425) 17(290) 22.5(380) 14(240) 19(325) 96 21(360) 25(425) 18(305) 22.5(380) 15(255) 19(325) Note: • Start conventional phototherapy at TSB 3 mg/dL (50 μmol/L) below the levels for intensive phototherapy. • Risk factors – isoimmune hemolytic disease; G6PD deficiency, hypoxic- ischemic encephalopathy, significant lethargy, temperature instability, sepsis, acidosis or albumin 3.0 g/dL * Infants jaundiced at 24 hours of life are not considered healthy and require further evaluation.
  • 127. 114 NEONATALOGY Notes: 1. The dashed lines for the first 24 hours indicate uncertainty due to a wide range of clinical circumstances and a range of responses to phototherapy. 2. Do an Immediate exchange transfusion if infant shows signs of acute bilirubin encephalopathy (hypertonia, retrocollis, ophisthotonus, fever, high pitched cry) or if total serum bilirubin is ≥ 5 mg/dL (85 μmol/L) above these lines 3. For infants 35 weeks gestational age- refer NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) Guidelines 2010 for recommended levels of phototherapy and ET. Figures 1 2 adapted from American Academy of Paediatrics. Pediatrics, 2004. 114:297-316 infants at lower risk ( ≥ 38 week and well) infants at medium risk ( ≥ 38 week + risk factors or 35-37 completed weeks) infants at higher risk ( 35-37 completed weeks) 24 hrbirth 72 hr48 hr 96 hr 5 days 6 days 7 days 513 μmol/L 342 μmol/L 257 μmol/L 428 μmol/L 171 μmol/L Age Fig 2: Guidelines for Exchange Transfusion in infants ≥ 35 wks gestation Fig 1: Guidelines for Intensive Phototherapy in infants ≥ 35 wks gestation
  • 128. 115 NEONATOLOGY Additional Notes • Failure of phototherapy has been defined as an inability to observe a decline in bilirubin of 1-2 mg/dl (17-34 µmol/L) after 4-6 hours and/or to keep the bilirubin below the exchange transfusion level. • Do an immediate exchange transfusion if infant shows signs of acute bilirubin encephalopathy (hypertonia, retrocollis, opisthotonus, fever, high pitch cry) or if TSB is ≥5 mg/dL (85 umol/L) above exchange levels stated above. • Use total bilirubin level. Do not subtract direct or conjugated bilirubin. • During birth hospitalisation, ET is recommended if the TSB rises to these levels despite intensive phototherapy. • Infants who are of lower gestation will require phototherapy and ET at lower levels, (please check with your specialist). Intravenous Immunoglobulins (IVIG) • High dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) (0.5 - 1 gm/kg over 2 hours) reduces the need for exchange transfusions in Rh and ABO hemolytic disease. • Give as early as possible in hemolytic disease with positive Coombs test or where the serum total bilirubin is increasing despite intensive phototherapy. • Dose can be repeated in 12 hours if necessary. If exchange transfusion is already indicated, IVIG should be given after ET. Measures to prevent severe neonatal jaundice • Inadequate breast milk flow in the first week may aggravate jaundice. Supportive measures should be there to promote successful breastfeeding. Supplementary feeds may be given to ensure adequate hydration, especially if there is more than 10% weight loss from birth weight. • Interruption of breastfeeding in healthy term newborns is discouraged and frequent breast-feeding (at least 8-10 times/24 hours) should be continued. Supplementing with water or dextrose water does not lower bilirubin level. • G6PD status should be known before discharge. Observe infants with G6PD deficiency, for 5 days if not jaundiced and longer with moderate jaundice. • Infants of mothers with blood group “O” and with a sibling who had severe neonatal jaundice should be observed for at least the first 24 hours of life. • If phototherapy in infants with hemolytic diseases is initiated early and discontinued before the infant is 3 - 4 days old, monitor for rebound jaundice and adequacy of breast feeding within the next 24-48 hours. Follow-up • All infants discharged 48 hours after birth should be seen by a healthcare professional in an ambulatory setting, or at home within 2-3 days of discharge. • For infants with risk factors for severe neonatal jaundice, early follow up to be arranged to detect rebound jaundice after discharge. • Infants with serum bilirubin 20 mg/dl (340 µmol/L) and those who require exchange transfusion should be followed for neurodevelopmental outcome. Do a Hearing assessment (using BAER, not OAE) at 0-3 months of corrected age. • Infants with hemolytic diseases not requiring ET should be closely followed up for anaemia until the risk of ongoing hemolysis is minimal.
  • 129. 116 Agents to be avoided in Infants with G6PD Deficiency Foods and Herbs to be avoided Fava Beans (Kacang Parang) Chinese herbs/medicine: Chuen Lin, San Chi, 13 herbs, 12 herbs Avoid Other traditional herbs/medications unless with medical advice Other Chemicals to be avoided Naphthalene (moth balls) Mosquito coils and insect repellants which contains pyrethium Drugs to be avoided or contraindicated Acetanilide Doxorubicin Furazolidene Methylene Blue Nalidixic acid Niridazole Nitrofurantoin Phenozopyridine Promaquine Sulfamethoxazole Bactrim Drugs that can be safely given in therapeutic doses Paracetamol Ascorbic Acid Aspirin Chloramphenicol Chloroquine Colchicine Diphendramine Isoniazid Phenacetin Phenylbutazone Phenytoin Probenecid Procainamide Pyrimethamine Quinidine Streptomycin Sulfisoxazole Trimethoprim Tripelennamine Vitamin K Mefloquine NEONATALOGY
  • 130. 117 Chapter 21: Exchange Transfusion NEONATOLOGY Introduction • Exchange transfusion (ET) is indicated for severe hyperbilirubinaemia. • Kernicterus has a 10% mortality and 70% long term morbidity. • Neonates with significant neonatal jaundice should be monitored closely and treated with intensive phototherapy. • Mortality within 6 hours of ET ranged from zero death to 3 - 4 per 1000 exchanged term infants. Causes of death includes kernicterus itself, necrotising enterocolitis, infection and procedure related events. Indications • Double volume exchange • Blood exchange transfusion to lower serum bilirubin level and reduce the risk of brain damage associated with kernicterus. • Hyperammonimia • To remove bacterial toxins in septicaemia. • To correct life-threatening electrolyte and fluid disorders in acute renal failure. • Partial exchange transfusion • To correct polycythaemia with hyperviscosity. • To correct severe anaemia without hypovolaemia. Preparation of infant • Signed Informed Consent from parent. • Ensure resuscitation equipment is ready and available. • Stabilise and maintain temperature, pulse and respiration. • Obtain peripheral venous access for maintenance IV fluids. • Proper gentle restraint. • Continue feeding the child; Omit only the LAST feed before ET. If 4 hours from last feed, empty gastric contents by NG aspiration before ET. Type of Blood to be used • Rh isoimmunisation: ABO compatible, Rh negative blood. • Other conditions: Cross-match with baby and mother’s blood. • In Emergencies if Blood type unkown (rarely): ‘O’ Rh negative blood. Procedure (Exchange Transfusion) • Volume to be exchanged is 2x the infant’s total blood volume (2x80mls/kg). • Use (preferably irradiated) Fresh Whole Blood preferably 5 days old or reconstituted Packed Red Blood Cells and FFP in a ratio of 3:1. • Connect baby to a cardiac monitor. • Take baseline observations (either via monitor or manually) and record down on the Neonatal Exchange Blood Transfusion Sheet. The following observations are recorded every 15 minutes: apex beat, respiration, oxygen saturation. • Doctor performs the ET under aseptic technique using a gown and mask.
  • 131. 118 NEONATALOGY • Cannulate the umbilical vein to a depth of NOT 5-7cm in a term infant for catheter tip to be proximal to the portal sinus (for push-pull technique ET through UVC). Refer to section on procedure for umbilical vein cannulation. • Aliquot for removal and replacement – 5-6 mls/ kg (Not more than 5-8% of blood volume) Maximum volume per cycle - 20 mls for term infants, not to exceed 5 ml/kg for ill or preterm infants. • At the same time the nurse keeps a record of the amount of blood given or withdrawn, and medications given (see below). Isovolumetric or continuous technique • Indication: where UVC cannulation is not possible e.g. umbilical sepsis, failed cannulation. • Blood is replaced as a continuous infusion into a large peripheral vein while simlutaneously removing small amount blood from an arterial catheter at regular intervals, matching the rate of the infusion closely - e.g. in a 1.5 kg baby, total volume to be exchanged is 240 mls. Delivering 120mls an hour allowing 10 ml of blood to be removed every 5 mins for 2 hours. • Care and observation for good perfusion of the limb distal to the arterial catheter should be performed as per arterial line care Points to note • Pre-warm blood to body temperature using a water bath. Avoid other methods, e.g. placing under radiant warmer, massaging between hands or placing under running hot water, to minimise preprocedure hemolysis of donor blood. Shake blood bag gently every 5-10 cycles to prevent settling of red blood cells. • Rate of exchange: 3 -4 minutes per cycle (1 minute ‘out’, 1 minute ‘in’, 1-2 minute ‘pause’ excluding time to discard blood and draw from blood bag). • Syringe should be held vertical during infusion ‘in’ to prevent air embolism. • Total exchange duration should be 90-120 minutes utilising 30-35 cycles. • Begin the Exchange with an initial removal of blood, so that there is always a deficit to avoid cardiac overload. • Routine administration of calcium gluconate is not recommended. • Remove the UVC after procedure unless a second ET is anticipated and there was difficulty inserting the UVC. • Continue intensive phototherapy after the procedure. • Repeat ET may be required in 6 hours for infants with high rebound SB. • Feed after 4 hours if patient is well and a repeat ET not required. • If child is anemic (pre-exchange Hb 12 g/dL) give an extra aliquot volume of blood (10 mls/kg) at the end of exchange at a rate of 5 mls/kg/hr after the ET. • If the infant is on any IV medication , to readminister the medication after ET.
  • 132. 119 NEONATOLOGY Investigations • Pre-exchange (1st volume of blood removed) • Serum Bilirubin. • FBC. • Blood CS (via peripheral venous blood; UVC to reduce contamination). • HIV, Hepatitis B (baseline). • Others as indicated. • Post-exchange (Discard initial blood remaining in UVC before sampling) • Serum Bilirubin. • FBC. • Capillary blood sugar. • Serum electrolytes and Calcium. • Others as indicated. Post ET Management • Maintain intensive phototherapy. • Monitor vital signs: Hourly for 4 - 6 hours, and 4 hourly subsequently. • Monitor capillary blood sugar: Hourly for 2 hours following ET. • Check serum Bilirubin: 4 - 6 hours after ET. Follow-up • Long term follow-up to monitor hearing and neurodevelopmental assessment. Partial Exchange Transfusion • To correct hyperviscosity due to polycythaemia. Assuming whole blood volume is approximately 80 ml/kg Volume exchanged (mL) = Blood volume x (Initial PCV – Desired PCV) Initial PCV • To correct severe anemia without hypovolaemia Packed Cell vol (ml) required = 80 ml x Bwt(kg) x [Desired Hb – Initial Hb] 22g/dL – Hbw Where Hbw is reflection of the Hb removed during partial exchange transfusion: Hbw = [Hb desired + Hb initial]/2 Complications of ET Catheter related • Infection • Haemorrhage • Necrotising enterocolitis • Air embolism • Vascular events • Portal, Splenic vein thrombosis (late) Haemodynamic problems • Overload cardiac failure • Hypovolaemic shock • Arrhythmia (catheter tip near sinus node in right atrium) Electrolyte/Metabolic disorders Hyperkalemia Hypocalcemia Hypoglycaemia or Hyperglycaemia
  • 134. 121 Chapter 22: Prolonged Jaundice in Newborn Infants NEONATOLOGY Definition • Visible jaundice (or serum bilirubin SB 85 µmol/L) that persists beyond 14 days of life in a term infant or 21 days in a preterm infant. Causes of Prolonged Jaundice Unconjugated Hyperbilirubinaemia Conjugated Hyperbilirubinaemia Septicaemia Biliary tree abnormalities: Urinary tract infection • Biliary atresia - extra, intra-hepatic Breast milk jaundice • Choledochal cyst Hypothyroidism • Paucity of bile ducts Hemolysis: • Alagille syndrome, non-syndromic • G6PD deficiency Idiopathic neonatal hepatitis syndrome • Congenital spherocytosis Septicaemia Galactosaemia Urinary tract infection Gilbert syndrome Congenital infection (TORCHES) Metabolic disorders • Citrin deficiency • Galactosaemia • Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) • Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency Total Parenteral Nutrition The early diagnosis and treatment of biliary atresia and hypothyroidism is impor- tant for favourable long-term outcome of the patient. Unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia • Admit if infant is unwell. Otherwise follow-up until jaundice resolves. • Important investigations: Thyroid function, urine FEME and CS, urine for reducing sugar, FBC, reticulocyte count, peripheral blood film, G6PD screening. • Exclude urinary tract infection and hypothyroidism. • Congenital hypothyroidism is a Neonatal Emergency. (Check Screening TSH result if done at birth). See Ch 54 Congenital Hypothyroidism. • Where indicated, investigate for galactosaemia • Breast milk Jaundice is a diagnosis of exclusion. Infant must be well, gaining weight appropriately, breast-feeds well and stool is yellow. Management is to continue breast-feeding.
  • 135. 122 NEONATALOGY Conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia • Defined as conjugated bilirubin 25 µmol/dL. • Investigate for biliary atresia and neonatal hepatitis syndrome. • Other tests : LFT, coagulation profile, lipid profile, Hepatitis B and C virus status, TORCHES, VDRL tests, alpha-1 antitrypsin level. • Admit and observe stool colour, for 3 consecutive days. If pale, biliary atresia is a high possibility: consider an urgent referral to Paediatric Surgery. • Other helpful investigations are: • Serum gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) – Good discriminating test between non obstructive and obstructive causes of neonatal hepatitis. A significantly elevated GGT (few hundreds) with a pale stool strongly favours biliary obstruction whereas, a low/normal GGT with significant cholestasis suggests non obstructive causes of neonatal hepatitis. • Ultrasound of liver – Must be done after at least 4 hours of fasting. Dilated intrahepatic bile ducts (poor sensitivity for biliary atresia) and an absent, small or contracted gall bladder even without dilated intrahepatic ducts is highly suspicious of extra hepatic biliary atresia in combination with elevated GGT and pale stool. A normal gall bladder usually excludes biliary atresia BUT if in the presence of elevated GGT and pale stool, biliary atresia is still a possibility. An experience sonographer would be able to pick up Choledochal Cyst, another important cause of cholestasis. Biliary atresia • Biliary atresia can be treated successfully by the Kasai Procedure. This procedure must be performed within the first 2 months of life. • With early diagnosis and biliary drainage through a Kasai procedure by 4-6 weeks of age, successful long-term biliary drainage is achieved in 80% of children. In later surgery good bile flow is achieved only in 20-30%. • Liver transplantation is indicated if there is failure to achieve or maintain bile drainage. Further investigations Aim to exclude other (especially treatable) causes of a Neonatal Hepatitis Syndrome early which include: Metabolic causes (see also Ch 88 Inborn Errors of Metabolism) • Classical Galactosaemia • Dried blood spots for total blood galactose and galactose-1-uridyl transferase level (GALT). Usually sent in combination with acylcarnitine profile in a single filter paper to IMR biochemistry. • Urine reducing sugar may be positive in infants who are on lactose containing formula or breastfeeding. • A recent blood transfusion will affect GALT assay accuracy (false negative) but not so much on the total blood galactose and urine reducing sugar. • Treatable with lactose free formula.
  • 136. 123 NEONATOLOGY • Citrin deficiency • An important treatable cause of neonatal hepatitis among Asians. • Investigations MAY yield elevated total blood galactose but normal galactose-1-uridyl transferase (GALT) (i.e. secondary Galactosemia). • Elevated plasma citrulline (in plasma amino acids acylcarnitine profile). • Treatable with lactose free formula with medium chain triglyceride (MCT) supplementation. • Note: Use lithium heparin container to send plasma amino acids. • Tyrosinaemia type I • Treatable with NTBC (2-(2-nitro-4-trifluoromethylbenzoyl)-1,3-cyclohexanedione). • Urine organic acids specifically looking for presence of succinylacetone is highly specific. Take particular attention of sending urine organic acids frozen and protected from light (i.e. covered plain urine container) to maintain the accuracy of the test. • Neonatal Haemochromatosis • This needs to be excluded in infants presenting with liver failure within first weeks of life. • Significantly elevated serum ferritin (few thousands) is characteristic. • Diagnosis is confirmed by presence of iron deposits in extra hepatic tissue, e.g. lip tissue (iron deposits in minor salivary glands). Lip biopsy can be safely performed even in severely coagulopathic infants where liver biopsy is contraindicated. • Treatment with combination of immunoglobulins, desferral and anti- oxidant cocktails is potentially life saving (avoid liver transplant which at present not an option for neonatal onset liver failure). • Antenatal intravenous immunoglobulin prevents recurrence in subsequent children. • Primary bile acid synthesis disorder • Suspect if cholestasis, low GGT and low cholesterol. • Serum bile acids is a good screening tool (ensure patient is not on ursodeoxycholic acid 1 week prior to sampling). • Definite diagnosis requires urine bile acids analysis (available at specialized laboratory in UK). • Treatment with cholic acid (not ursodeoxycholic acid) confers excellent outcome on all subtypes. • Peroxisomal biogenesis disorders • Cholestasis may be part of the manifestation. • Plasma very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA) is elevated. • Mitochondrial depletion syndrome • Suspect in presence of other neurological signs e.g. rotatory nystagmus, hypotonia and elevated blood lactate. Metabolic/genetic consult for further diagnostic evaluation.
  • 137. 124 NEONATALOGY Infective causes • Septicaemia • Urinary tract infection • Herpes simplex virus infection • Consider in infants with liver failure within first few weeks of life. • IV Acyclovir therapy while waiting for Herpes IgM results in affected infants may be justified. • Hepatitis B virus infection • Can potentially present as early infantile liver failure but incidence is rare. • Presence of positive Hepatitis B surface antigen, positive Hepatitis B virus envelope antigen and high viral load confirms the diagnosis. Alagille syndrome • Consider in infants who have cardiac murmurs or dysmorphism. • One of the parents is usually affected (AD inheritance, variable penetrance) • Affected infants might not have typical dysmorphic features at birth due to evolving nature of the syndrome. • Important screening tests include : • Slit eye lamp examination: look for posterior embryotoxon. May also help to rule out other aetiologies in neonatal hepatitis syndrome, e.g. retinitis in congenital infection, cataract in galactosaemia. • Vertebral x ray: To look for butterfly vertebrae. • Echocardiography: look for branched pulmonary artery stenosis. Other known abnormalities - ASD, valvular pulmonary stenosis. • Gene test: JAG1 gene mutation which can be done at IMR (EDTA container) (Consult Geneticist Prior to Testing) Idiopathic Neonatal Hepatitis Syndrome • Follow up with LFT fortnightly. • Watch out for liver failure and bleeding tendency (vitamin K deficiency). • Repeat Hepatitis B and C virus screening at 6 weeks. • Most infants with idiopathic neonatal hepatitis in the absence of physical signs of chronic liver disease usually make a complete recovery.
  • 138. 125 Chapter 23: Apnoea in the Newborn NEONATOLOGY Definition • Apnea of prematurity is defined as sudden cessation of breathing that lasts for at least 20 seconds or is accompanied by bradycardia or oxygen desaturation (cyanosis) in an infant younger than 37 weeks’ gestational age. • It usually ceases by 43 weeks’ postmenstrual age but may persist for several weeks beyond term, especially in infants born before 28 weeks’ gestation with this risk decreasing with time. Classification Types: • Central: absence of respiratory effort with no gas flow and no evidence of obstruction. • Obstructive: continued ineffective respiratory effort with no gas flow • Mixed central and obstructive: most common type Aetiology Symptomatic of underlying problems, commoner ones of which are: • Respiratory conditions (RDS, pulmonary haemorrhage, pneumothorax, upper airway obstruction, respiratory depression due to drugs). • Sepsis • Hypoxaemia • Hypothermia • CNS abnormality (e.g. IVH, asphyxia, increased ICP, seizures) • Metabolic disturbances (hypoglycaemia, hyponatraemia, hypocalcaemia) • Cardiac failure, congenital heart disease, anaemia • Aspiration/ Gastro-oesophageal reflux • Necrotising ennterocolitis, Abdominal distension • Vagal reflex: Nasogastric tube insertion, suctioning, feeding Differentiate from Periodic breathing • Regular sequence of respiratory pauses of 10-20 sec interspersed with periods of hyperventilation (4-15 sec) and occurring at least 3x/ minute, not associated with cyanosis or bradycardia. • Benign respiratory pattern for which no treatment is required. • Respiratory pauses appear self-limited, and ventilation continues cyclically. • Periodic breathing typically does not occur in neonates in the first 2 days of life
  • 139. 126 NEONATALOGY Management • Immediate resuscitation. • Review possible causes (as above) and institute specific therapy, e.g. septic workup if sepsis suspected and commence antibiotics Remember to check blood glucose via glucometer. • Management to prevent recurrence. • Nurse baby in thermoneutral environment. • Nursing prone can improve thoraco-abdominal wall synchrony and reduce apnoea. • Variable flow NCPAP or synchronised NIPPV can reduce work of breathing and reduce risk of apnoea. • Monitoring: - Pulse Oximeter - Cardio-respiratory monitor • Drug therapy - Methylxanthine compounds: - Caffeine citrate (preferred if available) - IV Aminophylline or Theophylline. • Start methylxanthines prophylactically for babies 32 weeks gestation. For those 32 weeks of gestation, give methylxanthines if babies have apnoea. To stop methylxanthines if : • gestation 34 weeks • Apnoea free for 1 week when the patient is no longer on NCPAP • Monitor for at least 1 week once the methylxanthines are stopped. After discharge , parents should be given advice for prevention of SIDS: • Supine sleep position. • Safe sleeping environments. • Elimination of prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco smoke. Ventilate with bag and mask on previous FiO2. Be careful not to use supplementary oxygen if infant has been in air as child’s lungs are likely normal and a high PaO2 may result in ROP Gentle nasopharyngeal suction (Be careful: may prolong apnoea) Surface stimulation (Flick soles, touch baby) Intubate,IPPV if child cyanosed or apnoea is recurrent/persistent Try CPAP in the milder cases
  • 140. 127 Chapter 24: Neonatal Sepsis NEONATOLOGY Definition Neonatal sepsis generally falls into two main categories: • Early onset: usually acquired from mother with ≥ 1 obstetric complications. • Late onset: sepsis occurring 72hours after birth. Usually acquired from the ward environment or from the community. Clinical Features Risk Factors of Infants and Mother • Any stage • Prematurity, low birth weight. • Male gender. • Neutropenia due to other causes. • Early Onset Sepsis • Maternal GBS (Group B Streptococcus) carrier (high vaginal swab [HVS], urine culture, previous pregnancy of baby with GBS sepsis). • Prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM) (18 hours). • Preterm labour/PPROM. • Maternal pyrexia 38˚ C, maternal peripartum infection, clinical chorioamnionitis, discoloured or foul-smelling liquor, maternal urinary tract infection. • Septic or traumatic delivery, fetal hypoxia. • Infant with galactosaemia (increased susceptibility to E. coli). • Late Onset Sepsis • Hospital acquired (nosocomial) sepsis. - Overcrowded nursery. - Poor hand hygiene. - Central lines, peripheral venous catheters, umbilical catheters. - Mechanical ventilation. - Association with indomethacin for closure of PDA, IV lipid administration with coagulase-negative Staphylococcal (CoNS) bacteriemia. • Colonization of patients by certain organisms. • Infection from family members or contacts. • Cultural practices, housing and socioeconomic status. Signs and symptoms of Sepsis • Temperature instability: hypo or hyperthermia • Change in behaviour : lethargy, irritability or change in tone (‘baby just doesn’t seem right or doesn’t look well) • Skin: poor perfusion, mottling, pallor, jaundice, scleraema, petechiae • Feeding problems: poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal distension • Cardiovascular: tachycardia, hypotension, • Respiratory: apnoea, tachypnoea,cyanosis, respiratory distress, • Metabolic: hypo or hyperglycaemia, metabolic acidosis • Evaluate neonate (late onset sepsis) carefully for primary or secondary foci, e.g. meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, peritonitis, omphalitis or soft tissue infection.
  • 141. 128 NEONATALOGY Investigations • FBC: Hb, TWBC with differential, platelets, Blood culture (1ml of blood). • Where available : • Serial CRP 24 hours apart • Ratio of immature forms over total of neutrophils + immature forms: IT ratio 0.2 is an early predictor of infection during first 2 weeks of life. • Where indicated: • Lumbar puncture, CXR, AXR, Urine Culture. • Culture of ETT aspirate (Cultures of the trachea do not predict the causative organism in the blood of the neonate with clinical sepsis.) Management • Empirical antibiotics • Start immediately when diagnosis is suspected and after all appropriate specimens taken. Do not wait for culture results. • Trace culture results after 48 - 72 hours. Adjust antibiotics according to results. Stop antibiotics if cultures are sterile, infection is clinically unlikely. • Empirical antibiotic treatment (Early Onset) • IV C.Penicillin/Ampicillin and Gentamicin • Specific choice when specific organisms suspected/confirmed. • Change antibiotics according to culture and sensitivity results • Empirical antibiotic treatment – (Late Onset) • For community acquired infection, start on - Cloxacillin/Ampicillin and Gentamicin for non-CNS infection, and - C.Penicillin and Cefotaxime for CNS infection • For hospital acquired (nosocomial) sepsis - Choice depends on prevalent organisms in the nursery and its sensitivity. - For nursery where MRCoNS/ MRSA are common, consider Vancomycin; for non-ESBL gram negative rods, consider cephalosporin; for ESBLs consider carbapenams; for Pseudomonas consider Ceftazidime. - Anaerobic infections (e.g. Intraabdominal sepsis), consider Metronidazole. - Consider fungal sepsis if patient not responding to antibiotics especially if preterm/ VLBW or with indwelling long lines. • Duration of Antibiotics • 7-10 days for pneumonia or proven neonatal sepsis • 14 days for GBS meningitis • At least 21 days for Gram-negative meningitis • Consider removing central lines • Complications and Supportive Therapy • Respiratory: ensure adequate oxygenation (give oxygen, ventilator support) • Cardiovascular: support BP and perfusion to prevent shock. • Hematological: monitor for DIVC • CNS: seizure control and monitor for SIADH • Metabolic: look for hypo/hyperglycaemia, electrolyte, acid-base disorder • Therapy with IV immune globulin had no effect on the outcomes of suspected or proven neonatal sepsis.
  • 142. 129 NOT DETECTED Chapter 25: Congenital Syphilis NEONATOLOGY Mothercompletedtreatment: •Withadequatepenicillinregime •30dayspriordeliveryandno possibilityofreinfection,and •Withdocumented4-folddropin VDRL/RPRtitre MaternalVDRL/RPRReactive MaternalTPHA Presenceofanyoneriskbelow: •Noorinadequatetreatment •Treatmentwithnon-penicillin regime •Treatmentnotcompleted30days beforedelivery •Treatedbutnodocumented4 folddecreaseinVDRL/RPRtitre •Highlikelihoodofreinfection •Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination •VDRL/RPR1 titrenegative,or •4-foldmaternaltitre •Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination •VDRL/RPR≥4-foldmaternaltitre •DoFBCandCSFanalysis2 forVDRL, cellcountandprotein •Babyhasevidenceofcongenitalsyphilis3 •DoFBCandCSFanalysisforVDRL,cell countandprotein •Othertests,asclinicallyindicated (long-bonex-ray,CXR,LFT,cranialultra- sound,ophthalmologicexaminationand auditorybrainstemresponse) Babyhasnormalphysicalexamination regardlessofnontreponemaltestresult *ConsiderLPafterdiscussionwithspecialist. •DoVDRL/RPRtitremonthly: treatifincreasingtrend. •Ifriskofdefaultingfollow-up: Optiontogivesingledoseof IMBenzathinePenicillinG50,000units/kg •IVCPenicillinG50,000u/kg/doseBD forfirst7daysthenTDS -for10daysifCSFnormal -14daysifCSFabnormal,OR •IMProcainePenicillinG50,000u/kg/dose dailyfor10–14days •Notification •ReferparentstoSTDClinic •VDRL/TPHAatfollowupat 3and6monthsold Note:If1dayoftreatmentismissed, theentirecourseshoudlberestarted. NotreatmentNotinfected GuidelinesforManagementofInfantswithCongenitalSyphilis DETECTED NO YES YES
  • 143. 130 NEONATALOGY Footnotes to algorithm on previous page: 1. VDRL/RPR test on venous blood sample as umbilical cord may be contaminated with maternal blood and could yield a false-positive result. 2. Clinical features of congenital syphilis: non-immune hydrops, IUGR, jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, rhinitis, skin rash, pseudoparalysis of extremity. 3. Recommended value of 5 WBCs/mm3 and protein of 40mg/dL as the upper limits of normal for “non traumatic tap”. Follow up of patients • All sero-reactive infants should receive careful follow up examination and serologic testing (VDRL/RPR) every 2-3 month until the test becomes non- reactive or the titre has decreased 4-fold. • VDRL/RPR titre should decline by age of 3 month and should be non-reactive by age of 6 month if the infants was not infected or was infected but adequately treated. • If the VDRL/RPR titre are stable or increase after 6-12 month, the child should be evaluated and treated with a 10-day course of parenteral Penicillin G. • For infants whose initial CSF evaluations are abnormal should undergo a repeat lumbar puncture in 6 months. A reactive CSF VDRL test or abnormal CSF indices that cannot be attributed to other ongoing illness required re-treatment for possible neurosyphilis. If CSF is improving, monitor with follow-up serology. Additional Notes: • Tetracycline, doxycycline or erythromycin does not have an established and well-evaluated high rate of success as injection penicillin in the treatment of syphilis. • Penetration of tetracycline, doxycycline and erythromycin into CSF is poor.
  • 144. 131 Chapter 26: Ophthalmia Neonatorum NEONATOLOGY Definition Conjunctivitis occurring in newborn during 1st 4 weeks of life with clinical signs of erythema and oedema of the eyelids and palpebral conjunctivae, purulent eye discharge with one or more polymorph nuclear per oil immersion field on a Gram stained conjunctival smear. Diagnosis • Essentially a clinical diagnosis • Laboratory diagnosis to determine aetiology • Eye swab for Gram stain (fresh specimen to reach laboratory in 30 mins) • Gram stain of intracellular gram negative diplococci - high sensitivity and specificity for Neisseria gonorrhoea. • Eye swab for culture and sensitivity. • Conjunctival scrapping for indirect fluorescent antibody identification for Chlamydia. Aetiology Bacterial Gonococcal • Most important bacteria by its potential to damage vision. • Bilateral purulent conjunctival discharge within first few days of life. Treatment: • Systemic: - Ceftriaxone 25-50mg/kg (max. 125mg) IV or IM single dose. or - Cefotaxime 100 mg/kg IV or IM single dose. (preferred if premature or hyperbilirubinaemia present) • Disseminated infections : - Ceftriaxone 25-50mg/kg/day IV or IM in single daily dose for 7days, or - Cefotaxime 25mg/kg/dose every 12 hours for 7 days. • Documented meningitis : 10-14 days • Local: Irrigate eyes with sterile normal saline initially every 15 mins and then at least hourly as long as necessary to eliminate discharge. Frequency can be reduced as discharge decreases. Topical antibiotics optional. Non- Gonococcal • Includes Coagulase negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, Haemophilus, E.coli, Klebsiella species and Pseudomonas. Most are hospital acquired conjuctivitis. Treatment: • Local: Chloramphenicol, gentamicin eye ointment 0.5%, both eyes (Change according to sensitivity ,duration according to response), or In non- responsive cases refer to ophthalmologist and consider Fucithalmic, Ceftazidime 5% ointment bd to qid for a week. • Eye toilet (refer as above).
  • 145. 132 NEONATALOGY Chlamydial • Replaced N. gonorrhoea as most common aetiology associated with sexually transmitted infections (STI). • Unilateral or bilateral conjunctivitis with peak incidence at 2 weeks of life Treatment: • Erythromycin 50mg/kg/d in 4 divided doses for 2 weeks Caution - association with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis May need to repeat course of erythromycin for further 2 weeks if poor response as elimination after first course ranges from 80-100% • If subsequent failure of treatment, use Trimethoprim-sulfamethazole 0.5ml/kg/d in 2 doses for 2 wks (Dilution 200mg SMZ /40mg TM in 5 mls). • Systemic treatment is essential. Local treatment may be unnecessary if systemic treatment is given. Herpes simplex virus • Herpes simplex keratoconjunctivitis usually presents with generalized infection with skin, eyes and mucosal involvement. • May have vesicles around the eye and corneal involvement Systemic treatment • IV acyclovir 30mg/kg/d divided tds for 2 weeks. Important Notes • Refer patients to an ophthalmologist for assessment. • Ophthalmia neonatorum (all forms) is a notifiable disease • Check VDRL of the infant to exclude associated congenital syphilis and screen for C. trachomatis and HIV. • Screen both parents for Gonococcal infections, syphilis and HIV. Parents should be referred to STD clinic for further management. • On discharge, infants should be seen in 2 weeks with a repeat eye swab gram stain and CS.
  • 146. 133 Chapter 27: Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm NEONATOLOGY Introduction Gestational age is the most important determinant of the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The other risk factors for PDA are lack of antenatal steroids, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and need for ventilation. Clinical Features • Wide pulse pressure/ bounding pulses • Systolic or continuous murmur • Tachycardia • Lifting of xiphisternum with heart beat • Hyperactive precordium • Apnoea • Increase in ventilatory requirements Complications • Congestive cardiac failure • Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) • Pulmonary haemorrhage • Renal impairment • Necrotising enterocolitis • Chronic lung disease Management • Confirm PDA with cardiac ECHO if available • Medical • Fluid restriction. Care with fluid balance to avoid dehydration • No role for diuretics • IV or oral Indomethacin 0.2mg/kg/day daily dose for 3 days or IV or oral Ibuprofen 10mg/kg first dose, 5mg/kg second and third doses, administered by syringe pump over 15 minutes at 24 hour intervals. • Indomethacin or ibuprofen is contraindicated if - Infant is proven or suspected to have infection that is untreated. - Bleeding, especially active gastrointestinal or intracranial. - Platelet count 60 x 109 /L - NEC or suspected NEC - Duct dependant congenital heart disease - Impaired renal function: creatinine 140 µmol/L, blood urea 14 mmol/L. • Monitor urine output and renal function. If urine output 0.6 ml/kg/hr after a dose given, withhold next dose until output back to normal. • Monitor for GIT complications e.g. gastric bleeding, perforation. • Surgical ligation • Persistence of a symptomatic PDA and failed 2 courses of Indomethacin • If medical treatment fails or contraindicated
  • 147. 134 NEONATALOGY • In older preterm infant who is asymptomatic, i.e. only cardiac murmur present in an otherwise well baby – no treatment required. Follow-up as necessary. Most PDA in this group will close spontaneously. Pearls and Pitfalls in Management • There is a higher success rate in closure of PDA if indomethacin is given in the first two weeks of life. • When using oral indomethacin, ensure that suspension is freshly prepared and well mixed before serving. • IV indomethacin is unstable once the vial is opened.
  • 148. 135 Chapter 28: Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn NEONATOLOGY Definition Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) of the newborn is defined as a failure of normal pulmonary vasculature relaxation at or shortly after birth, resulting in impedance to pulmonary blood flow which exceeds systemic vascular resistance, such that unoxygenated blood is shunted to the systemic circulation. PPHN can be: • Idiopathic - 20% • Associated with a variety of lung diseases: • Meconium aspiration syndrome (50%) • Pneumonia/sepsis (20%) • RDS (5%) • Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) • Others: Asphyxia, Maternal diabetes, Polycythemia Diagnosis • History - Precipitating factors during antenatal, intrapartum, postnatal periods • Respiratory signs - Signs of respiratory distress (tachypnoea, grunting, nasal flaring, chest retractions) - Onset at birth or within the first 4 to 8 hours of life - Marked lability in pulse oximetry • Cardiac signs - Central cyanosis (differential cyanosis between the upper and lower body may be noted clinically, by pulse oximetry and blood gasses) - Prominent praecordial impulse - Low parasternal murmur of tricuspid incompetence • Radiography - Lung fields Normal, parenchymal lesions if lung disease is present, or oligaemia - Cardiac shadow Normal sized-heart, or cardiomegaly (usually right atrial or ventricular enlargement). • Echocardiography - important to: - Exclude congenital heart disease. - Define pulmonary artery pressure using tricuspid incompetence, ductal shunt velocities. - Define the presence, degree, direction of shunt through the duct / foramen ovale. - Define the ventricular output. • The Hyperoxic test may play a role in diagnosis if 2D echocardiography is not available. However, severe PPHN is likely to produce a similar result to cyanotic CHD.
  • 149. 136 NEONATALOGY Differential Diagnosis In centres where there is a lack of readily available echocardiography and/or Paediatric Cardiology services, the challenge is to differentiate PPHN from Congenital Cyanotic Cardiac diseases. Differentiating points between the two are: • Babies with congenital cyanotic heart diseases are seldom critically ill at delivery. • Bradycardia is almost always due to hypoxia, not a primary cardiac problem • Infants with cyanotic lesions usually do not have respiratory distress. • Infants with PPHN usually had some perinatal hypoxia and handles poorly. • The cyanosed cardiac baby is usually pretty happy, but blue. Management • General measures: • Preventing and treating - Hypothermia - Hypoglycaemia - Hypocalcaemia - Hypovolaemia - Anaemia • Avoid excessive noise, discomfort and agitation. • Minimal handling • Sedation • Morphine – given as an infusion at 10-20 mcg/kg/hr. Morphine is a safe sedative and analgesic even in the preterm infants. • Midazolam – not recommended for preterms 34 weeks gestational age, assocated with adverse long term neurodevelopmental outcomes. • Ventilation • Conventional ventilation – adopt ‘gentle ventilatory’ approach by - Avoidance of hyperventilation (i.e. hypocarbia and hyperoxia). Hypocarbia is associated with periventricular leukomalacia. Aim for a PCO2 of 45-55mmHg. Hyperoxia leads to chronic oxygen dependency and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Keep PO2 within normal limits of 60 -80 mmHg. - Ventilating to achieve a tidal volume of 3 to 5mls/kg. - Short inspiratory time (0.2-0.3 sec) to prevent alveolar overdistension - Inadvertently increasing ventilatory settings may lead to overdistention of the lungs and high mean airway pressures compromising venous return to the heart which further aggravates systemic hypotension as cardiac output is compromised. • High Frequency Oscillatory ventilation / High Frequency Jet Ventilation Effective in newborns with PPHN secondary to a pulmonary pathology.
  • 150. 137 • Circulatory support Inotropes for circulatory support improve cardiac output and enhances systemic oxygenation. Its use is poorly substantiated in PPHN, especially with the use of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO), which through its pulmonary vasodilating effect helps to improve cardiac output and the systemic blood pressure. Aim to keep the mean arterial pressure 50 mmHg in term infants. However, inotropes are still recommended in institutions without facilities for iNO: Dopamine 5 – 20 mcg/kg/min Dobutamine 5 – 20 mcg/kg/min Adrenaline 0.1 – 1.0 mcg/kg/min • Vasodilators • Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO)- selective pulmonary vasodilator. - In term and near term infants (34 weeks gestational age) reduces need for Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)(Dose: 5-20 ppm). - insufficient evidence to support use in preterm infants 34 weeks age. • Prostacycline and Sildenafil. These are not recommended for routine use as their safety and efficacy had not been tested in large randomized trials. Sildenafil in the treatment of PPHN has significant potential especially in resource limited settings. • Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) ECMO is effective in PPHN. It is expensive as it requires trained personnel, specialized equipment and a good nursing-cot ratio. • Practices not recommended for routine use: • Sodium bicarbonate. There is lack of sufficient evidence to recommend its routine use • Magnesium sulphate Anecdotal efficacy in PPHN but not yet been tested in large randomized trials to justify its use routinely. • Muscle relaxant agents No evidence for use in PPHN. Use had been known to increase mortality rates. NEONATOLOGY
  • 152. 139 Chapter 29: Perinatally AcquiredVaricella NEONATOLOGY Introduction • In maternal infection (onset of rash) within 5 days before and 2 days after delivery 17-30% infants develop neonatal varicella with lesions appearing at 5-10 days of life. • Mortality is high (20%-50%), as these infants have not acquired maternal protecting antibodies. Cause of death is due to severe pulmonary disease or widespread necrotic lesions of viscera. • When maternal varicella occurs 5-21 days before delivery, lesions typically appear in the first 4 days of life and prognosis is good with no associated mortality. The mild course is probably due to the production and transplacental passage of maternal antibodies that modify the course of illness in new-borns. • Infants born to mothers who develop varicella between 7 days antenatally and 14 days postnatally should receive as prophylaxis: • Varicella Zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG) as soon as possible within 96 hours of initial exposure (to reduce the occurrence of complications and fatal outcomes). Attenuation of disease might still be achieved with administration of VZIG up to 10 days. • If Zoster immunoglobulin is not available give IV Immunoglobulin 400 mg/kg ( this is less effective), AND • IV Acyclovir 15 mg/kg/dose over 1 hour every 8hrly (total 45 mg /kg/day) for 5 days. • On sending home, warn parents to look out for new vesicles or baby being unwell for 28 days after exposure. If so, parents to bring the infant to the nearest hospital as soon as possible (62% of healthy such neonates given VZIG after birth) • If vesicles develop to give IV Acyclovir 10-15 mg/kg/dose over 1 hour every 8hrly (total 30-45 mg /kg/day) for 7-10 days. • Women with varicella at time of delivery should be isolated from their newborns, breast-feeding is contraindicated. Mother should express breast milk in the mean time and commence breast-feeding when all the lesions have crusted. • Neonates with varicella lesions should be isolated from other infants but not from their mothers. • It has been generally accepted that passive immunization of the neonate can modify the clinical course of neonatal varicella but it does not prevent the disease and, although decreased, the risk of death is not completely eliminated. • Infants whose mothers develop Zoster before or after delivery have maternal antibodies and they will not need ZIG. • Recommend immunisation of family members who are not immune.
  • 153. 140 NEONATALOGY Postnatal exposure to varicella in the hospital • Give VZIG within 96 hours to those who have been exposed if they fit the following criteria: • All babies born at 28 weeks gestation or who weighed 1000g at birth irrespective of maternal history of chickenpox. • All preterm babies born at ≥28 weeks gestation whose mothers have not had chickenpox or whose status is unknown. • All immunocompromised patients, e.g. immunosuppressive therapy, have malignant disease or are immunodeficient. • Isolate patient who has varicella infection and susceptible patients who have been exposed to the virus. Treatment of symptomatic patients with acyclovir as above. • Screen exposed, susceptible hospital staff for skin lesions, fever, headache and systemic symptoms. They are potentially infective 10-21 days after exposure and should be placed on sick leave immediately should any symptoms or skin lesion arise. If possible they can also be reassigned during the incubation period to areas where the patients are not as susceptible or non-patient care areas. Other notes • In hospitals, airborne transmission of VZV has been demonstrated when varicella has occurred in susceptible persons who have had no direct contact with the index case-patient. • Incubators are not positive pressure air flow therefore do not provide isolation. Neonates may not be protected given that they are frequently open for nursing purposes. • All staff should preferably be screened and susceptible staff vaccinated for varicella before commencing work in neonatal, oncology and ICU wards. If not,they should receive post exposure vaccination as soon as possible unless contraindications exist such as pregnancy. VZIG is an option for exposed susceptible pregnant staff to prevent complications in the mother rather than to protect the foetus. • The use of VZIG following exposure does not necessarily prevent varicella and may prolong the incubation period by 1 week and hence signs or symptoms should be observed for 28 days post exposure. • VZIG is not presently recommended for healthy full term infants who are exposed postnatally, even if their mothers have no history of varicella infection. To emphasise to parents to bring back early for treatment with acyclovir if any skin lesion appear within the next 3 weeks.
  • 154. 141 References Section 2 Neonatology Chapter 9 Transport of a Sick Newborn 1.Hatch D, Sumner E and Hellmann J: The Surgical Neonate: Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Edward Arnold, 1995 2.McCloskey K, Orr R: Pediatric Transport Medicine, Mosby 1995 3.Chance GW, O’ Brien MJ, Swyer PR: Transportation of sick neonates 1972: An unsatisfactory aspect of medical care. Can Med Assoc J 109:847-852, 1973 4.Chance GW, Matthew JD, Gash J et al: Neonatal Transport: A controlled study of skilled assisstance J Pediatrics 93: 662-666,1978 5.Vilela PC, et al: Risk Factors for Adverse Outcome of Newborns with Gastro- schisis in a Brazilian hospital. J Pediatr Surg 36: 559-564, 2001 6.Pierro A: Metabolism and Nutritional Support in the Surgical neonate. J Pediatr Surg 37: 811-822, 2002 7.Lupton BA, Pendray MR: Regionalized neonatal emergency transport. Semi- nars in Neonatology 9:125-133, 2004 8.Insoft RM: Essentials of neonatal transport 9.Holbrook PR: Textbook of Paediatric Critical Care, Saunders, 1993 10. B.L Ohning : Transport of the critically ill newborn introduction and histori- cal perspective. 2011 11.Fairchild K, Sokora D, Scott J, Zanelli S. Therapeutic hypothermia on neonatal transport: 4-year experience in a single NICU. J Perinatol. May 2010;30(5):324-9. Chapter 11 Enteral Feeding in Neonates 1.Schandler RJ, Shulman RJ, LauC, Smith EO, Heitkemper MM. Feeding strate- gies for premature infants: randomized trial of gastrointestinal priming and tube feeding method. Pediatrics 1999; 103: 492-493. 2.Premji S. Chessel L. Continuous nasogastric milk feeding versus inter- mittent bolus milk feeding for premature infants less than 1500 grams. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Issue 1, 2002 3.Tyson JE, Kennedy KA. Minimal enteral nutrition to promote feeding toler- ance and prevent morbidity in parenterally fed neonates (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 1999. Oxford: Update Software. 4.Kuschel C, Evans N, Askie L, Bredermeyer S, Nash J, Polverino J. A Ran- domised trial of enteral feeding volumes in infants born before 30 weeks. Arch Dis Child 5.McDonnell M, Serra-Serra V, Gaffney G, Redman CW, Hope PL. Neonatal outcome after pregnancy complicated by abnormal velocity waveforms in the umbilical artery. Arch Dis Child 1994; 70: F84-9. 6.Malcolm G, Ellwood D, Devonald K, Beilby R, Henderson-Smart D. Absent or reversed end diastolic flow velocity in the umbilical artery and necrotising enterocolitis. Arch Dis Child 1991; 66: 805-7. 7.Patricia W. Lin, MD, Tala R. Nasr, MD, and Barbara J. Stoll. Necrotizing Entero- colitis: Recent Scientific Advances in Pathophysiology and Prevention. Semin Perinatol . 2008, 32:70-82. NEONATOLOGY
  • 155. 142 Chapter 12 Total Parental Nutrition for Neonates 1.Jacques Rigo, Jacques Senterre, Nutritional needs of premature infants: Current issues. J. Pediatrics, 2006 149:S80-S88 2.Anna M. Dusick, Brenda B. Poindexter, Richard A. Ehrenkranz, and 3.James A. Lemons. Growth failure in preterm infants – Can we catch up? Seminars in Perinatology, 2003 Vol 27 (4):302-310 4.Spear et al Effect of heparin dose and infusion rate on lipid clearance and bilirubin binding in premature infants receiving intravenous fat emulsions J Pediatr 1988; 112: 94-98 5.Paisley JE, Thureen PJ, Baron KA, Hay WW. Safety and efficacy of low vs high parenteral amino acid intakes in extremely low birth weight neonates im- mediately after birth. Pediatr Res 2000; 47:293A, Abstr no: 1732 6.Porcelli PJ, Sisk PM. Increased parenteral amino acid administration to extremely low birth weight infants during early postnatal life. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition 2002;34:174-9 7.Collins et al. A controlled trial of insulin infusion and parenteral nutrition in extremely low birth-weight infants with glucose intolerance. J Pediatr 1991; 118: 921-27 8.Ziegler EE, Thureen PJ, Carlson SJ. Aggressive nutrition of the very low birthweight infant. Clin Perinatol 2002; 29(2):225-44. 9.Hulzebos CV, Sauer PJ. Energy requirements. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2007; 12:2-10. 10.Thureen P, Melara D, Fennessey P. Effect of low versus high intravenous amino acid intake. Chapter 14 Vascular Spasm and Thrombosis 1.Schmidt B, Andrew M. Report of the Scientific and Standardization Subcom- mittee on Neonatal Haemostatsis. Diagnosis and treatment of neonatal thrombosis. Throm Hemostat. 1992; 67: 381-382 2.Baserga MC,Puri A, Sola A. The use of topical nitroglycerine ointment to treat peripheral tissue ischaemia secondary to aterial line complication in neonates. J. Perinatol. 2002; 22:416-419 3.Monagle P, Chan A, Chalmers E, Michelson AD. Antithrombin therapy in children. The 7th ACCP conference on antithrombotic and thrombolytic therapy. Chest. 2004;126:645S-687S 4.Williams MD, Chalmers EA, Gibson BE. Haemostasis and thrombosis task force, British Committee for standards in haematology. The investigation and management of neonatal haemostasis and thrombosis. Br. J Haema- tology. 2002;119:295-309 5.John CM, Harkensee C. Thrombolytic agents for arterial and venous throm- bosis in neonates. Cochrane Database Sys Rev. 2005; 25:CD004242 Chapter 13 NICU: General Pointers for Care and Review of Newborn Infants 1.Murray NA, Roberts IAG. Neonatal transfusion practice. Arch Dis Child FN 2004;89:101-107. 2.Neonatal Benchmarking Group UK. NEONATALOGY
  • 156. 143 Chapter 15 Guidelines for the Use of Surfactant 1.Horbar JD, Wright EC, Onstad L et al, Decreasing mortality associated with the introduction of surfactant therapy: an observed study of neonates weighing 601 to 1300 grams at birth. Pediatrics. 1993;92 2.Schwartz RM, Luby AM, Scanlon JW et al. Effect of surfactant on morbidity, mortality and resource use in newborn infants weighing 500-1500 grams. NEJM 1994; 330:1476-1480 3.Jobe A. Surfactant: the basis for clinical treatment strategies. Chapter 4 from The Newborn Lung, Neonatology questions and controversies. Ed. Bancalari E, Polin RA. Publisher Saunders, Elsevier. 2008 4.Kendig JW, Ryan RM, Sinkin RA et al. Comparison of two startegies for sur- factant prophylaxis in very premature infants : a multicenter randomised controlled trial. Pediatrics. 1998;101:1006-1012. Chapter 16 The Newborn and Acid Base Balance 1.Aschner J.L., Poland R.L. Sodium Bicarbonate: Basically useless therapy. Pediatrics 2008; 122: 831-835 2.Forsythe S.M., Schmidt G.A. Socium bicarbonate for the treatment of lactic acidosis. Chest 2000; 117:260-267 Chapter 17 Neonatal Encephalopathy 1.Nelson KB, Leviton A. How much of neonatal encephalopathy is due to birth asphyxia? Am J Dis Child 1991;145(11):1325-31 2.N. Badawi et al. Antepartum risk factors for newborn encephalopathy: the Western Australia case-control study, BMJ 317 (1998) 1549– 1553 3.N. Badawi, et al., Intrapartum risk factors for newborn encephalopathy: the Western Australian case-control study, BMJ 317 (1998): 1554– 1558 4.G.D.V. Hankins, M. Speer, Defining the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy, Obstet. Gynecol. 2003; (102) :628– 636 5.Holme G ,Rowe J, Hafford J, Schmidt R. Prognostic value of EEG in neonatal seizures. Electroenceph Clin Neurophysiol 1982;53: 60-72 6.Helllstorm-Westas L, Rosen I, Svenningsen NW. Predictive value of early continuous amplitude integrated EEG recording on outcome after severe birth asphyxia in full term infants. Arch Dis Child 1995; 72: F34-8 NEONATOLOGY 7. Low JA, Panayiotopoulos C, Derick EJ. Newborn complications after intrapartum asphyxia with metabolic acidosis in term fetus. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1994;170:1081-7 8. Levene ML. Management of asphyxiated full term infant. Arch Dis Child 1993;68:612-6 9. Evan D, Levene M. Neonatal seizures. Arch Dis Child 1998;78:F70-5 10. Jacobs S, hunt R, Tarnow-Mordi W et al. cooling for newborns with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (review). CochraneDatabase of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003311. 11. Barks J.D.E Current controversies in hypothermic protection. Sem Fetal Neonatal Medicine 2008; (13):30-34.
  • 157. 144 Chapter 18 Neonatal Seizures 1.JJ Volpe: Neurology in the Newborn: Fourth Edition 2.Klauss Fanaroff: Care of The High Risk Neonate: Fifth Edition 3.MaytalJ, Novak GP, King KC: Lorazepam in the treatment of refractory neonatal seizures:J Child Neuro6;319-323,1991 4.Hu KC, Chiu NC, Ho CS, Lee ST, Shen EY Continuous midazolam infusion in the treatment of uncontrollable neonatal seizures. Acta Paediatr Taiwan. 2003 Sep-Oct;44(5):279-81. 5.Ng E, Klinger G, Shah V, Taddio A.Safety of benzodiazepines in Newborns. Ann Pharmacother. 2002 Jul-Aug;36(7-8):1150-5. 6.Gamstorp I, SedinG; Neonatal convulsions treated with continuous intrave- nous infusion of diazepam:Ups J Med Sci87: 143-149, 1982 7.Evans D, Levene M. Neonatal seizures. Archives of Diseases in Childhood. Fetal and Neonatal Edition. 1998; 78(1):F70-5. 8.Levene M. Recognition and management of neonatal seizures. Paediatrics and Child Health. 2008; 18(4):178-182. 9.Booth D, Evans DJ. Anticonvulsants for neonates with seizures. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004; (4):CD004218 10.Glass HC, Wirrell E. Controversies in Neonatal Seizure Management. Jour- nal of Child Neurology. 2009; 24(5):591-599 11.Thomson Reuters. NeoFax®: a manual of drugs used in neonatal care 24th ed: Thomson Reuters; 2011. Chapter 19 Neonatal Hypoglycemia 1.Davis H Adamkin, MD and COMMITTEE ON FETUS AND NEWBORN. Clinical Report –Postnatal Glucose Homeostasis in Late Preterm and Term infants. Pediatrics 2011;127(3):575-579 2.Mehta A. Prevention and managemant of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Arch Dis Child 1994; 70: 54-59 3.Cornblath M, Hawdon JM, Williams AF, Aynsley-Green A, Ward-Platt MP, Schwartz R, Kalhan SC. Controversies regarding definition of neonatal hy- poglycemia: suggested operational thresholds. Pediatrics 2000;105:1141-5 4.Cornblath M, Ichord R. Hypoglycemia in the neonate. Semin Perinatol 2000;24:136-49 5. Lilien LD, Pildes RS, Srinivasan G. Treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia with minibolus and intravenous glucose infusion. J Pediatr. 1980;97:295-98 6. McGowan J.E. Neonatal hypoglycemia. Pediatrics in Review 1999;20;e6 7. Miralles R.E., Lodha A, Perlman M, Moore A.m., Experience with IV Glucagon infusions as a treatment for resistant neonatal hypoglycaemia. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2002;156:999-1004 8. Collins JE, Leonard JV, Teale D, Marks V, Williams DM, Kennedy CR, Hall MA. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia in small for dates babies. Arch Dis Child 1990; 65: 1118-20 NEONATALOGY
  • 158. 145 Chapter 20 Neonatal Jaundice 1.Integrated Plan for Detection and Management of Neonatal Jaundice, Ministry of Health, 2009 2.Guideline on Screening and Management of NNJ with Special Emphasis on G6PD Deficiency, MOH 1998 3.American Academy of Paediatrics . Provisonal Committee for Quality Im- provement and Subcommittee on Hyperbilrubinemia. Practice Parameter: management of hyperbilirubinemia in the healthy term newborn. Pediat- rics, 2004. 114:297-316 4.Gartner LM, Herschel M. Jaundice and breast-feeding. Pediatr Clin North Am 2001;48:389-99. 5.Maisels MJ, Baltz RD, Bhutani V, et al. AAP Guidelines -Management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant 35 or more weeks of gestation. Pediatrics. 2004;114 :297 –316. 6.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA. 8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56. 7.NICE clinical guidelines on Neonatal jaundice. RCOG, UK. May 2010 Chapter 21 Exchange Transfusion 1.Ip S, Chung M, Kulig J et al. An evidence-based review of important issues concerning neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Pediatrics:113(6) www.pediatrics. org/cgi/content/full/113/6/e644. 2.AAP Subcommittee on hyperbilirubinemia. Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant 35 or more weeks of gestation. Pediatrics 2004; 114 (1): 297-316. 3.Murki S, Kumar P. Blood exchange transfusion for infants with severe neo- natal hyperbilurubinaemia. Seminars in Perinatology. 2011. 35:175-184 4.Steiner LA, Bizzaro MJ, Ehrenkranz RA, Gallagher PG. A decline in the frequency of neonatal exchange transfusions and its effect on exchange- related morbidity and mortality. Pediatrics 2007; 120 (1): 27-32. 5.Narang A, Gathwala G, Kumar P. Neonatal jaundice: an analysis of 551 cases. Indian Pediatr 1997: 34: 429 – 432. 6.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA. 8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56. NEONATOLOGY Chapter 22 Prolonged Jaundice 1.Madan A, Mac Mohan JR, Stevenson DK.Neonatal Hyperbilrubinemia. In Avery’s Diseases of the Newborn. Eds: Taeush HW, Ballard RA, Gleason CA. 8th edn; WB Saunders., Philadelphia, 2005: pp 1226-56. 2.Winfield CR, MacFaul R. Clinical study of prolonged jaundice in breast and bottle-fed babies. Arch Dis Child 1978;53:506-7. 3.NICE clinical guidelines for neonatal jaundice. RCOG, UK. May 2010.
  • 159. 146 Chapter 23 Apnoea in the Newborn 1.Apnea, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Home Monitoring Committee on Fetus and Newborn; Pediatrics Vol. 111 No. 4 April 2003, pp. 914-917 2.William J. R. et al , Apnes in Premature Infants: Monitoring, Incidence, Heart Rate changes, and an Effects of Environmental Temperature;. Pediat- rics Vol. 43 No. 4 April 1, 1969 pp. 510 -518 3.Eric C. et al, Apnea Frequently Persists Beyond Term Gestation in Infants Delivered at 24 to 28 Weeks; Pediatrics Vol. 100 No. 3 September 1, 1997 pp. 354 -359 4.Hoffman HJ, Damus K, Hillman L, Krongrad E. Risk factors for SIDS.Results of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development SIDS Cooperative Epidemiological Study. Ann N Y Acad Sci.1988;533:13–30 5.Bhat RY, Hannam S, Pressler R et al (2006) Effect of prone and supine position on sleep, apneas, and arousal in preterm infants. Pediatrics 118(1):101–107 6.Pantalitschka T, Sievers J, Urschitz MS et al (2009) Randomized crossover trial of four nasal respiratory support systems on apnoea of prematurity in very low birth weight infants. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 94(4):245– 248 7.American Academy of Pediatrics: Committee on Fetus and Newborn: Ap- nea, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Home Monitoring. Pediatrics,Vol. 111 No. 4 April 2003. Chapter 24 Neonatal Sepsis 1. R.C. Roberton. Textbook of Neonatology. Churchill Livingstone 2.Ohlsson A, Lacy JB. Intravenous immunoglobulin for suspected or subse- quently proven infection in neonates. The Cochrane Library 2007; Issue 4 3.D Isaacs. Unnatural selection: reducing antibiotic resistance in neonatal units Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal Neonatal Ed., January 1, 2006; 91(1): F72 - F74. 4.U K Mishra, S E Jacobs, L W Doyle, and S M Garland. Newer approaches to the diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis. Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal Neona- tal Ed., May 1, 2006; 91(3): F208 - F212. 5. S Vergnano, M Sharland, P Kazembe, C Mwansambo, and P T Heath Neonatal sepsis: an international perspective. Arch. Dis. Child. Fetal Neonatal Ed., May 1, 2005; 90(3): F220 - f224. 6. Remington and KleinTextbook of Infectious Diseases of the Fetus and Newborn Infant. 6th Edition 7. Treatment of of Neonatal Sepsis with Intravenous Immune Globulin. The INIS Collaborative Group N Engl J Med 2011: 365:1201-1211. NEONATALOGY
  • 160. 147 Chapter 25 Congenital Syphilis 1.Centers for Disease Control. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guide- lines, 2010. MMWR 2010;59(No. RR-12). 2.Centers for Disease Control Northern Territory. Guidelines for the investiga- tion and treatment of infants at risk of congenital syphilis in the Northern Territory, 2005. Chapter 26 Ophthalmia Neonatorum 1.Fransen L, Klauss V. Neonatal ophthalmia in the developing world. Epidemiol- ogy, etiology, management and control. Int Ophthalmol. 1988;11(3):189-96 2.PS Mallika et al. Neonatal Conjunctivitis- A Review. Malaysian Family Physi- cian 2008; Volume 3, Number 2 3.MMWR Recomm Rep 2010; 59 (RR12): 53-55. Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010. 4.Palafox et al. Ophthalmia Neonatorum. J Clinic Exp Ophthalmol 2011, 2:1 5.Input from Dr Joseph Alagaratnam, Consultant Opthalmologist HKL , is acknowledged. Chapter 27 Patent Ductus Arteriosus in the Preterm 1.Raval M, Laughon M, Bose C, Phillips J. Patent ductus arteriosus ligation in premature infants: who really benefits, and at what cost? J Pediatr Surg 2007; 42:69-75 2.Patent ductus arteriosus. Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Department of Neona- tal Medicine Protocol Book, 2001 3.Knight D. The treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. A review and overview ofrandomized trials. Sem Neonatol 2000;6:63-74 4.Cooke L, Steer P, Woodgate P. Indomethacin for asymptomatic patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. Cochrane databse of systematic reviews 2003 5.Brion LP, Campbell, DE. Furosemide for prevention of morbidity in indometh- acin-treated infants with patent ductus arteriosus. Cochrane database of systematic reviews 2001. 6.Herrera CM, Holberton JR, Davis PG. Prolonged versus short course of indo- methacin for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD003480. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003480.pub3. Most recent review 2009. 7.Shannon E.G. Hamrick and Georg Hansmann. Patent Ductus Arteriosus of the Preterm Infant. Pediatrics 2010;125;1020-1030 NEONATOLOGY
  • 161. 148 Ch 28 Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn 1.Abman SH. Neonatal pulmonary hypertension: a physiologic approach to treatment. Pediatr Pulmonol 2004;37 (suppl 26):127-8 2.Ng E, Taddio A, Ohlsson A. Intravenous midazolam infusion for sedation of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD002052. 3.Keszler M, Abubakar K. Volume Guarantee: Stability of Tidal Volume and Incidence of Hypocarbia. Pediatr Pulmonol 2004;38:240-245 4.Finer NN, Barrington KJ. Nitric oxide for respiratory failure in infants born at or near term. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD000399. 5.Shah PS, Ohlsson A. Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. August 10, 2011 6.Walsh-Sukys MC, Tyson JE, Wright LL et al. Persistent pulmonary hyperten- sion of the newborn in the era before nitric oxide: practice variation and outcomes. Pediatrics 2000;105(1):14-21. Ch 29 Perinatally acquired varicella 1.CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Vol 61/No.12 March 30, 2012 2.Prevention of Varicella. Recommendations of National Advisory committee on Immunization practise (ACIP). MMWR 2007 3.Hayakawa M et al. Varicella exposure in a neonatal medical centre: successful prophylaxis with oral acyclovir . Journal of Hospital Infection. 2003; (54):212- 215 4.Sauerbrei A. Review of varizella-zoster virus infections in pregnany women and neonates. Health. 2010; 2(2): 143-152 NEONATALOGY
  • 162. 149 Chapter 30: Asthma The International Studies on Asthma And Allergy (ISAAC) has shown that the prevalence of asthma among school age children is 10%. Definition • Chronic airway inflammation leading to increase airway responsiveness that leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing particularly at night or early morning. • Often associated with widespread but variable airflow obstruction that is often reversible either spontaneously or with treatment. • Reversible and variable airflow limitation as evidenced by 15% improvement in PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate), in response to administration of a bronchodilator. Important Points to Note in: Clinical History Physical Examination Current symptoms Signs of chronic illness Pattern of symptoms Harrison’s sulci Precipitating factors Hyperinflated chest Present treatment Eczema / dry skin Previous hospital admission Hypertrophied turbinates Typical exacerbations Signs in acute exacerbation Home/ school environment Tachypnoea Impact on life style Wheeze, rhonchi History of atopy Hyperinflated chest Response to prior treatment Accessory muscles Prolonged URTI symptoms Cyanosis Family history Drowsiness Tachycardia Note: Absence of Physical Signs Does Not Exclude Asthma! • In pre-school children, epidemiological studies have delineated children with wheezing into 3 different phenotypes: Transient wheezers, Persistent wheezers and Late-onset wheezers. • These phenotypes are only useful when applied retrospectively. RESPIRATORY
  • 163. 150 RESPIRATORY • Hence, there are recommendations to define pre-school wheezing into two main categories: • Episodic (viral) wheeze. Children who only wheeze with viral infections and are well between episodes. • Multiple trigger wheezers are children who have discrete exacerbations and symptoms in between these episodes. Triggers are smoke, allergens, crying, laughing and exercise. • The presence of atopy (eczema, allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis) in the child or family supports the diagnosis of asthma . However, the absence of these conditions does not exclude the diagnosis. • Thus, because of the difficulty to diagnose asthma in young children, an asthmatic predictive index can be helpful in predicting children who were going to be asthmatics. The possibility of those with negative index not becoming asthmatic by 6 years old was 95% whereas those with a positive index have a 65% chance of becoming asthmatic by 6 years old. A Clinical Index to define Risk of Asthma in young children with RecurrentWheeze: Positive index ( 3 wheezing episodes / year during first 3 years) plus 1 Major criterion or 2 Minor criteria. Major criteria • Eczema1 • Parental asthma1 • Positive aeroallergen skin test1 Minor criteria • Positive skin test1 • Wheezing without upper respiratory tract infection • Eosinophilia ( 4%) Footnote: 1, Doctor Diagnosed • The child who presents with chronic cough alone (daily cough for 4 weeks) and has never wheezed is unlikely to have asthma. These children require further evaluation for other illnesses that can cause chronic cough.
  • 164. 151 RESPIRATORY MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC ASTHMA Patients with a new diagnosis of asthma should be properly evaluated as to their degree of asthma severity: Evaluation of the background of newly diagnosed asthma Category Clinical Parameters Intermittent • Daytime symptoms less than once a week • Nocturnal symptoms less than once a month • No exercise induced symptoms • Brief exacerbations not affecting sleep and activity • Normal lung function Persistent (Threshold for preventive treatment) Mild Persistent • Daytime symptoms more than once a week • Nocturnal symptoms more than twice a month • Exercise induced symptoms • Exacerbations 1x/month affecting sleep, activity • PEFR / FEV1 80% Moderate Persistent • Daytime symptoms daily • Nocturnal symptoms more than once a week • Exercise induced symptoms • Exacerbations 2x/month affecting sleep, activity • PEFR / FEV1 60 - 80% Severe Persistent • Daytime symptoms daily • Daily nocturnal symptoms • Daily exercise induced symptoms • Frequent exacerbations 2x/month affecting sleep, activity • PEFR / FEV1 60% Note •This division is arbitrary and the groupings may merge. An individual patient’s classification may change from time to time. •There are a few patients who have very infrequent but severe or life threatening attacks with completely normal lung function and no symptoms between episodes. This type of patient remains very difficult to manage. • PEFR = Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; FEV1 = Forced ExpiratoryVolume in One Second.
  • 165. 152 RESPIRATORY • In 2006, the Global Initiatives on Asthma (GINA) has proposed the management of asthma from severity based to control based. The change is due to the fact that asthma management based on severity is on expert opinion rather than evidence based, with limitation in deciding treatment and it does not predict treatment response. • Asthma assessment based on levels of control is based on symptoms and the three levels of control are well controlled, partly control and uncontrolled. • Patients who are already on treatment should be assessed at every clinic visit on their control of asthma Levels of Asthma Control (GINA 2006) Characteristics Controlled All of the following: Partly Controlled Any measure pre- sent in any week: Uncontrolled Daytime symptoms None 2 per week ≥ 3 features of partly controlled asthma present in any week Limitation of activities None Any Nocturnal symptoms or Awakenings None Any Need for Reliever None 2 per week Lung function test Normal 80% predicted or personal best Exacerbations None ≥ 1 per year One in any week Prevention Identifying and avoiding the following common triggers may be useful • Environmental allergens • These include house dust mites, animal dander, insects like cockroach, mould and pollen. • Useful measures include damp dusting, frequent laundering of bedding with hot water, encasing pillow and mattresses with plastic/vinyl covers, removal of carpets from bedrooms, frequent vacuuming and removal of pets from the household. • Cigarette smoke • Respiratory tract infections - commonest trigger in children. • Food allergy - uncommon trigger, occurring in 1-2% of children • Exercise • Although it is a recognised trigger, activity should not be limited. Taking a β₂-agonist prior to strenuous exercise, as well as optimizing treatment, are usually helpful.
  • 166. 153 RESPIRATORY Drug Therapy DrugTherapy: Delivery systems available recommendation for different ages. Age (years) Oral MDI + Spacer MDI + Mask + Spacer Dry Powder Inhaler 5 + + - - 5 – 8 - + - - 8 - + + + Note: MDI = Meter dose inhaler Mask used should be applied firmly to the face of the child Treatment of Chronic Asthma Asthma management based on levels of control is a step up and step down approach as shown in the table below: Management Based On Control Reduce Increase STEP 1 Intermittent STEP 2 Mild Persistent STEP 3 Moderate Persistent STEP 4 Severe Persistent STEP 5 Severe Persistent As needed rapid acting β₂-agonist As needed rapid acting β₂-agonist Controller Options Select one Select One Add one / more Add one / both Low dose inhaled steroids Low dose ICS + long acting β₂-agonist Medium / High dose ICS + long acting β₂-agonist Oral Glucocorticoids lowest dose Leukotriene modifier Medium / High dose ICS Leukotriene modifier Anti-IgE Low dose ICS + Leukotriene modifier SRTheophylline Low dose ICS + SRTheophylline Footnote: ICS, Inhaled Corticosteroids; SR, Sustained Release.
  • 167. 154 Drug Dosages for Medications used in Chronic Asthma Drug Formulation Dosage Relieving Drugs β₂-agonists • Salbutamol Oral Metered dose inhaler Dry powder inhaler 0.15 mg/kg/dose TDS-QID/PRN 100-200 mcg/dose QID/PRN 100-200 mcg/dose QID/PRN •Terbutaline Oral 0.075 mg/kg/dose TDS-QID/PRN 250-500 mcg/dose QID/PRN 500-1000 mcg/dose QID/PRN (maximum 4000 mcg/daily) • Fenoterol Metered dose inhaler 200 mcg/dose QID/PRN Ipratropium Bromide Metered dose inhaler 40-60mcg /dose TDS/QID/PRN Preventive Drugs Corticosteroids • Prednisolone Oral 1-2 mg/kg/day in divided doses • Beclomethasone Diproprionate • Budesonide Metered dose inhaler Dry powder inhaler 400 mcg/day : low dose 400-800 mcg/day : Moderate 800- 1200 mcg/day: High • Fluticasone Propionate Metered dose inhaler Dry powder inhaler 200 mcg/day : Low 200-400 mcg/day : Moderate 400-600 mcg/day : High • Ciclesonide Metered dose inhaler 160 microgram daily 320 microgram daily Sodium Cromoglycate Dry powder inhaler Metered dose inhaler 20mg QID 1-2mg QID or 5-10mg BID-QID Theophylline Oral Syrup Slow Release 5 mg/kg/dose TDS/QID 10 mg/kg/dose BD Long acting β₂-agonists • Salmeterol Metered dose inhaler Dry powder inhaler 50-100 mcg/dose BD 50-100 mcg/dose BD Combination Salmeterol / Fluticasone Metered dose inhaler Dry powder inhaler 25/50mcg, 25/125mcg, 25/250mcg 50/100mcg,50/250mcg, 50/500mcg Budesonide /For- moterol Dry powder inhaler 160/4.5mcg, 80/4.5mcg Antileukotrienes (Leukotriene modifier) Montelukast Oral 4 mg granules 5mg/tablet on night chewable 10mg/tablet ON RESPIRATORY
  • 168. 155 Note: • Patients should commence treatment at the step most appropriate to the initial severity. A short rescue course of Prednisolone may help establish control promptly. • Explain to parents and patient about asthma and all therapy • Ensure both compliance and inhaler technique optimal before progression to next step. • Step-up; assess patient after 1 month of initiation of treatment and if control is not adequate, consider step-up after looking into factors as above. • Step-down; review treatment every 3 months and if control sustained for at least 4-6 months, consider gradual treatment reduction. Monitoring During each follow up visit, three issues need to be assessed. They are: • Assessment of asthma control based on: • Interval symptoms. • Frequency and severity of acute exacerbation. • Morbidity secondary to asthma. • Quality of life. • Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) or FEV1 monitoring. • Compliance to asthma therapy: • Frequency. • Technique. • Asthma education: • Understanding asthma in childhood. • Reemphasize compliance to therapy. • Written asthma action plan. Patients with High Risk Asthma are at risk of developing near fatal asthma (NFA) or fatal asthma (FA) . This group of patients need to be identified and closely monitored which includes frequent medical review (at least 3 monthly), objective assessment of asthma control with lung function on each visit, review of asthma action plan and medication supply, identification of psychosocial issues and referral to a paediatrician or respiratory specialist. RESPIRATORY
  • 169. 156 MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE ASTHMA Assessment of Severity Initial (Acute assessment) • Diagnosis - symptoms e.g. cough, wheezing. breathlessness , pneumonia • Triggering factors - food, weather, exercise, infection, emotion, drugs, aeroallergens • Severity - respiratory rate, colour, respiratory effort, conscious level Chest X Ray is rarely helpful in the initial assessment unless complications like pneumothorax, pneumonia or lung collapse are suspected. Initial ABG is indicated only in acute severe asthma. Management of acute asthma exacerbations • Mild attacks can be usually treated at home if the patient is prepared and has a personal asthma action plan. • Moderate and severe attacks require clinic or hospital attendance. • Asthma attacks require prompt treatment. • A patient who has brittle asthma, previous ICU admissions for asthma or with parents who are either uncomfortable or judged unable to care for the child with an acute exacerbation should be admitted to hospital. Criteria for admission • Failure to respond to standard home treatment. • Failure of those with mild or moderate acute asthma to respond to nebulised β₂-agonists. • Relapse within 4 hours of nebulised β₂- agonists. • Severe acute asthma. RESPIRATORY
  • 170. 157 The Initial Assessment is the First Step in the Management of Acute Asthma Severity of Acute Asthma Exacerbations Parameters Mild Moderate Severe LifeThreatening Breathless When walk- ing When talking Infant: Feeding difficulties At rest Infant: Stops feeding Talks in Sentences Phrases Words Unable to speak Alertness Maybe agitated Usually agitated Usually agitated Drowsy/ con- fused/ coma Respiratory rate Normal to Mildly In- creased Increased Markedly Increased Poor Respiratory Effort Accessory Muscle usage / retractions Absent Present - Moderate Present – Severe Paradoxical thoraco-abdominal movement Wheeze Moderate, often only end expira- tory Loud Usually loud Silent chest SpO2 (on air) 95% 92-95% 92% Cyanosis 92% Pulse /min 100 100-120 120(5yrs) 160 (in- fants) Bradycardia PEFR1 80% 60-80% 60% Unable to perform Footnote: 1, PEFR after initial bronchodilator, % predicted or of personal best RESPIRATORY
  • 171. 158 • Nebulised Salbutamol or MDI Salbutamol + spacer 4-6 puffs (6 yrs), 8-12 puffs (6 yrs) • Oral Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day (max 60 mg) x 3 - 5 days • Nebulised Salbutamol ± Ipratopium Bromide (3 @ 20 min intervals) + Oral Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day x 3-5 days + Oxygen 8L/min by face mask • Discharged with Improved LongTerm Treatment and AsthmaAction Plan • Short course of Oral Steroid (3-5 days) • Regular Bronchodilators 4-6Hly for a few days then given PRN. • Early Review in 2-4 weeks Continous Obervation Review after 20 min, if No Improvement then treat as Moderate Management of Acute Exarcerbation of Bronchial Asthma in Children • Nebulised Salbutamol + Ipratopium Bromide (3x @ 20 mins intervals/ continuously) + Oxygen 8L/min by face mask + IV Corticosteroid + IV Salbutamol continuous infusion 1- 5 mcg/kg/min ± Loading 15 mcg/kg over 10 minutes ± SCTerbutaline/Adrenaline ± IV Magnesium sulphate 50% bolus 0.1 mL/kg (50 mg/kg) over 20 mins Consider HDU/ICU admission ± IV Aminophylline ± MechanicalVentilation Observe for 60 min after Last Dose Admission if No Improvement MILDMODERATESEVERE/LIFETHREATENING Severity Treatment Observation Observe for 60 min after Last Dose Review RESPIRATORY
  • 172. 159 Footnotes on Management of Acute Exacerbation of Asthma: 1. Monitor pulse, colour, PEFR, ABG and O2 Saturation. Close monitoring for at least 4 hours. 2. Hydration - give maintenance fluids. 3. Role of Aminophylline debated due to its potential toxicity. To be used with caution, in a controlled environment like ICU. 4. IV Magnesium Sulphate : Consider as an adjunct treatment in severe exacerbations unresponsive to the initial treatment. It is safe and beneficial in severe acute asthma. 5. Avoid Chest physiotherapy as it may increase patient discomfort. 6. Antibiotics indicated only if bacterial infection suspected. 7. Avoid sedatives and mucolytics. 8. Efficacy of prednisolone in the first year of life is poor. 9. On discharge, patients must be provided with an Action Plan to assist parents or patients to prevent/terminate asthma attacks. The plan must include: a. How to recognize worsening asthma. b. How to treat worsening asthma. c. How and when to seek medical attention. • Salbutamol MDI vs nebulizer 6 year old: 6 x 100 mcg puff = 2.5 mg Salbutamol nebules. 6 year old: 12 x 100 mcg puff = 5.0 mg Salbutamol nebules. RESPIRATORY
  • 173. 160 Drug Dosages for Medications used in Acute Asthma Drug Formulation Dosage β₂-agonists • Salbutamol Nebuliser solution 5 mg/ml or 2.5 mg/ml nebule Intravenous 0.15 mg/kg/dose (max 5 mg) or 2 years old : 2.5 mg/dose 2 years old : 5.0 mg/dose Continuous : 500 mcg/kg/hr Bolus: 5-10 mcg/kg over 10 min Infusion: Start 0.5-1.0 mcg/kg/min, increase by 1.0 mcg/kg/min every 15 min to a max of 20 mcg/kg/min •Terbutaline Nebuliser solution 10 mg/ml, 2.5 mg/ml or 5 mg/ml respule Parenteral 0.2-0.3 mg/kg/dose, or 20 kg: 2.5 mg/dose 20 kg: 5.0 mg/dose 5-10 mcg/kg/dose • Fenoterol Nebuliser solution 0.25-1.5 mg/dose Corticosteroids • Prednisolone Oral 1-2 mg/kg/day in divided doses (for 3-7 days) • Hydrocortisone Intravenous 4-5 mg/kg/dose 6 hourly • Methylprednisolone Intravenous 1-2 mg/kg/dose 6-12 hourly Other agents Ipratropium bromide Nebuliser solution (250 mcg/ml) 5 years old : 250 mcg 4-6 hourly 5 years old : 500 mcg 4-6 hourly Aminophylline Intravenous 6 mg/kg slow bolus (if not previously on theophylline) followed by infusion 0.5-1.0 mg/kg/hr Montelukast Oral 4 mg granules 5mg/tablet on night chewable 10mg/tablet ON RESPIRATORY
  • 174. 161 Chapter 31: Viral Bronchiolitis Aetiology and Epidemiology • A common respiratory illness especially in infants aged 1 to 6 months old • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains the commonest cause of acute bronchiolitis in Malaysia. • Although it is endemic throughout the year, cyclical periodicity with annual peaks occur, in the months of November, December and January. Clinical Features • Typically presents with a mild coryza, low grade fever and cough. • Tachypnoea, chest wall recession, wheeze and respiratory distress subsequently develop. The chest may be hyperinflated and auscultation usually reveals fine crepitations and sometimes rhonchi. • A majority of children with viral bronchiolitis has mild illness and about 1% of these children require hospital admission. Guidelines for Hospital Admission in Viral Bronchiolitis Home Management Hospital management Age than 3 months No Yes Toxic – looking No Yes Chest recession Mild Moderate/Severe Central cyanosis No Yes Wheeze Yes Yes Crepitations on auscultation Yes Yes Feeding Well Difficult Apnoea No Yes Oxygen saturation 95% 93 % High risk group No Yes Chest X-ray • A wide range of radiological changes are seen in viral bronchiolitis: - Hyperinflation (most common). - Segmental collapse/consolidation. - Lobar collapse/consolidation. • A chest X-ray is not routinely required, but recommended for children with: - Severe respiratory distress. - Unusual clinical features. - An underlying cardiac or chronic respiratory disorder. - Admission to intensive care. RESPIRATORY
  • 175. 162 Management General measures • Careful assessment of the respiratory status and oxygenation is critical. • Arterial oxygenation by pulse oximetry (SpO₂) should be performed at presentation and maintained above 93%. - Administer supplemental humidified oxygen if necessary. • Monitor for signs of impending respiratory failure: - Inability to maintain satisfactory SpO₂ on inspired oxygen 40%, or a rising pCO₂. • Very young infants who are at risk of apnoea require greater vigilance. • Blood gas analysis may have a role in the assessments of infants with severe respiratory distress or who are tiring and may be entering respiratory failure. • Routine full blood count and bacteriological testing (of blood and urine) is not indicated in the assessment and management of infants with typical acute bronchiolitis . Nutrition and Fluid therapy • Feeding. Infants admitted with viral bronchiolitis frequently have poor feeding, are at risk of aspiration and may be dehydrated. Small frequent feeds as tolerated can be allowed in children with moderate respiratory distress. Nasogastric feeding, although not universally practiced, may be useful in these children who refuse feeds and to empty the dilated stomach. • Intravenous fluids for children with severe respiratory distress, cyanosis and apnoea. Fluid therapy should be restricted to maintenance requirement of 100 ml/kg/day for infants, in the absence of dehydration. Pharmacotherapy • The use of 3% saline solution via nebulizer has been shown to increase mucus clearance and significantly reduce hospital stay among non-severe acute bronchiolits. It improves clinical severity score in both outpatients and inpatients populations. • Inhaled β₂-agonists. Pooled data have indicated a modest clinical improvement with the use of β₂-agonist. A trial of nebulised β₂-agonist, given in oxygen, may be considered in infants with viral bronchiolitis. Vigilant and regular assessment of the child should be carried out. • Inhaled steroids. Randomised controlled trials of the use of inhaled or oral steroids for treatment of viral bronchiolitis show no meaningful benefit. • Antibiotics are recommended for all infants with - Recurrent apnoea and circulatory impairment. - Possibility of septicaemia. - Acute clinical deterioration. - High white cell count. - Progressive infiltrative changes on chest radiograph. • Chest physiotherapy using vibration and percussion is not recommended in infants hospitalized with acute bronchiolitis who are not admitted into intensive care unit. RESPIRATORY
  • 176. 163 Chapter 32: Viral Croup Aetiology and epidemiology • A clinical syndrome characterised by barking cough, inspiratory stridor, hoarse voice and respiratory distress of varying severity. • A result of viral inflammation of the larynx, trachea and bronchi, hence the term laryngotracheobronchitis. • The most common pathogen is parainfluenza virus (74%), (types 1, 2 and 3). The others are Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Influenza virus types A and B, Adenovirus, Enterovirus, Measles, Mumps and Rhinoviruses and rarely Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Corynebacterium Diptheriae. Clinical Features • Low grade fever, cough and coryza for 12-72 hours, followed by: • Increasingly bark-like cough and hoarseness. • Stridor that may occur when excited, at rest or both. • Respiratory distress of varying degree. Diagnosis • Croup is a clinical diagnosis. Studies show that it is safe to visualise the pharynx to exclude acute epiglotitis, retropharyngeal abscess etc. • In severe croup, it is advisable to examine the pharynx under controlled conditions, i.e. in the ICU or Operation Theatre. • A neck Radiograph is not necessary, unless the diagnosis is in doubt, such as in the exclusion of a foreign body. Assessment of severity Clinical Assessment of Croup (Wagener) • Severity • Mild: Stridor with excitement or at rest, with no respiratory distress. • Moderate: Stridor at rest with intercostal, subcostal or sternal recession. • Severe: Stridor at rest with marked recession, decreased air entry and altered level of consciousness. • Pulse oximetry is helpful but not essential • Arterial blood gas is not helpful because the blood parameters may remain normal to the late stage. The process of blood taking may distress the child. Management Indications for Hospital admission • Moderate and severe viral croup. • Age less than 6 months. • Poor oral intake. • Toxic, sick appearance. • Family lives a long distance from hospital; lacks reliable transport. Treatment (ref Algorithm on next page) • The sustained action of steroids combined with the quick action of adrenaline may reduce the rate of intubation from 3% to nil. • Antibiotics are not recommended unless bacterial super-infection is strongly suspected or the patient is very ill. • IV fluids are not usually necessary except for those unable to drink. RESPIRATORY
  • 177. 164 RESPIRATORY •Dexamethasone(Preferred) Oral/Parenteral0.15kg/singledose Mayrepeatat12and24hours •Prednisolone 1-2mg/kg/stat •NebulisedBudesonide(ifvomiting) 2mgsingledoseonly Mild •Dexamethasone Oral/Parenteral0.3-0.6mg/kg, singledose •NebulisedBudesonide 2mgstatand1mg12hrly •NebulisedAdrenaline 0.5mls/kg1:1000(Maxdose5mls) •Dexamethasone Parenteral0.3-0.6mg/kg •NebulisedBudesonide 2mgstat,1mg12hrly •Oxygen ModerateSevere Improvement NoImprovement orDeterioration •NebulisedAdrenaline 0.5mls/kg1:1000(Maxdose5mls) NoImprovement orDeterioration IntubateandVentilateHome OutpatientInpatientInpatient OR AND /OR OR AND AND AND AlgorithmfortheManagementofViralCroup Footnote: •Thedecisiontointubateundercontrolledconditions(inOperationTheatreorIntensiveCareUnit,withstandbyfortracheostomy) isbasedonclinicalcriteria,oftenfromincreasingrespiratorydistress. •Indicationsforoxygentherapyinclude:1.severeviralcroup;2.percutaneousSpO293% •Withoxygentherapy,SpO2maybenormaldespiteprogressiverespiratoryfailureandahighPaCO2.Henceclinicalassessmentisimportant.
  • 178. 165 Chapter 33: Pneumonia Definition There are two clinical definitions of pneumonia: • Bronchopneumonia: a febrile illness with cough, respiratory distress with evidence of localised or generalised patchy infiltrates. • Lobar pneumonia: similar to bronchopneumonia except that the physical findings and radiographs indicate lobar consolidation. Aetiology • Specific aetiological agents are not identified in 40% to 60% of cases. • It is often difficult to distinguish viral from bacterial disease. • The majority of lower respiratory tract infections are viral in origin, e.g.Respiratory syncytial virus, Influenza A or B, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza virus. • A helpful indicator in predicting aetiological agents is the age group. The predominant bacterial pathogens are shown in the table below: Pathogens for Pneumonia Age Bacterial Pathogens Newborns Group B streptococcus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacteriaceae Infants 1- 3 months Chlamydia trachomatis Preschool age Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b, Staphylococcal aureus Less common: Group A Streptococcus, Moraxella catarrhalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa School age Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae Assessment of Severity in Pneumonia Age 2 months Age 2 months - 5 years Severe Pneumonia Mild Pneumonia • Severe chest indrawing • Tachypnoea • Tachypnoea Severe Pneumonia • Chest indrawing Very Severe Pneumonia Very Severe Pneumonia • Not feeding • Not able to drink • Convulsions • Convulsions • Abnormally sleepy, difficult to wake • Drowsiness • Fever, or Hypothermia • Malnutrition RESPIRATORY
  • 179. 166 Assessment of severity of pneumonia The predictive value of respiratory rate for the diagnosis of pneumonia may be improved by making it age specific. Tachypnoea is defined as follows : 2 months age: 60 /min 2- 12 months age: 50 /min 12 months – 5 years age: 40 /min Investigations and assessment Children with bacterial pneumonia cannot be reliably distinguished from those with viral disease on the basis of any single parameter: Clinical, laboratory or chest X-ray findings. • Chest radiograph • Indicated when clinical criteria suggest pneumonia. • Does not differentiate aetiological agents. • Not always necessary if facilities are not available or if pneumonia is mild. • White blood cell count • Increased counts with predominance of polymorphonuclear cells suggests bacterial cause. • Leucopenia suggests either a viral cause or severe overwhelming infection. • Blood culture • Non-invasive gold standard for determining the precise aetiology. • Sensitivity is low: Positive blood cultures only in 10%-30% of patients. • Do cultures in severe pneumonia or if poor response to first line antibiotics. • Pleural fluid analysis • If there is significant pleural effusion, a diagnostic pleural tap will be helpful. • Serological tests • Serology is performed in patients with suspected atypical pneumonia, i.e. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia, Legionella, Moraxella catarrhalis • Acute phase serum titre 1:160 or paired samples taken 2-4 weeks apart with a 4 fold rise is a good indicator of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. • This test should be considered for children aged five years or older. Assessment of oxygenation • Objective measurement of hypoxia by pulse oximetry avoids the need for arterial blood gases. It is a good indicator of the severity of pneumonia. Criteria for hospitalization • Community acquired pneumonia can be treated at home • Identify indicators of severity in children who need admission, as pneumonia can be fatal. The following indicators can be used as a guide for admission: • Children aged 3 months and below, whatever the severity of pneumonia. • Fever ( more than 38.5 ⁰C ), refusal to feed and vomiting • Fast breathing with or without cyanosis • Associated systemic manifestation • Failure of previous antibiotic therapy • Recurrent pneumonia • Severe underlying disorder, e.g. Immunodeficiency RESPIRATORY
  • 180. 167 Antibiotics • When treating pneumonia, consider clinical, laboratory, radiographic findings, as well as age of the child, and the local epidemiology of respiratory pathogens and resistance/sensitivity patterns to microbial agents. • Severity of the pneumonia and drug costs also impact on selection of therapy. • Majority of infections are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Bacterial pathogens and Recommended antimicrobial agents. Pathogen Antimicrobial agent Beta-lactamsusceptible • Streptococcuspneumonia Penicillin,cephalosporins • Haemophilusinfluenzaetypeb Ampicillin,chloramphenicol,cephalosporins • Staphylococcusaureus Cloxacillin • GroupAStreptococcus Penicillin,cephalosporin Mycoplasmapneumoniae Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin Chlamydiapneumoniae Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin Bordetellapertussis Macrolides,e.g.erythromycin,azithromycin INPATIENT MANAGEMENT Antibiotics For children with severe pneumonia, the following antibiotics are recommended: Suggested antimicrobial agents for inpatient treatment of pneumonia First line Beta-lactams: Benzylpenicillin, moxycillin, ampicillin, amoxycillin-clavulanate Second line Cephalosporins: Cefotaxime, cefuroxime, ceftazidime Third line Carbapenem: Imipenam Other agents Aminoglycosides: Gentamicin, amikacin • Second line antibiotics need to be considered when : • There are no signs of recovery • Patients remain toxic and ill with spiking temperature for 48 - 72 hours • A macrolide antibiotic is used in pneumonia from Mycoplasma or Chlamydia. • A child admitted to hospital with severe community acquired pneumonia must receive parenteral antibiotics. As a rule, in severe cases of pneumonia, combination therapy using a second or third generation cephalosporins and macrolide should be given. • Staphylococcal infections and infections caused by Gram negative organisms such as Klebsiella have been frequently reported in malnourished children. RESPIRATORY
  • 181. 168 Staphylococcal infection • Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for a small proportion of cases. • A high index of suspicion is required because of the potential for rapid deterioration. It chiefly occurs in infants with a significant risk of mortality. • Radiological features include multilobar consolidation, cavitation, pneumatocoeles, spontaneous pneumothorax, empyema, pleural effusion. • Treat with high dose Cloxacillin (200 mg/kg/day) for a longer duration • Drainage of empyema often results in a good outcome. Necrotising pneumonia and pneumatocoeles • It is a result of localized bronchiolar and alveolar necrosis. • Aetiological agents are bacteria, e.g. Staphylococcal aureus, S. Pneumonia, H. Influenza, Klebsiella pneumonia and E. coli. • Give IV antibiotics until child shows signs of improvement. • Total antibiotics course duration of 3 to 4 weeks. • Most pneumatocoeles disappear, with radiological evidence resolving within the first two months but may take as long as 6 months. Supportive treatment • Fluids • Withhold oral intake when a child is in severe respiratory distress. • In severe pneumonia, secretion of anti-diuretic hormone is increased and as such dehydration is uncommon. Avoid overhydrating the child. • Oxygen • Oxygen reduces mortality associated with severe pneumonia. • It should be given especially to children who are restless, and tachypnoeic with severe chest indrawing, cyanosis, or is not tolerating feeds. • Maintain the SpO₂ 95%. • Cough medication • Not recommended as it causes suppression of cough and may interfere with airway clearance. Adverse effects and overdosage have been reported. • Temperature control • Reduces discomfort from symptoms, as paracetamol will not abolish fever. • Chest physiotherapy • This assists in the removal of tracheobronchial secretions: removes airway obstruction, increase gas exchange and reduce the work of breathing. • No evidence that chest physiotherapy should be routinely done. OUTPATIENT MANAGEMENT • In children with mild pneumonia, their breathing is fast but there is no chest indrawing. • Oral antibiotics can be prescribed. • Educate parents/caregivers about management of fever, preventing dehydration and identifying signs of deterioration. • The child should return in two days for reassessment, or earlier if the condition is getting worse. RESPIRATORY
  • 182. 169 References Section 3 Respiratory Medicine Chapter 30 Asthma 1.Guidelines for the Management of Childhood Asthma - Ministry of Health, Malaysia and Academy of Medicine, Malaysia 2.Pocket Guide for Asthma Management and Prevention 2007 – Global Initia- tive for Asthma (GINA) 3.British Thoracic Society Guidelines on Asthma Management 1995. Thorax 1997; 52 (Suppl 1) 4.Paediatric Montelukast Study Group. Montelukast for Chronic Asthma in 6 -14 year old children. JAMA April 1998. 5.Pauwels et al. FACET International Study Group 1997. NEJM 1997; 337: 1405-1411. 6.Jenkins et al. Salmeterol/Fluticasone propionate combination therapy 50/250ug bd is more effective than budesonide 800ug bd in treating mod- erate to severe asthma. Resp Medicine 2000; 94: 715-723. Chapter 31 Viral Bronchiolitis 1.Chan PWK, Goh AYT, Chua KB, Khairullah NS, Hooi PS. Viral aetiology of lower respiratory tract infection in young Malaysian children. J Paediatric Child Health 1999 ; 35 :287-90. 2.Chan PWK, Goh AYT, Lum LCS. Severe bronchiolitis in Malaysian children. J Trop Pediatr 2000; 46: 234 – 6 3.Bronciholitis in children: Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. 4.Nebulised hypertonic saline solution for acute bronchiolitis in infants Zhang L,Mendoza –Sassi RA, Wainwright C, Klassen TP- Cochrane Summary 2011. Chapter 32 Viral Croup 1.AG Kaditis, E R Wald : Viral croup; current diagnosis and treatment. Pediat- ric Infectious Disease Journal 1998:7:827-34. Chapter 33 Pneumonia 1.World Health Organisation. Classification of acute respiratory infections in WHO/ARI/91.20 Geneva. World Health Organisation 991, p.11-20 2.Schttze GE, Jacobs RF. Management of community-acquired pneumonia in hospitalised children. Pediatric Infectious Dis J 1992 11:160-164 3.Harris M, ClarkJ, Coote N, Fletcher P et al: British Thoracic Society guide- lines for the management of community acquired pneumonia in children: update 2011. RESPIRATORY
  • 184. 171 Chapter 34: Paediatric Electrocardiography Age related changes in the anatomy and physiology of infants and children produce normal ranges for electrocardiographic features that differ from adults and vary with age. Awareness of these differences is the key to correct interpretation of paediatric ECG. ECG should be interpreted systematically • Heart rate, Rhythm • P wave axis, amplitude, duration • PR interval • QRS axis, amplitude, duration • ST segment and T waves • QT interval and QTc (QTc = measured QT interval / square root of R-R interval) Normal values for Heart rate in children Age Heart Rate (bpm) Mean Range 1 day 119 94 – 145 1 – 7 days 133 100 – 175 3 – 30 days 163 115 – 190 1 – 3 months 154 124 – 190 3 – 6 months 140 111 – 179 6 – 12 months 140 112 – 177 1 – 3 years 126 98 – 163 3 – 5 years 98 65 – 132 5 – 8 years 96 70 – 115 8 – 12 years 79 55 – 107 12 – 16 years 75 55 – 102 Normal values in Paediatric ECG Age PR interval (ms) QRS duration (ms) R wave (S wave) amplitude (mm) LeadV1 LeadV6 Birth 80 – 160 75 5 - 26 (1 - 23) 0 - 12 (0 - 10) 6 months 70 – 150 75 3 - 20 (1 - 17) 6 - 22 (0 - 10) 1 year 70 – 150 75 2 - 20 (1 - 20) 6 - 23 (0 - 7) 5 years 80 – 160 80 1 - 16 (2 - 22) 8 - 25 (0 - 5) 10 years 90 – 170 85 1 - 12 (3 - 25) 9 - 26 (0 - 4) CARDIOLOGY The ECG cycle
  • 185. 172 Age Group ECG Characteristics Premature infants ( 35 weeks gestation) • Left posterior QRS axis. • Relative LV dominant; smaller R inV1, taller R inV6. Full term infant • Right axis deviation (30° to 180°) RV dominant. •Tall R inV1, Deep S inV6, R/S ratio 1 inV1. •T wave inV1 may be upright for 48 hours. 1 to 6 months • Less right axis deviation (10° to 120°). • RV remains dominant. • Negative T waves across right praecordial leads. 6 months to 3 years • QRS axis 90°. • R wave dominant inV6. • R/S ratio ≤ 1 inV1. 3 to 8 years • Adult QRS progression in praecordial leads. • LV dominant, Dominant S inV1, R inV6. • Q wave inV5-6 (amplitude 5 mm). Important normal variants • T wave inversion of right praecordial leads (V1 – V3): normal findings from day 2 of life until late teens. An upright T wave in V1 before 8 years old is indicative of RVH. • Q wave may be seen in leads I, aVL, V5 and V6 provided amplitude 5 mm. • RSR’ pattern of right praecordial leads: normal in children provided QRS duration 10 msec and R’ amplitude 15 mm (infants) or 10 mm (children.) • Elevated J point: normal in some adolescents Criteria for Right Ventricular Hypertrophy • R 20 mm in V1 at all ages • S 14 mm (0 to 7 days); 10mm (1 week - 6 mths); 7mm (6 mths - 1 year); 5mm ( 1 year) in V6. • R/S ratio 6.5 (0 - 3 mths); 4.0 (3 - 6 mths); 2.4 (6 mths - 3 years); 1.6 (3 to 5 years); 0.8 (6 to 15 years) in V1 • T wave upright in V4R or V1 after 72 hrs of life • Presence of Q wave in V1 Criteria for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy • S 20 mm in V1 • R 20mm in V6 • S (V1) + R (V6) 40mm over 1 year of age; 30mm if 1year • Q wave 4 mm in V5-6 • T wave inversion in V5-6 CARDIOLOGY
  • 186. 173 Chapter 35: Congenital Heart Disease in the Newborn Introduction • Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompass a spectrum of structural abnormalities of the heart or intrathoracic vessels. • Commonly presents in the newborn with central cyanosis, heart failure, sudden collapse or heart murmur. Central Cyanosis • Bluish discoloration of lips and mucous membranes. • Caused by excess deoxygenated haemoglobin ( 5 Gm/dL), confirmed by pulse oxymetry (SpO2 85%) or ABG. Causes of Cyanosis in the Newborn Cyanotic Heart Disease Obstructed pulmonary flow Pulmonary atresia, Critical pulmonary stenosis,Tetralogy of Fallot Discordant ventriculo-arterial connection Transposition of great arteries. Common mixing Single ventricle,Truncus arteriosus,Tricuspid atresia,Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage Primary Pulmonary Disorders Parenchymal disease Meconium aspiration syndrome, Respiratory distress syndrome, Congenital pneumonia Extraparenchymal disease Pneumothorax, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia Persistent pulmonary hypertension of newborn Primary Secondary Meconium aspiration, Perinatal asphyxia, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia Severe polycythaemia Methaemoglobinuria CARDIOLOGY
  • 187. 174 Heart Failure Clinical presentation may mimic pulmonary disease or sepsis: • Tachypnoea • Tachycardia • Hepatomegaly • Weak pulses Causes of Heart Faliure in the Newborn Structural Heart Lesions Obstructive Left Heart lesions Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, critical aortic stenosis, severe coarctation of aorta SevereValvular Regurgitation Truncal arteriosus with truncal valve regurgitation Large Left to Right Shunts Patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defects, truncus arteriosus, aortopulmonary collaterals Obstructed PulmonaryVenous Drainage Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage Myocardial Diseases Cardiomyopathy Infant of diabetic mother, familial, idiopathic Ischaemic Anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery, perinatal asphyxia Myocarditis Arrhythmia Atrial flutter, SVT, congenital heart block Extracardiac Severe anaemia Neonatal thyrotoxicosis Fulminant sepsis CARDIOLOGY
  • 188. 175 Sudden Collapse Can be difficult to be distinguished from sepsis or metabolic disorders: • Hypotension • Extreme cyanosis • Metabolic acidosis • Oliguria Challenges and Pitfalls • Cyanosis is easily missed in the presence of anaemia. • Difficulty to differentiate cyanotic heart disease from non-cardiac causes • Indistinguishable clinical presentations between left heart obstructive lesions and severe sepsis or metabolic disorders. • Possibility of congenital heart disease not considered in management of sick infant. Congenital heart lesions that may present with sudden collapse Duct-dependent systemic circulation Coarctation of aorta, Critical aortic stenosis, Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Interrupted aortic arch Duct-dependent pulmonary circulation Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum,Tricuspid atresia with pulmonary atresia, Single ventricle with pulmonary atresia, Critical pulmonary stenosis Transposition of great arteries without septal defect Obstructed total anomalous pulmonary drainage CARDIOLOGY
  • 189. 176 Clinical Approach to Infants with Congenital Heart Disease History • Antenatal scans (cardiac malformation, fetal arrhythmias, hydrops). • Family history of congenital heart disease. • Maternal illness: diabetes, rubella, teratogenic medications. • Perinatal problems: prematurity, meconium aspiration, perinatal asphyxia. Physical Examination • Dysmorphism: Trisomy 21, 18, 13; Turner syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome. • Central cyanosis. • Differential cyanosis (SpO₂ lower limbs upper limbs). • Tachypnoea. • Weak or unequal pulses. • Heart murmur. • Hepatomegaly. Investigations • Chest X-ray • Hyperoxia test: • Administer 100% oxygen via headbox at 15 L/min for 15 mins. • ABG taken from right radial artery. • Cyanotic heart diseases: pO₂ 100 mmHg; rise in pO₂ is 20 mmHg. (note: in severe lung diseases PPHN, pO₂ can be 100 mmHg). • Echocardiography. General principles of management • Initial stabilization: secure airway, adequate ventilation, circulatory support • Correct metabolic acidosis, electrolyte derangements, hypoglycaemia; prevent hypothermia. • Empirical treatment with IV antibiotics. • Early cardiology consultation. • IV Prostaglandin E infusion if duct-dependent lesions suspected: • Starting dose: 10 – 40 ng/kg/min; maintenance: 2 – 10 ng/kg/min. • Adverse effects: apnoea, fever, hypotension. • If unresponsive to IV prostaglandin E, consider: • Transposition of great arteries, obstructed total anomalous pulmonary. venous drainage. • Blocked IV line. • Non-cardiac diagnosis. • Arrangement to transfer to regional cardiac center once stabilized. CARDIOLOGY
  • 191. 178 SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR COMMON LESIONS LEFT TO RIGHT SHUNTS Atrial septal defects (ASD) Small defects: • No treatment. Large defects: • Elective closure at 4-5 years age. Ventricular septal defects (VSD) Small defects: • No treatment; high rate of spontaneous closure. • SBE prophylaxis. • Yearly follow up for aortic valve prolapse, regurgitation. • Surgical closure indicated if prolapsed aortic valve. Moderate defects: • Anti-failure therapy if heart failure. • Surgical closure if: • Heart failure not controlled by medical therapy. • Persistent cardiomegaly on chest X-ray. • Elevated pulmonary arterial pressure. • Aortic valve prolapse or regurgitation. • One episode of infective endocarditis. Large defects: • Early primary surgical closure. • Pulmonary artery banding followed by VSD closure in multiple VSDs. Persistent ductus arteriosus (PDA) Small PDA: • No treatment if there is no murmur • If murmur present: elective closure as risk of endarteritis. Moderate to large PDA: • Anti-failure therapy if heart failure • Timing, method of closure (surgical vs transcatheter) depends on symptom severity, size of PDA and body weight. Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD) Partial AVSD (ASD primum): • Elective surgical repair at 4 to 5 years old; earlier if symptomatic or severe AV valve regurgitation. Complete AVSD: • Primary surgical repair 6 mths age to prevent pulmonary vascular disease. • In selected patients - e.g. with severe AV valve regurgitation and older patients, conservative treatment is an option as surgical outcomes are poor. CARDIOLOGY
  • 192. 179 OBSTRUCTIVE LESIONS Pulmonary stenosis (PS) Mild (peak systolic gradient 50 mmHg) • No treatment. Moderate-severe (gradient 50 mmHg) • Transcatheter balloon valvuloplasty is treatment of choice. Neonatal critical PS: • Characterized with cyanosis and RV dysfunction. • Temporary stabilization with IV Prostaglandin E infusion. • Early transcatheter balloon valvuloplasty. Note: SBE prophylaxis is indicated in all cases Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) Neonatal severe CoA: • Frequently associated with large malaligned VSD, intractable heart failure. • Sick infants require temporary stabilization: • Mechanical ventilation. • Correction of metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia, electrolyte disorders. • IV Prostaglandin E infusion. • Early surgical repair (single-stage CoA repair + VSD closure or 2 stage CoA repair followed by VSD closure at later date). Asymptomatic / older children with discrete CoA: • Presents with incidental hypertension or heart murmur. • Choice of treatment (primary transcatheter balloon angioplasty, stent implantation or surgical repair) depends on morphology of CoA and age of presentation. CYANOTIC HEART LESIONS Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) • Most TOFs suitable for single stage surgical repair at 1 to 2 years age • Indications for modified Blalock Taussig shunt: • Hypercyanotic spells or severe cyanosis 6 months age when child is too young for total repair. • Small pulmonary arteries; to promote growth before definitive repair • Anomalous coronary artery crossing in front of right ventricular outflow tract - precludes transannular incision; repair with conduit required at later age. • Following surgical repair, patients need life-long follow up for late right ventricular dysfunction; some may require pulmonary valve replacement. Tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia • IV prostaglandin E infusion is often required during early neonatal period • Further management strategy depends on the anatomy of the pulmonary arteries and presence of aortopulmonary collaterals. CARDIOLOGY
  • 193. 180 Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum • IV prostaglandin E infusion to maintain ductal patency in early neonatal period • Further management strategy depends on the degree of right ventricular hypoplasia. Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) Simple TGA (intact ventricular septum) • IV Prostaglandin E infusion promotes intercirculatory mixing at PDA. • Early balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) if restrictive interatrial communication. • Surgical repair of choice: arterial switch operation at 2 to 4 weeks age • Left ventricular regression may occur if repair not performed within 4 weeks of life. TGA with VSD: • Does not usually require intervention during early neonatal period; may develop heart failure at 1 to 2 months age. • Elective one-stage arterial switch operation + VSD closure 3 months age. TGA with VSD and PS: • Blalock Taussig shunt during infancy followed by Rastelli repair at 4 to 6 years age. Truncus arteriosus • Surgical repair (VSD closure and RV-to-PA conduit) before 3 months of age. Single ventricle Includes 3 main categories of lesions: • Double inlet ventricles: double inlet left ventricle, double inlet right ventricle. • Atretic or stenosed atrioventricular connections: Tricuspid atresia, mitral atresia, hypoplastic left heart syndrome. • Miscellaneous lesions which preclude biventricular circulation: Unbalanced AV septal defect, Double outlet right ventricle with remote VSD, Congenital corrected transposition of great arteries, Heterotaxy syndromes. Requires staged management approach for eventual Fontan procedure. Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage • 4 major anatomic types: supracardiac, cardiac, infracardiac and mixed. • Management strategy depends on presence of pulmonary venous obstruction: • Obstructed pulmonary venous drainage (frequent in infracardiac type) - Presents with respiratory distress and heart failure. - Initial stabilization: oxygen, diuretics, positive pressure ventilation. - Surgical repair immediately after initial stabilization. • Unobstructed pulmonary venous drainage - Early surgical repair is required. CARDIOLOGY
  • 194. 181 Chapter 36: Hypercyanotic Spell Introduction Sudden severe episodes of intense cyanosis caused by reduction of pulmonary flow in patients with underlying Tetralogy of Fallot or other cyanotic heart lesions. This is due to spasm of the right ventricular outflow tract or reduction in systemic vascular resistance (e.g. hypovolaemia) with resulting increased in right to left shunt across the VSD. Clinical Presentation • Peak incidence age: 3 to 6 months. • Often in the morning, can be precipitated by crying, feeding, defaecation. • Severe cyanosis, hyperpnoea, metabolic acidosis. • In severe cases, may lead to syncope, seizure, stroke or death. • There is a reduced intensity of systolic murmur during spell. Management • Treat this as a medical emergency. • Knee-chest/squatting position: • Place the baby on the mother’s shoulder with the knees tucked up underneath. • This provides a calming effect, reduces systemic venous return and increases systemic vascular resistance. • Administer 100% oxygen • Give IV/IM/SC morphine 0.1 – 0.2 mg/kg to reduce distress and hyperpnoea. If the above measures fail: • Give IV Propranolol 0.05 – 0.1 mg/kg slow bolus over 10 mins. • Alternatively, IV Esmolol 0.5 mg/kg slow bolus over 1 min, followed by 0.05 mg/kg/min for 4 mins. • Can be given as continuous IV infusion at 0.01 – 0.02 mg/kg/min. • Esmolol is an ultra short acting beta blocker • Volume expander (crystalloid or colloid) 20 ml/kg rapid IV push to increase preload. • Give IV sodium bicarbonate 1 mEq/kg to correct metabolic acidosis. • Heavy sedation, intubation and mechanical ventilation. In resistant cases, consider • IV Phenylephrine / Noradrenaline infusion to increase systemic vascular resistance and reduce right to left shunt. • emergency Blalock Taussig shunt. Other notes: • A single episode of hypercyanotic spell is an indication for early surgical referral (either total repair or Blalock Taussig shunt). • Oral propranolol 0.2 – 1 mg/kg/dose 8 to 12 hourly should be started soon after stabilization while waiting for surgical intervention. CARDIOLOGY
  • 196. 183 Chapter 37: Heart Failure Definition Defined as the inability to provide adequate cardiac output to meet the metabolic demand of the body. Causes of heart failure • Congenital structural heart lesions: more common during infancy. • Primary myocardial, acquired valvular diseases: more likely in older children. Causes of Heart Failure Congenital heart disease Acquired valvular disease Left to right shunt lesions • Chronic rheumatic valvular diseases • VSD, PDA,AVSD,ASD • Post infective endocarditis Obstructive left heart lesions Myocardial disease • Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Primary cardiomyopathy • Coarctation of aorta, aortic stenosis • Idiopathic, familial Common mixing unrestricted pulmonary flow Secondary cardiomyopathy • Truncus arteriosus,TAPVD, tricuspid atresia with • Arrhythmia-induced: congenital heart block, atrial ectopic tachycardia •TGA, single ventricle, pulmonary atresia withVSD, • Infection: post viral myocarditis, Chagas disease • Large aortopulmonary collateral • Ischaemic: Kawasaki disease Valvular regurgitation • Myopathic: muscular dystrophy, • AV valve regurgitation,Ebstein anomaly • Pompe disease, mitochondrial dis. • Semilunar valve regurgitation • Metabolic: hypothyroidism Myocardial ischaemia • Drug-induced: anthracycline • Anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery. • Others: iron overload (thalassaemia) Acute myocarditis • Viral, rheumatic, Kawasaki disease Clinical presentation • Varies with age of presentation. • Symptoms of heart failure in infancy: • Feeding difficulty: poor suck, prolonged time to feed, sweating during feed. • Recurrent chest infections. • Failure to thrive. CARDIOLOGY
  • 197. 184 CARDIOLOGY • Signs of heart failure in infancy: • Resting tachypnoea, subcostal recession. • Tachycardia, Poor peripheral pulses, poor peripheral perfusion. • Hyperactive praecordium, praecordial bulge. • Hepatomegaly. • Wheezing. • Common signs of heart failure in adults, i.e. increased jugular venous pressure, leg oedema and basal lung crackles are not usually found in children. Treatment General measures • Oxygen supplementation, propped up position • Keep warm, gentle handling. • Fluid restriction to ¾ normal maintenance if not dehydrated or in shock • Optimize caloric intake; low threshold for nasogastric feeding; - consider overnight continuous infusion feeds. • Correct anaemia, electrolyte imbalance, treat concomitant chest infections Antifailure medications • Frusemide (loop diuretic) • Dose: 1 mg/kg/dose OD to QID, oral or IV • Continuous IV infusion at 0.1 – 0.5 mg/kg/hour if severe fluid overload • Use with potassium supplements (1 - 2 mmol/kg/day) or add potassium sparing diuretics. • Spironolactone (potassium sparing diuretic, modest diuretic effect) • Dose: 1 mg/kg/dose BD • Captopril • Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, afterload reduction agent • Dose: 0.1 mg/kg/dose TDS, gradual increase up to 1 mg/kg/dose TDS • Monitor potassium level (risk of hyperkalaemia) • Digoxin • Role controversial • Useful in heart failure with excessive tachycardia, supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. • IV inotropic agents - i.e. Dopamine, Dobutamine, Adrenaline, Milrinone • Use in acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, post-op low output syndrome. Specific management • Establishment of definitive aetiology is of crucial importance • Specific treatment targeted to underlying aetiology. Examples: • Surgical/transcatheter treatment of congenital heart lesion. • Pacemaker implantation for heart block. • Control of blood pressure in post-infectious glomerulonephritis. • High dose aspirin ± steroid in acute rheumatic carditis.
  • 198. 185 Chapter 38: Acute Rheumatic Failure Introduction • An inflammatory disease of childhood resulting from untreated Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) pharyngeal infections. • Peak incidence 5 to 15 years; more common in females. Diagnostic criteria forAcute Rheumatic Fever Major Criteria Minor Criteria Investigations Carditis Fever (Temp 38 o C) FBC: anaemia, leucocytosis Polyarthritis, aseptic monoarthritis or polyarthralgia ESR 30 mm/h or CRP 30 mg/L Elevated ESR and CRP Throat swab,ASOT Blood culture Chorea Prolonged PR interval CXR, ECG. Erythema marginatum Echocardiogram Subcutaneous nodules Making the Diagnosis: • Initial episode of ARF: 2 major criteria or 1 major + 2 minor criteria, + evidence of a preceding group A streptococcal infection • Recurrent attack of ARF: (known past ARF or RHD) 2 major criteria or 1 major + 2 minor criteria or 3 minor criteria, + evidence of a preceding group A streptococcal infection Note: 1. Evidence of carditis: cardiomegaly, cardiac failure, pericarditis, tachycardia out of proportion to fever, pathological or changing murmurs. 2.Abbrevations:ARF,Acute Rheumatic Fever; RHD, Rheumatic Heart Disease Treatment Aim to suppress inflammatory response so as to minimize cardiac damage, provide symptomatic relief and eradicate pharyngeal streptococcal infection • Bed rest. Restrict activity until acute phase reactants return to normal. • Anti-streptococcal therapy: • IV C. Penicillin 50 000U/kg/dose 6H or Oral Penicillin V 250 mg 6H (30kg), 500 mg 6H (30kg) for 10 days • Oral Erythromycin for 10 days if allergic to penicillin. • Anti-inflammatory therapy • mild / no carditis: Oral Aspirin 80-100 mg/kg/day in 4 doses for 2-4 weeks, tapering over 4 weeks. • pericarditis, or moderate to severe carditis: Oral Prednisolone 2 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses for 2 - 4 weeks, taper with addition of aspirin as above. CARDIOLOGY
  • 199. 186 CARDIOLOGY • anti-failure medications • Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, digoxin (to be used with caution). Important: • Consider early referral to a Paediatric cardiologist if heart failure persists or worsens during the acute phase despite aggressive medical therapy. Surgery may be indicated. Secondary Prophylaxis of Rheumatic Fever • IM Benzathine Penicillin 0.6 mega units (30 kg) or 1.2 mega units (30 kg) every 3 to 4 weeks. • Oral Penicillin V 250 mg twice daily. • Oral Erythromycin 250 mg twice daily if allergic to Penicillin. Duration of prophylaxis • Until age 21 years or 5 years after last attack of ARF whichever was longer • Lifelong for patients with carditis and valvular involvement.
  • 200. 187 Chapter 39: Infective Endocarditis Introduction An uncommon condition but has a high morbidity and mortality if untreated. Underlying risk factors include: • Congenital heart disease • Repaired congenital heart defects • Congenital or acquired valvular heart diseases • Immunocompromised patients with indwelling central catheters Common symptoms are unexplained remitting fever 1 week, loss of weight, loss of appetite and myalgia. Modified Duke Criteria for the Diagnosis of Infective Endocarditis Major Criteria Minor Criteria • Blood culture positive: Typical microorganisms from two separate blood cultures: • Predisposing heart condition, prior heart surgery, indwelling catheter • Fever, temperature 38°C • Viridans streptococci • Vascular phenomena: • Streptococcus bovis • Major arterial emboli • HACEK group1 • Septic pulmonary infarcts • Staphylococcus aureus • Mycotic aneurysm • Community-acquired enterococci • Intracranial hemorrhage, • Conjunctival hemorrhages • Evidence of endocardial involvement on echocardiogram • Janeway’s lesions • Immunologic phenomena: • Gomerulonephritis Footnote: 1,Fastidious gram negative bacteria from Haemophilus spp, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens and Kingella kingae • Osler’s nodes • Roth’s spots • Positive Rheumatoid factor • Microbiological evidence: • Positive blood culture not meeting major criterion CARDIOLOGY
  • 201. 188 CARDIOLOGY Definition of Infective Endocarditis According to the Modified Duke Criteria Definite IE Possible IE Rejected IE Pathological criteria • Microorganisms by • Culture • Histological examination of vegetation or intra- cardiac abscess specimen. • pathological lesions with active endocarditis. Clinical criteria • 2 major or • 1 major + 3 minor or • 5 minor • 1 major + 1 minor criteria OR • 3 minor • Firm alternative diagnosis • Resolution of symptoms with antibiotic therapy 4 days. • No pathological evidence of IE at surgery or autopsy. • Not meet criteria for possible IE. Footnote: IE,Infective Endocarditis Investigations • Blood culture • C- Reactive protein/ESR • Full blood count • Urine FEME • Chest X-ray • Echocardiography Management • Ensure3bloodculturestakenbefore antibiotictherapy. • Donotwaitforechocardiography. • Useempiricalantibiotics,untilcultureresultsavailable(seeTableonfacingpage).
  • 202. 189 AntibioticchoicesforInfectiveendocarditisinChildren(AdaptedfromMalaysianCPGonantibioticusage) IndicationPreferredRegimeAlternativeRegime EmpiricalTherapy ForInfective Endocarditis IVPenicillinG200,000U/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx4wks AND IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks AND IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks Streptococcus viridans endocarditis IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks AND IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks IVVancomycin30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks AND IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx2wks Enterococcus endocarditis IVPenicillinG300,000U/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx 4-6wksAND IVGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks Methicillinsensitive Staphylococcus endocarditis IVCloxacillin200mg/kg/dayin4-6divdosesx6wks +/- IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx3-5days Penicillinallergy MethicillinResistance IVCefazolin100mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx6wks IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2-4divdosesx6wks IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks Culture-Negative Endocarditis IVAmpicillin-Sulbactam300mg/kg/dayin4-6divdoses x4-6wks AND IVGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks IVVancomycin40mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4–6wks AND IV/IMGentamicin3mg/kg/dayin3divdosesx4-6wks AND IVCiprofloxacin20-30mg/kg/dayin2divdosesx4-6wks FungalEndocarditis Candidasppor Aspergillosis IVAmphotericinB6weeks ANDValvereplacementsurgery ANDLong-term(lifelong)therapywithOralazole CARDIOLOGY
  • 203. 190 Guidelines on Infective Endocarditis (IE) prophylaxis IE prophylaxis Recommended IE prophylaxis Not Recommended High-risk category • Prosthetic cardiac valves. • Previous bacterial endocarditis. • Complex cyanotic congenital heart disease. • Surgical systemic pulmonary shunts or conduits. Negligible-risk category • Isolated secundum ASD. • Repaired ASD,VSD, PDA ( 6 mths) • Mitral valve prolapse without regurgitation. • Functional, or innocent heart murmurs. • Previous Kawasaki disease without valvar dysfunction. • Previous rheumatic fever without valvar dysfunction. • Cardiac pacemakers and implanted defibrillators. Moderate-risk category • Other congenital cardiac defects (other than high/low risk category) • Acquired valvar dysfunction. (e.g. rheumatic heart disease) • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. • Mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation. Common procedures that require IE Prophylaxis Oral, dental procedures • Extractions, periodontal procedures. • Placement of orthodontic bands (but not brackets). • Intraligamentary local anaesthetic injections. • Prophylactic cleaning of teeth. Respiratory procedures • Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. • Surgical operations involving respiratory mucosa. • Rigid bronchoscopy. • Flexible bronchoscopy with biopsy. Gastrointestinal procedures • Sclerotherapy for esophageal varices. • Oesophageal stricture dilatation. • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography biliary tract surgery. • Surgical operations involving intestinal mucosa. Genitourinary procedures • Cystoscopy. • Urethral dilation. Antibiotic guidelines for IE prophylaxis Endocarditis Prophylactic Regimens for Dental, Oral, RespiratoryTract and Esophageal Procedures Standard general prophylaxis Penicillin allergy (Either one of below): • OralAmoxicillin 50 mg/kg (max 2 Gm),one hour before procedure OR • IV/IMAmpicillin 50 mg/kg (max 2 Gm) • Oral Clindamycin 20 mg/kg (max 600 mg) • Oral Cephalexin 50 mg/kg (max 2 Gm) • OralAzithromycin/clarithromycin 50 mg/kg (max 500 mg) • Oral Erythromycin 20 mg/kg (max 3 Gm) • IV Clindamycin 20 mg/kg (max 600 mg) Note:Giveoraltherapy1hourbeforeprocedure;IVtherapy30minsbeforeprocedure. CARDIOLOGY
  • 204. 191 Chapter 40: Kawasaki Disease Introduction • A systemic febrile condition affecting children usually 5 years old. • Aetiology remains unknown, possible bacterial toxins or viral agents with genetic predisposition. • Also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. Diagnostic Criteria for Kawasaki Disease • Fever lasting at least 5 days. • At least 4 out of 5 of the following: • Bilateral non-purulent conjunctivitis. • Mucosal changes of the oropharynx (injected pharynx, red lips, dry fissured lips, strawberry tongue). • Changes in extremities (oedema and/or erythema of the hands or feet, desquamation, beginning periungually). • Rash (usually truncal), polymorphous but non vesicular. • Cervical lymphadenopathy. • Illness not explained by other disease process. Clinical Pearls Diagnosis is via table above. Other helpful signs in making the diagnosis: • Indurated BCG scar, Perianal excoriation • Irritability, Altered mental state, Aseptic meningitis. • Transient arthritis. • Diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain. • Hepatosplenomegaly. • Hydrops of gallbladder. • Sterile pyuria. Investigations • Full blood count - anaemia, leucocytosis, thrombocytosis. • ESR and CRP are usually elevated. • Serum albumin 3g / dl; Raised alanine aminotransaminase • Urine 10 wbc / hpf • Chest X-ray, ECG. • Echocardiogram in the acute phase; Repeat at 6-8 wks/earlier if indicated. Note: • Most important complication is coronary vasculitis, usually within 2 weeks of illness, affecting up to 25% of untreated children. • Usually asymptomatic, it may manifest as myocardial ischaemia, infarction, pericarditis, myocarditis, endocarditis, heart failure or arrhythmia. CARDIOLOGY
  • 205. 192 CARDIOLOGY Incomplete Kawasaki Disease Patients who do not fulfill the classic diagnostic criteria outlined above. Tends to occur in infants and the youngest patients. High index of suspicion should be maintained for the diagnosis of incomplete KD. Higher risk of coronary artery dilatation or aneurysm occurring. Echocardiography is indicated in patients who have prolonged fever with: • two other criteria, • subsequent unexplained periungual desquamation, • two criteria + thrombocytosis • rash without any other explanation. Atypical Kawasaki Disease For patients who have atypical presentation, such as renal impairment, that generally is not seen in Kawasaki Disease. Treatment Primary treatment • IV Immunoglobulins 2 Gm/kg infusion over 10 - 12 hours. Therapy 10 days of onset effective in preventing coronary vascular damage. • Oral Aspirin 30 mg/kg/day for 2 wks or until patient is afebrile for 2-3 days. Maintainence: • Oral Aspirin 3-5 mg/kg daily (anti-platelet dose) for 6 - 8 weeks or until ESR and platelet count normalise. • If coronary aneurysm present, then continue aspirin until resolves. • Alternative: Oral Dipyridamole 3 - 5 mg/kg daily. Kawasaki Disease not responding to Primary Treatment Defined as persistent or recrudescent fever ≥ 36hrs after completion of initial dose of IV Immunoglobulins. Treatment • Repeat IV Immunoglobulins 2 Gm/kg infusion over 10 - 12 hours Vaccinations • The use of Immunoglobulins may impair efficacy of live-attenuated virus vaccines. Delay these vaccinations for at least 11 months. Prognosis • Complete recovery in children without coronary artery involvement. • Most (80%) 3-5 mm aneursyms resolve; 30% of 5-8 mm aneurysms resolve. • Prognosis worst for aneurysms 8 mm in diameter. • Mortality in 1 - 2 %, usually from cardiac complications within 1 - 2 months of onset.
  • 206. 193 RiskstratificationandlongtermfollowupafterKawasakiDisease RiskLevelTreatmentPhysicalActivityFollowupInvasiveTesting LevelI Nocoronaryarterychanges Nonebeyond6-8 weeks Norestrictionsbeyond 6-8weeks Cardiovascularrisk assessment,counselling at5yrintervals None LevelII Transientcoronaryartery ectasia;noneafter6-8wks Nonebeyond6-8 weeks Norestrictionsbeyond 6-8weeks Cardiovascularrisk assessment,counselling at3-5yrintervals None LevelIII Onesmall-mediumcoronary arteryaneurysm,major coronaryartery. Lowdoseaspirinuntil aneurysmregression documented Age11yrold: Norestrictionbeyond 6-8weeks. Avoidcontactsportsif onaspirin Annualechocar- diogramandECG,and cardiovascularriskas- sessmentcounselling Angiographyifnon-invasive testsuggestsischemia LevelIV 1largeorgiantcoronary arteryaneurysm,ormultiple orcomplexaneurysmsin samecoronaryartery, withoutdestruction. Longtermaspirinand warfarin (targetINR2.0-2.5) orLMWHingiant aneurysms AvoidcontactsportsBiannual echocardiogramand ECG; Annualstresstest Angiographyat6-12moor soonerifindicated; Repeatedstudyifnon-inva- sivetest,clinicalorlaboratory findingssuggestischemia LevelV Coronaryartery obstruction. Longtermaspirin; WarfarinorLMWHif giantaneurysmpersists. Alsoconsiderbeta- blockers AvoidcontactsportsBiannual echocardiogramand ECG; Annualstresstest Angiographytoaddress therapeuticoptions LMWH,lowmolecularweightheparin CARDIOLOGY
  • 208. 195 Chapter 41: Viral Myocarditis Introduction • Defined as inflammation of the myocardium with myocellular necrosis. • Viruses are found to be most important cause of acute myocarditis. Other causes include Mycoplasma, typhoid fever, diphtheria toxins etc. Clinical presentation • Vary from asymptomatic ECG abnormalities to acute cardiovascular collapse, even sudden death. • There may be prodromol symptoms of viremia, including fever, myalgia, coryzal symptoms or gastroenteritis. • The diagnosis is made clinically, with a high index of suspicion, with the following presentation that cannot be explained in a healthy child: - Tachycardia, Respiratory distress, Other signs of heart failure, Arrhythmia. Useful Investigations for Myocarditis Electrocardiogram (ECG) • Sinus tachycardia, Non-specific ST segment , Pathological Q wave, low QRS voltages (5mm in any precordial lead),T wave inversion. • Arrhythmia • Heart block, ventricular ectopics Chest x-ray • Cardiomegaly (normal heart size doesn’t exclude myocarditis) • Pleural effusion Echocardiography Findings often varied and non-specific, although rarely entirely normal • Global left ventricular dilatation and Hypocontractility • Pericardial effusion • Functional mitral regurgitation Need to exclude other structural abnormalities,especially coronary artery anomalies. Cardiac biomarkers Troponin T ,Troponin I, Creatinine kinase (CK) and CK-MB Microbiological studies, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Enterovirus 71, coxsackie B virus, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus, echovirus, Mycoplasma, Salmonella typhi Contrast enhanced MRI Myocardial oedema, focal enhancement, regional wall motion abnormalities. Endomyocardial biopsy CARDIOLOGY
  • 209. 196 CARDIOLOGY Management • Depends on the severity of the illness. Patients with heart failure require intensive monitoring and haemodynamic support. • Treatment of heart failure: see Ch 37: Heart Failure. • Consider early respiratory support, mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Specific treatment • Treatment with IV immunoglobulins and immunosuppressive drugs have been studied but the effectiveness remains controversial and routine treatment with these agents cannot be recommended at this moment. Prognosis • One third of patients recover. • One third improve clinically with residual myocardial dysfunction. • The other third does poorly and develops chronic heart failure, which may cause mortality or require heart transplantation.
  • 210. 197 Chapter 42: Paediatric Arrhythmias BRADYARRHYTHMIA Sinus node dysfunction • Criteria for sinus bradycardia (Table below): ECG criteria Age Group Heart Rate Infants to 3 years 100 bpm Children 3 – 9 years 60 bpm Children 9 – 16 years 50 bpm Adolescents 16 years 40 bpm 24 hours Ambulatory ECG criteria Age Group Heart Rate Infants to 1 year of age 60 bpm sleeping, 80 bpm awake Children 1 – 6 years 60 bpm Children 7 – 11 years 45 bpm Adolescents, young adults 40 bpm Highly trained athletes 30 bpm Systemic causes of sinus bradycardia: • Hypoxia • Sepsis • Intracranial lesions • Acidosis • Hypothyroidism • Anorexia nervosa • Electrolytes abnormalities i.e. hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia Causes of sinus node dysfunction • Right atrial dilatation due to volume loading • Cardiomyopathies • Inflammatory conditions: myocarditis, pericarditis, rheumatic fever • Post atrial surgery: Mustard, Senning, Fontan, ASD closure, cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass CARDIOLOGY
  • 211. 198 CARDIOLOGY Atrioventricular block Classification • 1st degree - prolonged PR interval • 2nd degree • Mobitz type 1 (Wenckebach): progressive PR prolongation before dropped AV conduction. • Mobitz type 2: abrupt failure of AV conduction without prior PR prolongation. • High grade – 3:1 or more AV conduction. • 3rd degree (complete heart block): AV dissociation with no atrial impulses conducted to ventricles. Note: 2nd degree (Type 2 and above) and 3rd degree heart block are always pathological Aetiology • Congenital – in association with positive maternal antibody (anti-Ro and anti-La); mother frequently asymptomatic • Congenital heart diseases: atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), congenital corrected transposition of great arteries (L-TGA), left atrial isomerism • Congenital long QT syndrome • Surgical trauma: especially in VSD closure, TOF repair, AVSD repair, Konno procedure, LV myomectomy, radiofrequency catheter ablation • Myopathy: muscular dystrophies, myotonic dystrophy, Kearns-Sayre syndrome. • Infection: diphtheria, rheumatic fever, endocarditis, viral myocarditis Acute Management: Symptomatic Bradycardia with Haemodynamic Instability • Treat the underlying systemic causes of bradycardia • Drugs: • IV Atropine • IV Isoprenaline infusion • IV Adrenaline infusion • Transcutaneous pacing if available. • Patients who are not responding to initial acute management should be referred to cardiologist for further management. • Emergency transvenous pacing or permanent pacing may be required.
  • 212. 199 TACHYARRHYTHMIA Classification • Atrial tachycardia: AF, EAT, MAT • Conduction system tachycardia or supraventricular tachycardia: AVRT, AVNRT, PJRT • Ventricular tachycardia: VT, VF Description • Atrial flutter (AF) • Saw tooth flutter waves • Variable AV conduction • Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia (EAT) • Abnormal P wave axis. • P wave precedes QRS. • Variable rate. • “Warm up” and “cool down” phenomenon. • Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT) • Irregularly irregular • Multiple different P wave morphologies, bizarre, chaotic. • No two RR intervals the same • Atrioventricular Re-entry Tachycardia (AVRT) • P wave follows QRS. • Atrioventricular Nodal Re-entry Tachycardia (AVNRT) • P wave not visible, superimposed on QRS. • Permanent Junctional Reciprocating Tachycardia (PJRT) • Inverted P waves in II, III, aVF appear to precede QRS complex. • Long RP interval. • Ventricular tachycardia (VT) • Wide QRS complex. • P wave may be dissociated from the QRS complex. • Ventricular fibrillation (VF) • chaotic, irregular rhythm. Atrial Flutter Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia Multifocal atrial tachycardia Atrioventricular Re-entry Tachycardia Atrioventricular Nodal Re-entry Tachycardia PermanentJunctionalReciprocatingTachycardia Ventricular Tachycardia Ventricular Fibrillation CARDIOLOGY
  • 213. 200 ALGORITHM FOR IDENTIFYING TACHYARRHYTHMIA Abbrevations. VT, ventricular tachycardia; JET, junctional ectopic tachycardia; SVT, supraventricular tachycardia; BBB, bundle branch block; Fib, fibrillation. AVRT, atrioventricular re-entry tachycardia; AVNRT, atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia; PJRT, permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia; EAT, ectopic atrial tachycardia; MAT, multifocal atrical tachycardia; Wide QRS QRS-P interval 1:1 P wave not visible P/QRS ratio P/QRS ratio 1:1 1:1 1:1 1:1 Narrow QRS Short, follows QRS Very long Regular Variable Chaotic QRS WIDTH VT VT SVT + BBB Antidromic AVRT JET Atrial Flutter AVNRT Orthodromic AVRT PJRT/EAT EAT MAT/Fib CARDIOLOGY
  • 214. 201 Narrow QRS complex tachycardia Haemodynamically stable • Vagal manoeuvers: • Icepack/iced water for infants: apply to face for a max of 30 seconds . • Valsalva manoeuvers if child is old enough (blow into a pinched straw). • IV Adenosine: 0.1mg/kg (max 6mg) rapid push. Increase by 0.1mg/kg every 2 mins until tachycardia terminated or up to a maximum of 0.5mg/kg (maximum: 18 mg). • IV Propranolol 0.02mg/kg test dose, then 0.1mg/kg over 10 minutes. • IV Amiodarone: 25mcg/kg/min for 4 hours then 5 -15mcg/kg/min until conversion. Haemodynamically unstable • Synchronized DC conversion at 0.5 to 1 joule/kg. Wide QRS complex tachycardia Haemodynamically stable • IV Amiodarone (same as above). • IV Procainamide. • IV Lignocaine. Haemodynamically unstable • Synchronized cardioversion at 0.5 to 1.0 joule/kg. • In pulseless patients, defibrillate at 2 to 4 joules/kg. Wide QRS Stable Narrow QRS Stable UnstableUnstable TACHYARRHYTHMIA • Vagal manoeuvers • Adenosine • Propranolol • Atenolol • Amiodarone • Synchronised Cardioversion • Synchronised Cardioversion OR • Defribillation • Amiodarone • Lignocaine in Ventricular Tachycardia ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE TACHYARRHYTHMIA CARDIOLOGY
  • 215. 202 Pitfalls in management • Consult a cardiologist if these acute measures fail to revert the tachycardia. • In Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, digoxin is contraindicated because paroxysms of atrial flutter or fibrillation can be conducted directly into the ventricle. • Adenosine unmasks the atrial flutter by causing AV block and revealing more atrial beats per QRS complex. • In wide QRS complex tachycardia with 1:1 ventriculoatrial conduction, it is reasonable to see if adenosine will cause cardioversion, thereby making a diagnosis of a conduction system dependent SVT. • A follow up plan should be made in consultation with cardiologist. CARDIOLOGY
  • 216. 203 References Section 4 Cardiology Chapter 34 Paediatric Electrocardiography 1.Goodacre S, et al. ABC of clinical electrocardiography: Paediatric electro- cardiography. BMJ 2002;324: 1382 – 1385. Chapter 38 Acute Rheumatic Fever 1.Patrick J, Bongani M. Acute Rheumatic Fever. Medicine 2006; 34:239-243 2.Jonathan R, Malcolm M, Nigel J. Acute rheumatic fever. Lancet 2005; 366:155-168 3.Judith A, Preet J, Standford T. Acute rheumatic fever: Clinical aspects and insights into pathogenesis and revention. Clinical and Applied Immunology Reviews 2004; 263-276 4.Ismail E. Rheumatic fever/ Bailliere’s Clinical Rheumatology 1995; 9:111-120 Chapter 39 Infective Endocarditis 1.AHA Statement. Infective endocarditis. Circulation. 2005;111:3167–3184 2.AHA Statement. Unique Features of Infective Endocarditis in Childhood. Circulation 2002;105:2115-2127 3.Crawford M , Durack D. Clinical Presentation of Infective endocarditis. Cardiol Clin 2003;21: 159–166 4.Role of echocardiography in the diagnosis and management of infective endocarditis. Curr Opin Cardiol 2002, 17:478–485 5.National Guideline on antibiotic usage. Chapter 40 Kawasaki Disease 1.Shinahara M, Sone K, Tomomasa T: Corticosteroid in the treatment of the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. J Pediatr 1999; 135: 465-9 2.Newburger J, Sleeper L, McCrindle B, et al. Randomised Trial of Pulsed Corticosteroid Therapy for Primary Treatment of Kawasaki Disease. NEJM 2007; 356: 663-675. 3.Diagnosis, treatment, and long term management of Kawasaki Disease. A statement for health professionals from the committee on rheumatic fever, endocarditis, and Kawasaki disease, Council on cardiovascular disease in the young, American Heart Association. Circulation. 2004; 110: 2747-2771. Chapter 41 Viral Myocarditis 1.Batra A, Lewis A. Acute Myocarditis. Curr Opin Pediatr 2001; 13: 234-239. 2.Kaski J, Burch M. Viral Myocarditis in Childhood. J Paed and Child Health 2007,17:1; 11-18. 3.Haas G. Etiology, Evaluation, and Management of Acute Myocarditis. Car- diol Rev 2001, 9: 88-95. 4. Jared W. Magnani J, G. William G. Myocarditis. Current Trends in Diagnosis and Treatment. Circulation 2006. CARDIOLOGY
  • 217. 204 Chapter 42 Paediatric arrhythmia 1.Kothari D, et al. Neonatal tachycardias: an update. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2006; 91: F136 – F144. 2.Hanisch D, et al. Pediatric arrhythmias. Journal of Pediatric Nursing 2001; Vol 16 (5): 351 – 362. 3.Neonatal cardiac arrhythmias. Intensive care nursery house staff manual of UCSF Children’s Hospital 2004. 4.Batra Aet al. Arrhythmias: medical and surgical management. Paediatrics and child health;17:1: 1 – 5. 5.Paediatric arrhythmias. Handbook of Paediatrics, UMMC 2nd Edition. CARDIOLOGY
  • 218. 205 Chapter 43: Status Epilepticus NEUROLOGY Seizures continue 10 mins after Phenytoin Discuss with Paediatric Neurologist and Intensivist about inducing coma Seizure 5 mins Impending Status epilepticus PR Diazepam 0.2- 0.5 mg/kg (Max 10mg) 0.5mg/kg (2-5yrs); 0.3mg/kg (6-11yrs); 0.2mg/kg (12yrs +) Ensure • Ventilation • Adequate Perfusion (ABC’s) • Bedside Blood Sugar Seizure 5-30 mins Established Status epilepticus Early Refractory Status epilepticus Seizure 60 mins Established Refractory Status epilepticus Obtain IV access IV Diazepam 0.2mg/kg slow bolus (at 2 mg/min; maximum 10mg) IV Diazepam 0.2mg/kg slow bolus (if not already given) IV Phenytoin 20 mg/kg (Max Loading dose 1.25 Gm) Dilute in 0.9% saline; Max. conc. at 10 mg/ml; Infuse over 20-30 mins, with cardiac monitoring. IV Midazolam 0.2 mg/kg bolus (at 2 mg/min; Max 10 mg), then infusion 3-5 mcg/kg/min up to a max of 15 mcg/kg/min) IV Phenobarbitone 20 mg/kg (Max Loading dose 1 Gm) Infusion at 25- 50 mg/min), IV Sodium Valproate 20 mg/kg (Max Loading 1.25 Gm, given over 1-5 mins, at 20-50 mg/min), then infusion 1- 5 mg/kg/hour for 6 - 12 hours) IV Levetiracetam 40 mg/kg infused over 10 minutes, then 20 mg/kg 12 hourly • If on maintainence Phenytoin, then give IV Phenobarbitone • Monitor blood sugar, electrolytes, blood counts, liver function, blood gases. • Consider blood culture, toxicology, neuroimaging, antiepilepticdruglevels. • If 2 yrs old, consider IV Pyridoxine 100 mg. • Monitor BP, respiration • Start inotropic support, esp. if given Midazolam or Phenobarbitone • Arrange for ICU. • Secure airway, prepare to use mechanical ventilation. • Titrate Phenobarbitone to achieve burst- suppression pattern on EEG. • Avoid Sodium Valproate in metabolic encephalopathy. At Home, In Ambulance In Hospital Consider: CONSULT PAEDIATRICIAN ! Consider One of the following: Child with SEIZURE ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF STATUS EPILEPTICUS
  • 219. 206 Definition • Any seizure lasting 30 minutes or • Intermittent seizures, without regaining full consciousness in between, for 30 minutes. However, any seizure 5 minutes is unlikely to abort spontaneously, and should be treated aggressively. Furthermore, there is evidence of progres- sive, time-dependent development of pharmaco-resistance if seizures continue to perpetuate. Refractory status epilepticus: • Seizures lasting for 60 minutes or not responding to adequate doses of benzodiazepine and second line medications. Salient Points • Optimize vital functions throughout control of Status Epilepticus. • Apart from terminating seizures, management of Status Epilepticus should include, identifying and treating underling cause. • Presence of Status Epilepticus may mask usual signs and symptoms of meningitis or encephalitis, resulting in a danger of overlooking life-threatening infections. • Common mistakes in failing to treat Status Epilepticus are underdosing of anticonvulsants, excessive time lag between doses/steps of treatment and neglecting maintenance therapy after the initial bolus of anticonvulsants have been given. See Drug Doses for maintenance doses of anticonvulsants. NEUROLOGY
  • 220. 207 Chapter 44: Epilepsy Definition • A neurological condition characterised by recurrent unprovoked epileptic seizures. • An epileptic seizure is the clinical manifestation of an abnormal and excessive discharge of a set of neurons in the brain. • An epileptic syndrome is a complex of signs and symptoms that define a unique epilepsy condition. Syndromes are classified on the basis of seizure type(s), clinical context, EEG features and neuroimaging. • It is important to differentiate epileptic seizures from paroxysmal non-epileptic events such as neonatal sleep myoclonus, breath-holding spells, vasovagal syncope, long Q-T syndrome. APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH A FIRST SEIZURE Definition • One or multiple unprovoked afebrile seizures within 24 hours with recovery of consciousness between seizures. Notes: • 30-50% of first unprovoked seizures in children will recur. • 70-80% of second seizure will recur. • Detailed history to determine if event is a seizure or a paroxysmal non-epileptic event, e.g. syncope, breath-holding spell, gastroesophageal reflux. • A thorough clinical examination is important to look for any possible underlying aetiology. • There is a need to exclude acute provoking factors. What Investigations Need To Be Done? • Routine investigations such as FBC, BUSE, Ca, Mg, RBS if • Child unwell (vomiting, diarrhoea etc). • Child not ‘alert’, lethargic or failure to return to baseline alertness. • Lumbar puncture indicated if there is suspicion of brain infection. • Toxicology screening considered if there is suspicion of drug exposure. • EEG is recommended after all first afebrile unprovoked seizures. • EEG helps classify seizure type, epilepsy syndrome and predict recurrence. • Neuroimaging (MRI preferred) indicated for: • Persisting postictal focal deficit (Todd’s paresis). • Condition of child not returned to baseline within several hours after the seizure. Is Treatment Required? • Treatment with anticonvulsant NOT indicated in all first afebrile seizure as it does not prevent development of epilepsy or influence long term remission NEUROLOGY
  • 221. 208 NEUROLOGY APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH EPILEPSY • Detailed history of the seizures. Video of the actual event is helpful. Also note birth history, developmental milestones and family history. • Look for dysmorphism, neurocutaneous signs; do thorough CNS, developmental examination. • Investigations are recommended when a second afebrile seizure occurs: • Routine biochemical tests only if clinical features suggest a biochemical disorder, e.g. hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia. • Do an ECG if suspicion of a cardiac dysrhythmia. • EEG is important to support the clinical diagnosis of epileptic seizures, classify the epileptic syndrome, selection of anti-epileptic drug and prognosis. It also helps in localization of seizure foci in intractable epilepsy. • Neuroimaging (preferably MRI) is indicated for any child with: • Epilepsy occurring in the first year of life, except febrile seizures. • Focal epilepsy except benign rolandic epilepsy. • Developmental delay or regression. • Intractable epilepsy. Principles of antiepileptic drug therapy for Epilepsy • Treatment recommended if ≥ 2 episodes (recurrence risk up to 80%) • Attempt to classify the seizure type(s) and epileptic syndrome. Monotherapy as far as possible. Choose most appropriate drug, increase dose gradually until epilepsy controlled or maximum dose reached or side effects occur. • Add on the second drug if first drug failed. Optimise second drug, then try to withdraw first drug. (alternative monotherapy). • Rational combination therapy (usually 2 or maximum 3 drugs) i.e. combines drugs with different mechanism of action and consider their spectrum of efficacy, drug interactions and adverse effects. • Drug level monitoring is not routinely done (except phenytoin), unless non- compliance, toxicity or drug interaction is suspected. • When withdrawal of medication is planned (generally after being seizure free for 2 years) , consideration should be given to epilepsy syndrome, likely prognosis and individual circumstances before attempting slow withdrawal of medication over 3-6 months (maybe longer if clonazepam or phenobarbitone). If seizures recur, the last dose reduction is reversed and medical advice sought. ILAE Classification of seizure types Generalised Tonic-clonic Absence (typical, atypical) Myoclonic Tonic Clonic Atonic Focal seizures Epileptic spasms ILAE, International League Against Epilepsy
  • 222. 209 Classificationofepilepsiesandepilepticsyndromes(adaptedfromILAE2010) NeonatalperiodChildhoodAdolescent-Adult BenignfamilialneonatalepilepsyFebrileseizureplus(FS+)Juvenileabsenceepilepsy(JAE) EarlymyoclonicencephalopathyEpilepsywithmyoclonic-atonicseizuresJuvenilemyoclonicepilepsy(JME) OhtaharasyndromePanayiotopoulossyndromeEpilepsywithGTCseizuresalone Benignrolandicepilepsy(BECTS)Progressivemyoclonicepilepsies(PME) InfancyAutosomal-dominantnocturnalFLEFamilialfocalepilepsies WestsyndromeLateonsetchildhoodoccipitalepilepsy MyoclonicepilepsyininfancyEpilepsywithmyoclonicabsencesOthers BenigninfantileepilepsyLennox-GastautsyndromeMesialTLEwithhippocampalsclerosis BenignfamilialinfantileepilepsyEpilepsywithcontinuousspike-wave duringsleep(CSWS) Gelasticseizureswithhypothalamichamartoma DravetsyndromeHemiconvulsion-hemiplegia-epilepsy Landau-Kleffnersyndrome(LKS)Rasmussensyndrome Childhoodabsenceepilepsy(CAE)Reflexepilepsies *Epilepsies(generalizedorfocal),dueto:(Ifunabletoclassifyintotheabove) -Structural/metaboliccauses -Geneticcauses -Unknowncause. NEUROLOGY
  • 223. 210 Selecting antiepileptic drugs according to seizure types Seizure type First line Second line Focal Seizures Carbamazepine Valproate Lamotrigine,Topiramate, Levetiracetam, Clobazam, Phenytoin, Phenobarbitone Generalized Seizures Tonic-clonic / clonic Valproate Lamotrigine,Topiramate, Clonazepam, Carbamazepine1 , Phenytoin1 , Phenobarbitone Absence Valproate Lamotrigine, Levetiracetam Atypical absences, Atonic, tonic Valproate Lamotrigine,Topiramate, Clonazepam, Phenytoin Myoclonic Valproate Clonazepam Topiramate, Levetiracetam Clobazam, Lamotrigine2 , Phenobarbitone Infantile Spasm ACTH, Prednisolone, Vigabatrin3 Nitrazepam, Clonazepam, Valproate,Topiramate Footnote: 1, May aggravate myoclonus/absence seizure in Idiopathic Generalised Epilepsy. 2, May cause seizure aggravation in Dravet syndrome and JME. 3, Especially for patients withTuberous Sclerosis. Antiepileptic drugs that aggravate selected seizure types Phenobarbitone Absence seizures Clonazepam Causes Tonic status in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome Carbamazepine Absence, Myoclonic, Generalised tonic-clonic seizures Lamotrigine Dravet syndrome, Myoclonic seizures in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy Phenytoin Absence, Myoclonic seizures Vigabatrin Myoclonic,Absence seizures NEUROLOGY
  • 224. 211 The patients with “Intractable Epilepsy” Please re-evaluate for the following possibilities:- • Is it a seizure or a non-epileptic event? • Antiepileptic drug dose not optimised. • Poor compliance to antiepileptic drug. • Wrong classification of epilepsy syndrome, thus wrong choice of antiepileptic drug. • Antiepileptic drug aggravating seizures. • Lesional epilepsy, hence a potential epilepsy surgery candidate. • Progressive epilepsy or neurodegenerative disorder. When to refer to a Paediatric Neurologist? Refer immediately (to contact paediatric neurologist) • Behavioural or developmental regression. • Infantile spasms. Refer • Poor seizure control despite monotherapy with 2 different antiepileptic medications. • Difficult to control epilepsies beginning in the first two years of life. • Structural lesion on neuroimaging. Advice for Parents • Educate and counsel on epilepsy. • Emphasize compliance if on an antiepileptic drug. • Don’t stop the medication by themselves. This may precipitate breakthrough seizures. • In photosensitive seizures: watch TV in brightly lit room. Avoid sleep deprivation. • Use a shower with bathroom door unlocked. • No cycling in traffic, climbing sports or swimming alone. • Know emergency treatment for seizure. • Inform teachers and school about the condition. First Aid Measures during a Seizure (Advise for Parents/Teachers) • Do not panic, remain calm. Note time of onset of the seizure. • Loosen the child’s clothing especially around the neck. • Place the child in a left lateral position with the head lower than the body. • Wipe any vomitus or secretion from the mouth. • Do not insert any object into the mouth even if the teeth are clenched. • Do not give any fluids or drugs orally. • Stay near the child until the seizure is over and comfort the child as he/she is recovering. NEUROLOGY
  • 225. 212 SideeffectsandserioustoxicityofAntiepilepticDrugs AntiepilepticDrugCommonsideeffectsSerioustoxicity CarbamazepineDrowsiness,dizziness,ataxia,diplopia,rashesSteven-Johnsonsyndrome1 , agranulocytosis Clobazam2 Clonazepam Drowsiness,hypotonia,salivaryandbronchialhypersecretion, hyperactivityandaggression LamotrigineDizziness,somnolence,insomnia,rashSteven-Johnsonsyndrome LevetiracetamSomnolence,asthenia,dizziness,irritability,behaviouralchange PhenobarbitoneBehaviouraldisturbance,cognitivedysfunction,drowsiness, ataxia,rash PhenytoinAtaxia,diplopia,dizziness,sedation,hirsutism,gumhypertrophy megaloblasticanemia SodiumvalproateNausea,epigastricpain,tremor,alopecia,weightgain,hairloss, thrombocytopaenia Hepatictoxicity(2yrsage), pancreatitis,encephalopathy Topiramateweightloss,somnolence,mentalslowing,wordfindingdifficulty, hypohidrosis,renalcalculi Vigabatrindrowsiness,dizziness,moodchanges,weightgainPeripheralvisualfieldconstriction (tunnelvision) Footnote:1,Steven-JohnsonsyndromeoccursmorefrequentlyinChineseandMalaychildrenwhocarrytheHLA-B*1502allele. 2,Clobazamislesssedativethanclonazepam NEUROLOGY
  • 226. 213 Chapter 45: Febrile Seizures Definition • Seizures occurring in association with fever in children between 3 months and 6 years of age, in whom there is no evidence of intracranial pathology or metabolic derangement. • No comprehensive local epidemiological data. Studies in Western Europe quote a figure of 3-4% of children 5 years experiencing febrile seizures. Classification of Febrile Seizures Simple Febrile Seizures Complex Febrile Seizures • Duration 15 minutes • Duration 15 minutes • Generalised seizure. • Focal features • Does not recur during the febrile episode • 1 seizure during the febrile episode • Residual neurological deficit post-ictally,such asTodd’s paralysis Management • Not all children need hospital admission. The main reasons are: - • To exclude intracranial pathology especially infection. • Fear of recurrent seizures. • To investigate and treat the cause of fever besides meningitis/encephalitis. • To allay parental anxiety, especially if they are staying far from hospital. • Investigations • The need for blood counts, blood sugar, lumbar puncture, urinalysis, chest X-ray, blood culture etc, will depend on clinical assessment of the individual case. • lumbar puncture Must be done if: (unless contraindicated – see Ch 46: Meningitis) - Any signs of intracranial infection. - Prior antibiotic therapy. - Persistent lethargy and not fully interactive 6 hours after the seizure. Strongly recommended if - Age 12 months old. - First complex febrile seizures. - In district hospital without paediatrician. - Parents have difficulty bringing in child again if deteriorates at home. • Serum calcium and electrolytes are rarely necessary. • EEG is not indicated even if multiple recurrences or complex febrile seizures. • Parents should be counselled on the benign nature of the condition NEUROLOGY
  • 227. 214 • Control fever • Avoid excessive clothing • Use antipyretic e.g. syrup or rectal Paracetamol 15 mg/kg 6 hourly for patient’s comfort, though this may not reduce the recurrence of seizures. • Parents should also be advised on First Aid Measures during a Seizure. • Rectal Diazepam • Parents of children with high risk of recurrent febrile seizures should be supplied with Rectal Diazepam (dose : 0.5 mg/kg). • They should be advised on how to administer it if the seizures lasts more than 5 minutes. • Prevention of recurrent febrile seizures. - Anticonvulsants are not recommended for prevention of recurrent febrile seizures because: • The risks and potential side effects of medications outweigh the benefits • No medication has been shown to prevent the future onset of epilepsy. • Febrile seizures have an excellent outcome with no neurological deficit nor any effect on intelligence. Risk factors for Recurrent Febrile Seizures • Family history of Febrile seizures • Age 18 months • Low degree of fever ( 40 o C) during first Febrile seizure. • Brief duration ( 1 hr) between onset of fever and seizure. * No risk factor 15 % recurrence ≥ 2 risk factors 30 % recurrence ≥ 3 risk factors 60 % recurrence Risk factors for subsequent Epilepsy • Neurodevelopmental abnormality • Complex febrile seizures • Family history of epilepsy Prognosis in Febrile Seizures Febrile seizures are benign events with excellent prognosis • 3 - 4 % of population have Febrile seizures. • 30 % recurrence after 1st attack. • 48 % recurrence after 2nd attack. • 2 - 7 % develop subsequent afebrile seizure or epilepsy. • No evidence of permanent neurological deficits following Febrile seizures or even Febrile status epilepticus. NEUROLOGY
  • 228. 215 Chapter 46: Meningitis Introduction • Meningitis is still a major and sometimes fatal problem in Paediatrics. • Morbidity is also high. A third of survivors have sequelae of their disease. However, these complications can be reduced if meningitis is treated early. NEUROLOGY When NOT to do a Lumbar Puncture • Haemodynamically unstable • Glasgow coma scale ≤ 8 • Abnormal‘doll’s eye’ reflex or unequal pupils • Lateralized signs or abnormal posturing • Immediately after a recent seizure • Papilloedema Continue antibiotics Negative No improvementImprovement Positive Abnormal CSF Normal CSF, wait for CSF culture and Latex agglutination ResponseNo response Change antibiotics Complete Treatment (See Next Page) Consider TB, Fungus or Encephalitis Persistent Fever 72 hrs and Neurological deficit (rule out various causes) Consider Ultrasound / CT Brain Repeat LP if no evidence of raised ICP Complete course of antibiotics Re-evaluate, Consider discontinue Antibiotics Do LP Withhold LP No Yes • Do Blood, urine CS • Start Antibiotics ± Dexamethasone Fever Symptoms/Signs of Bacterial Meningitis Lumbar Puncture (LP) Contraindicated? APPROACH TO A CHIILD WITH FEVER AND SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF MENINGITIS
  • 229. 216 NEUROLOGY Cerebrospinal fluid values in neurological disorders with fever Condition Leukocytes (mm³) Protein (g/l) Glucose (mmol/l) Comments Acute Bacterial Meningitis 100 - 50,000 Usually 1- 5 0.5 - 1.5 Gram stain may be positive Partially-treated Bacterial Meningitis 1 - 10,000 Usually high PMN, but may have lymphocytes 1 Low CSF may be sterile in Pneumococcal, Meningococcal meningitis Tuberculous Meningitis 10 - 500 Early PMN, later high lymphocytes 1- 5 0 - 2.0 Smear for AFB,TB PCR + in CSF; High ESR Fungal Meningitis 50 – 500 Lymphocytes 0.5 - 2 Normal or low CSF for Cryptococcal Ag Encephalitis 10 - 1,000 Normal / 0.5-1 Normal CSF virology and HSV DNA PCR Recommended antibiotic therapy according to likely pathogen Age Group Initial Antibiotic Likely Organism Duration (if uncomplicated) 1 month C Penicillin + Cefotaxime Grp B Streptococcus E. coli 21 days 1 - 3 months C Penicillin + Cefotaxime Group B Streptococcus E. coli H. influenzae Strep. pneumoniae 10 – 21 days 3 months C Penicillin + Cefotaxime, OR Ceftriaxone H. influenzae Strep. pneumoniae N. meningitides 7 – 10 days 10 – 14 days 7 days Note: • Review antibiotic choice when infective organism has been identified. • Ceftriaxone gives more rapid CSF sterilisation as compared to Cefotaxime or Cefuroxime. • If Streptococcal meningitis, request for MIC values of antibiotics. MIC level Drug of choice: • MIC 0.1 mg/L (sensitive strain) C Penicillin • MIC 0.1- 2 mg/L (relatively resistant) Ceftriaxone or Cefotaxime • MIC 2 mg/L (resistant strain) Vancomycin + Ceftriaxone or Cefotaxime 4. Extend duration of treatment if complications e.g. subdural empyema, brain abscess.
  • 230. 217 Use of Steroids to decrease the sequelae of bacterial meningitis • Best effect achieved if given before or with the first antibiotic dose. • Dose: Dexamethasone 0.15 mg/kg 6 hly for 4 days or 0.4 mg/kg 12 hly for 2 days • Give steroids if CSF is turbid and patient has not received prior antibiotics. Supportive measures • Monitor temperature, pulse, BP and respiration 4 hourly and input/output. • Nil by month if unconscious. • Careful fluid balance required. Often, maintenance IV fluids is sufficient. However, if SIADH occurs, reduce to 2/3 maintenance for initial 24 hours. Patient may need more fluid if dehydrated. • If fontanel is still open, note the head circumference daily. Consider cranial ultrasound or CT scan if effusion or hydrocephalus is suspected. • Seizure chart. • Daily Neurological assessment is essential. • Observe for 24 hours after stopping therapy and if there is no complication, patient can be discharged. If persistent fever in a patient on treatment for meningitis, consider: • Thrombophlebitis and injection sites e.g. intramuscular abscess. • Intercurrent infection e.g. pneumonia, UTI or nosocomial infection. • Resistant organisms. Inappropriate antibiotics or inadequate dosage. • Subdural effusion, empyema or brain abscess. • Antibiotic fever. Follow up (Long term follow up is important) • Note development of child at home and in school. • Note head circumference. • Ask for any occurrence of fits or any behavioural abnormalities. • Assess vision, hearing and speech. • Request for early formal hearing assessment in cases of proven meningitis. • Until child shown to have normal development (usually until 4 years old). Prognosis depends on • Age: worse in younger patients. • Duration of illness prior to effective antibiotics treatment. • Causative organism: more complications with H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae. • Presence of focal signs. NEUROLOGY
  • 231. 218 NEUROLOGY Indications for Head CT Scan Useful to detect complications • Prolonged depression of consciousness • Prolonged focal or late seizures • Focal neurological abnormalities • Enlarging head circumference • Suspected subdural effusion or empyema Indications for Subdural drainage • Rapid increase in head circumference with no hydrocephalus • Focal neurological signs • Increased intracranial pressure • Suspected subdural empyema
  • 232. 219 Chapter 47: Acute CNS Demyelination Introduction These disorders consist of monophasic and polyphasic (recurrent) diseases with acquired immune injury to the white matter in the central nervous system. Optic neuritis • Acute loss of vision (decreased visual acuity) of one or both eyes • Often associated with pain on eye movements and colour desaturation • A relative afferent pupillary defect is present • MRI may show swelling and abnormal signal of the optic nerves. Acute transverse myelitis • Spinal cord dysfunction, with motor weakness, numbness of both legs and/or arms, often associated with urinary retention • Maximal deficits occurring between 4 hours - 21 days after symptom onset • MRI may demonstrate swelling +/or abnormal signal in the spinal cord Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) • Acute encephalopathy (behavioural change or alteration of consciousness) with multifocal neurological deficits/signs, e.g. limb weakness, numbness, cerebellar ataxia, cranial nerve palsy, speech impairment, visual loss, seizures and spinal cord involvement. • MRI shows multiple areas of abnormal signal in the white matter. • No other aetiologies can explain the event. ADEM: Common Differential Diagnoses • CNS infection • Bacterial, tuberculous meningitis, Herpes simplex encephalitis • Clinically isolated syndrome (1st episode of Multiple sclerosis) • Guillain Barré syndrome • Acute stroke • Mitochondrial disorders Other Investigations (as needed) • Cerebrospinal fluid - FEME, cultures, oligoclonal banding, Herpes virus PCR (optional: lactate, viral studies) • Infection screen - virology, mycoplasma, etc. • Vasculitis screen (ESR, C3,C4, antinuclear factor). • Evoked potentials - visual, auditory and somatosensory. NEUROLOGY
  • 233. 220 NEUROLOGY Treatment Supportive measures • Vital sign monitoring, maintain blood pressure • Assisted ventilation for “cerebral / airway protection” • Anticonvulsants for seizures • Antibiotics / Acyclovir for CNS infections if febrile, awaiting cultures, PCR result. Definitive immunotherapy • IV Methylprednisolone 20 - 30 mg/kg/day (max 1 gm) daily, divided into 8 hourly dosing, for 3 to 5 days • Then oral Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day (max 60 mg) daily to complete 2 wks. • Give longer course of oral prednisolone, 4-8 weeks for ADEM and transverse myelitis with residual deficit. • If no response, consider: IV Immunoglobulins 2 gm/kg over 2 - 5 days (or referral to a paediatric neurologist) If Demyelinating episodes recur in the same patient, refer to a Paediatric Neurologist.
  • 234. 221 Chapter 48: Acute Flaccid Paralysis Introduction Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) occurs when there is rapid evolution of motor weakness ( than 4 days), with a loss of tone in the paralysed limb. This excludes weakness due to trauma and spastic paralysis. AFP is a medical emergency as unnecessary delays can result in death and dis- ability. Children with AFP need to be assessed and managed carefully. A simple algorithm is provided on the next page. AFP surveillance in children • Collecting stools for enterovirus in children with AFP is an important part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). • For Malaysia to remain a polio-free country we need to prove that none of our cases of AFP are caused by poliovirus infection. To do this we have to report all cases of AFP aged 15 years, send stools for enterovirus isolation using a standardised protocol, and follow up children with AFP to determine the outcome. Protocol for AFP surveillance in Malaysia Step Timing Description Case Detection At diagnosis • Follow case definition for AFP Case Reporting Within 24 hours • Fax forms to 03-2693 8094 (Virology Unit, IMR;Tel no: 03-2616 2677) Timing of stool specimens Within 2 weeks of onset of paralysis • 2 stool specimens collected no less than 24 hours apart Collection of specimens • Fresh stool.Avoid rectal swabs. (at least 8g – size of an adult thumb). • Place in a sterile glass bottle. Transport of stools As soon as able • Maintain a cold chain of 2 - 8 o C. Transport in frozen ice packs or dry ice. • Ensure stool specimens arrive at IMR within 72 hours of stool collection. • Caution:avoid desiccation,leakage; • Ensure adequate documentation and use AFP Case Laboratory Request Form Follow up of patients 60 days from paralysis • To determine whether there is residual paralysis on follow up NEUROLOGY
  • 235. 222 NEUROLOGY Notes: 1. Headache, vomiting, seizures, encephalopathy, cranial nerve deficits, ataxia, brisk tendon reflexes, upgoing plantar response. 2. Soft tissue, joint or bony causes of walking difficulty. Demonstrable Lower limb Motor Weakness unilateral CNS Disorder Absent Dermatomal Preserved Affected None ‘Glove Stocking’ Absent, reduced or normal Preserved Preserved Dermatomal Reduced or normal No demonstrable CNS signs or motor weakness CNS Symptomatology¹ Musculoskeletal disorder² Clinical Questions Clinical Localisation MUSCLE SPINAL CORDPERIPHERAL NERVE bilateral • Post viral myositis • Periodic paralysis • Toxic myositis Sphincters ? Sensory Loss ? Reflexes ? Differential Diagnosis Investigations • Enteroviral infection • Local trauma • Guillain Barré syndrome • Toxic neuropathy • Acute transverse myelitis • Spinal cord / extraspinal tumour • Arteriovenous malformation • Spinal cord stroke • Extradural abscess • Spinal tuberculosis • Spinal arachnoiditis Required • AFP workup • Creatine kinase • Serum electrolytes • Urine myoglobin Required • AFP workup • Nerve conduction study Optional • MRI Lumbosacral plexus,sciaticnerve Required • AFP workup • CSF cells, protein • Nerve conduction study Required • AFP workup • URGENT Spinal Cord MRI Optional (as per MRI result) • TB workup • CSF cells, protein, sugar, culture, TB PCR, Cryptococcal Ag, Oligoclonal bands • ESR, C3,C4, antinuclear factor NEW ONSET Difficulty in Walking CLINICAL APPROACH TO A CHIILD WITH ACUTE FLACCID PARALYSIS
  • 236. 223 Chapter 49: Guillain Barré Syndrome Introduction Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS) is a post-infectious inflammatory disorder affecting the peripheral nerves. Clinical Pearls on GBS in Children • Rapidly progressive, bilateral and relatively symmetric weakness of the limbs with decrease or absent reflexes. In atypical cases, weakness may begin in the face or upper limbs, or asymmetrical at onset. • Sensory symptoms, e.g. limb pain and hyperesthesia, are common. • Bladder and bowel involvement may occasionally be seen, but is never present at onset and never persistent (if so, think of spinal cord disorder) • CSF protein level and nerve conduction studies may be normal in the first week of illness. • GBS variants and overlapping syndrome: • Miller Fisher syndrome - cranial nerve variant characterised by opthalmoplegia, ataxia and areflexia. • Bickerstaff’s brainstem encephalitis - acute encephalopathy with cranial and peripheral nerve involvement. Management The principle of management is to establish the diagnosis and anticipate / pre-empt major complications. • a Clinical diagnosis can be made by a history of progressive, ascending weakness ( 4 wks) with areflexia, and an elevated CSF protein level and normal cell count (“protein-cellular dissociation”). • Nerve conduction study is Confirmatory. Initial measures • Give oxygen, keep NBM if breathless. Monitor PEFR regularly • Admit for PICU / PHDU care, if having: • Respiratory compromise (deteriorating PERF). • Rapidly progressive tetraparesis with loss of head control. • Bulbar palsy. • Autonomic and cardiovascular instability. • Provide respiratory support early with BiPAP or mechanical ventilation NEUROLOGY
  • 237. 224 NEUROLOGY Hughes Functional Scale for GBS 0 Normal 1 Minor symptoms, capable of running 2 Able to walk up to 10 meters without assistance but unable to run 3 Able to walk 10 meters with assistance of one person, or a walker 4 Unable to walk 5 Requires assisted ventilation Specific measures • IV Immunoglobulins (IVIG) 2 gm /kg total over 2 - 5 days in the first 2 wks of illness, with Hughes functional scale 3 and above or rapidly deteriorating. • IVIG is as efficacious as Plasma exchange in both children and adults, and is safer and technically simpler. • 10 % of children with GBS may suffer a relapse of symptoms in the first weeks after improvement from IVIG. These children, may benefit from a second dose of IVIG. General measures • Prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis should be considered for patients ventilated for GBS, especially if recovery is slow. • Liberal pain relief, with either paracetamol, NSAIDs, gabapentin or opiates.
  • 238. 225 • Metabolic disease Diabetic ketoacidosis Hypoglycaemia Hyperammonemia • Non-accidental injury • Post convulsive state • Hypertensive crisis • Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis • Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis Chapter 50: Approach to The Child With Altered Consciousness NEUROLOGY 1 2 Once stable, monitor HR, BP, Resp rate, SpO₂, urine output . . . . . secure airway, endotracheal intubation . . . oxygen, artificial ventilation if required . . IV bolus, ionotropes, chest compressions . . correct hypoglycemia promptly Airway Breathing Circulation Dextrostix consider: . . monitor GCS hourly . . monitor GCS ½ hourly till improves If GCS ≥ 12 If GCS 12 • Airway obstructs if not supported. • Airway compromised by vomiting. • Respiratory rate too low for adequate ventilation. • SpO₂ remains 92 % despite high flow O₂ and airway opening manouevres. • Signs of shock even after 40 ml/kg of fluid resuscitation. • Signs of exhaustion. • GCS 8 and deteriorating. If Clinically has Papilloedema, or if 2 of the following: • GCS 8 • Unreactive, unequal pupils • Abnormal doll’s eye reflex • Decorticate, decerebrate posturing • Abnormal breathing (Cheyne-Stokes, apneustic) 3 Look for treat: SEPSIS SHOCK SEIZURES Optional: EEG, Vasculitis screen, Toxicology, IEM Screen, Blood film for malaria parasite Sample when ILL: 1-2 ml plasma/serum: separated, frozen saved 10-20 ml urine: frozen saved • CNS Infection Bacterial meningitis Viral encephalitis TB meningitis Brain abscess Cerebral malaria • Trauma • Vasculitis • Acute Poisoning 5 4 Recommended FBC, urea electrolytes, glucose Liver function tests Serum ammonia, blood gas Blood cultures Urinalysis Delay Lumbar Puncture 6 Neuroimaging: Consider CT Brain for all children with ↑ ICP, or if cause of coma is uncertain; MRI is more useful if a brain tumour or ADEM is suspected INITIAL ASSESSMENT WHAT IS THE GCS? CONSIDER ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION IF: RAISED INTACRANIAL PRESSURE CONSIDER AETIOLOGY INVESTIGATIONS
  • 239. 226 NEUROLOGY Management of Raised ICP • Nursing • Elevate head up to 30⁰ • Avoid unnecessary suction, procedures • Fluid balance • Keep patient well hydrated • Avoid hypo-osmolar fluid, plain dextrose solutions • Care with sodium homeostasis: • Maintain cerebral blood flow • Keep CPP 50 mmHg • If ↑ BP: do not lower unless hypertensive crisis, e.g. acute glomerulonephritis • Use of IV Mannitol • Regular doses at 0.25 - 0.5 g/kg q.i.d. if required. • A CT scan toexcludeintracranial bleeding is recommended. • PaO₂ , PaCO₂ level • Maintain good oxygenation, normocapnia. i.e. PaCO₂ 4.0 - 4.6 kPa / 35 - 40 mmHg • Surgical decompression • If medical measures fail, surgical decompression may be indicated (ie. external ventricular drainage, decompressive hemicraniectomy) Treatment of Infection • Antibiotics: In all children, unless alternative cause of coma is evident • Acyclovir: In children with encephalitis, until CSF PCR results known • Others: Anti-tuberculous therapy, anti-malarials Treatment of Metabolic Encephalopathy . . . . refer section on Metabolic disease in children General rules • Outcome depends on the underlying cause: 1/3 die, 1/3 recover with deficits, 1/3 recover completely • Acute complications improve with time. e.g. cortical blindness, motor deficits • Metabolic causes may require long term dietary management. Cerebral (CPP) Perfusion Pressure Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Mean (MAP) Arterial Pressure = - 7 8 Cerebral salt wasting Replace renal sodium losses Fluid restrictionSIADH↓serum sodium ↓urine output ↑urine sodium actionconsider MANAGEMENT OUTCOME
  • 240. 227 Chapter 51: Childhood Stroke Introduction • The overall incidence of neonatal stroke is 1 in 4,000 live births, while for childhood stroke is 2.5-13 per 100,000 children / year. • Ischaemic stroke, including arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS) and cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) is increasingly diagnosed in children. Arterial Ischaemic Stroke • Incidence: 2-8 per 100,000 children / year. • Recurrence occurs in 10-30% of childhood AIS. Definition 1. Acute onset (may be evolving) of focal ± diffuse neurological disturbance and persistent for 24 hours or more, AND 2. Neuro-imaging showing focal ischaemic infarct in an arterial territory and of maturity consistent with the clinical features. Clinical features • Typically sudden, maximal at onset (but may be evolving, waxing waning). • Focal deficits : commonest - motor deficits (hemiparesis), sensory deficits, speech / bulbar disturbance, visual disturbance, unsteadiness. • Diffuse neurological disturbance : altered consciouness, headache • Seizures. • Other non-specific features in neonatal stroke including apnoea, feeding difficulty, abnormal tone. Potential Risk Factors for Arterial Ischaemic Stroke Cardiogenic Congenital, acquired heart diseases; Cardiac procedure,Arrhythmia Acute disorders • Head and neck disorder: Trauma, Infection - Meningitis, otitis media, mastoiditis, sinusitis. • Systemic disorders: Sepsis, dehydration, asphyxia Vasculopathy • Non-vasculitis Dissection, Moyamoya, Post-varicella angiopathy • Vasculitis Primary CNS vasculitis; Secondary vasculitis (Infective vasculitis, SLE,Takayasu) Chronic disorders • Iron deficiency anaemia • Metabolic disorders Homocystinuria, Dyslipidaemia, Organic acidemia MELAS (Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis with stroke-like episodes) Prothrombotic disorders • Inherited thrombophilia • Acquired thrombophilia: Nephrotic syndrome, malignancy, L-Asparaginase, anti-phospholipid syndrome NEUROLOGY
  • 241. 228 NEUROLOGY Investigations • Blood workup : • Basic tests: FBC / FBP, renal profile, LFT, RBS, lipid profile, iron assay (as indicated). • Thrombophilia screen: PT/PTT/INR, protein C, protein S, anti-thrombin III, factor V Leiden, lupus anti-coagulant, anti-cardiolipin, serum homocysteine level. • If perinatal / neonatal stroke: to do mother’s lupus anti-coagulant and anti-cardiolipin level. • Further tests may include MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase), lipoprotein A, Prothrombin gene mutations. • Vasculitis workup (if indicated) : C3, C4, CRP, ESR, ANA • Further tests may include dsDNA, p-ANCA, c-ANCA • Others: Suspected metabolic aetiologies – lactate VBG for MELAS. • Cardiac assessment : ECG Echocardiogram (ideally with bubble study) • Neuro-imaging (consult radiologist) • Goals – to ascertain any infarction, haemorrhages, evidence of clots / vasculopathy and to exclude stroke-mimics. • If stroke is suspected, both brain parenchymal and cervico-cephalic vascular imaging should be considered. Brain imaging Cervico-cephalicVascular Imaging Cranial Ultrasound If fontanel is open. Carotid artery Ultrasound / Doppler If suspected carotid dissection or stenosis. CT scan Quick, sensitive for haemorrhages but may miss early, small and posterior fossa infarcts. MR Angiogram (MRA) Intracranial vessels (with MRI) to include neck vessels if suspected cervical vasculopathy. MRI scan (with DWI+ADC) Better parenchymal details and sensitive for early infarct CT Angiogram / Formal cerebral angiogram May be considered in certain cases.
  • 242. 229 Management • General care • Resuscitation: A, B, C’s. • Admit to ICU if indicated for close vital signs and GCS monitoring. (post-infarction cerebral oedema may worsen 2-4 days after acute stroke) • Workup for the possible underlying risk factor(s) and treat accordingly. • If cervical dissection is the likely aetiology ( eg : history of head neck trauma, Marfan syndrome, carotid bruit), apply soft cervical collar. • Acute neuro-protective care : • General measures for cerebral protection. • Maintain normothermia, normoglycemia, normovolemia • Monitor fluid balance, acceptable BP, adequate oxygenation, treat seizures aggressively. • Acute Anti-thrombotic therapy : • Consult paediatric neurologist (and haematology team if available) for the necessity, choice and monitoring of anti-thrombotic therapy. • If stroke due to cardiac disease/procedure, should also consult cardiologist/cardio-thoracic team. • If anti-thrombotic is needed, consider anti-coagulation therapy (unfractionated heparin / LMWH) or aspirin. Ensure no contraindications. • Secondary preventive therapy: • If needed, consider Aspirin (3-5mg/kg/day, may be reduced to 1-3mg/kg/ day if has side effects.) • Duration: generally for 3-5 years but may be indefinitely. Caution with long-term aspirin. (See below) • Alternatively, LMWH or warfarin may be used in extra-cranial dissection, intracardiac clots, major cardiac disease or severe prothrombotic disorders. Contraindications of Anti-thrombotic therapy Infarct associated with significant hemorrhage Large infarct with the worry of secondary haemorrhagic transformation; Uncontrolled hypertension Other risks for bleeding Caution with Aspirin Reye’s syndrome has been linked to use of aspirin during febrile illness. Reduce aspirin by 50% during fever 38°C. Withhold for 3-5 days if suspected/confirmed varicella / influenza infection. NEUROLOGY
  • 243. 230 Childhood Cerebral Sino-venous Thrombosis (CSVT): Introduction • 20-30% of childhood stroke due to CSVT; 30-40 % of CSVT will lead to venous infarcts or stroke. • More than 50% of venous infarcts are associated with haemorrhages. • Consider CSVT if infarct corresponds to venous drainage territories or infarct with haemorrhage not due to vascular abnormality. Clinical features (Typically sub-acute) • Diffuse neurological disturbance: Headache, seizures, altered sensorium, features of increased intracranial pressure (papilloedema, 6th cranial nerves palsy). • Focal deficits if venous infarct. Risk factors • Prothrombotic conditions (Inherited, L-asparaginase, nephrotic syndrome) • Acute disorders (Head neck trauma / infection, dehydration, sepsis) • Chronic disorders (SLE, thyrotoxicosis, iron deficiency anaemia, malignancy) Blood workup • Thrombophilia screen and others depending on possible risk factor(s) Neuro-imaging • Brain imaging - as in Childhood AIS guidelines. • Cerebral Venogram • MRV-TOF (time-of-flight) – flow dropout artefact may be a problem • CTV – better than MRV-TOF, but radiation exposure is an issue. Management • General care and acute neuro-protective care as in AIS. • Consult Paediatric neurologist for anti-coagulation therapy (ensure no contraindications). • Consult neuro-surgery if infarct associated with haemorrhage. NEUROLOGY
  • 244. 231 Chapter 52: Brain Death Definition Brain death is a state when the function of the brain as a whole, including the brain stem is irreversibly lost. A person certified to be brain dead is dead. Diagnosis of brain death (All to be fulfilled) Preconditions: • Patient is in deep coma, apnoeic and on ventilator • Cause of coma fully established and sufficient to explain the status of patient. • There is irremediable structural brain damage. Exclusions: • Coma due to metabolic or endocrine disturbance, drug intoxication and primary hypothermia (defined as a core temperature of 32 ⁰C or lower). • Certain neurological disorders, e.g. Guillain Barre Syndrome, Miller Fisher syndrome and Locked-in Syndrome. • Coma of undetermined cause. • Preterm neonates. Diagnostic Criteria ( All to be fulfilled ) • Deep coma, unresponsive and unreceptive, Glasgow scale 3 / 15 • Apnoeic, confirmed by apnoea test • Absent brain stem reflexes confirmed by the following tests:- 1. Pupillary light reflex. 2. Oculocephalic reflex. 3. Motor response in cranial nerve distribution 4. Corneal reflex 5. Vestibulo-ocular reflex (caloric test) 6. Oro-pharygeal reflex 7. Tracheo-bronchial reflex Test (All conditions and exclusions fulfilled before proceeding to examine and test for brain death) 1. Pupillary light reflex. • No response to bright light in both eyes. 2. Oculocephalic reflex. (Doll’s eye response) • Testing is done only when no fracture or instability of the cervical spine is apparent. • The oculocephalic response is elicited by fast, vigorous turning of the head from middle position to 90o on both sides. 3. Corneal reflex. • No blinking response seen when tested with a cotton swab. 4. Motor response in cranial nerve distribution. • No grimacing seen when pressure stimulus applied to the supraorbital nerve, deep pressure on both condyles at level of the temporo-mandibular joint or on nail bed. NEUROLOGY
  • 245. 232 NEUROLOGY 5. Vestibulo-ocular reflex (Caloric test). • The test should not be performed if the tympanic membrane is perforated. • The head is elevated to 30o during irrigation of the tympanum on each side with 50 ml of ice water. • Allow 1 minute after injection and at least 5 minutes between testing on each side. • Tonic deviation of the eyes in the direction of cold stimulus is absent. 6. Oropharyngeal reflex. • Absent gag response when the posterior pharynx is stimulated. 7. Tracheo-bronchial reflex. • A suction catheter is passed down through the endotracheal tube to the level of the carina or beyond. Lack of cough response to bronchial suctioning should be demonstrated. 8. Apnoea test. • Prerequisites: the patient must be in a stable cardiovascular and respiratory state. • Adjust ventilator to maintain PaCO₂ at or around 40 mmHg. • Pre-oxygenate with 100% O₂ for 10 minutes. • Disconnect from ventilator. • Deliver 100% O₂ via tracheal catheter at 6 L/min • Monitor O₂ saturation with pulse oximetry • Measure PaCO₂ after 5 minutes and again after 8 minutes if PaCO₂ has not exceeded 60 mmHg. • Re-connect to ventilator after the test. • Disconnection of the ventilator shall not exceed 10 mins at any one time • The apnoea test is positive when there is no respiratory effort with a PaCO₂ of ≥ 60 mmHg. • If during apnoea testing, there is significant hypotension, marked desaturation or cardiac arrhythmias immediately draw an arterial blood sample, re-connect to ventilator and analyse ABG. Should the PaCO₂ 60 mmHg, the result is indeterminate. • It is left to the discretion of the paediatrician to decide whether to repeat the test or to depend on an ancillary test to finalise the clinical diagnosis of brain death. Note: For patients with chronic lung disease, the baseline PaCO₂ may already be above 40 mmHg. The apnoea test is then considered positive if there is no respiratory effort at a PaCO₂ of 20 mmHg above the baseline PaCO₂
  • 246. 233 Additional criteria for children • It is generally assumed that the young child’s brain may be more resilient to certain forms of injury, although this issue is controversial. • The newborn is difficult to evaluate after perinatal insults. This relates to many factors including difficulties of clinical examination, determination of the cause of coma, and certainty of the validity of laboratory tests. • Hence no recommendation can be made for preterm infants and newborn less than 7 days old. • Beyond this period, the brain death criteria apply but the interval between two examinations is lengthened depending on the age of the child, and an ancillary test (EEG) is recommended for those less than one year old. Assessment and Certification • Two specialists who are competent (at least 3 years of postgraduate clinical experience and trained in brain death assessment) in diagnosing brain death are qualified to certify brain death. • They should preferably be paediatricians, anaesthesiologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons. Doctors involved in organ transplantation are not allowed to certify brain death. • A repeat assessment and certification must be carried out after the first (with interval between the 2 examinations depending on the age of the child), not necessarily by the same pair of specialists. • The ‘Brain Death Certification’ form is filled up by the first set of doctors (Doctor A and B) and completed by the 2nd set of doctors (Doctor C and D) or Doctor A and B if the same doctors are performing the repeat test. The time of death will then be declared by the doctors performing the repeat test. • The time of death is at the time of the 2nd testing. Should the patient’s heart stop before the repeat test, that will be taken as the time of death. • Brain death certification must only be done in areas of the hospital with full facilities for intensive cardiopulmonary care of the comatose patients. Time criteria and ancillary testing in children Age Interval between assessments Recommended no.of EEGs 7 days – 2 mths 48 hours 2 2 mths – 1 year 24 hours 2 1 year¹ 12 hours Not needed Footnote: 1.If hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy is present,observation for at least 24 hr is recommended.This interval may be reduced if an EEG shows electrocerebral silence. NEUROLOGY
  • 247. 234 Pitfalls in Assessment / Certification • Assessment may be difficult in patients with • Severe facial trauma. • Pre-existing pupillary abnormalities. • Sleep apnoea or severe pulmonary disease with chronic retention of CO₂ • Toxic levels of sedative drugs, aminoglycosides, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, chemotherapeutic drugs, neuromuscular blocking agents. • Drug levels are useful if they can be quantified. If the drug level is below the therapeutic range, brain death can be declared. • When the drug or poison cannot be quantified, observe the patients for at least 4 times the elimination half-life, provided the elimination of the drug or toxin is not interfered with, by other drugs or organ dysfunction. • When the drug unknown but suspicion of its presence is high, observe the patients for 48 hours for a change in brainstem reflexes and motor response; if none are observed, perform an ancillary test (EEG) for brain death. • Determination of brain death should be deferred in the presence of severe acidosis or alkalosis as this may point to certain intoxication and potentially reversible medical illness or endocrine crisis. • Spontaneous and reflex movements have been observed in patients with brain death. The most common are finger jerks, toe flexion sign and persistent Babinski response. These movements are spinal in origin and do not occur spontaneously. They do not preclude the diagnosis of brain death. Common CNS depressants and pharmacodynamics Drugs Elimination T ½ Therapeutic Range Midazolam 2 – 5 hours 50 – 150 ng/ml Diazepam 40 hours 0.2 – 0.8 ug/ml Carbamazepine 10 – 60 hours 2 – 10 ug/ml Phenobarbitone 100 hours 20 – 40 ug/ml Pentobarbitone 10 hours 1 – 5 ug/ml Thiopentone 10 hours 6 – 35 ug/ml Morphine 2 – 3 hours 70-450 ng/ml Amitriptyline 10 - 24 hours 75 – 200 ng/ml NEUROLOGY
  • 248. 235 NEUROLOGY References Section 5 Neurology Chapter 43 Status Epilepticus 1.Abend N, Dlugos D. Treatment of Refractory Status Epilepticus: Literature Review and a Proposed Protocol. Pediatr Neurol 2008; 38:377-390. 2.Walker D, Teach S. Update on the acute management of status epilepticus in children. Curr Opin Pediatr 2006; 18:239–244. 3.Goldstein J. Status Epilepticus in the Pediatric Emergency Department. Clin Ped Emerg Med 2008; 9:96-100. 4.Riviello J, et al. Practice Parameter: Diagnostic Assessment of the Child with Status Epilepticus. Neurology 2006;67:1542–1550. Chapter 44 Epilepsy 1.Hirtz D, et al. Practice parameter: Evaluating a first nonfebrile seizure in children. Report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the AAN, the CNS and the AES. Neurol 2000; 55: 616-623 2.Sullivan J, et al. Antiepileptic Drug Monotherapy: Pediatric Concerns. Sem Pediatr Neurol 2005;12:88-96 3. Sankar R. Initial treatment of epilepsy with antiepileptic drugs - Pediatric Issues. Neurology 2004;63 (Suppl 4)S30–S39 4.Wilner, R et. al. Efficacy and tolerability of the new antiepileptic drugs I: Treatment of new onset epilepsy: 5. Report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee and Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurol- ogy and the American Epilepsy Society. Neurology 2004; 62;1252-1260. Chapter 45 Febrile Seizures 1.Neurodiagnostic evaluation of the child with a simple febrile seizure. Sub- committee of febrile seizure; American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatrics 2011;127(2):389-94 2.Shinnar S. Glauser T. Febrile seizures. J Child Neurol 2002; 17: S44-S52 3.Febrile Seizures: Clinical practice guideline for the long-term management of the child with simple febrile seizures. Pediatrics 2008;121:1281–1286 Chapter 46 Meningitis 1.Hussain IH, Sofiah A, Ong LC et al. Haemophilus influenzae meningitis in Malaysia. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 1998; 17 (Suppl 9):S189-90 2.Sáez-Llorens X, McCracken G. Bacterial meningitis in children. Lancet 2003; 361: 2139–48. 3.McIntyre PB, Berkey CS, King SM, et al. Dexamethasone as adjunctive therapy in bacterial meningitis: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical tri- als since 1988. JAMA 1997; 278: 925–31. 4.Chaudhuri A. Adjunctive dexamethasone treatment in acute bacterial men- ingitis. Lancet Neurol. 2004; 3:54-62. 5.National Antibiotic Guidelines 2008. Ministry of Health, Malaysia.
  • 249. 236 NEUROLOGY Chapter 47 Acute CNS Demyelination 1.Demyelinating Diseases Protocol. The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario. 2007 2.Krupp L, Banwell B, Tenenbaum S. Consensus definitions proposed for pediatric multiple sclerosis and related disorders. Neurology 2007; 68 (suppl 2): S7-12. Chapter 48 Acute Flaccid Paralysis 1.Global Polio Eradication Initiative . http://www.polioeradication.org/, Unit Virologi, Institute for Medical Research, Malaysia Chapter 49 Guillain Barre Syndrome 1.van Doorn PA, Ruts L, Jacobs BC. Clinical features, pathogenesis, and treat- ment of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Lancet Neurol. 2008;7(10):939-50 Chapter 50 The Child with Altered Consciousness 1.Bowker R, Stephenson T. The management of children presenting with decreased conscious level. Curr Paediatr 2006; 16: 328-335 2.Shetty R, Singhi S, Singhi P, Jayashree M. Cerebral perfusion pressure- targeted approach in children with central nervous system infections and raised intracranial pressure: is it feasible? J Child Neurol. 2008;23(2):192-8. Chapter 52 Brain Death 1.Consensus Statement on Brain Death 2003. Ministry of Health, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia and Malaysian Society of Neurosciences. 2. Guidelines for the determination of brain death in children. American Academy of Paediatric Task Force on Brain Death in Children. Paediatrics 2011:128:e720-e740.
  • 250. 237 Chapter 53: Approach to A Child with Short Stature Short stature can be a sign of disease, disability and social stigma causing psychological stress. It is important to have early diagnosis and treatment. Definition Definitions of growth failure: • Height below 3rd percentile (-2SD for age and gender). • Height significantly below genetic potentials (-2SD below mid-parental target). • Abnormally slow growth velocity. • Downwardly crossing percentile channels on growth chart ( 18 mths age). Average height velocity at different phases: • Prenatal growth : 1.2 -1.5 cm / week • Infancy :23 - 28 cm / year • Childhood : 5 - 6.5 cm / year • Puberty : 8.3 cm / year (girls), 9.5 cm / year (boys) Measure serial heights to assess the growth pattern and height velocity. Initial screening evaluation of growth failure • General tests: • FBC with differentials, renal profile, liver function test, ESR, Urinalysis. • Chromosomal analysis in every short girl. • Endocrine tests • Thyroid function tests. • Growth factors: IGF-1, IGFBP-3. • Growth hormone stimulation tests if growth hormone deficiency is strongly suspected. (Refer to a Paediatric Endocrine Centre) • Imaging studies • Bone age : anteroposterior radiograph of left hand and wrist. • CT / MRI brain (if hypopituitarism is suspected). • Other investigations depends on clinical suspicion. • Blood gas analysis. • Radiograph of the spine. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 251. 238 Differential diagnosis of short stature and growth failure Healthy but short children Endocrinopathies Familial short stature Hypothyroidism Constitutional growth delay Hypopituitarism Intrinsic short stature • Heredity,sporadic,idiopathic Small for gestational age Isolated GH deficiency Genetic syndromes • Birth injury • Down syndrome,Turner syndrome • Craniopharyngioma • Prader-Willi syndrome • Cranial irradiation Skeletal dysplasia • Brain tumours • Achondroplasia,hypochondroplasia • Midline defects Systemic diseases • Haemosiderosis Infectious:HIV,tuberculosis GH insensitivity (Laron syndrome) Cardiac disease Cushing syndrome,exogenous steroids Renal disease Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus • Renal tubular acidosis Precocious puberty • Chronic renal insufficiency Pseudohypoparathyroidism Gastrointestinal Pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism • Cystic fibrosis Non-organic aetiology • Inflammatory bowel disease Psychosocial deprivation Central nervous system disease Nutritional dwarfing Chronic lung disease Malignancy Abbreviation: GH, Growth Hormone ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 252. 239 Clinical Approach to children with Short Stature History Antenatal Nutrition Complications of pregnancy General well being Pre-eclampsia, hypertension Appetite, energy, sleep, bowel habits Maternal smoking,alcohol Pattern of growth from birth Infections Maternal and child relationship Birth Medical history Gestational age Underlying illness,medications, irradiation Birth weight and length Family History Mode of delivery (breech,forceps) Short stature (3 generations). Apgar score Age of onset of puberty in family members of the same sexNeonatal complications Developmental milestones Diseases in the family. Physical Examination Anthropometry General appearance and behaviour Height,weight,head circumference Dysmorphism Height velocity Pubertal staging Arm span Upper:lower segment Ratio: 1.7 in neonates to slightly 1.0 in adults Family Measurements Measure height of parents for mid-parental heights (MPH) Boys : Father’s height + (Mother’s height +13) 2 Girls: Mother’s height + (Father’s height -13) 2 ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 253. 240 Management • Treat underlying cause (hypothyroidism, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, chronic illnesses). • For children suspected to be GH deficient, refer to Paediatric Endocrinologist for initiation of GH. • Psychological support for non-treatable causes (genetic / familial short stature; constitutional delay of growth and puberty) FDA approved indications for GH treatment in Children: • Paediatric GH deficiency • Turner syndrome • Small for gestational age • Chronic renal insufficiency • Idiopathic short stature • Prader–Willi syndrome • AIDS cachexia GH Treatment • GH should be initiated by a Paediatric Endocrinologist. • GH dose: 0.025 - 0.05 mg/kg/day (0.5 - 1.0 units/kg/wk) SC daily at night. • GH treatment should start with low doses and be titrated according to clinical response, side effects, and growth factor levels. • During GH treatment, patients should be monitored at 3-monthly intervals (may be more frequent at initiation and during dose titration) with a clinical assessment (growth parameters, compliance) and an evaluation for adverse effects (e.g. impaired glucose tolerance, carpal tunnel syndrome), IGF-1 level, and other parameters of GH response. • Other biochemical evaluations: • Thyroid function • HbA1c • Lipid profile • Fasting blood glucose • Continue treatment till child reaches near final height, defined as a height velocity of 2cm / year over at least 9 months (or bone age 13 years in girls and 14 years in boys). • Treat other pituitary hormone deficiencies such as hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, hypocortisolism and diabetes insipidus. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 254. 241 Chapter 54: Congenital Hypothyroidism Introduction • Incidence of congenital hypothyroidism worldwide is 1:2500 - 4000 live births. • In Malaysia, it is reported as 1:3666. • It is the commonest preventable cause of mental retardation in children. • Thyroid hormones are crucial for: - • Normal growth and development of brain and intellectual function, during the prenatal and early postnatal period. • Maturation of the foetal lungs and bones. Clinical diagnosis • Most infants are asymptomatic at birth. • Subtle clinical features include : • Prolonged neonatal jaundice • Constipation • A quiet baby • Enlarged fontanelle • Respiratory distress with feeding • Absence of one or both epiphyses on X-ray of left knee (lateral view). • If left untreated, overt clinical signs will appear by 3 - 6 months: coarse facies, dry skin, macroglossia, hoarse cry, umbilical hernia, lethargy, slow movement, hypotonia and delayed developmental milestones. • Most infants with the disease have no obvious clinical manifestations at birth, therefore neonatal screening of thyroid function should be performed on all newborns. Treatment Timing • Should begin immediately after diagnosis is established. If features of hypothyroidism are present, treatment is started urgently. Duration • Treatment is life long except in children suspected of having transient hypothyroidism where re-evaluation is done at 3 years of age. Preparation • There are currently no approved liquid preparations. • Only L-thyroxine tablets should be used. The L-thyroxine tablet should be crushed, mixed with breast milk, formula, or water and fed to the infant. • Tablets should not be mixed with soy formulas or any preparation containing iron (formulas or vitamins), both of which reduce the absorption of T4. Causes of Congenital Hypothyroidism Thyroid dysgenesis (85%) Athyreosis (30%) Hypoplasia (10%) Ectopic thyroid (60%) Other causes (15%) Inborn error of thyroid hormone synthesis (1:30,000) Hypothalamo-pituitary defect (1:100,000) Peripheral resistance to thyroid hormone (very rare) Transient neonatal hypothyroidism (1:100 - 50,000) Endemic cretinism ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 255. 242 Doses of L- Thyroxine by age Age mcg/kg/dose, daily 0 – 3 months 10 – 15 3 – 6 months 8 – 10 6 – 12 months 6 – 8 1 – 5 yr 5 – 6 6 – 12 yr 4 – 5 12 yr 2 – 3 Note: • Average adult dose is 1.6 mcg /kg/day in a 70-kg adult (wide range of dose from 50 - 200 mcg/day). • L-thyroxine can be given at different doses on alternate days, e.g. 50 mcg given on even days and 75 mcg on odd days will give an average dose of 62.5 mcg/day. • Average dose in older children is 100 mcg/m2 /day. Goals of therapy • To restore the euthyroid state by maintaining a normal serum FT4 level at the upper half of the normal age-related reference range. Ideally, serum TSH levels should be between 0.5-2.0 mU/L. • Serum FT4 level usually normalise within 1-2 weeks, and then TSH usually become normal after 1 month of treatment. • Some infants continue to have high serum TSH concentration (10 - 20 mU/L) despite normal serum FT4 values due to resetting of the pituitary-thyroid feedback threshold. However, compliance to medication has to be reassessed and emphasised. Goals ofTherapy in the FirstYear of Life Adequate treatment Inadequate treatment FT4 1.4 – 2.3 ng/dL (18 - 30 pmol/L) FT4 18 pmol/L TSH 5 mU/L TSH 15 mU/L once in first year ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 256. 243 Follow-up • Monitor growth parameters and developmental assessment. • The recommended measurements of serum FT4 and TSH by American Academy of Pediatrics are according to the following schedules: - • At 2 and 4 weeks after initiation of T4 treatment. • Every 1 to 2 months during the first 6 months of life. • Every 3 to 4 months between 6 months and 3 years of age. • Every 6 to 12 months thereafter until growth is completed. • After 4 weeks if medication is adjusted. • At more frequent interval when compliance is questioned or abnormal values are obtained. • Ongoing counseling of parents is important because of the serious consequences of poor compliance. Re-evaluation of patients likely having transient hypothyroidism • This is best done at age 3 years when thyroid dependent brain growth is completed at this age. • Stop L-thyroxine for 4 weeks then repeat thyroid function test: FT4, TSH. • Imaging studies: Thyroid scan, Ultrasound of the thyroid. • If the FT4 is low and the TSH value is elevated, permanent hypothyroidism is confirmed and life-long L-thyroxine therapy is needed. Babies born to mothers with thyroid disorders • All newborns of mothers with thyroid diseases should be evaluated for thyroid dysfunction, followed up and treated if necessary. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 257. 244 NORMAL Free T4 (FT4) analysis (on cord blood) CLINICAL EVALUATION Venous FT4 TSH Footnotes: • Interpretation of the results should take into account the physiological variations of the hormone levels during the neonatal period. • Free thyroxine (FT4) level is preferable to total thyroxine level (T4). PRIMARY HYPOTHYROIDISM TSH 21 mU/L (Normal) TSH 60 mU/L (High) TSH 21 - 60 mU/L (Borderline) FT4 15 pmol/L (Normal) FT4 ≤ 15 pmol/L (Low) TSH High FT4 Low TSH High FT4 Normal TSH Normal FT4 Low Subclinical PRIMARY HYPOTHYROIDISM TSH Normal FT4 Normal Differential Diagnosis Primary hypothyroidism, delayedTSH rise Hypothalamic immaturity TBG (Thyroxine-Binding Globulin) deficiency Prematurity Sick neonate CORD BLOOD SAMPLE Collected at Birth SCREENING FOR CONGENITAL HYPOTHYROIDISM ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 258. 245 Chapter 55: Diabetes Mellitus Introduction • Diabetes in children is almost invariably type I diabetes mellitus. • The incidence of type II diabetes mellitus is on the increasing trend among young people due to obesity. Symptoms and Signs of Diabetes Mellitus Early Late Polydipsia Vomiting Polyuria Dehydration Weight loss Abdominal pain Enuresis (secondary) Hyperventilation due to acidosis Drowsiness, coma Criteria for Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus • Symptoms of diabetes Plus • Casual plasma glucose concentration ≥ 11.1 mmol/L (≥ 200 mg/dL).¹ Casual is defined as any time of day without regard to time since the last meal. OR • Fasting plasma glucose ≥ 7.0 mmol/L (≥ 126 mg/dL).² Fasting is defined as no caloric intake for at least 8 hours. OR • A 2-hour Postload Glucose ≥ 11.1 mmol/L (≥ 200 mg/dL) during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Using a glucose load containing the equivalent of 75 g anhydrous glucose dissolved in water or 1.75 g/kg of body weight to a maximum of 75 g. (WHO). ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 259. 246 Management Principles of insulin therapy • Daily insulin dosage • Daily insulin dosage varies between individuals and changes over time. • The correct dose of insulin for any individual is the dose that achieves the best glycemic control without causing obvious hypoglycemia problems, and achieving normal growth (height and weight). • Dosage depends on many factors such as: age, weight, stage of puberty, duration and phase of diabetes, state of injection sites, nutritional intake and distribution, exercise patterns, daily routine, results of blood glucose monitoring (BGM), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and intercurrent illness. • Guidelines on dosage: • During the partial remission phase, total daily insulin dose is usually 0.5 IU/kg/day. • Prepubertal children (outside the partial remission phase) usually require insulin of 0.7–1.0 IU/kg/day. • During puberty, requirements may rise to 1 - 2 IU/kg/day. • The total daily dose of insulin is distributed across the day depending on the daily pattern of blood glucose and the regimens that are used. Types of Insulin Type Examples Onset ofAction Peak Duration Rapid-acting insulin NovoRapid, Humalog 5-15 mins 30-60 mins 3-5 hours Short-acting insulin (regular) Actrapid, Humilin R 30 mins 2-3 hours 3-6 hours Intermediate- acting insulin Insulatard (NPH), Humulin N 2-4 hours 4-12 hours 12-18 hours Long-acting insulin Levemir (Detemir), Lantus (Glargine) Determir 1-2 hours Glargine 1 hour Determir 6-8 hours Glargine No peak Determir 6-23 hours Glargine 24 hours ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 260. 247 • Frequently used regimens: Twice Daily Regimens • 2 daily injections of a mixture of a short or rapid acting insulin with and intermediate-acting insulins (before breakfast and the main evening meal) • Approximately 1/3 of the total daily insulin dose is short acting insulin and 2/3 intermediate-acting insulin • 2/3 of the total daily dose is given in the morning and 1/3 in the evening Three injections daily • A mixture of short, rapid and intermediate-acting insulins before breakfast; • A rapid-acting analogue or regular insulin alone before afternoon snack or the main evening meal. • And an intermediate- acting insulin before bed. Basal-bolus Regimen • Of the total daily insulin requirements, 40 - 60% should be basal insulin, the rest pre-prandial rapid-acting or regular insulin. • If using regular insulin, inject 20 - 30 min before each main meal (breakfast, lunch; and the main evening meal); if using rapid-acting insulin analogue inject immediately before or after each main meal (e.g. breakfast, lunch; and the main evening meal). • Basal cover is given once daily at bedtime. However sometimes twice daily injections may be needed (the other dose usually before breakfast). • Insulin pump regimens are regaining popularity with a fixed or a variable basal dose and bolus doses with meals. • Patient should learn about carbohydrate counting to adjust dose of pre-prandial insulin. Choice of insulin regimen • At least two injections of insulin per day are advisable in most children. • The basal-bolus concept has the best possibility of imitating the physiological insulin profile. Some notes on converting from intermediate acting insulin to long acting insulin analogues: • Insulin Glargine • Usually given once a day. However if needed, it can be given twice a day. • When converting from NPH to Glargine, the total dose of basal insulin needs to be reduced by approximately 20% to avoid hypoglycemia. After that, the dose should be individually tailored. • Insulin Detemir • Is most commonly given twice daily in children • When changing to Detemir from NPH, the same doses can be used to start with. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 261. 248 Monitoring of glycemic control Self-Monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) The frequency of SMBG is associated with improved HbA1c in patients with type 1 diabetes. • Timing of SMBG. • At different times in the day to show levels of BG. • To confirm hypoglycemia and to monitor recovery; and • During intercurrent illness to prevent hyperglycemic crises. • The number and regularity of SMBG should be individualized depending on: • Availability of equipment; • Type of insulin regimen; and • Ability of the child to identify hypoglycemia. Note: • Successful application of intensified diabetes management with multiple injection therapy or insulin infusion therapy requires frequent SMBG (four to six times a day) and regular, frequent review of the results to identify patterns requiring adjustment to the diabetes treatment plan. • However, each child should have their targets individually determined with the goal of achieving a value as close to normal as possible while avoiding severe hypoglycemia as well as frequent mild to moderate hypoglycemia. Target Indicators of Glycaemic control Level of control Ideal (non-diabetic) Optimal (diabetic) Clinical assessment Raised Blood Glucose (BG) Not raised No symptoms Low BG Not low Few mild, no severe hypoglycaemias Biochemical assessment • SBGM values, mmol/L AM fasting or preprandial 3.6 - 5.6 5.0 - 8.0 • Plasma Glucose (PG), mmol/L Postprandial PG 4.5 – 7.0 5.0 – 10.0 Bedtime PG 4.0 – 5.6 6.7 – 10.0 Nocturnal PG 3.6 – 5.6 4.5 – 9.0 • HbA1c (%) 6.05 7.5 ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 262. 249 Monitoring of ketones should be done during: • Illness with fever and/or vomiting. • Persistent blood glucose levels 14 mmol/L (250 mg/dL), in an unwell child, in a young child, an insulin pump user, or patient with a history of prior episodes of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA). • Persistent polyuria with elevated blood or urine glucose. • Episodes of drowsiness. • Abdominal pain or rapid breathing. Urine ketone testing • Tablets or urine testing strips (detect increased levels of urinary acetoacetate) Reading (in mmol/L) Corresponding 0.5 Trace amounts 1.5 Small amounts 4 Moderate amounts 8 Large amounts Interpretation of urine ketone testing • Moderate or large urinary ketone levels in the presence of hyperglycemia indicate insulin deficiency and risk for metabolic decompensation leading to ketoacidosis. • The presence of vomiting with hyperglycemia and large urinary ketones must be assumed to be because of systemic acidosis and requires further evaluation. • Urine, in contrast to blood ketone testing, is not helpful in ruling out or diagnosing DKA. Blood ketone determination. • Because of cost many centres limit the determination of blood ketone to • Young children (difficult to obtain a urine specimen) • For any individual if urine ketone measurement is large, i.e. 4–8 mmol/L. • Blood ketone testing is especially important for patients on pumps as they have a much smaller subcutaneous (SC) insulin depot. Recommendations for HbA1c measurement • Ideally, in younger children, 4 - 6 times per year. In older children, 3 - 4 times per year. • Adolescents with stable type 2 diabetes should have 2 - 4 measurements per year because they can rapidly become insulin requiring (compared to adults). • HbA1c target range for all age-groups of: 7.5% . • If hypoglycemia unawareness is present, glycemic targets must be increased until hypoglycemia awareness is restored, especially in children 6 years. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 263. 250 Diet • A balance and healthy diet for age is required with dietician involvement. • Carbohydrate counting should be taught to patients. Insulin dosage should match the carbohydrate intake. Exercise • Regular exercise and participation in sport should be encouraged. • Plan the injection sites according to the activity e.g. inject insulin in the arm if one plans to go cycling. • Approximately 1.0-1.5g carbohydrates /kg body weight/hour should be consumed during strenuous exercise if a reduction in insulin is not instituted. • If pre-exercise blood glucose levels are high (14 mmol/L) with ketonuria or ketonemia, exercise should be avoided. Give approximately 0.05 IU/kg or 5% of total daily dose and postpone exercise until ketones have cleared. • Hypoglycemia may be anticipated during or shortly after exercise, but also possible up to 24 hours afterwards, due to increased insulin sensitivity. • Risk of post exercise nocturnal hypoglycemia is high and particular care should be taken if bedtime blood glucose 7.0 mmol/L. Diabetic Education At diagnosis - Survival skills: • Explanation of how the diagnosis has been made and reasons for symptoms. • Simple explanation of the uncertain cause of diabetes. No cause for blame. • The need for immediate insulin and how it will work. • What is glucose? Normal blood glucose (BG) levels and glucose targets • Practical skills: insulin injections; blood and/or urine testing, reasons for monitoring. • Basic dietetic advice. • Simple explanation of hypoglycemia. • Diabetes during illnesses. Advice not to omit insulin - prevent DKA. • Diabetes at home or at school including the effects of exercise. • Psychological adjustment to the diagnosis. • Details of emergency telephone contacts. Medic alert • Wear the medic alert at all times as this may be life saving in an emergency. • Obtain request forms for a medic alert from the local diabetes educator. Diabetes support group • Persatuan Diabetes Malaysia (PDM) or Malaysian Diabetes Association, Diabetes Resource Centre at the regional centre or the respective hospital. • Encourage patient and family members to enroll as members of diabetes associations and participate in their activities. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 264. 251 School • The school teachers should be informed about children having diabetes so that some flexibility can be allowed for insulin injections and mealtimes. • Symptoms and treatment of hypoglycaemia should be informed so that some emergency measures can be commenced at school. Other complications and associated conditions • Monitoring of growth and physical development. • Blood pressure should be monitored at least annually. Blood pressure value should be maintained at the 95th percentile for age or 130/80 mmHg for young adults. • Screening for fasting blood lipids should be performed when diabetes is stabilized in children over 12 years of age. If normal results are obtained, screening should be repeated every 5 years. • Screening of thyroid function at diagnosis of diabetes. Then every second year if asymptomatic, no goitre or thyroid autoantibodies negative. More frequent assessment is indicated otherwise. • In areas of high prevalence for coeliac disease, screening for coeliac disease should be carried out at the time of diagnosis and every second year thereafter. More frequent assessment if there is clinical suspicion of coeliac disease or celiac disease in first-degree relative. • Routine clinical examination for skin and joint changes. Regular laboratory or radiological screening is not recommended. There is no established therapeutic intervention for lipodystrophy, necrobiosis lipoidica or limited joint movement. Evaluation for complications • Microalbuminuria: 2 of 3 urine collections should be used as evidence of microalbuminuria defined as : • Albumin excretion rate (AER) 20-200 mcg/min or AER 30-300 mg/day. • Albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) 3.5-35 mg/mmol (males) and 4.0 -35 mg/mmol (females) on first morning urine specimen; Random ACR is higher. • Albumin concentration (AC) 30-300 mg/L (on early morning urine sample). ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 265. 252 Screening,riskfactors,andinterventionsforvascularcomplications:thelevelsofevidenceforriskfactors andinterventionspertainingtoadultstudies,exceptforimprovedglycemiccontrol. RetinopathyNephropathyNeuropathyMacrovasculardisease Whentocommencescreening? Annuallyfromage11yr if2yrsdiabetesduration,and fromage9yrswith5yrofduration(E) Annuallyfromage11yr if2yrsdiabetesduration,and fromage9yrswith5yrofduration(E) UnclearAfterage12yrs(E) Screeningmethods Fundalmicrophotographor Mydriaticophthalmoscopy (lesssensitive)(E) Urinealbumin:creatinineratioorfirst morningalbuminconcentration(E) Historyand Physicalexamination Lipidprofileevery5yr Bloodpressureannually(E) Riskfactors Hyperglycaemia(A) Highbloodpressure(B) Lipidabnormalities(B) HigherBMI(C) Highbloodpressure(B) Lipidabnormalities(B) Smoking(B Hyperglycaemia(A) HigherBMI(C) Hyperglycaemia(A) Highbloodpressure(A) Lipidabnormalities(B) Smoking(B) HigherBMI(B) Potentialintervention Improvedglycemiccontrol(A) Lasertherapy(A) Improvedglycemiccontrol(A) ACEIandAIIRA(A) Bloodpressurelowering(B) Improved glycemic control(A) Improvedglycemiccontrol(A) Bloodpressurecontrol(B) Statins(A) Abbreviations.BMI,Bodymassindex;ACEI,Angiotensinconvertingenzymeinhibitor;AIIRA,angiotensinIIreceptorantagonists ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 266. 253 Target levels for different parameters to reduce the risk of microvascular and cardiovascular diseases in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes; the level of evidence are from adult studies. Parameter Target Level Evidence Grade Haemoglobin A1c (DCCT) ≤ 7.5 % without severe hypoglycaemia A Low density lipoprotein cholesterol 2.6 mmol/l A High density lipoprotein cholesterol ≥ 1.1 mmol/l C Triglycerides 1.7 mmol/l C Blood pressure 90th percentile by age, sex, height C/B Body mass index 95th percentile (non obese) E Smoking None A Physical activity 1 h of moderate physical activity daily B Sedentary activities 2 h daily B Abbreviation: DCCT, Diabetes Control and ComplicationTrials Standard ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 268. 255 Chapter 56: Diabetic Ketoacidosis Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) The biochemical criteria for the diagnosis of DKA are : • Hyperglycaemia: blood glucose 11 mmol/L ( 200 mg/dL). • Venous pH 7.3 or bicarbonate 15 mmol/L. • Ketonaemia and ketonuria. Goals of therapy • Correct dehydration. • Correct acidosis and reverse ketosis. • Restore blood glucose to near normal. • Avoid complications of therapy. • Identify and treat any precipitating event. Emergency management • Bedside confirmation of the diagnosis and determine its cause. • Look for evidence of infection. • Weigh the patient. This weight should be used for calculations and not the weight from a previous hospital record. • Assess clinical severity of dehydration • Assess level of consciousness [Glasgow coma scale (GCS) ] • Obtain a blood sample for laboratory measurement of: • Serum or plasma glucose • Electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, osmolality • Venous blood gas (or arterial in critically ill patient) • Full blood count • Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium concentrations (if possible) • HbA1c • Blood ketone (useful to confirm ketoacidosis; monitor response to treatment) • Urine for ketones. • Appropriate cultures (blood, urine, throat), if there is evidence of infection. • If laboratory measurement of serum potassium is delayed, perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) for baseline evaluation of potassium status. Supportive measures • Secure the airway and give oxygen. • Empty the stomach via a nasogastric tube. • A peripheral intravenous catheter or an arterial catherter (in ICU) for painless repetitive blood sampling. • Continuous cardiac monitoring to assess T waves for evidence of hyper- or hypokalaemia. • Antibiotics for febrile patients after cultures. • Catheterization if the child is unconscious or unable to void on demand. (e.g. in infants and very ill young children) ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 269. 256 NO IMPROVEMENT • Shock (reduced peripheral pulses) • Reduced conscious level or Coma • Dehydration 5% • Not in shock • Acidosis (hyperventilation) • Vomiting • Minimal dehydration • Tolerating oral hydration Diagnosis Confirmed: DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS Contact Senior Staff Clinical History • Polyuria • Polydipsia • Weight loss (weigh) • Abdominal pain • Tiredness • Vomiting • Confusion Clinical Signs • Assess dehydration • Deep sighing respiration(Kussmaul) • Smell of ketones • Lethargy or drowsiness • Vomiting Biochemical features • Ketones in urine • Elevated blood sugar • Acidemia Do blood gases, urea, electrolytes, other investigations as indicated Resuscitation • Airway +/- NG tube • Breathing 100 % Oxygen • Circulation 0.9 % Saline 10-20 ml/kgover 1-2 hr, Rpt until circulation restored, but do not exceed 30 ml/kg) IV Therapy • Calculate fluid requirements • Correct over 48 hrs • Saline 0.9 % • ECG for abnormal T waves • Add KCl 40 mmol per litre fluid Therapy • Start SC Insulin • Continue Oral Hydration Continuous Insulin infusion 0.1 unit/kg/h Start 1-2 hrs after fluid treatment initiated Algorithm for Assessment and Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis Adapted from Dunger et al. Karger Pub. 1999 ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 270. 257 Acidosis not improving Blood glucose 17 mmol/l or Blood glucose falls 5 mmol/hr IMPROVING • Clinically well • Tolerating oral fluids Exclude hypoglycaemia is it cerebral oedema ? IV Therapy • Change to 0.45 % Saline + 5 % Dextrose • Adjust sodium infusion to promote an increase in measured serum sodium Re-evaluate • IV fluid calculations • Insulin delivery system and dose • Need for additional resuscitation • Consider sepsis Transition to SC Insulin Start SC insulin then stop IV insulin after an appropriate interval Management • Give Mannitol 0.5-1 G/kg • Restrict IV fluids by ¹/₃ • Call senior staff • Move to ICU • Consider cranial imaging only after patient stable Critical Observations • Hourly blood glucose • Hourly fluid input and output • Neurological status at least hourly • Electrolytes 2 Hly after start of IV therapy • Monitor ECG for T wave changes WARNING SIGNS ! Neurological deterioration • Headache • Slowing heart rate • Irritability, decreased conscious level • Incontinence • Specific neurological signs Algorithm for Assessment and Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (cont) Adapted from Dunger et al. Karger Pub. 1999 ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 271. 258 Clinical and biochemical monitoring • Monitoring should include the following: • Hourly (or more frequently as indicated) vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure), head chart, accurate fluid I/O (including all oral fluid). • Amount of administered insulin. • Hourly capillary blood glucose (must be cross checked against laboratory venous glucose). • 2-4 hourly (or more frequent in more severe cases): BUSE, glucose, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, hematocrit and blood gases. • 2 hourly urine ketones until cleared or blood b-hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) concentrations (if available). Calculations • Anion gap = ( Na + K ) - (Cl + HCO₃) • Normal value: 12 +/- 2 mmol/L • In DKA the anion gap is typically 20–30 mmol/L • An anion gap 35 mmol/L suggests concomitant lactic acidosis • Corrected sodium ( mmol/L ) = measured Na + 2 x (plasma glucose - 5.6 ) 5.6 • Effective osmolality (mOsm/kg ) = 2 x (Na + K) + plasma glucose + urea Fluids and Salt Principles of water and salt replacement • Begin with fluid replacement before insulin therapy. • Fluid bolus (resuscitation) required ONLY if needed to restore peripheral circulation. • Subsequent fluid administration (including oral fluids) should rehydrate evenly over 48 hrs at a rate rarely in excess of 1.5 - 2 times the usual daily maintenance. Acute Resuscitation • If child is in shock, fluid resuscitation is needed to restore peripheral circulation, fluid boluses 10–20 mL/kg over 1–2 hrs of 0.9% saline is used. • Boluses may be repeated, if necessary. • There is no evidence that the use of colloids is better. Replacement of water and salt deficits • Patients with DKA have a deficit in extracellular fluid (ECF) volume. Clinical estimates of the volume deficit are subjective and inaccurate; therefore in • Moderate DKA use 5–7% deficit. • Severe DKA use 7–10% dehydration. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 272. 259 • Rehydrate the patient evenly over 48 hours: • As a guide fluid infused each day usually 1.5 - 2 times daily maintenance. • IV or oral fluids given in another facility before assessment should be factored into calculation of deficit and repair. • Replacement should begin with 0.9% saline or Ringer’s lactate for at least 4 - 6 h. Thereafter, use a solution that has a tonicity equal to or greater than 0.45% saline with added potassium chloride. • Urinary losses should not routinely be added to the calculation of replacement fluid, but may be necessary in rare circumstances. • Calculate the corrected sodium (formula as above) and monitor changes: • As plasma glucose decreases after IV fluids and insulin, the serum sodium should increase: this does not indicate a worsening of the hypertonic state. • A failure of sodium levels to rise or a further decline in sodium levels with therapy may signal impending cerebral oedema. • The sodium content of the fluid may need to be increased if measured serum sodium is low and does not rise appropriately as the plasma glucose concentration falls. • The use of large amounts of 0.9% saline has been associated with the development of hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis. Insulin therapy • DKA is caused by either relative or absolute insulin deficiency. • Start insulin infusion 1–2 h AFTER starting fluid replacement therapy • Correction of insulin deficiency • Dose: 0.1 unit/kg/h IV infusion. (one method is to dilute 50 units regular insulin in 50 ml normal saline, 1 unit = 1 ml). • An initial IV bolus of insulin is not necessary, and may increase the risk of cerebral oedema and should not be given. • The dose of insulin should usually remain at 0.1 unit/kg/h at least until resolution of DKA (evidenced by pH 7.30, HCO₃ 15 mmol/L and/or closure of the anion gap), which takes longer than normalization of blood glucose concentrations. • If patient has a marked sensitivity to insulin (e.g. young children with DKA, patients with Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS), and older children with established diabetes), the dose may be decreased to 0.05 unit/kg/h, or less, provided that metabolic acidosis continues to resolve. • During initial volume expansion the plasma glucose concentration falls steeply. After commencing insulin therapy, the plasma glucose concentration typically decreases at a rate of 2–5 mmol/L/h. • To prevent an unduly rapid decrease in plasma glucose concentration and hypoglycemia, add 5% glucose to IV fluid (e.g., 5% glucose in 0.45% saline) when plasma glucose falls to 14–17 mmol/L, or sooner if rate of fall is rapid. • It may be necessary to use 10% - 12.5% dextrose to prevent hypoglycemia while continuing to infuse insulin to correct the metabolic acidosis. • If blood glucose falls very rapidly ( 5 mmol/L/h) after initial fluid expansion add glucose even before plasma glucose has decreased to 17 mmol/L. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 273. 260 • If biochemical parameters of DKA (pH, anion gap) do not improve, reassess the patient, review insulin therapy, and consider other possible causes of impaired response to insulin; e.g. infection, errors in insulin preparation. • If continuous IV insulin is not possible, hourly / 2-hourly subcutaneous (SC) or IM administration of a short or rapid-acting insulin analog (insulin Lispro or insulin Aspart) is safe / effective. (do not use in patients with impaired peripheral circulation) • Initial dose SC: 0.3 unit/kg, followed 1 h later at SC 0.1 unit/kg every hour, or 0.15–0.20 units/kg every 2 hours. • If blood glucose falls to 14 mmol/L before DKA has resolved (pH still 7.30), add 5% glucose and continue with insulin as above. • When DKA has resolved and blood glucose is 14 mmol/L , reduce SC insulin to 0.05 unit/kg/h to keep blood glucose around 11 mmol/L. Important If the blood glucose concentration decreases too quickly or too low before DKA has resolved: • Increase the amount of glucose administered. • Do not decrease the insulin infusion. Potassium replacement • There is always a deficit of total body of potassium (3-6 mmol/kg) even with normal or high levels of serum potassium at presentation. Replacement therapy is therefore required. • If immediate serum potassium measurements are unavailable, an ECG may help to determine whether the child has hyper- or hypokalemia. • Subsequent potassium replacement therapy should be based on serum potassium measurements. • Potassium replacement should continue throughout IV fluid therapy • Maximum recommended rate of IV potassium replacement is 0.5 mmol/kg/h. • If hypokalemia persists despite maximum rate of potassium replacement, then the rate of insulin infusion can be reduced. Serum potassium level Action Hypokalemic at presentation Start potassium replacement at the time of initial volume expansion and before start- ing insulin therapy, at a concentration of 20 mmol/ L (0.75 g KCl per pint). Normokalemia Start replacing potassium after initial volume expansion and concurrent with starting insulin therapy.The starting potas- sium concentration in the infusate should be 40 mmol/L (1.5 g KCl/pint) Hyperkalaemia (K+ 5.5 mmol/L) Defer potassium replacement therapy until urine output is documented. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 274. 261 Phosphate • Depletion of intracellular phosphate occurs in DKA • Severe hypophosphatemia, with unexplained weakness, should be treated • Potassium phosphate salts may be safely used as an alternative to or combined with potassium chloride or acetate, provided that careful monitoring of serum calcium is performed as administration of phosphate may induce hypocalcaemia. Acidosis • Severe acidosis is reversible by fluid and insulin replacement. • There is no evidence that bicarbonate is either necessary or safe in DKA. Bicarbonate therapy may cause paradoxical CNS acidosis, hypokalaemia and increasing osmolality. • Used only in selected patients: • Severe acidaemia (arterial pH 6.9) in whom decreased cardiac contractility and peripheral vasodilatation can further impair tissue perfusion. • Life-threatening hyperkalaemia. • Cautiously give 1 - 2 mmol/kg over 60 min. Introduction of oral fluids and transition to SC insulin injections • Oral fluids should be introduced only with substantial clinical improvement (mild acidosis/ketosis may still be present). • When oral fluid is tolerated, IV fluid should be reduced. • When ketoacidosis has resolved (pH 7.3; HCO3- 15mmmol/L), oral intake is tolerated, and the change to SC insulin is planned, the most convenient time to change to SC insulin is just before a mealtime. e.g. SC regular insulin 0.25 u/kg given before meals (pre-breakfast, pre- lunch, pre-dinner), SC intermediate insulin 0.25 u/kg before bedtime. Total insulin dose is about 1u/kg/day. • To prevent rebound hyperglycemia, the first SC injection is given 30 min (with rapid acting insulin) or 1–2 h (with regular insulin) before stopping the insulin infusion to allow sufficient time for the insulin to be absorbed. • The dose of soluble insulin is titrated against capillary blood glucose. • Convert to long-term insulin regime when stabilized. Multiple dose injections 4 times per day are preferable to conventional (twice daily) injections. Morbidity and mortality • In national population studies, mortality rate from DKA in children is 0.15–0.30%. • Cerebral oedema accounts for 60–90% of all DKA deaths • 10% - 25% of survivors of cerebral edema have significant residual morbidity. • Other rare causes of morbidity and mortality include: sepsis; hypokalemia, hyperkalemia, severe hypophosphataemia; hypoglycaemia; aspiration pneumonia; pulmonary oedema; adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure and acute pancreatitis. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 275. 262 Cerebral oedema • Clinically significant cerebral oedema usually develops 4 -12 h after treatment has started, but may occur before treatment or rarely, as late as 24 - 48 h later. Diagnostic Criteria for Cerebral Oedema • Abnormal motor or verbal response to pain • Decorticate or decerebrate posture • Cranial nerve palsy (especially III, IV, and VI) • Abnormal neurogenic respiratory pattern (e.g., grunting, tachypnea, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, apneusis) Major Criteria Minor Criteria • Altered mentation / fluctuating level of consciousness. • Vomiting • Headache • Sustained HR deceleration (decrease 20 bpm), not attributable to improved intravascular volume or sleep state. • Lethargy, not easily arousable • Diastolic blood pressure 90 mmHg • Age-inappropriate incontinence • Age 5 years Treatment of cerebral oedema • Initiate treatment as soon as the condition is suspected. (Mannitol and hypertonic saline should be available at the bedside) • Give mannitol 0.5 - 1 g/kg IV over 20 min and repeat if there is no initial response in 30 minutes to 2 hours. • Reduce the rate of fluid administration by one-third. • Hypertonic saline (3%), 5 - 10 ml/kg over 30 min, may be an alternative to mannitol, especially if there is no initial response to mannitol. • Elevate the head of the bed. • Intubation may be necessary for the patient with impending respiratory failure. Maintain normocapnia. (PaCO₂ within normal range). • After treatment for cerebral oedema has been started, a cranial CT scan should be done to rule out other possible intracerebral causes of neurologic deterioration. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 276. 263 Chapter 57: Disorders of Sexual Development Definition • Individuals who have a genital appearance that does not permit gender declaration are said to have disorders of sexual development (DSD), formerly known as ambiguous genitalia. • Defined as a congenital condition in which development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical. Below is a summary of the components of the revised nomenclature. DSD is a Neonatal Emergency! The commonest cause of AG is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Major concerns are :- • Underlying medical issues: • Dehydration, salt loss (adrenal crisis). • Urinary tract infection. • Bowel obstruction. • Decision on sex of rearing: • Avoid wrong sex assignment. • Prevent gender confusion. • Psychosocial issues General concepts of care • Gender assignment must be avoided before expert evaluation in newborns. • Evaluation and long-term management must be performed at a center with an experienced multidisciplinary team (Paediatric subspecialists in endocrinology, surgery, and/or urology, psychology/ psychiatry, gynaecology, genetics, neonatology, and social work, nursing and medical ethics.) • All individuals should receive a gender assignment. • Open communication with patients and family is essential, and participation in decision making is encouraged. • Patients and family concerns (eg, social and culture) should be respected and addressed. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 277. 264 DisordersofSexualDevelopment(DSD)-NewNomenclature SexChromosomeDSD46,XYDSD46,XXDSD 45,XTurnerDisordersofTesticular Development DisordersofAndrogen Synthesis/Action DisordersofOvarian Development FetalAndrogenExcess 47,XXYKlinefelterand variantsCompleteGonadal Dysgenesis AndrogenSynthesis Defect OvotesticularDSDCAH 45,X/46,XYMGDTesticularDSD (SRY+,dupSOX9) 21-OHDeficiency Chromosomal OvotesticularDSD PartialGonadal Dysgenesis LH-ReceptorDefect11-OHDeficiency AndrogenInsensitivityGonadalDysgenesisNon-CAH GonadalRegession5α-reductase Deficiency AromataseDeficiency OvotesticularDSDPORGeneDefect DisordersofAMHMaternal TimingDefectLuteoma EndocrinedisruptersIatrogenic Cloacalexstrophy Abbreviations:MGD,Mixedgonadaldysgenesis;AMH,Anti-Mullerianhormone;CAH,Congenitaladrenalhyperplasia;21-OH, 21-Hydroxlylase;11-OH,11Hydroxylase. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 278. 265 EVALUATION Ideally, the baby or child and parents should be assessed by a competent multi- disciplinary team. History - exclude CAH in all neonates • Parental consanguinity. • Obstetric : previous abortions, stillbirths, neonatal deaths. • Antenatal : drugs taken, exogenous androgens, endocrine disturbances. • Family History: Unexplained neonatal deaths in siblings and close relatives • Infertility, genital anomalies in the family • Abnormal pubertal development • Infertile aunts • Symptoms of salt wasting in the first few days to weeks of life. • Increasing pigmentation • Progressive virilisation Physical examination • Dysmorphism (Turner phenotype, congenital abnormalities) • Cloacal anomaly • Signs of systemic illness • Hyperpigmentation • Blood pressure • Psychosocial behaviour (older children) • Appearance of external genitalia • Size of phallus, erectile tissue • Position of urethral opening (degree of virilisation) • Labial fusion or appearance of scrotum • Presence or absence of palpable gonads • Presence or absence of cervix (per rectal examination) • Position and patency of anus Criteria that suggests DSD include • Overt genital ambiguity. • Apparent female genitalia with enlarged clitoris, posterior labial fusion, or an inguinal labial mass. • Apparent male genitalia with bilateral undescended testes, micropenis, isolated perineal hypospadias. • Mild hypospadias with undescended testes. • Family history of DSD, e.g. Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS). • Discordance between genital appearance and a prenatal karyotype. Most of DSDs are recognized in the neonatal period. Others present as pubertal delay. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 279. 266 Investigations • Chromosome study, karyotyping with X- and Y-specific probe detection • Abdominopelvic ultrasound • Genitogram • Exclude salt losing CAH • Serial BUSE in the neonatal period • Serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (taken after the first day of life) • Cortisol, testosterone, renin • Testosterone, LH, FSH • Anti mullerian hormone (depending on indication and availability) Additional investigations as indicated: • LHRH stimulation test • hCG stimulation tests (testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at Day 1 4) • Urinary steroid analysis • Androgen receptor study (may not be available) • DNA analysis for SRY gene (sex-determining region on the Y chromosome) • Imaging studies • Biopsy of gonadal material in selected cases. • Molecular diagnosis is limited by cost, accessibility and quality control. • Trial of testosterone enanthate 25 mg IM monthly 3x doses • This can be done to demonstrate adequate growth of the phallus and is essential before a final decision is made to raise an DSD child as a male. Karyotype Palpable Gonads Ambiguous Genitalia CAH Screen Absent • Endocrine profile • Ultrasound scan • Genitogram • Gonadal inspection, Biopsy • Ultrasound scan • Genitogram Present Positive Negative APPROACH TO DISORDERS OF SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 282. 269 Management Goals • Preserve fertility. • Ensure normal sexual function. • Phenotype and psychosocial outcome concordant with the assigned sex. General considerations • Admit to hospital. Salt losing CAH which is life threatening must be excluded. • Urgent diagnosis. • Do not register the child until final decision is reached. • Protect privacy of parents and child pending diagnosis. • Counseling of parents that DSD conditions are biologically understandable. • Encourage bonding. Gender Assignment Gender assignment and sex of rearing should be based upon the most probable adult gender identity and potential for adult function. Factors to be considered in this decision include :- • Diagnosis . • Fertility potential. • Adequacy of the external genitalia for normal sexual function. Adequate phallic size when considering male sex of rearing. • Endocrine function of gonads. Capacity to respond to exogenous androgen. • Parents’ socio-cultural background, expectations and acceptance. • Psychosocial development in older children. • Decision about sex of rearing should only be made by an informed family after careful evaluation, documentation, and consultation. Gender reinforcement • Appropriate name. • Upbringing, dressing. • Treatment and control of underlying disease e.g. CAH. • Surgical correction of the external genitalia as soon as possible. Assigned female • Remove all testicular tissue. • Vaginoplasty after puberty. • No place for vaginal dilatation in childhood. Assigned male • Orchidopexy. • Remove all Mullerian structures. • Surgical repair of hypospadias. • Gonadectomy to be considered if dysgenetic gonads. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 283. 270 Surgical management • The goals of surgery are: • Genital appearance compatible with gender • Unobstructed urinary emptying without incontinence or infections • Good adult sexual and reproductive function • The surgeon has the responsibility to outline the surgical sequence and subsequent consequences from infancy to adulthood. Only surgeons with the expertise in the care of children and specific training in the surgery of DSD should perform these procedures. • Early genitoplasty is feasible only if the precise cause of DSD has been established and gender assignment has been based on certain knowledge of post-pubertal sexual outcome. Otherwise surgery should be postponed, as genitoplasty involves irreversible procedures such as castration and phallic reduction in individuals raised females and resection of utero-vaginal tissue in those raised male. • The procedure should be anatomically based to preserve erectile function and the innervations of the clitoris. • Emphasis in functional outcome rather than a strictly cosmetic appearance. • Timing of surgery: it is felt that surgery that is performed for cosmetic reasons in the first year of life relieves parental distress and improves attachment between the child and the parents; the systematic evidence for this is lacking. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 284. 271 CONGENITAL ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA (CAH) Neonatal diagnosis and treatment • The newborn female with CAH and ambiguous external genitalia requires urgent expert medical attention. • The ambiguity is highly distressing to the family; therefore, immediate comprehensive evaluation is needed by a Paediatric Endocrinologist. • Ensure parents develop a positive relationship with their child Clinical evaluation in term and premature neonates • Every newborn with ambiguous genitalia, a suspected diagnosis of CAH, or an abnormal result in a newborn screen for 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) should be evaluated by a Pediatric Endocrinologist. • The evaluation of an infant with DSD has been discussed above. Newborn screening for CAH • Neonatal mass screening for 21-hydroxylase deficiency identifies both male and female affected infants, prevents incorrect sex assignment, and decreases mortality and morbidity. However, it has not been started in Malaysia. Clinical presentation Neonatal period • Ambiguous genitalia. • Salt loss (75%). • Family history of previous unexplained neonatal death. • Hyperpigmentation (90%) - both sexes. • Virilisation of a girl. • Hypertension. Beyond the neonatal period • Boy with gonadotrophin independent precocious puberty (prepubertal testicular size). Diagnosis of salt-wasting CAH • May not be apparent in the first days/weeks after birth by electrolyte measurements. • Salt wasters may be differentiated from simple virilizers by : • Serial serum/plasma and/or urine electrolytes. • Plasma renin activity (PRA) or direct renin. • Results of CYP21 molecular analysis. Management of salt losing crisis • For patient in shock: normal saline (0.9%) bolus : 10-20 ml/kg • Correct hypoglycemia if present : 2-4 ml/kg of 10% glucose • Correct hyperkalaemia with administration of glucose and insulin if necessary. • Rehydrate using ¹/₂ NS 5% dextrose • Monitor hydration status, BP, HR, glucose. Note: Hypotonic saline or 5% dextrose should not be used because it can worsen hyponatraemia. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 285. 272 Treatment considerations in patients with CAH Optimal glucocorticoid dosing • Aim to replace deficient steroids, minimize adrenal sex hormone and glucocorticoid excess: thus preventing virilization, optimizing growth, and protecting potential fertility. • During infancy, initial reduction of markedly elevated adrenal sex hormones may require hydrocortisone (HC) up to 25 mg/m²/d, but typical dosing is 10–15 mg/m²/d in 3 divided doses. Divided or crushed tablets of HC should be used in growing children. • Excessive doses, especially in infancy, may cause persistent growth suppression, obesity, and other Cushingoid features. Therefore, avoid complete adrenal suppression. • Whereas HC is preferred in infancy and childhood, long-acting glucocorticoids may be used at or near the completion of linear growth. • Prednisolone needs to be given twice daily. (at 2–4 mg/m²/d). • Dexamethasone dose is 0.25–0.375 mg/m²/d, given once daily. • In children with advanced bone age and central precocious puberty, treatment with a GnRH agonist may be required. • Therapy will reduce vasopressin, ACTH levels and lower dosage of glucocorticoid required. • Assess the need for continuing mineralocorticoids based on PRA and BP. • Sodium chloride supplements are often needed in infancy, at 1-3 g/day (17-51 mEq/day), distributed in several feedings. Monitoring treatment for classic CAH • Monitoring may be accomplished based on physical and hormonal findings suggestive of excessive or inadequate steroid therapy. • Laboratory measurements may include serum/plasma electrolytes, serum 17-OHP, cortisol, and/or testosterone, and PRA or direct renin, every 3 months during infancy and every 4–12 months thereafter. • Time from the last glucocorticoid dose should be noted; the diurnal rhythm of the adrenal axis should be taken into account. Patients receiving adequate replacement therapy may have cortisol levels above the normal range. • Ideally, laboratory data will indicate a need for dose adjustments before physical changes, growth, and skeletal maturation indicates inadequate or excessive dosing. • Patients should carry medical identification and information concerning their medical condition and therapy. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 286. 273 Treatment with glucocorticoids during stress • Parents must be given clear instruction on stress dosing. • Because circulating levels of cortisol increase during stress, patients should be given increased doses of glucocorticoids during febrile illness ( 38.5�C), when vomiting or poor oral intake, after trauma and before surgery. • Participation in endurance sports may also require additional steroid dosing • Mental and emotional stress, such as school examinations, does not require increased dosing. • Stress dosing should be 2–3 times the maintenance glucocorticoid dose for patients able to take oral medications. • Surgical and trauma patients and those unable to take oral steroids require parenteral hydrocortisone. A bolus dose is given as shown below followed by the same dose in four divided doses: • Below 3 years old: to give 25mg. • 3-12 years old: to give 50mg. • 12 years old: to give 100mg. • Glucose concentrations should be monitored, and intravenous sodium and glucose replacement may be required. Genital surgery • The decision for surgery and the timing should be made by the parents, together with the endocrinologist and the paediatric surgical team, after complete disclosure of all relevant clinical information and all available options have been discussed and after informed consent has been obtained. • General principals of surgery for DSD has been outlined in the preceding section on DSD. • It is recognized that 46, XX children with significant virilization may present at a later age. Consideration for sex reassignment must be undertaken only after thorough psychological evaluation of patient and family. • Surgery appropriate to gender assignment should be undertaken after a period of endocrine treatment. Psychological issues • Females with CAH show behavioral masculinization, most pronounced in gender role behavior, less so in sexual orientation, and rarely in gender identity. • Even in females with psychosexual problems, general psychological adjustment seems to be similar to that of females without CAH. • Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support rearing a 46, XX infant at Prader stage 5 as male. • Decisions concerning sex assignment and associated genital surgery must consider the culture in which a child and her/his family are embedded. ENDOCRINOLOGY
  • 287. 274 ENDOCRINOLOGY Chapter 54 Congenital Hypothyroidism 1.Gruters A, Krude H. Update on the management of congenital hypothyroid- ism. Horm Res 2007; 68 Suppl 5:107-11 2.Smith L. Updated AAP Guidelines on Newborn Screening and Therapy for Congenital hypothyridism. Am Fam Phys 2007; 76 3.Update of newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism. Pediatrics 2006; 117 4.Styne, DM. Disorders of the thyroid glands, in Pediatr Endocrinology: p. 83-109. 5.LaFranchi S. Clinical features and detection of congenital hypothyroidism. 2004 UpToDate (www.uptodate.com) 6.Ross DS. Treatment of hypothyroidism. 2004 UpToDate. (www.uptodate.com) 7.LaFranchi S. Treatment and prognosis of congenital hypothyroidism. 2004 UpToDate (www.uptodate.com) 8.Ogilvy-Stuart AL. Neonatal Thyroid Disorders. Arch Dis Child 2002 9.The Endocrine Society’s Clinical Guidelines. JCEM 1992 : S1-47, 2007 10.Mafauzy M, Choo KE et al. Neonatal screening for congenital hypothyroid in N-E Pen. Malaysia. Journal of AFES , Vol 13. 35-37. Chapter 55 60 Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis 1.ISPAD Clinical Practice Concensus Guidelines 2009. Diabetic ketoacidosis. Wolfsdorf J, et al, Pediatric Diabetes 2009: 10 (Suppl. 12): 118–133. 2.Global IDF/ISPAD Guideline for Type 1 Diabetes in Childhood and Adoles- cents, 2010. Chapter 57 Disorders of Sexual Development 1.Nieman LK, Orth DN, Kirkland JL. Treatment of congenital adrenal hyper- plasia due to CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase) deficiency in infants and children. 2004 Uptodate online 12.1 (www.uptodate.com) 2.Consensus Statement on 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency from the Lawson Wilkins Pediatric Endocrine Society and the European Society for Paediat- ric Endocrinology; J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2002; 87:4048–4053. 3.Ocal Gonul. Current Concepts in Disorders of Sexual Development. J Clin Res Ped Endo 2011; 3:105-114 4.Ieuan A. Hughes. Disorders of Sex Development: a new definition and clas- sification. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol and Metab. 2008; 22: 119-134. 5., 6. Houk CP, Levitsky LL. Evaluation and Management of the infant with ambiguous genitalia. 2004 Uptodate online 12.1 (www.uptodate.com) References Section 6 Endocrinology Chapter 53 Short Stature 1. Grimberg A, De Leon DD. Chapter 8: Disorders of growth. In: Pediatric Endocrinology, the Requisites in Pediatrics 2005, pp127-167. 2. Cutfield WS, et al. Growth hormone treatment to final height in idiopathic GH deficiency: The KIGS Experience, in GH therapy in Pediatrics, 20 years of KIGS, Basel, Karger, 2007. pp 145-62. 3. Molitch ME, et al. Evaluation and treatment of adult GH deficiency: An En- docrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. JCEM 1991; 19: 1621-1634, 2006. 4. Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on usage of growth hormone in children and adults 2011)
  • 288. 275 Chapter 58: Post-Infectious Glomerulonephritis Introduction Acute glomerulonephritis (AGN) is an abrupt onset of one or more features of an Acute Nephritic Syndrome: • Oedema e.g. facial puffiness. • Microscopic /macroscopic haematuria. (urine: tea-coloured or smoky) • Decreased urine output (oliguria). • Hypertension. • Azotemia. • In children, the commonest cause of an acute nephritic syndrome is post-infectious AGN, mainly due to post-streptococcal infection of the pharynx or skin. • Post streptococcal AGN is commonest at 6 – 10 years age. Presenting features of AGN Acute nephritic syndrome (most common) Nephrotic syndrome Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis Hypertensive encephalopathy Pulmonary oedema Subclinical (detected on routine examination) Investigation findings in Post-Streptococcal AGN • Urinalysis and culture • Haematuria – present in all patients. • Proteinuria (trace to 2+, but may be in the nephrotic range; usually associated with more severe disease.) • Red blood cell casts (pathognomonic of acute glomerulonephritis). • Other cellular casts. • Pyuria may also be present. • Bacteriological and serological evidence of antecedent streptococcal infection: • Raised ASOT ( 200 IU/ml ). • Increased anti-DNAse B (if available) – a better serological marker of preceding streptococcal skin infection. • Throat swab or skin swab. • Renal function test • Blood urea, electrolytes and serum creatinine. Causes of Acute Nephritis Post streptococcal AGN Post-infectious acute glomerulonephritis (other than Grp A ß-Haemolytic Streptococci ) Subacute bacterial endocarditis Henoch-Schoenlein purpura IgA nephropathy Hereditary nephritis Systemic lupus erythematosus Systemic vasculitidis NEPHROLOGY
  • 289. 276 • Full blood count • Anaemia (mainly dilutional). • Leucocytosis may be present. • Complement levels • C3 level – low at onset of symptoms, normalises by 6 weeks. • C4 is usually within normal limits in post-streptococcal AGN. • Ultrasound of the kidneys • Not necessary if patient has clear cut acute nephritic syndrome. Management • Strict monitoring - fluid intake, urine output, daily weight, BP (Nephrotic chart) • Penicillin V for 10 days to eliminate β - haemolytic streptococcal infection (give erythromycin if penicillin is contraindicated) • Fluid restriction to control oedema and circulatory overload during oliguric phase until child diureses and blood pressure is controlled • Day 1 : up to 400 mls/m²/day. Do not administer intravenous or oral fluids if child has pulmonary oedema. • Day 2 : till patient diureses – 400 mls/m²/day (as long as patient remains in circulatory overload) • When child is in diuresis – free fluid is allowed • Diuretic (e.g. Frusemide) should be given in children with pulmonary oedema. It is also usually needed for treatment of hypertension. • Diet – no added salt to diet. Protein restriction is unnecessary • Look out for complications of post-streptococcal AGN: • Hypertensive encephalopathy usually presenting with seizures • Pulmonary oedema (acute left ventricular failure) • Acute renal failure Management of severe complications of post-streptococcal AGN Hypertension • Significant hypertension but asymptomatic • Bed rest and recheck BP ½ hour later • If BP still high, give oral Nifedipine 0.25 - 0.5 mg/kg. Recheck BP ½ hour later. • Monitor BP hourly x 4 hours then 4 hourly if stable. • Oral Nifedipine can be repeated if necessary on 4 hourly basis. • May consider regular oral Nifedipine (6 – 8 hourly) if BP persistently high. • Add Frusemide 1 mg/kg/dose if BP still not well controlled. • Other anti-hypertensives if BP still not under control: Captopril (0.1-0.5 mg/kg q8 hourly), Metoprolol 1-4 mg/kg 12 hourly • Symptomatic, severe hypertension or hypertensive emergency/encephalopathy • Symptom/signs: Headache, vomiting, loss of vision, convulsions, papilloedema. • Emergency management indicated to reduce BP sufficiently to avoid hypertensive complications and yet maintain it at a level that permits autoregulatory mechanism of vital organs to function. NEPHROLOGY
  • 290. 277 • Target of BP control: - Reduce BP to 90th percentile of BP for age, gender and height percentile . - Total BP to be reduced = Observed mean BP − Desired mean BP - Reduce BP by 25% of target BP over 3 – 12 hours. - The next 75% reduction is achieved over 48 hours. Pulmonary oedema • Give oxygen, prop patient up; ventilatory support if necessary. • IV Frusemide 2 mg/kg/dose stat; double this dose 4 hours later if poor response • Fluid restriction – withhold fluids for 24 hours if possible. • Consider dialysis if no response to diuretics. Acute kidney injury • Mild renal impairment is common. • Severe persistent oliguria or anuria with azotaemia is uncommon. • Management of severe acute renal failure, see Ch 60 Acute Kidney Injury. Weight, urea and hypertension ASOTStreptococcal infection complement Haematuria 1 yr6 wks4 wks2 wks2 wks Natural History of Acute Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis NEPHROLOGY
  • 291. 278 Indications for Renal Biopsy Severe acute renal failure requiring dialysis. Features suggesting non post-infectious AGN as the cause of acute nephritis. Delayed resolution • Oliguria 2 weeks • Azotaemia 3 weeks • Gross haematuria 3 weeks • Persistent proteinuria 6 months Follow-up • For at least 1 year. • Monitor BP at every visit • Do urinalysis and renal function to evaluate recovery. • Repeat C3 levels 6 weeks later if not already normalised by the time of discharge. Outcome • Short term outcome: Excellent, mortality 0.5%. • Long term outcome: 1.8% of children develop chronic kidney disease following post streptococcal AGN. These children should be referred to the paediatric nephrologists for further evaluation and management. NEPHROLOGY
  • 292. 279 Chapter 59: Nephrotic Syndrome Diagnosis Nephrotic syndrome is a clinical syndrome of massive proteinuria defined by • Oedema • Hypoalbuminaemia of 25g/l • Proteinuria 40 mg/m²/hour ( 1g/m²/day) • Hypercholesterolaemia or an early morning urine protein creatinine index of 200 mg/mmol ( 3.5 mg/mg). Aetiology • Primary or idiopathic (of unknown cause) nephrotic syndrome is the commonest type of nephrotic syndrome in children. • Secondary causes of nephrotic syndrome include post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This chapter outlines the management of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Management of secondary forms of nephrotic syndrome follows the management of the primary condition. Investigations at initial presentation • Full blood count • Renal profile • Urea, electrolyte, creatinine • Serum cholesterol • Liver function tests • Particularly serum albumin • Urinalysis, urine culture • Quantitative urinary protein excretion (spot urine protein: creatinine ratio or 24 hour urine protein) Other investigations would depend on the age of the patient, associated renal impairment, hematuria, hypertension or features to suggest an underlying secondary cause for the nephrotic syndrome. These tests include: • Antinuclear factor / anti-dsDNA to exclude SLE. • Serum complement (C3, C4) levels to exclude SLE, post-infectious glomerulonephritis. • ASOT titres to exclude Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. • Other tests as indicated. Renal biopsy • A renal biopsy is not needed prior to corticosteroid or cyclophosphamide therapy. This is because 80% of children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome have minimal change steroid responsive disease. • Main indication for renal biopsy is steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome, defined as failure to achieve remission despite 4 weeks of adequate corticosteroid therapy. • Other indications are features that suggest non-minimal change nephrotic syndrome: • Persistent hypertension, renal impairment, and/or gross haematuria. NEPHROLOGY
  • 293. 280 Management • Confirm that patient has nephrotic syndrome by ensuring that the patient fulfills the criteria above • Exclude other causes of nephrotic syndrome. If none, then the child probably has idiopathic nephrotic syndrome General management • A normal protein diet with adequate calories is recommended. • No added salt to the diet when child has oedema. • Penicillin V 125 mg BD (1-5 years age), 250 mg BD (6-12 years), 500 mg BD ( 12 years) is recommended at diagnosis and during relapses, particularly in the presence of gross oedema. • Careful assessment of the haemodynamic status. • Check for signs and symptoms which may indicate - Hypovolaemia: Abdominal pain, cold peripheries, poor capillary refill, poor pulse volume with or without low blood pressure; OR - Hypervolaemia: Basal lung crepitations, rhonchi, hepatomegaly, hypertension. • Fluid restriction - not recommended except in chronic oedematous states. • Diuretics (e.g. frusemide) is not necessary in steroid responsive nephrotic syndrome but if required, use with caution as may precipitate hypovolaemia. • Human albumin (20-25%) at 0.5 - 1.0 g/kg can be used in symptomatic grossly oedematous states together with IV frusemide at 1-2 mg/kg to produce a diuresis. Caution: fluid overload and pulmonary oedema can occur with albumin infusion especially in those with impaired renal function. Urine output and blood pressure should be closely monitored. General advice • Counsel patient and parents about the disease particularly with regards to the high probability (85-95%) of relapse. • Home urine albumin monitoring: once daily dipstix testing of the first morning urine specimen. The patient is advised to consult the doctor if albuminuria ≥ 2+ for 3 consecutive days, or 3 out of 7 days. • The child is also advised to consult the doctor should he/she become oedematous regardless of the urine dipstix result. • Children on systemic corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents should be advised and cautioned about contact with chickenpox and measles, and if exposed should be treated like any immunocompromised child who has come into contact with these diseases. • Immunisation: • While the child is on corticosteroid treatment and within 6 weeks after its cessation, only killed vaccines may safely be administered to the child. • Give live vaccines 6 weeks after cessation of corticosteroid therapy. • Pneumococcal vaccine should be administered to all children with nephrotic syndrome. If possible, give when the child is in remission. NEPHROLOGY
  • 294. 281 • Acute adrenal crisis • May be seen in children who have been on long term corticosteroid therapy (equivalent to 18 mg/m² of cortisone daily) when they undergo situations of stress. • Give Hydrocortisone 2-4 mg/kg/dose TDS or Prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day. Management of the complications of nephrotic syndrome Hypovolaemia. • Clinical features: abdominal pain, cold peripheries, poor pulse volume, hypotension, and haemoconcentration. • Treatment: infuse Human Albumin at 0.5 to 1.0 g/kg/dose fast. If human albumin is not available, other volume expanders like human plasma can be used. Do not give Frusemide. Primary Peritonitis • Clinical features: fever, abdominal pain and tenderness in children with newly diagnosed or relapse nephrotic syndrome. • Investigations: Blood culture, peritoneal fluid culture (not usually done) • Treatment: parenteral penicillin and a third generation cephalosporin Thrombosis • Thorough investigation and adequate treatment with anticoagulation is usually needed. Please consult a Paediatric Nephrologist. Corticosteroid therapy Corticosteroids are effective in inducing remission of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Initial treatment • Once a diagnosis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome has been established, oral Prednisolone should be started at: • 60 mg/ m²/day ( maximum 80 mg / day ) for 4 weeks followed by • 40 mg/m²/every alternate morning (EOD) (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks. then reduce Prednisolone dose by 25% monthly over next 4 months. • With this corticosteroid regime, 80% of children will achieve remission (defined as urine dipstix trace or nil for 3 consecutive days) within 28 days. • Children with Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome, defined by failure to achieve response to an initial 4 weeks treatment with prednisolone at 60 mg/m²/ day, should be referred to a Paediatric Nephrologist for further management, which usually includes a renal biopsy. Treatment of relapses • The majority of children with nephrotic syndrome will relapse. A relapse is defined by urine albumin excretion 40 mg/m²/hour or urine dipstix of ≥ 2+ for 3 consecutive days. • These children do not need admission unless they are grossly oedematous or have any of the complications of nephrotic syndrome. NEPHROLOGY
  • 295. 282 • Induction of relapse is with oral Prednisolone as follows: • 60 mg/m²/day ( maximum 80 mg / day ) until remission followed by • 40 mg/m²/EOD (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks only. • Breakthrough proteinuria may occur with intercurrent infection and usually does not require corticosteroid induction if the child has no oedema, remains well and the proteinuria remits with resolution of the infection. However, if proteinuria persists, treat as a relapse. Treatment of frequent relapses • Defined as ≥ 2 relapses within 6 months of initial diagnosis or ≥ 4 relapses within any 12 month period. Treatment • Induction of relapse is with oral Prednisolone as follows: • 60 mg/m²/day ( maximum 80 mg/day ) until remission followed by • 40 mg/m²/EOD (maximum 60 mg) for 4 weeks only. • Taper Prednisolone dose every 2 weeks and keep on as low an alternate day dose as possible for 6 months. Should a child relapse while on low dose alternate day Prednisolone, the child should be re-induced with Prednisolone as for relapse. Treatment of steroid dependent nephrotic syndrome • Defined as ≥ 2 consecutive relapses occurring during steroid taper or within 14 days of the cessation of steroids. Treatment • If the child is not steroid toxic, re-induce with steroids and maintain on as low a dose of alternate day prednisolone as possible. If the child is steroid toxic (short stature, striae, cataracts, glaucoma, severe cushingoid features) consider cyclophosphamide therapy. Cyclophosphamide therapy • Indicated for the treatment of steroid dependent nephrotic syndrome with signs of steroid toxicity; begin therapy when in remission after induction with corticosteroids. • Parents should be counseled about the effectiveness and side effects of Cyclophosphamide therapy (leucopenia, alopecia, haemorrhagic cystitis, gonadal toxicity). • Dose: 2-3 mg/kg/day for 8-12 weeks (cumulative dose 168 mg/kg). • Monitor full blood count and urinalysis 2 weekly. Relapses post Cyclophosphamide • Relapses after a course of cyclophosphamide are treated as for relapses following the initial diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome, if the child does not have signs of steroid toxicity • Should the relapse occur soon after a course of Cyclophosphamide when the child is still steroid toxic, or if the child again becomes steroid toxic after multiple relapses, then a Paediatric Nephrology opinion should be sought. • The treatment options available include cyclosporine and levamisole. NEPHROLOGY
  • 296. 283 No ResponseResponse Prednisolone 40 mg/m²/alternate day for 4 weeks. then taper at 25% monthly over 4 months 1 INITIAL EPISODE OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME Prednisolone 60 mg/m²/day for 4 weeks 2 RELAPSE • Prednisolone 60 mg/m²/day till remission • 40 mg/m²/alternate day for 4 weeks then stop 3 FREQUENT RELAPSES • Reinduce as (2), then taper and keep low dose alternate day Prednisolone 0.1 - 0.5 mg/kg/dose for 6 months 4 RELAPSES WHILE ON PREDNISOLONE • Treat as for (3) if not steroid toxic • Consider cyclophosphamide if steroid toxic. 5 ORAL CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE • 2-3 mg/kg/day for 8-12 weeks Cumulative dose 168 mg/kg 6 RELAPSES POST CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE • As for (2) and (3) if not steroid toxic • If steroid toxic, refer paediatric nephrologist to consider therapy with cyclosporin or levamisole RENAL BIOPSY Algorithm for the Management of Nephrotic Syndrome NEPHROLOGY
  • 297. 284 Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome Refer for renal biopsy. Specific treatment will depend on the histopathology. General management of the Nephrotic state: • Control of edema: • Restriction of dietary sodium. • Diuretics e.g. Frusemide, Spironolactone. • ACE inhibitor e.g. Captopril or Angiotensin II receptor blocker (AIIRB). e.g. Losartan, Irbesartan, to reduce proteinuria. • Monitor BP and renal profile 1-2 weeks after initiation of ACE inhibitor or AIIRB. • Control of hypertension: antihypertensive of choice - ACE inhibitor/AIIRB. • Penicillin prophylaxis. • Monitor renal function. • Nutrition: normal dietary protein content, salt-restricted diet. • Evaluate calcium and phosphate metabolism. NEPHROLOGY
  • 298. 285 Chapter 60: Acute Kidney Injury Definition • Acute kidney injury (AKI) was previously called acute renal failure. • Abrupt rise in serum creatinine level and decreased glomerular filtration rate resulting in inability of the kidneys to regulate fluid and electrolyte balance. Clinical features • Of underlying cause. • Oliguria ( 300 ml/m²/day in children; 1 ml/kg/hour in neonates) • Non-oliguria. • Clinical features arising from complications of AKI e.g. seizures, acute pulmonary oedema Common causes of Acute Kidney Injury Pre-renal Renal, or intrinsic Hypovolaemia Glomerular • Dehydration, bleeding Infection related Third space loss Systemic lupus erythematosus • Nephrotic syndrome, burns Acute glomerulonephritis Distributive shock Tubulointerstitial • Dengue shock, sepsis syndrome Acute tubular necrosis Cardiac • Hypoxic-ischaemic injury • Congestive heart failure • Aminoglycosides, chemotherapy • Cardiac tamponade Toxins, e.g. Post-renal • Myoglobin, haemoglobin Posterior urethral valves Venom Acute bilateral ureteric obstruction • Bee sting Acute obstruction in solitary kidney Tumour lysis, Uric acid nephropathy Infection, pyelonephritis Vascular ACE-inhibitors Vascular lesions • Haemolytic uremic syndrome • Renal vein thrombosis NEPHROLOGY
  • 299. 286 • Important to consider pre-renal failure as a cause of oliguria. • In pre-renal failure, the kidney is intrinsically normal and the tubules are working to conserve water and sodium appropriately. • In acute tubular necrosis (ATN) the damaged tubules are unable to conserve sodium appropriately. Investigations • Blood: • Full blood count. • Blood urea, electrolytes, creatinine. • Blood gas. • Serum albumin, calcium, phosphate. • Urine: biochemistry and microscopy. • Imaging: renal ultrasound scan (urgent if cause unknown). • Other investigations as determined by cause. MANAGEMENT Prevention • Identify patients at risk of AKI. They include patients with the following: • Prematurity, asphyxia, trauma, burns, post-surgical states, other organ failures (eg heart, liver), pre-existing renal disease, malignancy (leukaemia, B-cell lymphoma). • Monitor patients-at-risk actively with regards to renal function and urine output. • Try to ensure effective non-dialytic measures, which include: • Restoring adequate renal blood flow. • Avoiding nephrotoxic agents if possible. • Maximizing renal perfusion before exposure to nephrotoxic agents. Fluid balance In Hypovolaemia • Fluid resuscitation regardless of oliguric / anuric state • Give crystalloids e.g. isotonic 0.9% saline / Ringer’s lactate 20 ml/kg fast (in 20 minutes) after obtaining vascular access. • Transfuse blood if haemorrhage is the cause of shock. • Hydrate to normal volume status. • If urine output increases, continue fluid replacement. • If there is no urine output after 4 hours (confirm with urinary catheterization), monitor central venous pressure to assess fluid status. See Chapter on shock for details of management. NEPHROLOGY
  • 300. 287 In Hypervolaemia / Fluid overload Features of volume overload include hypertension, raised JVP, displaced apex beat, basal crepitations, hepatomegaly and increasing ventilatory requirements. • If necessary to give fluid, restrict to insensible loss (400 ml/m²/day or 30ml/kg in neonates depending on ambient conditions) • IV Frusemide 2 mg/kg/dose (over 10-15 minutes), maximum of 5 mg/kg/dose or IV Frusemide infusion 0.5 mg/kg/hour. • Dialysis if no response or if volume overload is life-threatening. Euvolaemia • Once normal volume status is achieved, give insensible loss plus obvious losses (urine / extrarenal). • Monitor fluid status: weight, BP, heart rate, nutritional needs, intake/output. Hypertension • Usually related to fluid overload and/or alteration in vascular tone • Choice of anti-hypertensive drugs depends on degree of BP elevation, presence of CNS symptomsofhypertension and cause of renal failure. A diuretic is usually needed. Metabolic acidosis • Treat if pH 7.2 or symptomatic or contributing to hyperkalaemia • Bicarbonate deficit = 0.3 x body weight (kg) x base excess (BE) • Ensure that patient’s serum calcium is 1.8 mmol/L to prevent hypocalcaemic seizures with Sodium bicarbonate therapy. • Replace half the deficit with IV 8.4% Sodium bicarbonate (1:1 dilution) if indicated. • Monitor blood gases Electrolyte abnormalities Hyperkalaemia • Definition: serum K⁺ 6.0 mmol/l (neonates) and 5.5 mmol/l (children). • Cardiac toxicity generally develops when plasma potassium 7 mmol/l • Regardless of degree of hyperkalaemia, treatment should be initiated in patients with ECG abnormalities from hyperkalaemia. ECG changes in Hypokalemia Tall, tentedT waves Prolonged PR interval Widened QRS complex Flattened P wave, Sine wave (QRS complex merges with peakedT waves) VF or asystole NEPHROLOGY
  • 301. 288 Treatment of Hyperkalemia in AKI patients • Do 12-lead ECG and look for hyperkalaemic changes • If ECG is abnormal or plasma K+ 7 mmol/l, connect patient to a cardiac monitor and give the following in sequence: 1 IV 10% Calcium gluconate 0.5 - 1.0 ml/kg (1:1 dilution) over 5 -15 mins (Immediate onset of action) 2 IV Dextrose 0.5 g/kg (2 ml/kg of 25%) over 15 – 30 mins. 3 ± IV Insulin 0.1 unit/kg (onset of action 30 mins). 4 IV 8.4% sodium bicarbonate 1 ml/kg (1:1 dilution) over 10 - 30 mins (Onset of action 15 - 30 mins) 5 Nebulized 0.5% salbutamol 2.5 - 5 mg (0.5 - 1 ml : 3 ml 0.9% Saline) (Onset of action 30 mins) 6 Calcium polystyrene sulphonate 0.25g/kg oral or rectally 4 times/day (Max 10g/dose) (Calcium Resonium / Kalimate) [Give rectally (NOT orally) in neonates 0.125 – 0.25g/kg 4 times/day] OR 6 Sodium polystyrene sulphonate 1g/kg oral or rectally 4 times/day (Max15g/dose) (Resonium) • In patients with serum potassium between 5.5 - 7 mmol/L without ECG changes, give calcium or sodium polystyrene sulphonate • If insulin is given after dextrose, monitor RBS / Dextrostix for hypoglycaemia. • Dialyse if poor or no response to the above measures Hyponatraemia • Usually dilutional from fluid overload • If asymptomatic, fluid restrict • Dialyse if symptomatic or the above measures fail Hypocalcaemia • Treat if symptomatic (usually serum Ca²⁺ 1.8 mmol/L), and if Sodium bicarbonate is required for hyperkalaemia, with IV 10% Calcium gluconate 0.5 ml/kg, given over 10 – 20 minutes, with ECG monitoring. Hyperphosphataemia • Phosphate binders e.g. calcium carbonate or aluminium hydroxide orally with main meals. NEPHROLOGY
  • 302. 289 Nutrition Optimal intake in AKI is influenced by nature of disease causing it, extent of catabolism, modality and frequency of renal replacement therapy. Generally, the principles of nutritional requirement apply except for: • Avoiding excessive protein intake • Minimizing phosphorus and potassium intake • Avoiding excessive fluid intake (if applicable) • If the gastro-intestinal tract is intact and functional, start enteral feeds as soon as possible • Total parenteral nutrition via central line if enteral feeding is not possible; use concentrated dextrose (25%), lipids (10-20%), protein (1.0-2.0g/kg/day) • If oliguric and caloric intake is insufficient because of fluid restriction, start dialysis earlier Dialysis Dialysis is indicated if there are life-threatening complications like: • Fluid overload manifesting as • Pulmonary oedema. • Congestive cardiac failure, or • Refractory hypertension. • Electrolyte / acid-base imbalances: • Hyperkalaemia (K+ 7.0). • Symptomatic hypo- or hypernatraemia, or • Refractory metabolic acidosis. • Symptomatic uraemia. • Oliguria preventing adequate nutrition. • Oliguria following recent cardiac surgery. The choice of dialysis modality depends on: • Experience with the modality • Patient’s haemodynamic stability • Contraindications to peritoneal dialysis e.g. recent abdominal surgery Medications • Avoid nephrotoxic drugs if possible; if still needed, monitor drug levels and potential adverse effects. • Check dosage adjustment for all drugs used. • Concentrate drugs to the lowest volume of dilution if patient is oliguric. NEPHROLOGY
  • 303. 290 Dosage adjustment in renal failure for some common antimicrobials Drug Cr Clearance1 Dose Dose Interval Crystalline/ Benzylpenicillin 10 - 50 Nil 8 – 12 10 Nil 12 Cloxacillin 10 Nil 8 Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Augmentin) 10 - 30 Normal dose initially then half-dose 12-hly 10 Normal dose initially then half-dose 24-hly Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn) 15 - 29 Nil 12 5 - 14 Nil 24 Cefotaxime 5 Normal dose initially,then1/2 dose,same frequency Cefuroxime 20 Nil 8 10 - 20 Nil 12 10 Nil 24 Ceftriaxone 10 Dose not 40mg/kg (maximum 2g)/day Ceftazidime 30 - 50 50-100% 12 15 - 30 50-100% 24 5 -15 25-50% 24 5 25–50% 48 Cefepime 30 - 50 50mg/kg 12 11 - 29 50mg/kg 24 10 25mg/kg 24 Imipenem 40 75% 8 10 25% 12 Anuric 15% 24 Meropenem 25 - 50 100% 12 10 - 25 50% 12 10 50% 24 Ciprofloxacin 40 Nil 12 10 50% 24 anuric 33% 24 NEPHROLOGY
  • 304. 291 Dosage adjustment in renal failure for some common antimicrobials (cont). Drug Cr Clearance1 Dose Dose Interval Metronidazole 10 Nil 12 Acyclovir (IV infusion) 25 - 50 Nil 12 10 - 25 Nil 24 Acyclovir (oral) 10 - 25 Nil 8 10 Nil 12 Erythromycin 10 60% Nil Gentamicin Avoid if possible.If needed,give 5mg/kg,check trough level 24 hours later,and peak 1 hour post-dose. Amikacin Avoid if possible,If needed,give initial dose,take trough sample immediately before next dose,and peak 1 hour post-dose. Vancomycin Give initial / loading dose,take trough sample immediately before next dose and peak,1 hour after completion of infusion. Footnote: 1, Creatinine Clearance: It is difficult to estimate GFR from the serum creatinine levels inARF.A rough estimate can be calculated using the formula below once the serum creatinine level remains constant for at least 2 days. Calculated creatinine clearance = (ml/min/1.73m²) Height (cm) x 40 Serum creatinine (micromol/l) Assume creatinine clearance of 10ml/min/1.73m² if patient is on dialysis or anuric. NEPHROLOGY
  • 306. 293 Chapter 61: Acute Peritoneal Dialysis Introduction The purpose of dialysis is • To remove endogenous and exogenous toxins and • To maintain fluid, electrolyte and acid-base equilibrium until renal function returns. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the simpler modality in infants and children as it is technically simpler and easily accessible even in centers without paediatric nephrologists. Contraindications to Acute PD • Abdominal wall defects or infection. • Bowel distension, perforation, adhesion or resection. • Communication between the chest and abdominal cavities. Types of Catheter Access • A soft PD catheter implanted percutaneously or surgically (preferred). • A straight rigid catheter if a soft PD catheter is not available. Indications for Dialysis Acute renal failure Pulmonary oedema Refractory hypertension Oliguria following recent heart surgery Symptomatic electrolyte or acid-base imbalance • Hyperkalaemia (K+ 7.0) • Hypo- or hypernatraemia • Acidosis (pH7.2, or 7.3 with hyperkalaemia) Uraemia Inborn errors of metabolism Encephalopathy Hyperammonaemia Severe metabolic acidosis NEPHROLOGY
  • 307. 294 Site of insertion • Commonest site is at the midline infra- umbilical position 1 inch below the umbilicus. • In small children, where the space below the umbilicus is limited, alternative sites include insertion lateral to the inferior epigastric artery as shown in the dotted lines in the diagram, two-thirds of the distance from the umbilicus to the left last rib (just lateral to the border of rectus muscle). • Ensure that the catheter is inserted way below any enlarged spleen or liver. Procedure of PD catheter insertion 1. Consent for first peritoneal dialysis 2. Bladder must be emptied; catheterise the bladder in unconscious, ill patients. 3. The procedure must be done under aseptic technique 4. Prepare the set of PD lines and spike the PD fluids 5. Clean the area with povidone iodine and drape the patient 6. Infiltrate insertion site with lignocaine; additional IV sedation may be needed. 7. For small infants or patients with very scaphoid abdomen, infiltrating the abdominal cavity with 10 - 15 ml/kg PD fluid using 20G or larger branula prior to catheter insertion will help prevent traumatic puncture of underlying viscus. 8. For technique of catheter insertion - see tables below. 9. Connect the catheter to the PD line via the connector provided in the set. 10. Bleeding from the insertion site can be stopped by a purse-string suture. cover the site with dry gauze and secure with plaster. Monitoring while on PD • Oversee the first 3 cycles of dialysis to ensure good flow. • Check for turbidity, leakage and ultrafiltration every two hours. • Input / output chart, vital signs and PD chart should be kept up-to-date. Turbid effluent must be noted to the doctor. • Send PD fluid for cell count and culture and sensitivity at start and end of PD and when the effluent is turbid. • Blood urea, serum electrolytes and creatinine should be requested according to patients needs. In stable patients, once daily should be more than sufficient. • Blood urea and electrolyte results to be reviewed by the doctor and Potassium chloride to be added into dialysate if necessary. (1 Gm of Potassium chloride in 10 ml ampoule is equivalent to 13.3 mmol of potassium. Hence adding 3 ml to 1 litre would result in dialysate with 4.0 mmol/l of potassium). NEPHROLOGY Site of Insertion and Direction of Catheter Introduction
  • 308. 295 NEPHROLOGY Technique of insertion of different PD catheters Acute stiff PD catheter 1 Check catheter for any breakages (by withdrawing the stilette) before insertion. 2 Make a small skin incision (slightly smaller than the diameter of the catheter) using a sharp pointed blade. Do not cut the muscle layer. 3 Introduce the cather with the stillete perpendicular to the abdominal wall while controlling the length with the dominant hand, until the peritoneum is pierced. 4 The stilette is then withdrawn and the catheter gently pushed in, directing it towards either iliac fossa until all the perforations are well within the peritoneal cavity. Soft PD catheter (Seldinger technique) 1 Cooke’s set 15F. 2 Advance the needle provided in the set connected to a syringe perpendicularly until peritoneum is breached (a give is felt). 3 Thread and advance the guide wire through the needle aiming for either iliac fossa. 4 Remove the needle. Using the guide wire, introduce the dilator and sheath through a skin nick into the abdominal cavity. 5 Remove the dilator and guide wire while retaining the sheath in the abdomen. 6 Introduce the soft PD catheter through the sheath into the abdominal cavity directing it to either iliac fossa until the external cuff fits snugly at the skin. 7 Peel off the sheath and secure the catheter via taping or a skin stitch.
  • 309. 296 NEPHROLOGY The PD Prescription Exchange volume • Start at 20 ml/kg and observe for discomfort, cardiorespiratory changes or leakage at catheter site. • The volume can be increased to a maximum of 50ml/kg or 1000 -1200ml/m² body surface area. Cycle Duration • First 6 cycles are rapid cycles i.e. no dwell time.The cycle duration depends on needs of the patient. However, the standard prescription usually last an hour: • 5-10 minutes to instill (depending on exchange volume) • 30-40 minutes dwell • 10-15 minutes to drain (depending on exchange volume) • The cycles can be done manually or with an automated cycler machine if available. PD Fluids • Type of PD fluids: • 1.5%, and 4.25% dextrose (standard commercially availabe) • Bicarbonate dialysate¹, useful if lactic acidosis is a significant problem • PD is usually initiated with 1.5% - if more rapid ultrafiltration is required higher glucose concentration by mixing various combinations of 1.5 and 4.25% solutions can be used. • Watch for hyperglycaemia. Duration of PD • The duration of PD depends on the needs of the patient • The usual practice is 60 cycles but at times more cycles may be needed based on biochemical markers or clinical needs. Peritonitis is frequent when dialysis is prolonged or when acute catheters are used for more than 3 to 4 days. ¹Note: • In centers with continuous renal replacement therapy, the bicarbonate solution used for CRRT (Continuous Renal ReplacementTherapy) can be used. • In centers where this is not available, the assistance of the pharmacist is required to constitute a physiological dialysis solution. The contents and concentrations are listed in the next page.
  • 310. 297 NEPHROLOGY Pharmacy constituted PD-Bicarbonate solution 1.5% dextrose 3000ml / bag Content Quantitiy (ml) NaCl 0.9% 1374.00 NaCl 20% 13.23 Sodium Bicarbonate 8.4% 120.00 Magnesium Sulphate 49.3% 1.11 Dextrose 50% 90.00 Water for injection 1401.66 Common Complications • Poor drainage (omental obstruction, kinking) For temporary PD cannulas • Re-position. • Reinsert catheter if above unsuccessful. For surgically implanted catheters • Irrigation. • Add Heparin (500 units/ litre) into PD fluids. • Peritonitis Diagnostic criteria : • Abdominal pain, fever, cloudy PD effluent, PD effluent cell count 100 WBC/mm². Treatment: • Intraperitoneal antibiotics (empirical Cloxacillin + Ceftazidime) for 7 - 14 days. • Adjust antibiotics once culture results known (dosage as given below). • Exit site infection • Send swab for culture. • Remove PD catheter that is not surgically implanted. • Systemic antibiotics may be considered. • Leaking dialysate • At exit site – resuture immediately. • Leakage from tubings – change dialysis set, empiric intraperitoneal antibiotics for one to two days may be needed. • Blood stained effluent • If mild observe. It should clear with successive cycles. • If heavy, but vital signs stable, run rapid cycles. Transfuse cryoprecipitate. consider blood transfusion and DDAVP. If bleeding does not stop after the first few cycles, stop the dialysis. • If heavy, patient in shock, resuscitate as for patient with hypovolaemic shock. Stop dialysis and refer surgeon immediately.
  • 311. 298 Paediatric Antibiotic Dosing Recommendations Administration should be via intraperitoneal route unless specified otherwise Continuous therapy Intermittent therapy Loading dose Maintenance dose Glycopeptides Vancomycin 500 mg/L 30 mg/L 30 mg/kg q 5-7 days Cephalosporins Cephazolin/ Cephalothin 250 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs Cefuroxime 200 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs Cefotaxime 500 mg/L 250 mg/L 30 mg/kg q 24 hrs Ceftazidime 250 mg/L 125 mg/L 15 mg/kg q 24 hrs Antifungals Amphotericin B 1 mg/kg IV 1 mg/kg/day IV --- Fluconazole --- --- 3-6 mg/kg IP,IV,or PO q24-48 hrs (max 200 mg) Aminoglycosides Amikacin 25 mg/L 12 mg/L Gentamicin 8 mg/L 4 mg/L Netilmycin 8 mg/L 4 mg/L Penicillins Amoxicillin 250-500 mg/L 50 mg/L Combinations Ampicillin/ Sulbactam 1000 mg/L 100 mg/L Imipenem/ Cilastin 500 mg/L 200 mg/L NEPHROLOGY
  • 312. 299 Chapter 62: Neurogenic Bladder Introduction • Neurogenic bladder can develop as a result of a lesion at any level in the nervous system, i.e. cerebral cortex, spinal cord, or peripheral nervous system. • However, the commonest cause of neurogenic bladder is spinal cord abnormalities. Multi-disciplinary approach • Children with spinal dysraphism require care from a multidisciplinary team consisting of neurosurgeon, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, rehabilitation specialist, neonatologist, nephrologists, urologist and other allied medical specialists. • Long-term follow-up is necessary since renal or bladder function can still deteriorate after childhood. • Children with the conditions listed below can present with various patterns of detrusor sphincter dysfunction within a wide range of severity, not predicted by the level of the spinal cord defect. Causes of Neurogenic Bladder Open spinal dysraphism • Meningocele, myelomeningocele and lipomyelomeningocele Occult spinal dysraphism • spinal bifida occulta Anorectal agenesis, sacral agenesis Spinal trauma Spinal cord tumors Transverse myelitis • The commonest cause of neurogenic bladder is a lumbosacral myelomeningocoele. • At birth, the majority of patients with lumbosacral myelomeningocoele have normal upper urinary tracts, but 60% of them develop upper tract deterioration due to infections, bladder changes and reflux by 3 years of age. • Progressive renal damage is due to high detrusor pressures both throughout the filling phase (poor compliance bladder) as well as superimposed detrusor contractions against a closed sphincter (detrusor sphincter dyssynergia). Aims of management: • Preserve upper renal tracts and renal function • Achieve urinary continence • Develop sense of autonomy and better self esteem NEPHROLOGY
  • 313. 300 Open spinal dysraphism Early management with clean intermittent catheterization (CIC): • Aim is to create a low-pressure reservoir and ensuring complete and safe bladder emptying with clean intermittent catheterization. • CIC should be started once the myelomeningocoele is repaired starting CIC in early infancy has led to easier acceptance by parents and children and reduced upper tract deterioration and improvement in continence. Timing of urodynamic study Urodynamic study is indicated in all children with neurogenic bladder. How- ever due to limited availability, urodynamic study should be carried out in children with neurogenic bladder with the following: • Recurrent UTI. • Hydronephrosis. • Incontinence despite CIC. • Thickened bladder wall. • Raised serum creatinine. In infants with lumbosacral myelomeningocoele with any of the above conditions and who have been started on CIC, anti-cholinergic e.g. Oxybutinin (0.3-0.6 mg/kg/day in 2 to 3 divided dose) should be started even if urodynamic study is not available. Clean intermittent catheterisation • Children, as young as 5 years of age, have learnt to do self-catheterization. • Patients are taught catheterisation in hospital by trained nurse/doctor. • The rationale and benefits of intermittent catheterisation are explained, and the patient is reassured that it should be neither painful nor dangerous • Patients are taught to catheterise themselves lying down, standing up, or sitting on a lavatory, chair, or wheelchair. Complications of CIC • Urethral trauma with creation of false passages, urethral strictures and bacteriuria. Notes on CIC: • In infants with myelomeningocoele, management is directed at creating a low-pressure reservoir and ensuring complete and safe bladder emptying with clean intermittent catheterization. • CIC should be started once the myelomeningocoele is repaired. • Starting CIC in early infancy has led to easier acceptance by parents and children and reduced upper tract deterioration and improvement in continence. NEPHROLOGY
  • 314. 301 NEPHROLOGY Technique of Clean Intermittent Catheterisation (CIC) Procedure 1 Assemble all equipment: catheter, ± lubricant, drainage receptacle, adjustable mirror. 2 Wash hands with soap and water. 3 Clean the urethral orifice with clean water. In boys: 1 Lift penis with one hand to straighten out urethra. 2 Lubricate the catheter, with local anaesthetic gel (lignocaine)/K-Y jelly. 3 Use the other hand to insert the catheter into the urethra.There may be some resistance as the catheter tip reaches the bladder neck. 4 Continue to advance the catheter slowly using gentle,firm pressure until the sphincter relaxes. In girls: 1 The labia are separated and the catheter inserted through the urethral meatus into the bladder. For both males and females 1 The catheter is inserted gently until the urine flows. 2 The urine is collected in a jug or bottle or is directed into the lavatory. 3 Once the urine has stopped flowing the catheter should be rotated and then, if no urine drains, slowly withdrawn. 4 Wash hands on completion of catheterization. 5 Catheterise at the prescribed time with the best available measures. Size of Catheters Small babies: 6F Children: 8-10F Adolescents: 12-14F How Often to Catheterise Infants: 6 times a day Children: 4-5 times a day, more frequently in patients with a high fluid intake, and in patients with a small capacity bladder. Reuse of catheters 1 Catheters can be re-used for 2 to 4 weeks 2 After using the catheter, wash in soapy water, rinse well under running tap water, hang to air dry and store in clean container.
  • 315. 302 Algorithm for the Management of Neurogenic Bladder NEPHROLOGY Newborn with Open Spinal Dysraphism Surgical Closure of Defect Start CIC before Discharge Baseline evaluation and assessment of risk for upper urinary tract damage • Clinical examination • Urine analysis and culture • Renal profile • Ultrasound kidneys, ureter and bladder Urodynamic Studies, if indicated: • Hydronephrosis • Recurrent urinary tract infection Refer to Combined Urology/Nephrology Care • Deteriorating upper tract • Abnormal serum creatinine • Recurrent urinary tract infection • Urinary Incontinence
  • 316. 303 NEPHROLOGY Recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and antibiotics • Prophylactic antibacterial therapy is not recommended as therapy does not decrease the incidence of clinical infections. • Asymptomatic bacteriuria are common but does not require treatment. • All febrile UTIs should be treated with antibiotics as soon as possible. • Children with recurrent symptomatic UTI should be given prophylactic antibiotics and may benefit from circumcision. Management of bowel incontinence • Laxatives: mineral oil, lactulose, enema. • Aim to achieve regular and efficient bowel emptying regimen. Follow up assessment • Voiding chart: timing of daytime and night-time voiding, volume of each void, and incontinence and urge episodes. • Constipation and fecal incontinence. • Monitoring of blood pressure, urinalysis, renal profile. • Urine culture in suspected febrile UTI or symptomatic UTI. • Serial ultrasound imaging at regular intervals depending on the age and baseline ultrasound findings. Infants and younger children require more frequent ultrasound scans up to 3 to 6 monthly. Occult spinal dysraphism • May present with cutaneous stigmata (hairy tufts, skin tags, lumbosacral subcutaneous masses and haemangiomas) • Spinal ultrasound can be used in neonates and infants, optimally before 6 months of age, when ossification of posterior elements prevents an acoustic window. • After 6 months of age, the imaging modality is MRI of spine. Other conditions that lead to neurogenic bladder • Start CIC in patients with acquired neurogenic bladder with urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infection and/or hydronephrosis.
  • 318. 305 Chapter 63: Urinary Tract Infection Introduction • Urinary tract infection (UTI) comprises 5% of febrile illnesses in early childhood. 2.1% of girls and 2.2% of boys will have had a UTI before the age of 2 years. • UTI is an important risk factor for the development of hypertension, renal failure and end stage renal disease. Definition • Urinary tract infection is growth of bacteria in the urinary tract or combination of clinical features and presence of bacteria in the urine • Significant bacteriuria is defined as the presence of 105 colony forming units (cfu) of a single organism per ml of freshly voided urine (Kass). • Acute pyelonephritis is bacteriuria presenting clinically with fever 38⁰C and/or loin pain and tenderness. It carries a higher risk of renal scarring • Acute cystitis is infection limited to the lower urinary tract presenting clinically with acute voiding symptoms: dysuria, urgency, frequency, suprapubic pain or incontinence. • Asymptomatic bacteriuria is presence of bacteriuria in the urine in an otherwise asymptomatic child. Clinical Presentation • Symptoms depend on the age of the child and the site of infection. • In infants and toddlers: signs and symptoms are non-specific e.g. fever, irritability, jaundice and failure to thrive. • The presence of UTI should be considered in children with unexplained fever. • Symptoms of lower UTI such as pain with micturition and frequency are often not recognized before the age of two. Physical Examination • General examination, growth, blood pressure. • Abdominal examination for distended bladder, ballotable kidneys, other masses, genitalia, and anal tone. • Examine the back for any spinal lesion. • Look for lower limb deformities or wasting (suggests a neurogenic bladder). Diagnosis • Accurate diagnosis is extremely important as false diagnosis of UTI would lead to unnecessary interventions that are costly and potentially harmful. • The diagnosis is best made with a combination of culture and urinalysis • The quality of the urine sample is of crucial importance. Urine specimen transport • If collected urine cannot be cultured within 4 hours; the specimen should be refrigerated at 4 oC or a bacteriostatic agent e.g. boric acid (1.8%) added. • Fill the specimen container pre-filled with boric acid with urine to the required level. NEPHROLOGY
  • 319. 306 NEPHROLOGY Collection of Urine Bag urine specimen High contamination rate of up to 70%. Negative culture excludes UTI in untreated children. Positive culture should be confirmed with a clean catch or suprapubic aspi- ration specimen (SPA). Clean catch specimen Recommended in a child who is bladder trained. Catheterisation Sensitivity 95%, specificity 99%, as compared to SPA. Low risk of introducing infection but have higher success rates and the procedure is less painful compared to SPA. Suprapubic aspiration (SPA) Best technique (“gold standard”) of obtaining an uncontaminated urine sample. Any gram negative growth is significant. Technique: • Lie the child in a supine position. • Thin needle with syringe is inserted vertically in the midline, 1 - 2 cm above symphysis pubis. • Urine is obtained at a depth of 2 to 3 cm. Usually done in infants 1 year; also applicable in children aged 4 - 5 years if bladder is palpable above the symphysis pubis. Success rate is 98% with ultrasound guidance. Note: When it is not possible to collect urine by non-invasive methods, catheterization or SPA should be used. Urine testing • Rapid diagnosis of UTI can be made by examining the fresh urine with urinary dipstick and microscopy. However, where possible, a fresh specimen of urine should be sent for culture and sensitivity.
  • 320. 307 Sensitivity and specificity of various tests for UTI Test Sensitivity % (range) Specificity % (range) Leucocyte esterase (LE) 78 (64-92) 83 (67-94) Nitrite 98 (90-100) 53(15-82) LE or nitrite positive 72 (58-91) 93 (90-100) Pyuria 81 (45-98) 73 (32-100) Bacteria 83 (11-100) 81(16-99) Any positive test 70 (60-90) 99.8 (99-100) Management • All infants with febrile UTI should be admitted and intravenous antibiotics started as for acute pyelonephritis. • In patients with high risk of serious illness, it is preferable that urine sample should be obtained first; however treatment should be started if urine sample is unobtainable. Antibiotic prophylaxis • Antibiotic prophylaxis should not be routinely recommended in infants and children following first time UTI as antimicrobial prophylaxis does not seem to reduce significantly the rates of recurrence of pyelonephritis, regardless of age or degree of reflux. However, antibiotic prophylaxis may be considered in the following: • Infants and children with recurrent symptomatic UTI. • Infants and children with vesico-ureteric reflux grades of at least grade III. Measures to reduce risk of further infections • Dysfunctional elimination syndrome (DES) or dysfunctional voiding is defined as an abnormal pattern of voiding of unknown aetiology characterised by faecal and/or urinary incontinence and withholding of both urine and faeces. • Treatment of DES includes high fibre diet, use of laxatives, timed frequent voiding, and regular bowel movement. • If condition persists, referral to a paediatric urologist/nephrologist is needed. NEPHROLOGY
  • 321. 308 NEPHROLOGY AntibioticTreatment for UTI Type of Infection PreferredTreatment AlternativeTreatment UTI (Acute cystitis) E.coli. POTrimethoprim 4mg/kg/dose bd (max 300mg daily) for 1 week POTrimethoprim/ Sulphamethazole 4mg/kg/dose (TMP) bd for1 week Proteus spp. • Cephalexin, cefuroxime can also be used especially in children who had prior antibiotics. • Single dose of antibiotic therapy not recommended. UpperTract UTI (Acute pyelonephritis) E.coli. IV Cefotaxime 100mg/kg/day q8h for 10-14 days IV Cefuroxime 100mg/kg/day q8h OR IV Gentamicin 5-7mg/kg/day daily Proteus spp. • Repeat culture within 48hours if poor response. • Antibiotic may need to be changed according to sensitivity. Suggest to continue intravenous antibiotic until child is afebrile for 2-3 days and then switch to appropriate oral therapy after culture results e.g. Cefuroxime, for total of 10-14 days. Asymptomatic bacteriuria No treatment recommended Antibiotic Prophylaxis for UTI Indication PreferredTreatment AlternativeTreatment UTI Prophylaxis POTrimethoprim 1-2mg/kg ON PO Nitrofurantoin 1-2mg/kg ON or PO Cephalexin 5mg/kg ON • Antibiotic prophylaxis is not be routinely recommended in children with UTI. • Prophylactic antibiotics should be given for 3 days with MCUG done on the second day. • A child develops an infection while on prophylactic medication, treatment should be with a different antibiotic and not a higher dose of the same prophylactic antibiotic.
  • 322. 309 NEPHROLOGY Recommendations for imaging Previous guidelines have recommended routine radiological imaging for all children with UTI. Current evidence has narrowed the indications for imaging as summarized below: Ultrasound Recommended in • All children less than 3 years of age • Children above 3 years of age with poor urinary stream, seriously ill with UTI, palpable abdominal masses, raised serum creatinine, non E coli UTI, febrile after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment, or recurrent UTI. DMSA scan Recommended in infants and children with UTI with any of the following features: • Seriously ill with UTI. • Poor urine flow. • Abdominal or bladder mass. • Raised creatinine. • Septicaemia. • Failure to respond to treatment with suitable antibiotics within 48 hours. • Infection with non E. coli organisms. Micturating cystourethogram (MCUG) Since meta-analyses of data from recent, randomized controlled trials do not support antimicrobial prophylaxis to prevent febrile UTI; routine MCUG after the first UTI should not be routinely recommended after the first UTI. MCUG may be considered in: • Infants with recurrent UTI. • Infants with UTI and the following features: poor urinary stream, seriously ill with UTI, palpable abdominal masses, raised serum creatinine, non E. coli UTI, febrile after 48 hours of antibiotic treatment. • Children less than 3 years old with the following features: • Dilatation on ultrasound. • Poor urine flow. • Non E. coli infection. • Family history of VUR. Other radiological investigations e.g. DTPA scan, MCUG in older children would depend on the ultrasound findings.
  • 323. 310 NEPHROLOGY Further Management This depends upon the results of investigation. NORMAL RENAL TRACTS • Prophylactic antibiotic not required. • Urine culture during any febrile illness or if the child is unwell. NO VESICOURETERIC REFLUX BUT RENAL SCARRING PRESENT. • Repeat urine culture only if symptomatic. • Assessment includes height, weight, blood pressure and routine tests for proteinuria. • Children with a minor, unilateral renal scarring do not need long-term follow-up unless recurrent UTI or family history or lifestyle risk factors for hypertension. • Children with bilateral renal abnormalities, impaired renal function, raised blood pressure and or proteinuria should be managed by a nephrologist. • Close follow up during pregnancy. VESICOURETEIC REFLUX Definition • Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is defined as the retrograde flow of urine from the bladder into the ureter and collecting system. • In most individuals VUR results from a congenital anomaly of ureterovesical junction (primary VUR), whereas in others it results from high pressure voiding secondary to posterior urethral valve, neuropathic bladder or voiding dysfunction (secondary VUR). Significance of VUR • Commonest radiological abnormality in children with UTI (30 – 40%). • Children with VUR thought to be at risk for further episodes of pyelonephritis with potential for increasing renal scarring and renal impairment (reflux nephropathy). Vesicoureteric Reflux Recurrent UTI Progressive Renal Scarring End Stage Renal Disease Hypertension NATURAL HISTORY OF VESICOURETERIC REFLUX
  • 324. 311 Management • Antibiotic prophylaxis – refer to antibiotic prophylaxis section above • Surgical management or endoscopic treatment is considered if the child has recurrent breakthrough febrile UTI. POSTERIOR URETHRAL VALVE • Refer to a Paediatric urologist/surgeon/nephrologist. RENAL DYSPLASIA, HYPOPLASIA OR MODERATE TO SEVERE HYDRONEPHROSIS • May need further imaging to evaluate function or drainage in the case of hydronephrosis • Refer surgeon if obstruction is confirmed. • Monitor renal function, BP and growth parameters Summary • All children less than 2 years of age with unexplained fever should have urine tested for UTI. • Greater emphasis on earlier diagnosis prompt treatment of UTI • Diagnosis of UTI should be unequivocally established before a child is subjected to invasive and expensive radiological studies • Antibiotic prophylaxis should not be routinely recommended following first-time UTI. CLASSIFICATION OF VESICOURETERIC REFLUX ACCORDING TO THE INTERNATIONAL REFLUX STUDY COMMITTEE. Grade I Grade IVGrade III Grade VGrade II Kidney Bladder Ureter
  • 326. 313 Chapter 64: Antenatal Hydronephrosis Definition • No consensus statement to date. • Most studied parameter is the measurement of antero -posterior diameter (APD) of renal pelvis as visualized on transverse plane. • Most agree that APD of renal pelvis of at least 5 mm on antenatal ultrasound of the fetus is abnormal. • APD 15mm represents severe or significant hydronephrosis. • Fetal Hydronephrosis Index(HI): APD of renal pelvis divided by urinary bladder volume has been proposed as studied parameter but not uniformly accepted yet. Advantages of prenatal detection • May potentially be used for prenatal counseling and has allowed identification of conditions that require immediate treatment and which otherwise would go unrecognized until symptoms arose postnatally. • Meta-analysis of 17 studies revealed that calculated risk of any postnatal pathology per degree of antenatal hydronephrosis was 11.9% for mild , 45.1% for moderate and 88.3% for severe. Goals in evaluation of patients with antenatal hydronephrosis • Prevent potential complications. • Preserve renal function. • Distinguish children who require follow up and intervention from those who do not. Timing of detection • 90% after eighteen weeks of gestation. • 95% by 22 weeks. Grading The Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) Hydronephronephrosis Grading System Grades Pattern of renal sinus splitting SFU Grade 0 No splitting (renal pelvis) SFU Grade I Urine in pelvis barely splits sinus SFU Grade II Urine fills intrarenal pelvis SFU Grade II Urine fills extrarenal pelvis. Major calyces dilated SFU Grade III SFU Grade 2 and minor calyces uniformly dilated but renal parenchyma preserved. SFU Grade IV SFU Grade 3 and renal parenchyma thin • Marked hydronephrosis is frequently seen in pelvic ureteric junction obstruction whereas the mild hydronephrosis is associated with vesicouretric reflux. NEPHROLOGY
  • 327. 314 NEPHROLOGY Epidemiology • 1-5% of all pregnancies • Increased frequency of up to 8% with positive family history of renal agenesis, multicystic kidney, reflux nephropathy and polycystic kidneys. • Male to female ratio is 2:1. • Bilateral in 20 to 40 %. Aetiology in Antenatal Hydronephrosis Abnormality Frequency (%) Transient 48 Physiologic 15 Pelvic ureteric junction obstruction 11 Vesicoureteric reflux 4 Megaureter,obstructed or non-obstructed 4 Multicystic kidneys 2 Ureterocoeles 2 Posterior urethral valves 1 Transient and physiologic hydronephrosis • 60% of antenatal hydronephrosis is physiological. This will resolve before end of pregnancy or within first year of life. • Fetal urine flow is four to six times greater than neonatal urine production. • This is due to differences in renovascular resistances, GFR and concentrating ability before and after birth. These differences may contribute to ureteric dilatation in-utero in the absence of functionally significant obstruction. Antenatal management • In general antenatal interventions are not required except for watchful monitoring. • Pregnancy should be allowed to proceed to term and normal delivery can be allowed in the absence of other complications like severe oligohydramnios or other fetal abnormalities. Timing of postnatal evaluation • Within first week of life: Neonates with unilateral hydronephrosis and normal contralateral kidney. • Immediate evaluation before discharge: Bilateral hydronephrosis, hydronephrosis in solitary kidneys and bladder outlet obstruction.
  • 328. 315 Postnatal management Physical examination Certain clinical features may suggest specific underlying causes: • Abdominal mass: Enlarged kidney due to pelvic-ureteric junction obstruction or multicystic dysplastic kidneys. • Palpable bladder and/or poor stream and dribbling: Posterior urethral valves in a male infant. • Deficient abdominal wall with undescended testes: Prune Belly syndrome. • Abnormalities in the spine and lower limb with patulous anus: Neurogenic bladder. Examination for other anomalies should also be carried out. Unilateral hydronephrosis • In babies who are normal on physical examination, a repeat ultrasound should be done after birth; subsequent management will depend on the ultrasound findings. • The ultrasound should be repeated one month later if initial postnatal US is normal or show only mild hydronephrosis. The patient can be discharged if the repeat ultrasound is also normal. Bilateral Hydronephrosis These babies need a full examination and investigation after birth. • Ultrasound of the kidneys and urinary tracts should be repeated. • Urine output should be monitored. • Renal profile should be done on day 2 of life. • The child should be monitored closely for UTI and a second-generation cephalosporin started if there is any suggestion of UTI. In boys, detailed ultrasound scan should be done by an experienced radiolo- gist to detect thickened bladder wall and dilated posterior urethra suggestive of posterior urethral valves. Any suggestion of posterior urethral valve or renal failure warrants an urgent MCU. Urgent referral to a Paediatric nephrologist and/or Urologist is needed if the newborn has renal failure, or confirmed or suspected posterior urethral valves. Other radiological investigations 99mDTPA/Mag 3 SCAN • DTPA or Mag 3 scans are required when there is moderate or gross hydronephrosis on postnatal ultrasound. These scans detect differential function of both kidneys as well as the presence of significant obstruction in the urinary tract. In Malaysia, only DTPA scan is available in most radionuclear centers. It is best done after one month of life. Intravenous Urogram (IVU) • With the availability of DTPA /Mag3 scan, IVU is no more indicated. NEPHROLOGY
  • 329. 316 NEPHROLOGY Antibiotics Efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis has not been proven. Consider antibiotic prophylaxis in high risk population such as those with gross hydronephrosis and hydroureters. Commonly used Antibiotic Prophylaxis Trimethoprim 1-2mg/kg at night Cephalexin 5mg/kg at night Follow up Care All children with significant hydronephrosis should be referred to paediatric nephrologists / urologist after relevant radiological investigations have been completed.
  • 330. 317 NEPHROLOGY Postnatal Ultrasound Kidneys Repeat Ultrasound Kidneys Normal Ultrasound findings Micturating CystoUrethrogram (MCU) Discharge Urgent Referral to Nephrologist / Urologist Antenatal Hydronephrosis BILATERAL Hydronephrosis UNILATERAL Hydronephrosis Investigations Renal profile, VBG, FBC, UFEME, urine CS Normal/Mild Hydronephrosis Moderate/Gross Hydronephrosis Females Incr Sr Creatinine Males Dilated post urethra Thickened bladder wall Posterior Urethral Valve If No VUR or VUR Grade 1 2 only Proceed to DTPA scan Postnatal Ultrasound Kidneys Micturating CystoUrethrogram (MCU) Nephrologist / Urologist Consultation ALGORITHM FOR MANAGEMENT OF ANTENATALLY DIAGNOSED HYDRONEPHROSIS
  • 331. 318 NEPHROLOGY References Section 7 Nephrology Chapter 58 Postinfectious Acute Glomerulonephritis 1.Travis L, Kalia A. Acute nephritic syndrome. Clinical Paediatric Nephrology. 2nd ed. Postlethwaite RJ. Butterworth Heinemann 1994. pp 201 – 209. 2.Malaysian Hypertension Consensus Guidelines 2007. Ministry of Health Academy of Medicine of Malaysia 3.Simokes A, Spitzer A. Post streptococcal acute glomerulonephritis. Paediat- ric Rev. 16: 278 – 279. 1995. 4.Rodriguez-Iturbe B. Epidemic post streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Kidney Int 1984; 25:129-136. Chapter 59 Nephrotic Syndrome 1.Consensus statement - Management of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in childhood. Ministry of Health, Academy of Medicine Malaysia. 1999. 2.Hodson EM, Knight JF, Willis NS, Craig JC. Corticosteroid therapy for ne- phrotic syndrome in children (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2003. Oxford: Update Software. 3.McIntyre P, Craig JC. Prevention of serious bacterial infection in children with nephrotic syndrome. J Paediatr Child Health 1998; 34: 314 - 317. 4.Consensus statement on management and audit potential for steroid responsive nephrotic syndrome. Arch Dis Child 1994; 70: 151 - 157. 5.Durkan A, Hodson E, Willis N, Craig J. Non-corticosteroid treatment for ne- phrotic syndrome in children (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2003. Oxford: Update Software. Chapter 60 Acute Kidney Injury 1.Pediatric Nephrology 5th edition, editors Ellis D Avner, William E Harmon, Patrick Niaudet, Lippincott Williams Wilkins, 2004 2.Paediatric Formulary 7th edition, Guy’s, St Thomas’ and Lewisham Hospi- tals, 2005 3.Takemoto CK, Hodding JH, Kraus DM. Pediatric Dosage Handbook 9th edi- tion, 2002-2003 4.Daschner M. Drug dosage in children with reduced renal function. Pediatr Nephrol 2005; 20: 1675-1686. Chapter 60 Acute Peritoneal Dialysis 1.Pediatric Nephrology 5th edition, editors Ellis D Avner, William E Harmon, Patrick Niaudet, Lippincott Williams Wilkins, 2004 2.Renal Replacement Therapy Clinical Practice Guidelines (2nd Edition) Minis- try of Health, Malaysia 3.International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) Guidelines / Recommen- dations Consensus Guidelines for the Treatment of Peritonitis in Paediatric Patients Receiving Peritoneal Dialysis. Perit Dial Int 2000; 6:610-624.
  • 332. 319 Chapter 62 Neurogenic Bladder 1.European Association of Urology. Guidelines on Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction.2008. 2.Sutherland R, Mevorach R, Baskin L, et al. Spinal dysraphism in children: An overview and an approach to prevent complication. Urology 1995; 46: 294-304 3.Beattie J, Scottish Renal Paediatrics. Guideline on Management of Neuro- pathic Bladder 2005. 4.Verpoorten C, Buyse G. The neurogenic bladder: medical treatment. Pediatr Nephrol; 2008; 23: 717–725 5.Basic procedure for clean intermittent catheterization. Chapter 63 Urinary Tract Infection 1.National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence Urinary tract infection in children: diagnosis, treatment and long-term management. http//www. nice.org.uk/nicermedia/pdf/CG54fullguidelines.pdf (November 2007) 2.American Academy of Pediatrics. Practice parameters; the diagnosis, treat- ment, and evaluation of the initial urinary tract infection in febrile infants and young children. Pediatrics 1999;103:843-52 3.Garin EH, Olavarria F, Nieto VG, Valenciano B, Campos A and Young L. Clinical significance of primary VUR and urinary antibiotic prophylaxis after acute pyelonephritis: a multicenter randomized controlled study. Pediatrics 2006;117;626-632 4.Williams GJ, Wei L, Lee A and Craig JC. Long term antibiotics for prevent- ing recurrent urinary tract infection in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Review 2006, Issue 3 5.Michael M, Hodson EM, Craig JC, Martin S, Moyer VA. Short versus stand- ard duration oral antibiotic therapy for acute UTI in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006 Issue 3. 6.Bloomfield P, Hodson EM and Craig JC. Antibiotics for acute pyelonephritis in children. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007 Issue 1. 7.Royal College of Physicians Research Unit Working Group. Guidelines for the management of acute urinary tract infection in childhood. JR Coll Physicians Lon 1991;25:36-42 8.Jodal U, Smellie JM, Lax H and Hoyer PF. Ten-year results of randomized treatment of children with severe vesicoureteric reflux. Final report of the International Reflux Study in Children. Pediatr Nephrol (2006) 21: 785-792 9.Hodson EM, Wheeler DM, Nimalchandra, Smith GH and Craig JC. Interven- tions for primary vesicoureteric reflux (VUR). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007 Issue 3. 10.U Jodal and U Lindberg. Guidelines for management of children with urinary tract infection and vesico-ureteric reflux. Recommendations from a Swedish state-of-the-art conference. Acta Paediatr Suppl 431:87-9,1999 NEPHROLOGY
  • 333. 320 Chapter 63 Urinary Tract Infection (cont.) 11.American Academy of Pediatrics. Technical report- Diagnosis and Management of an Initial UTI in Febrile Infants and Young Children. Pediatrics Volume 128, Number 3, September 2011 12.Brandstrom P, Esbjorner E, Herthelius M, Swerkersson S, Jodal U, Hansson S. The Swedish Reflux Trial in Children, part III: urinary tract infection pattern. J Urol. 2010;184(1):286-291. Chapter 64 Antenatal Hydronephrosis 1.Heip T Nguyen, CD Anthony Herndon, Christopher Cooper, John Gatti et al The Society For Fetal Urology consensus statement on the evaluation and management of antenatal hydronephrosis J of Ped Urol(2010) 6,212-231 2.Vivian YF Leung, Winnie CW Chu, Constatntine Metrewell Hydronephrosis index: a better physiological reference in antenatal ultrasound for assess- ment of fetal hydronephrosis J Pediatr ( 2009);154:116-20 3.Richard S Lee, Marc Cendron, Daniel D Kinnamon, Hiep T. Nguyen Antenatal hydronephrosis as a predictor of postnatal outcome: A Meta-analysis Pediatrics (2006);118:586-594 4.Baskin L Tulin Ozca Overview of antenatal hydronpehrosis www.uptodate. com 2011. 5.Madarikan BA, Hayward C, Roberts GM et al. Clinical outcome of fetal uropathy. Arch Dis Child 1988; 63:961. 6.ReussA, Wladimiroff JW, Niermeijer MF. Antenatal diagnosis of renal tract anomalies by ultrasound. Pediatr Nephrol 1987; 1:546. 7.Gonzales R, Schimke CM. Uteropelvic junction obstruction in infants and children. Pediatr Clin North Am 2001; 48:1505. 8.Woodward M, Frank D. Postnatal management of antenatal hydronephro- sis. BJU Int 2002; 89:149. 9.Keating MA, Escala J, Snyder HM et al. Changing concepts in management of primary obstructive megaureter. J Urol 1989; 142:636 10.Paediatric Formulary Guy’s, St. Thomas’ and Lewisham Hospital 7th edi- tion.2010. 11.U, Hansson S. The Swedish Reflux Trial in Children, part III: urinary tract infection pattern. J Urol. 2010;184(1):286-291. NEPHROLOGY
  • 334. 321 Chapter 65: Approach to a Child with Anaemia HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Child with Anaemia • History • Physical Examination • Preliminary Investigations: Hb, Haematocrit, Red cell indices, Blood film Reticulocyte count, Presence of Generalized Lymphadenopathy and/or Hepatosplenomegaly? Differential Diagnosis Acute / Chronic leukaemias Chronic haemolytic anaemia: Thalassaemia Hereditary Spherocytosis Hereditary Elliptocytosis G6PD deficiency Malignancies e.g. lymphoma Chronic infection e.g. Tuberculosis Differential Diagnosis Acute blood loss Iron deficiency Folate deficiency B12 deficiency Acute haemolytic anaemia: • G6PD deficiency with oxidant stress • Autoimmune • ABO incompatibility • Infection e.g. malaria • Drug induced Bone marrow failure • Aplastic anaemia • Fanconi’s anaemia • Diamond-Blackfan Others • Hypothyroidism • Chronic renal failure APPROACH TO CHILDREN WITH ANAEMIA YES NO
  • 335. 322 Variation in Full Blood Count Indices with Age Age Hb (g/dl) RBC (x10 /l) MCV (fl) Birth 14.9 – 23.7 3.7-6.5 100-135 2 months 9.4-13.0 3.1-4.3 84-105 12 months 11.3-14.1 4.1-5.3 71-85 2-6 year 11.5-13.5 3.9-5.3 75-87 6-12 year 11.5-15.5 4.0-5.2 77-95 12-18 yr girls 12.0-16.0 4.1-5.1 78-95 12-18 yr boys 13.0-16.0 4.5-5.3 78-95 Hb, haemoglobin; RBC, red blood cell count; MCV, mean corpuscular volume; MCH, mean corpuscular haemoglobin IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA Laboratory findings • Red cell indices : Low MCV, Low MCH values • Low serum ferritin Treatment Nutritional counseling • Maintain breastfeeding. • Use iron fortified cereals. Oral iron medication • Give 6 mg/kg/day of elemental iron in 3 divided doses, continue for 6-8 weeks after haemoglobin level is restored to normal. • Syr FAC (Ferrous ammonium citrate): the content of elemental iron per ml depends on the preparation available. • Tab. Ferrous fumarate 200 mg has 66 mg of elemental iron per tablet. Consider the following if failure to response to oral iron: • Non-compliance. • Inadequate iron dosage. • Unrecognized blood loss. • Impaired GI absorption. • Incorrect diagnosis. Blood transfusion • No transfusion required in chronic anemia unless signs of decompensation (e.g. cardiac dysfunction) and the patient is otherwise debilitated. • In severe anaemia (Hb 4 g/dL) give low volume packed red cells ( 5mls/kg). • If necessary over 4-6 hours with IV Frusemide (1mg/kg) midway. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia Chronic blood loss Increase demand • Prematurity • Growth Malabsorption • Worm infestation Poor diet
  • 336. 323 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY HEREDITARY SPHEROCYTOSIS Pathogenesis • A defective structural protein (spectrin) in the RBC membrane producing spheroidal shaped and osmotically fragile RBCs that are trapped and destroyed in the spleen, resulting in shortened RBC life span. • The degree of clinical severity is proportional to the severity of RBC membrane defect. • Inheritance is autosomal dominant in 2/3; recessive or de novo in 1/3 of children. Clinical features – Mild, moderate and severe • Anaemia • Intermittent jaundice plenomegaly • Splenomegaly • Haemolytic crises • Pigmented gallstones in adolescents and young adults • Aplastic crises with Parvovirus B19 infections • Megaloblastic crises • All patients should receive folate supplement Rare manifestations • Leg ulcers, spinocerebellar ataxia, myopathy • Extramedullary haematopoietic tumours, Investigations in children with Suspected Spherocytosis Reticulocytosis Microspherocytes in peripheral blood film Osmotic fragility is increased Elevated MCHC Normal direct antiglobulin test Autohaemolysis is increased and corrected by glucose Treatment • Splenectomy to be delayed as long as possible. • In mild cases, avoid splenectomy unless gallstones developed. • Folic acid supplements: 1 mg day. • Splenectomy is avoided for patients 5 years because of the increased risk of postsplenectomy sepsis. • Give pneumococcal, haemophilus and meningococcal vaccination 4-6 weeks prior to splenectomy and prophylactic oral penicillin to be given post splenectomy.
  • 338. 325 Chapter 66: Thalassaemia Introduction • β-Thalassaemia major is an inherited blood disorder presenting with anaemia at 4 - 6 months of age. • Common presenting symptoms are pallor lethargy, failure to thrive and hepatosplenomegaly. • In Malaysia, the β-thalassaemia carrier rate is estimated at 3-5%, most of whom are unaware of their carrier / thalassaemia minor status. • The carrier rates of α-thalassaemia and Haemoglobin E (HbE) are 1.8-7.5% and 5-46% respectively. HbE are found more in the northern peninsular states. • Interaction between a β-thalassaemia carrier with a HbE carrier may result in the birth of a patient with HbEβ-thalassaemia or thalassaemia intermedia with variable clinical severity. • The moderate to severe forms behave like β-thalassaemia major patients while the milder forms are asymptomatic. Baseline investigations to be done for all new patients: - • Full blood count, Peripheral blood film (In typical cases, the Hb is about 7g/dl) • Haemoglobin analysis by electrophoresis / HPLC: • Typical findings for β-thalassaemia major: HbA decreased or absent, HbF increased, HbA2 variable. • Serum ferritin. • Red cell phenotyping (ideal) before first transfusion. • DNA analysis (ideal) • For the detection of α-carrier and confirmation of difficult cases. • Mandatory in prenatal diagnosis. • Available upon request at tertiary centre laboratories in IMR, HKL, HUKM, UMMC and USM. • Liver function test. • Infection screen: HIV, Hepatitis B C, VDRL screen (before first transfusion). • HLA typing (for all patient with unaffected siblings) • All nuclear family members must be investigated by Hb Analysis for genetic counselling. • 1st degree and 2nd degree relatives should also be encouraged to be screened counselled (cascade screening). HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 339. 326 Management Regular maintenance blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy is the mainstay of treatment in patients with transfusion dependent thalassaemia. Maintenance Blood Transfusion Beta thalassaemia major • When to start blood transfusion? • After completing blood investigations for confirmation of diagnosis. • Hb 7g/dl on 2 occasions 2 weeks apart (in absence other factors e.g. infection). • Hb 7g/dl in β+-thalassaemia major/severe forms of HbE-β-thalassaemia if impaired growth, para-spinal masses, severe bone changes, enlarging liver and spleen. • Transfusion targets? • Maintain pre transfusion Hb level at 9 -10 g/dl. • Keep mean post-transfusion Hb at 13.5-15.5g/dl. • Keep mean Hb 12 - 12.5 g/dl. • The above targets allow for normal physical activity and growth, abolishes chronic hypoxaemia, reduce compensatory marrow hyperplasia which causes irreversible facial bone changes and para-spinal masses. • Transfusion interval? • Usually 4 weekly interval (usual rate of Hb decline is at 1g/dl/week). • Interval varies from individual patients (range: 2 - 6 weekly). • Transfusion volume? • Volume: 15 - 20mls/kg (maximum) packed red cells (PRBC). • Round-up to the nearest pint of cross-matched blood provided. i.e. if calculated volume is just 1 pint of blood, give 1 pint, or if calculated volume is just 2 pints, give 2 pints. This strategy minimizes the number of exposure to immunologically different units of blood product and avoid wastage of donated blood. Note: • In the presence of cardiac failure or Hb 5g/dl, use lower volume PRBC ( 5ml/kg) at slow infusion rate over 4 hours with IV Frusemide 1 mg/kg (20 mg maximum dose). • It is recommended for patients to use leucodepleted (pre-storage, post storage or bedside leucocyte filters) PRBC 2 weeks old. • Leucodepletion would minimize non-haemolytic febrile reactions and alloimmunization by removing white cells contaminating PRBC. Thalassaemia intermedia • A clinical diagnosis where patients present later with less severe anaemia at 2 years of age usually with Hb 8g/dl or more. • Severity varies from being symptomatic at presentation to being asymptomatic until later adult life. • Assessment and decision to start regular transfusion is best left to the specialist. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 340. 327 Alpha Thalassaemia (Hb H disease) • Transfuse only if Hb persistently 7g/dl and/or symptomatic. Iron Chelation Therapy • This is essential to prevent iron overload in transfusion dependent thalassaemia. • Compliance to optimal treatment is directly related to superior survival outcome, now possible beyond the 6th decade. • Currently 3 approved iron chelators are available: Desferrioxamine (DFO), Deferiprone (DFP) and Deferasirox (DFX). Desferrioxamine (Desferal®) • When to start? • Usually when the child is 2 - 3 years old. • When serum ferritin reaches 1000 µg/L. • Usually after 10 – 20 blood transfusions. • Dosage and route • Average daily dose is 20 – 40mg/kg/day. • by subcutaneous (s.c.) continuous infusion using a portable pump over 8-10 hours daily, 5 - 7 nights a week. • Aim to maintain serum ferritin level below 1000 µg/L. • Vitamin C augments iron excretion with Desferal®. • Severely iron loaded patients require longer or continuous SC or IV infusion (via Portacath) of Desferal®. Complications of Desferal® • Local skin reactions usually due to inadequately diluted Desferal® or infection • Yersinia infection: presents with fever, abdominal pain diarrhoea. • Stop Desferal® and treat with cotrimoxazole, aminoglycoside or 3rd generation cephalosporin. • Desferal® toxicity (if using high doses 50mg/kg/day in the presence of low serum ferritin in children): • Ocular toxicity: reduced vision, visual fields, night blindness; reversible • Auditory toxicity: high tone deafness. Not usually reversible • Skeletal lesions: pseudo rickets, metaphyseal changes, vertebral growth retardation. Complications of chronic iron overload in Thalassaemics over 10 years • Endocrine: growth retardation, impaired glucose tolerance, pubertal delay, hypothyroidism, hypoparathyroidism and diabetes mellitus. • Cardiac: arrhythmias, pericarditis, cardiac failure. • Hepatic: liver cirrhosis (especially if with Hepatitis B/C infection). HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 341. 328 Oral iron chelator • Deferiprone / L1 (Ferriprox®/Kelfer®) is an alternative if iron chelation is ineffective or inadequate despite optimal Desferal® use, or if Desferal® use is contraindicated. However, there is no formal evaluation in children 10 years of age. • Deferiprone is given 75 – 100 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses. • It can also be used in combination with Desferal®, using a lower dose of 50mg/kg/day. • There are risks of GI disturbance, arthritis and rare occurrence of idiopathic agranulocytosis. • Weekly full blood count monitoring is recommended. Stop if neutropaenic (1,500/mm³). • Deferasirox (Exjade®) can also be used for transfusional iron overload in patients 2 years or older but is expensive. • The dose is 20-30 mg/kg/day in liquid dispersible tablet, taken once daily. • There are risks of transient skin rash, GI disturbance and a reversible rise in serum creatinine. • Monthly monitoring of renal function is required. Monitoring of patients During each admission for blood transfusion, the following should be done: • Clinical assessment: height, weight, liver spleen size, any adverse side effects of chelation therapy. • Pre-transfusion Hb, platelet count and WBC (if on Deferiprone). • Post transfusion Hb – ½ hour post transfusion. • Calculate the volume of pure RBC transfused based on the haematocrit (HCT) of packed red blood cells (PRBC) given (usually HCT of PRBC from blood bank is 50 - 55%). • Volume of pure RBC transfused = volume of blood given x HCT of PRBC given (e.g. 600 mls x 0.55 = 330 mls). • Annual volume of pure RBC transfused per kg body weight. • Iron balance assessment. • Review of current medications. Every 3- 6 months • Evaluate growth and development. • Serum ferritin. • Liver function test. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 342. 329 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Every year or more frequent if indicated • Evaluate growth and development • Endocrine assessment – modified GTT, T4/TSH, Ca, PO4 (If Ca low - check PTH Vit. D). • Pubertal and sexual development from 10 years onwards. • Tanner stage of breast and genitalia. • Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, oestradiol or testosterone hormone levels. • Infection screen (6 monthly) – Hepatitis B and C, HIV, VDRL. • Annual volume of pure red blood cell transfused/median body weight. • Evaluate iron balance and overload status. • Bone: osteoporosis skeletal abnormalities. Cardiac assessment at variable intervals and especially after 10 years of age • Yearly ECG or Holter monitoring for arrhythmias. • Annual cardiac echocardiography. • Cardiac T2* MRI. Liver iron assessment • Liver T2* MRI for non-invasive assessment of liver iron. • Liver biopsy for liver iron concentration and the assessment of hepatitis, fibrosis or cirrhosis in selected cases and prior to bone marrow transplantation. Splenectomy Indications • Blood consumption volume of pure RBC 1.5X normal or 200-220 mls/kg/year in those 5 years of age to maintain average haemoglobin levels. • Evidence of hypersplenism. Note: • Give pneumococcal and HIB vaccinations 4-6 weeks prior to splenectomy. • Meningococcal vaccine required in endemic areas. • Penicillin prophylaxis for life after splenectomy. • Low dose aspirin (75 mg daily) if thrombocytosis 800,000/mm³ after splenectomy.
  • 343. 330 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Diet and supplements • Oral folate at minimum 1 mg daily may benefit most patients. • Low dose Vitamin C at 3 mg/kg augments iron excretion for those on Desferral only. • Dose: 10 yrs, 50mg daily; 10yrs, 100mg daily given only on deferral days • Avoid iron rich food such as red meat and iron fortified cereals or milk. • Tea may help decrease intestinal iron absorption. • Dairy products are recommended as they are rich in calcium. • Vitamin E as antioxidant. • Calcium and zinc. Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) • Potential curative option when there is an HLA-compatible sibling donor. • Results from matched unrelated donor or unrelated cord blood transplant are still inferior with higher morbidity, mortality and rejection rates. • Classification of patients into Pesaro risk groups based on the presence of 3 risk factors: hepatomegaly 2cm, irregular iron chelation and presence of liver fibrosis. • Best results if performed at the earliest age possible in Class 1 patients. Pesaro Risk Groups and Outcome following BMT Class No. of risk factors Event Free Survival % Mortality % Rejection % 1 0 91 7 2 2 1-2 83 13 3 3 3 58 21 28 Adults - 62 34 - Note: In newly diagnosed transfusion dependent thalassaemics, the family should be informed of this option and referred early to a Paediatrician for counselling and HLA typing of patient and unaffected siblings to identify a potential donor. Antenatal diagnosis • Can be done by chorionic villous sampling at 9-11 weeks period of gestation. Patient and parents support groups • Various states and local Thalassaemia Societies are available nationwide. • Provide support and education for families. • Organises fund raising activities and awareness campaigns. • Health professionals are welcomed to participate. • More information in www.moh.gov.my or www.mytalasemia.net.my.
  • 344. 331 Chapter 67: Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Definition • Isolated thrombocytopenia with otherwise normal blood counts in a patient with no clinically apparent alternate cause of thrombocytopenia (e.g. HIV infection, systemic lupus erythematosus, lymphoproliferative disorders, alloimmune thrombocytopenia, and congenital or hereditary thrombocytopenia). Pathogenesis • Increased platelet destruction, likely due to autoantibodies to platelet membrane antigens. • In children, ITP is an acute, self-limiting disorder that resolves spontaneously. Clinical Manifestations • Onset is usually acute. • Majority will give a history of a viral infection in the preceding 2-4 weeks • Spectrum of bleeding severity ranges from cutaneous bleeding i.e. petechiae, to mucosal bleeds i.e. gum bleeds and epistaxis, to life threatening bleeds i.e. intracranial haemorrhage. Diagnosis and Investigations • Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, blood counts, and examination of the peripheral blood smear. • Physical examination: absence of hepatosplenomegaly or lymphadenopathy. • Blood counts: isolated thrombocytopenia, with normal haemoglobin and white cell count. • Peripheral blood picture: normal apart from reduced, larger platelets, no abnormal cells. • Threshold for performing a bone marrow aspiration is low and is indicated: • Before starting steroid therapy (to avoid partially inducing an undiagnosed acute leukaemia). • If there is failure to respond to Immunoglobulin therapy. • When there is persistent thrombocytopenia 6 months. • Thrombocytopenia recurs after initial response to treatment. • Other tests that may be indicated when there is atypical presentation are: • Antinuclear factor and DNA antibodies. • Coomb’s test. • CMV serology for those less than a year old. • Coagulation profile for those suspected non-accidental injury and inherited bleeding disorder. • HIV testing for those at risk i.e. parents who are HIV positive or intravenous drug users. • Immunoglobulin levels for those with recurrent infections. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 345. 332 Other causes of Thrombocytopenia Neonatal alloimmune/ isoimmune • Thrombocytopenia if 6 months old Sepsis and infections including HIV infection Drug-induced thrombocytopenia Haematological malignancy • e.g. Acute leukaemias Congenital marrow failure syndromes • e.g. Fanconi anaemia, thrombocytopenia with absent radius Autoimmune disorders • e.g. Systemic lupus erythematosus, Evan syndrome Primary immunodeficiency syndromes • e.g. Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome Management • Not all children with diagnosis of acute ITP need hospitalization. • Hospitalization is indicated if: • There is severe life-threatening bleeding (e.g. ICH) regardless of platelet count. • Platelet count 20 x 109 /L with evidence of bleeding. • Platelet count 20 x 109 /L without bleeding but inaccessible to health care. • Parents request due to lack of confidence in homecare. • Most children remit spontaneously: 70% achieve a platelet count 50 x 109 /L by the end of the 3rd week. Treatment should be individualised. • Precautions with physical activities, avoidance of contact sports and seeking immediate medical attention if bleeding occurs should be advised. • Careful observation and monitoring of platelet count, without specific treatment, is appropriate for patients with: • Platelet count 20 x 109 /L without bleeding. • Platelet count 30 x 109 /L with only cutaneous purpura. • A repeat blood count should be performed within the first 7-10 days to ensure that there is no evidence of serious evolving marrow condition. • Treatment is indicated if there is: • Life threatening bleeding episode ( e.g. ICH) regardless of platelet count. • Platelet count 20 x 109 /L with mucosal bleeding. • Platelet count 10 x 109 /L with any bleeding. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 346. 333 • Choice of treatment includes: • Oral Prednisolone 2 mg/kg/day for 14 days then taper off. • Oral Prednisolone 4 mg/kg/day for 4 days. • IV Immunoglobulin (IVIG) 0.8 g/kg/dose for a single dose. Notes regarding treatment: • All above are effective in raising platelet count much quicker compared to no treatment. However there is no evidence that these treatment regimens reduce bleeding complications or mortality or influence progression to chronic ITP. • Side effects of IVIG are common (15 - 75%): fever, flushing, headache, nausea, aseptic meningitis and transmission of Hepatitis C (older preparations). • Steroids should not be continued if there is no response or if there is a rapid relapse after withdrawal. The long-term side-effects in a growing child outweigh the benefits of either frequent high-dose pulses or titration of platelet count against a regular lower steroid dose. • Treatment should not be directed at increasing the platelet count above a preset level but rather on the clinical status of the patient (treat the child and not the platelet count). Intracranial Haemorrhage (ICH) • The most feared complication of ITP. • Incidence of ICH in a child with ITP is very low between 0.1 - 0.5%. • The risk of ICH highest with platelet count 20 x 109 /L, history of head trauma, aspirin use and presence of cerebral arteriovenous malformation. • 50% of all ICH occurs after 1 month of presentation, 30% after 6 months. • Early treatment with steroid or IVIG may not prevent late onset ICH. Emergency treatment Emergency treatment of ITP with severe bleeding i.e. severe epistaxis or GIT bleed causing drop in Hb or ICH (alone or in combination) includes: • High dose IV Methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg/day for 3 days. • IVIG 0.8g - 1g/kg as a single dose. • Combination of IVIG and methylprednisolone in life threatening conditions. • Platelet transfusion in life threatening haemorrhage: 8 - 12 units/m2 body surface area (2 to 3 folds larger than usual units) as the platelets will be consumed by the haemorrhage to form blood clots and will reduce further circulating platelets. • Consider emergency splenectomy if other modalities fail. • Neurosurgical intervention in ICH, if indicated and to perform with splenectomy if necessary. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 347. 334 CHRONIC ITP Definition • Persistent thrombocytopenia after 6 months of onset (occurs in 20%) • Wide spectrum of manifestations: mild asymptomatic low platelet counts to intermittent relapsing symptomatic thrombocytopenia to the rare stubborn and persistent symptomatic and haemorrhagic disease. Management Counselling and education of patient and caretakers regarding natural history of disease and how to detect problems and possible complications early are important. Parents should be comfortable of taking care of patients with persistent low platelet counts at home. At the same time they must be made aware of when and how to seek early medical attention when the need arises. • Every opportunity should be given for disease to remit spontaneously as the majority will do so if given enough time. • Revisit diagnosis to exclude other causes of thrombocytopenia (Immunodeficiency, lymphoproliferative, collagen disorders, HIV infection). • Asymptomatic children can be left without therapy and kept under observation with continued precautions during physical activity. • Symptomatic children may need short course of treatments as for acute ITP to tide them over the “relapse” period or during surgical procedures. For those with Persistent bleeding, Second line therapies includes: • Pulses of steroids: oral Dexamethasone 1 mg/kg given on 4 consecutive days every 4 weeks for 4 months. • Intermittent anti-Rh(D) Immunoglobulin treatment for those who are Rhesus D positive: 45 - 50 ug/kg. May cause drop in Hb levels. • Second line therapy should only be started after discussion with a Paediatric haematologist. Note: • Care must be taken with any pulse steroid strategy to avoid treatment- related steroid side effects. • Family and patient must be aware of immunosuppressive complications e.g. risk of severe varicella. • There is no justification for long-term continuous steroids. If first and second-line therapies fail, the patient should be managed by a paediatric haematologist. Other useful agents are Rituximab and Cyclosporine. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 348. 335 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Splenectomy • Rarely indicated in children as spontaneous remissions continue to occur up to 15 years from diagnosis. • The risk of dying from ITP is very low - 0.002% whilst the mortality associated with post-splenectomy sepsis is higher at 1.4 - 2.7 %. • Justified when there is: • Life-threatening bleeding event • Severe life-style restriction with no or transient success with intermittent IVIG, pulsed steroids or anti-D immunoglobulin. • Laparoscopic method preferred if expertise is available. • Pre-splenectomy preparation of the child with immunization against pneumococcus, haemophilus and meningocccus must be done and post- splenectomy life-long penicillin prophylaxis must be ensured. • Pneumococcal booster should be given every 5 years. • Up to 70% of patients achieve complete remission post-splenectomy.
  • 350. 337 Chapter 68: Haemophilia Definition • A group of blood disorders in which there is a defect in the clotting mechanism. • Of X-linked recessive inheritance, but in 30% there is no family history as it is a spontaneous new mutation. • The most common haemophilias are: • Haemophilia A – Deficiency of factor VIII (85% cases) • Haemophilia B – Deficiency of factor IX (15% cases) Clinical Manifestation • Bleeding in the neonatal period is unusual. • Usually presents with easy bruising when crawling and walking (9-12 months age). • Haemarthrosis is characteristic of haemophilia. Large joints are usually affected (knee, ankle, elbow); swollen, painful joints are common. • Epistaxis, gum bleeding, haematuria also occur. • Intracranial haemorrhages can be life threatening. • Bleeding may also occur spontaneously or after trauma, operation or dental procedures. Diagnostic Investigations • Full blood count • Coagulation screen: PT, APTT • Specific factor assay: FVIII level (low in Haemophilia A). • Specific factor assay: FIX level (low in Haemophilia B). • Bleeding time if applicable. • Von Willebrand screen even if APTT normal. In haemophilia, the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is prolonged in moderate and severe haemophilia but may not show prolongation in mild haemophilia. The platelet count and prothrombin time (PT) are normal. When the APTT is prolonged, then the lab will proceed to do the factor VIII antigen level. If this is normal, only then will they proceed to assay the Factor IX level. Once the level has been measured, then the haemophilia can be classified as below. Classification of haemophilia and clinical presentation Factor level Classification Clinical presentation 1 % Severe Spontaneous bleeding, risk of intracranial haemorrhage 1-5 % Moderate Bleeding may only occur with trauma, surgery or dental procedures5-25 % Mild HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 351. 338 Further Investigations • Hepatitis B surface antigen, anti HBS antibody • Hepatitis C antibody • HIV serology • Renal profile and Liver function test. • Platelet aggregation if high suspicion of platelet defect. • Diagnosis of carrier status for genetic counseling. • Mother of a newly diagnosed son with haemophilia. • Female siblings of boys with haemophilia. • Daughter of a man with haemophilia. Once a child is diagnosed to have haemophilia, check the viral status at diagnosis and then yearly. This is because treatment carries the risk of acquir- ing viruses. All haemophiliacs should be immunized against Hepatitis B. Treatment • Ideally, treatment of severe haemophilia should be prophylactic to prevent arthropathy and ensure the best quality of life possible.The dosage of prophylaxis is usually 25-35 U/kg of Factor VIII concentrate, given every other day or 3 times a week. For Factor IX, the dosage is 40-60 U/kg, given every 2-3 days. However, this form of management is costly and requires central venous access. • On demand treatment is another treatment option when clotting factors are inadequate. It consists of replacing the missing factor: Factor VIII con- centrates are used in haemophilia A, Factor IX concentrates in Haemophilia B. Fresh frozen plasma and cryoprecipitate ideally SHOULD NOT be used as there is a high risk of viral transmission. • The dose of factor replacement depends on the type and severity of bleed. Suggested Replacement Doses of FactorVIII and XI Concentrate Type of bleed FactorVIII dose Factor XI dose Haemarthrosis 20 U/kg 40 U/kg Soft tissue or muscle bleeds 30-40 U /kg 60-80 U/kg Intracranial haemorrhage or surgery 50 U/kg 100 U/kg • Dose of factor required can also be calculated using the formulas below • Units of Factor VIII: (% rise required) x (weight in kg) x 0.5. • Units of Factor IX: (% rise required) x (weight in kg) x 1.4. • The percentage of factor aimed for depends on the type of bleed. • For haemarthroses, 30-40 % is adequate. • For soft tissue or muscle bleed aim for 40- 50 % level. (there is potential to track and cause compression/compartment syndrome) • For intracranial bleeds or patients going for surgery, aim for 100%. • Infuse Factor VIII by slow IV push at a rate not exceeding 100 units per minute in young children. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 352. 339 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY • Factor VIII is given every 8 - 12 hours. Factor IX is given every 12 - 24 hours. • Duration of treatment depends on type of bleed: • Haemarthroses 2-3 days. • Soft tissue bleeds 4-5 days. • Intracranial bleeds or surgery 7-10 days. • Veins must be handled with care. Never perform cut-down unless in an emergency as it destroys the vein. Complications Joint destruction: • Recurrent haemarthroses into the same joint will eventually destroy the joint causing osteoarthritis and deformity. This can be prevented by prompt and adequate factor replacement. Acquisition of viruses • Hepatitis B, C or HIV: immunisation and regular screening recommended. Inhibitors: • These are antibodies directed against the exogenous factor VIII or IX neutralizing the clotting activity. • Overall incidence is 15-25% in haemophilia A and 1-3% in haemophilia B. • Can develop at any age but usually after 10 – 20 exposure days. It is suspected when there is lack of response to replacement therapy despite high doses. • Treatment requires “bypassing” the deficient clotting factor. Currently 2 agents are available - Recombinant activated Factor VII (rfVIIa or Novoseven) and FEIBA. Immune tolerance induction is also another option. • Management of inhibitors are difficult and requires consultation with the • haematologist in specialized centres. Supportive Treatment Analgesia • There is rapid pain relief in haemarthroses once missing factor concentrate is infused. • If analgesia is required, avoid intramuscular injections. • Do not use aspirin or the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) as they will affect platelet function. • Acetaminophen with or without opioids can provide adequate pain control. Dental care • Good dental hygiene is important as dental caries are a regular source of bleeding. • Dental clearance with factor replacement will be required in severe cases.
  • 353. 340 Immunisations • This is important and must be given: The subcutaneous route is preferred. • Give under factor cover if haematomas are a problem. Haemophilia Society • All haemophiliacs should be registered with a patient support group e.g. Haemophilia Society. • They should have a medic-alert bracelet/chain which identifies them as haemophiliacs and carry a book in which the diagnosis, classification of severity, types of bleeds and admissions can be recorded SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT Intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) • Give factor replacement before suspected bleed is confirmed by CT scan • Aim to increase Factor VIII level to 100%. • For haemophilia B if monoclonal factor IX is used a level of 80% is adequate and if prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is used 50% level is recommended. • Urgent CT scan: • If CT scan confirms ICH : maintain factor level 80%–100% for 1–7 days and 50% for 8–21 days. • If CT scan show no evidence of ICH, admit 1 day for observation. • Follow up for long term sequelae. • Lab investigations: • Pre-treatment factor assay level and inhibitor level before starting treatment and to repeat after 3 days of treatment to ensure adequate levels have been achieved and no inhibitor has developed. • Post treatment factor assay level ( ½ hour after infusion ) to ensure required factor level is achieved ( if the level is not achieved , consider development of inhibitors ) and should be repeated after 3 – 5 days. • follow up CT scan after 2 weeks Surgery • Pre-op investigations • Full coagulation profile – PT, PTT • Pre-factor assay level and inhibitor level • Blood grouping, full antibody screening and full cross matching if required. • Calculate dose • ½ hour before operation, infuse patient with appropriate factors. • Preferable level : - 80-100% for factor VIII - 70% for monoclonal factor IX - 50% if prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) used • Check post transfusion specific factor level ½ hour later if necessary or after surgery to ensure correct factor level is achieved. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 354. 341 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY • Clotting factor level should be maintained above 50% during the operation and 24 hours after surgery. • Maintain adequate factor levels - • Days 1-3 60-80% 4-7 40-60% 8-14 30-50% • Repeat factor assay and check inhibitor level on day 3 to ensure adequate. levels. Post operatively a minimum of 10 to 14 days replacement therapy is recommended. Illiopsoas bleed • Symptoms: Pain/discomfort in the lower abdomen/upper thighs • Signs: Hip flexed, internally-rotated, unable to extend • Danger: Hypovolaemia, large volumes of blood may be lost in the retroperitoneum. Management: • Factor replacement: 50U/kg stat, followed by 25U/kg bd till asymptomatic, then 20U /kg every other day for 10-14 days. • Ultrasound / CTscan to diagnose. • Physiotherapy - when pain subsides. • Repeat U/S to assess progress. Haematuria Management • Bed rest. • Hydration (1.5 x maintenance). • Monitor for first 24 hours: UFEME Urine CS. • If bleeding persists for 24 hours, start factor concentrate infusion. • Perform KUB Ultrasound of the kidneys. DO NOT give anti-fibrinolytic drugs (tranexamic acid) because this may cause formation of clots in the tubules which may not recanalize. Haemarthroses (Joint haemorrhages) • Most spontaneous haemarthroses respond to a single infusion of factor concentrate. Aim for a level of 30 % to 40%. • If swelling or spasm is present, treatment to level of 50% is required and infusion may have to be repeated at 12-24 hours interval until pain subsides. • Minor haemarthroses may not require immobilization, elastic bandage or slings and ice may help in pain relief. • Severe haemarthroses • Splint in position of comfort. • Rest. • Early physiotherapy.
  • 356. 343 Chapter 69: Oncology Emergencies I. METABOLIC EMERGENCIES Tumour Lysis Syndrome Introduction • Massive tumour cell death with rapid release of intracellular metabolites, which exceeds the excretory capacity of the kidneys leading to acute renal failure. Can occur before chemotherapy is started. • More common in Iymphoproliferative tumours with abdominal involvement (e.g. B cell/ T cell Iymphoma, leukaemias and Burkitt’s Iymphoma) Hyperuricaemia • Release of intracellular purines increase uric acid Hyperkalaemia • Occurs secondary to tumour cell Iysis itself or secondary to renal failure from uric acid nephropathy or hyperphosphataemia. Hyperphosphataemia with associated hypocalcaemia • Most commonly occurs in Iymphoproliferative disorders because Iymphoblast phosphate content is 4 times higher than normal lymphocytes. Causes: • Tissue damage from CaPO₄ precipitation. Occurs when Ca X PO₄ 60 mg/dl. Results in renal failure, pruritis with gangrene, eye and joint inflammation • Hypocalcaemia leading to altered sensorium, photophobia, neuromuscular irritability, seizures, carpopedal spasm and gastrointestinal symptoms Risk factors forTumour lysis syndrome Bulky disease Rapid cellular turnover Tumour which is exquisitely sensitive to chemotherapy Elevated LDH / serum uric acid Depleted volume Concentrated urine or acidic urine Poor urine output Renal failure Multifactorial: • Uric acid, phosphorus and potassium are excreted by kidneys • The environ of the collecting ducts of the kidney is acidic coupled with lactic acidosis due to high leucocyte associated poor perfusion will cause uric acid crystallization and then uric acid obstructive nephropathy. Usually occur when levels 20 mg/dl. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Tumour lysis syndrome Characterised by: Hyperuricemia Hyperkalemia Hyperphosphatemia with associated Hypocalcemia
  • 357. 344 • Increased phosphorus excretion causing calcium phosphate precipitation (in vivo solubility dependant on Ca X P = 58) in microvasculature and tubules. • Risk increases if renal parenchymal is infiltrated by tumour e.g. lymphoma or ureteral/venous obstruction from tumour compression (lymph nodes). Management (Prevention): To be instituted in every case of acute leukaemia or Iymphoma prior to induction chemotherapy. • Hydration: Double hydration - 125ml/m²/hr or 3000ml/m²/day. No added potassium. • Alkalization of urine: Adding NaHCO₃ at 150 - 200 mmol/m²/day (3 mls/kg/day NaHCO₃ 8.4%) into IV fluids to keep urine pH 7.0 - 7.5. Avoid over alkalinization as this may aggravate hypocalcemia and cause hypoxanthine and xanthine precipitation. It can also cause precipitation of calcium phosphate if pH 8. Monitor urine pH and VBG 8 hourly. If urine pH 7.0 , consider increasing NaHCO₃ infusion. This can only be done if HCO₃ in the blood is below normal range. Otherwise, have to accept that some patients just cannot alkalinise their urine. • Allopurinol 10mg/kg/day, max 300mg/day. • May have to delay chemotherapy until metabolic status stabilizes. • Close electrolyte monitoring: BUSE, Ca²⁺, PO₄, uric acid, creatinine, bicarbonate. • Strict I/O charting. Ensure adequate urine flow once hydrated. Use diuretics with caution. Management (Treatment) • Treat hyperkalaemia – resonium, dextrose-insulin, Consider dialysis. • Diuretics. • Hypocalcaemia management depends on the phosphate level: • If phosphate is raised, then management is directed to correct the high phosphate. • If phosphate is normal or if child is symptomatic, then give replacement IV calcium. • If hypocalcaemia is refractory to treatment, exclude associated hypomagnesaemia. • Dialysis if indicated. Haemodialysis most efficient at correcting electrolyte abnormalities. Peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing phosphates. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 358. 345 Other Metabolic Emergencies: Hyponatraemia • Usually occurs in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). • Treat as for hyponatraemia. Hypokalaemia • Common in AML • Rapid cellular generation leads to uptake of potassium into cells. (Intracellular potassium 30 - 40 X times higher than extracellular potassium). Therefore may hyperkalaemia may develop after chemotherapy. Hypercalcaemia • Associated with Non Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, rhabdoid tumours and others. Management • Hydration. • Oral phosphate. • IV Frusemide (which increases calcium excretion). • Mithramycin. II. HAEMATOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES Hyperleucocytosis • Occurs in acute leukaemia. Defined as TWBC 100 000 / mm³. • Associated • In acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) with high risk of tumour Iysis. • In AML with leucostasis (esp monocytic). • Affects the lungs due to pulmonary infiltrates. May cause dyspnoea, hypoxaemia and right ventricular failure. • Affects the central nervous system causing headaches, papilloedema, seizures, haemorrhage or infarct. • Other complications: renal failure, priapism, dactylitis • Mechanism: • Excessive leukocytes form aggregates and thrombi in small veins causing obstruction; worsens when blood is viscous. • Excessive leukocytes competes for oxygen; damages vessel wall causing bleeding. Management • Hydration • To facilitate excretion of toxic metabolites. • To reduce blood viscosity. • Avoid increasing blood viscosity. • Cautious in use of packed cell transfusion and diuretics. • During induction in hyperleukocytosis, keep platelet 20 000/mm³ and coagulation profile near normal. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 359. 346 • Exchange transfusions and leukopheresis should not be used alone as rapid rebound usually occurs. Concurrent drug treatment should therefore be initiated soonest possible. Coagulopathy AML especially M3 is associated with an initial bleeding diathesis from consump- tive coagulopathy due to release of a tissue factor with procoagulant activity from cells. However the use of all-trans retinoic acid (Atra) has circumvented this complication. Management • Platelet transfusions: 6 units / m² should increase platelets by 50,000 / mm³. • Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or cryoprecipitate. • Vitamin K. • +/- Heparin therapy (10u/kg/hr) - controversial Other haematological energencies • Thrombocytopenia • Severe anaemia III. SUPERIOR VENA CAVA OBSTRUCTION Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Obstruction • Common in Non Hodgkin Lymphoma / Hodgkin Lymphoma / ALL . • Rarely: malignant teratoma, thymoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma or Ewing’s may present with anterior or middle mediastinal mass and obstruction. • 50% associated with thrombosis. • Presentation: shortness of breath, facial swelling, syncope. Management • Recognition of symptoms and signs of SVC obstruction and avoidance of sedation and general anaesthesia. Tissue diagnosis is important but should be established by the least invasive measure available. Risk of circulatory collapse or respiratory failure may occur with general anesthesia or sedation. • BMA. • Biopsy of superficial lymph node under local anaesthesia. • Measurement of serum markers e.g. alpha-fetoprotein. If tissue diagnosis is not obtainable, empiric treatment may be necessary based on the most likely diagnosis. Both chemotherapy and DXT may render histology uninterpretable within 48 hours, therefore biopsy as soon as possible. • Avoid upper limb venepunctures • Bleeding due to increased intravascular pressure • Aggravate SVC obstruction. • Primary mode of treatment is with steroids and chemotherapy if pathology due to Non-Hodkin Lymphoma • +/- DXT. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 360. 347 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY IV. INFECTION Febrile neutropaenia Febrile episodes in oncology patients must be treated with urgency especially if associated with neutropenia. Nearly all episodes of bacteraemia or disseminated fungal infections occur when the absolute neutorphil count (ANC) 500 /mm³. Risk increases maximally if ANC 100 /mm³ and greatly reduced if the ANC 1000 /mm³. Management (Follow Algorithm on next page) other considerations: • If central line is present, culture from central line (both lumens); add anti-Staph cover e.g. Cloxacillin. • Repeated physical examination to look for new clues, signs and symptoms of possible sources. • Close monitoring of patient’s well-being – vital signs, perfusion, BP, I/O. • Repeat cultures if indicated • Investigative parameters, FBC, CRP, BUSE as per necessary. • In presence of oral thrush or other evidence of candidal infection, start antifungals. • Try to omit aminoglycoside and vancomycin if on cisplatinum - nephrotoxic and ototoxic. If required, monitor renal function closely. Typhilitis • A necrotizing colitis localised to the caecum occuring in neutropenic patients. • Bacterial invasion of mucosa causing inflammation - can lead on to full thickness infarction and perforation. • Usual organisms are Clostridium and Pseudomonas. • X-ray shows non specific thickening of gut wall. At the other end of the spectrum, there can be presence of pneumatosis intestinalis +/- evidence of free gas. Management • Usually conservative with broad spectrum antibiotics covering gram negative organisms and anaerobes (metronidazole). Mortality 20-100%. • Criteria for surgical intervention: • Persistent gastrointestinal bleeding despite resolution of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia and correction of coagulation abnormalities. • Evidence of perforation. • Clinical deterioration suggesting uncontrolled sepsis (controversial).
  • 361. 348 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Abbrevations. FBC, full blood count; CRP, C-reactive protein; CXR, chest X-ray; CVL, central venous line. APPROACH TO CHILD WITH FEBRILE NEUTROPENIA Remains febrile after 2 days Still febrile after 4 days Reculture, Change antibiotics May add systemic antifungal Continue Treatment Temperature settles in 3 days Stop Treatment after 1 week Observe History and Examination to identify possible source(s) of infection Febrile Neutropenia Septic Workup • FBC, CRP • CXR • Bacterial and fungal cultures - blood, urine, stool, wound Broad spectrum antibiotics (e.g. Cephalosporins, Aminoglycoside and Nystatin) • Look for possible sites of infection • Repeat X-ray • Repeat cultures • Echo, ultrasound • Consider add antifungals • Consider changing antibiotics Specific antibiotics • Proper specimen collected Site unknown Site identified
  • 363. 350 V. NEUROLOGICAL COMPLICATIONS Spinal Cord Compression • Prolonged compression leads to permanent neurologic sequelae. • Epidural extension: Lymphoma, neuroblastoma and soft tissue sarcoma. • Intradural: Spinal cord tumour. • Presentation • Back pain: localized or radicular, aggravated by movement, straight leg raising, neck flexion. • Later: weakness, sensory loss, loss of bladder and bowel continence • Diagnosed by CT myelogram/MRI Management • Laminectomy urgent (if deterioration within 72 hours). • If paralysis present 72 hours, chemotherapy is the better option if tumour is chemosensitive, e.g. lymphoma, neuroblastoma and Ewing’s tumour. This avoids vertebral damage. Onset of action of chemotherapy is similar to radiotherapy. • Prior IV Dexamethasone 0.5mg/kg 6 hourly to reduce oedema. • +/- Radiotherapy. Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP) and brain herniation Cause: Infratentorial tumours causing blockage of the 3rd or 4th ventricles such as medulloblastomas, astrocytomas and ependymomas. Signs and symptoms vary according to age/site. • Infant - vomiting, lethargy, regression of milestones, seizures, symptoms of obstructive hydrocephalus and increased OFC. • Older - early morning recurrent headaches +/- vomiting, poor school performance. • Cerebellar: ipsilateral hypotonia and ataxia. • Herniation of cerebellar tonsil: head tilt and neck stiffness. • Tumours near 3rd ventricle: craniopharyngima , germinoma, optic glioma, hypothalamic and pituitary tumours. • Visual loss, increased ICP and hydrocephalus. • Aqueduct of Sylvius obstruction due to pineal tumour: raised ICP, Parinaud’s syndrome (impaired upward gaze, convergence nystagmus, altered pupillary response). Management • Assessment of vital signs, look for focal neurological deficit. • Look for evidence of raised ICP (bradycardia, hypertension and apnea). • Look for evidence of herniation (respiratory pattern, pupil size and reactivity). • Dexamethasone 0.5 mg/kg QID. • Urgent CT to determine cause. • Prophylactic antiepileptic agents. • Lumbar puncture is contraindicated. • Decompression – i.e. shunting +/- surgery. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 364. 351 Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) • Can result from direct or metastatic spread of tumour, antineoplastic agent or haematological abnormality. • L-Asparaginase associated with venous or lateral and sagittal sinus thrombosis caused by rebound hypercoagulable state. • AML especially APML is associated with DIVC and CVA, due to the release of procoagulants. Management • Supportive. • Use of anticoagulant potentially detrimental. • In L-Asparaginase induced, recommended FFP bd. VI. MISCELLANOUS EMERGENCIES Pancreatitis Should be considered in patients on L-Asparaginase and steroids and com- plaining of abdominal pain. Careful examination plus measurement of serum amylase and ultrasound abdomen. ATRA (all-trans retinoic acid) syndrome • Characterised by: fever, respiratory distress, respiratory failure, oedema, pleural/pericardial effusion, hypotension. • Pathophysiology: respiratory distress due to leukocytosis associated with ATRA induced multiplication and differentiation of leukaemic promyelocytes/ • Treatment: Dexamethasone 0.5 - 1mg/kg/dose bd, maximum dose 20mg bd. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 366. 353 Chapter 70: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia Definition • Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood malignancy, representing nearly one third of all paediatric cancers. Peak age • 2 – 5 years old. Male: Female ratio of 1.2:1. Pathophysiology • Genetically altered lymphoid progenitor cells which undergo dysregulated proliferation and clonal expansion. Presentation • Signs and symptoms which reflect bone marrow infiltration causing anaemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and extra-medullary disease. • Pallor and easy bleeding – common • Non remitting fever. • Lymphadenopathy. • Hepatosplenomegaly. • Bone pains - not to be misdiagnosed as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). • Uncommon at presentation: • CNS involvement e.g. headache, nausea and vomiting, lethargy, irritability, seizures or spinal mass causing signs and symptoms of spinal cord compression. • Testicular involvement, usually as a unilateral painless testicular enlargement. • Skin manifestations e.g. skin nodules. Initial investigations Diagnosis • Full Blood Count (FBC) and Peripheral Blood Film (PBF). • Anaemia and thrombocytopenia. • Total White Count (TWC) can be normal, low or high. • Occasionally PBF may not show presence of blast cells. • Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) and trephine biopsy. • Bone marrow for flowcytometry analysis (immunophenotyping). • Bone marrow cytogenetics. • Bone marrow/Blood for molecular studies wherever possible. • Option to send to Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) Pathology Laboratory (Haematology unit)/Haematology Laboratory in IMR (3mls in EDTA bottle) or other University/Private laboratories for molecular characterisation (Prior appointments must be made before sending samples). • Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) examination for blast cells. • CXR to evaluate for mediastinal masses. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 367. 354 For assessment and monitoring: • Blood Urea and Serum Electrolytes (BUSE) especially serum Potassium. • Serum Creatinine, Uric Acid, Phosphate, Calcium, Bicarbonate levels. • Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) – to assess degree of leukaemic cell burden and risk of tumour lysis. • Coagulation studies in APML (acute promyelocytic leukemia) or if the child is toxic or bleeding. • Blood cultures and septic workup if febrile. • Hepatitis B/C, HIV and VZ IgG screen pre transfusion and pre treatment. • Repeat BMA and CSF examinations. Prognosis Overall cure rates for childhood ALL are now over 80% but it depends among others on the prognostic groups, clinical and laboratory features, treatment in centres with paediatric oncologist and special diagnostics, use of standard treatment protocols and also the level of supportive care available. Unfavourable if: • Clinical features indicating high risk • Age 10 years old and infants. • WBC count at diagnosis 50000/mL. • Molecular characteristics of the leukaemic blasts, e.g. Presence of abnormal cytogenetics with oncogenes producing abnormal fusion proteins e.g. Philadelphia chromosome t(9;22)(q34;q11); BCR-ABL;P185BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase. • Poor response to the induction chemotherapy • Day 8 peripheral blast cell count 1000 x 109 /L. • Day 33 BMA not in remission Treatment The regimes or treatment protocols used varies according to originator groups/institutions from the various countries (BFM – Germany, MRC – UK, CCG/COG – USA) but generally consists of induction, central nervous system treatment/prophylaxis, consolidation/intensification and maintenance therapy. Complications considered as oncologic emergencies can be seen before, dur- ing and after treatment (see Ch 69 Oncologic Emergencies). These include: • Hyperleucocytosis at presentation. • Superior vena caval obstruction. • Tumor lysis syndrome leading on to renal failure. • Sepsis. • Bleeding. • Thrombosis. • Typhylitis. • CNS manifestations: Cord compression, neuropathy, encephalopathy and seizures. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 368. 355 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Once discharged, care givers must be able to recognise signs and symptoms that require urgent medical attention, especially infections as they can be life threatening. Even on maintenance therapy, infections must be taken seriously as patients are still immunocompromised up to 3 months after discontinuing chemotherapy. General guidelines for children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia on maintenance chemotherapy for a total of 2 - 2.5 years: • Check height, weight and calculate surface area (m2) every 3 months and adjust drug dosages accordingly. To calculate body surface area = √ [Height (cm) x Weight (kg) / 3600] • Check full blood count every 2 weeks for the first 1- 2 months after starting maintenance chemotherapy and monthly thereafter if stable. • Bone marrow aspiration should be considered if counts are repeatedly low or if there is clinical suspicion of relapse. Majority of relapse (2/3) would occur within the first year of stopping treatment. • CNS disease would present itself usually with headache, vomiting, abnormal sensorium or hypothalamic symptoms (e.g. Hyperphagia and abnormal weight gain). • Testicular relapse present as a painless unilateral swelling • Cotrimoxazole is routinely used as prophylaxis against Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) and continued until the end of therapy. In the event of chronic cough or unexplained tachypnoea, CXR is required. If there is evidence of interstitial pneumonitis, send nasopharyngeal secre- tions for PCP Antigen detection e.g. Immunoflorescent test (IFT) or PCP PCR detection and treat empirically with high dose Cotrimoxazole 20 mg/ kg/day in divided doses for a total of 2 weeks. • Different institutions and protocols will have different regimes for maintenance chemotherapy. Check the TWC and Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) threshold levels of the various protocols: As a general rule, chemotherapy is adjusted to maintain TWC at 2 - 3 X109 /L and ANC at or more than 0.75 X 109 /L. • If TWC drop to levels of 1-2 X109 /L and ANC to levels of 0.5 -0.75 x 109 /L or platelet level at 50-100 x 109 /L, reduce tablet 6-Mercaptopurine (6MP) and oral methotrexate (MTX) normal dose by 50%. • Once counts are above those levels, increase 6MP and MTX back to 75% of normal dose. • Review the patient in 1 week and if counts can be maintained, increase back to 100% of normal dose. • If TWC is 1 X 109 /L and ANC 0.5 x 109 /L or platelets 50 x 109 /L, stop both drugs. • Restart drugs at 50% dose once neutrophil count have recovered 0.75 x 109 /L and then increase back to 75% and 100% as above.
  • 369. 356 • Normally Haemoglobin would remain stable but repeated falls in haemoglobin alone may be due to 6MP intolerance. • Transfuse if anaemia occurs early in the course of maintenance therapy and the standard doses of 6MP and MTX are to be maintained as much as possible. • If there is persistent anaemia (i.e. Hb 8 gm/dl), reduce 6MP dose first and maintain the MTX dose. • If anaemia persists despite reducing the dose of 6MP, reduce the MTX dose appropriately. • If counts are persistently low and doses of 6MP/MTX are already suboptimal, consider withholding Cotrimoxazole. • Re-introduce Cotrimoxazole once 6MP or MTX are at 75% of standard protocol dosage. • If neutropaenia recurs or if child cannot tolerate at least 75% drug of dosages, Cotrimoxazole should be stopped • Maintenance of adequate drug dose should take priority over continuing Cotrimoxazole. • If Cotrimoxazole is stopped, keep in mind that the child is at increased risk of Pneumocystis pneumonia and there should be a relatively low threshold for treatment of any suspected interstitial pneumonitis. • If counts take longer to recover, consider performing bone marrow aspiration after 2-3 weeks to rule out sub-clinical relapse. • If the diagnostic test is available, consider to also send blood for Thiopurine Methyltransferase (TPMT) enzyme deficiency screening. Children who are homozygous TPMT deficient can become profoundly myelosuppressed with 6MP administration. • In severe diarrhoea and vomiting, stop both drugs. Restart at 50% dose when better and return to full dose when tolerated. • Severe MTX mucositis; withhold MTX until improvement and restart at full dose. Initiate supportive treatment with mouthwash and antifungal treatment. • In clinically significant liver dysfunction; oral MTX should be stopped until improvement occurs. Restart at reduced dose and increase as tolerated. Investigate for causes of liver dysfunction. Monitor LFT. HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY
  • 370. 357 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY • Infections: • If there is significant fever (To ≥ 38.5 o C x 1 or ≤ 38 o C x 2 one hour apart) and neutropenia, stop all chemotherapy drugs and admit for IV antibiotics. • Take appropriate cultures and CXR if indicated and give bolus IV antibiotics immediately without waiting for specific bacteriological confirmation. • Use a combination of aminoglycoside and cephalosporins to cover both gram negative and gram positive organisms. If nosocomial infection is suspected, use the appropriate antibiotics according to your hospital’s cultures sensitivity pattern. • Any fever developing within 24 hours of central venous line access should be treated as catheter related blood stream infection. Common organisms are the gram positive cocci. Consider adding cloxacillin to the antibiotic regime. • Assume multiresistant bacterial sepsis when dealing with patients presenting with septic shock especially if recently discharged from hospital. • Vancomycin may be indicated if there is a long line (Hickman) or chemoport in situ or if MRSA or coagulase negative Staphylococcus infections are suspected. • Antifungal therapy may be indicated in prolonged neutropenia or if there is no response to antibiotics or if fungal infection is suspected. • Early and aggressive empirical therapy without waiting for blood culture results will save lives. • Chicken Pox/Measles • These are life-threatening infections in ill immunocompromised children. • Always reinforce this information on parents when they come for follow-up. • If a patient is significantly/directly exposed (in the same room 1 hour), including the 3 days prior to clinical presentation, to sibling, classroom contact, enclosed playmate contact or other significant contact, they are at increased risk of developing these infections. GIVE Measles • Human broad-spectrum immune globulin IM 0.5ml/kg divided into 2 separate injection sites on the same day. Chickenpox For exposed patients: (VZ IgG –ve at diagnosis, on treatment or within 6 months of stopping treatment); give: • VZIG if available (should be given within 7 days of contact) 5yrs: 250mg, 5 – 7 yrs: 500mg, 7 – 12 yrs: 750mg. • If VZIG not available - Oral acyclovir 200mg 5x/day if 6 years old; 400 mg 5x/day if 6 years old for 5 days. • Monitor for signs of infections.
  • 371. 358 HAEMATO-ONCOLOGY Patient with chickenpox • Admit, isolate and treat immediately with IV acyclovir 500 mg/m2 /dose 8 hourly or 10mg/kg 8 hourly until no new lesions are noted. • Switch to oral acyclovir 400mg 5x daily if 6 years old; 800mg 5x daily if 6 years until the lesions are healed, usually in about 10 days. • Chemotherapy must be stopped on suspicion of exposure. If infected and treated, it should only be recommenced 2 weeks after the last vesicle has dried up. Vaccinations • Children on chemotherapy should not receive any vaccinations until 6 months after cessation of chemotherapy. • Recommence their immunisation programme continuing from where they left off. References Section 8 Haematology-Oncology Chapter 65 Approach to a Child with Anaemia 1.Lieyman JS, Hann IM. Paediatric Haematology.London, Churchill Livingston, 1992. Chapter 67 Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura 1.George J, et al. (1996) Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: a practice guideline developed by explicit methods for the American Society of Hematology. Blood 1996; 88: 3-40. 2.Lilleyman J. Management of Childhood Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Pur- pura. Brit J Haematol 1997; 105: 871-875 3.James J. Treatment Dilemma in Childhood Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. Lancet 305: 602 4.Nathan D, Orkin S, Ginsburg D, Look A. Nathan and Oski’s Hematology of Infancy and Childhood. 6th ed 2003. W.B. Saunders Company. Chapter 68 Haemophilia 1.Malaysian CPG for Management of Haemophilia. 2.Guidelines for the Management of Hemophilia - World Federation of Hemophilia 2005 3.Nathan and Oski, Hematology of Infancy and Childhood, 7th Ed, 2009. Chapter 69 Oncology Emergencies 1.Pizzo, Poplack: Principles and Practice of Paediatric Oncology. 4th Ed, 2002 2.Pinkerton, Plowman: Paediatric Oncology. 2nd Ed. 1997 3.Paediatric clinics of North America, Aug 1997.
  • 372. 359 Chapter 71: Acute Gastroenteritis Introduction The following is based on Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) and the College of Paediatrics, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia guidelines on the management of Acute Diarrhoea in Children 2011 and modifications have been made to Treatment Plan C in keeping with Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) principles. • Acute gastroenteritis is a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality and an important cause of malnutrition. • Many diarrhoeal deaths are caused by dehydration and electrolytes loss. • Mild and moderate dehydration is safely and effectively treated with ORS solution but severe dehydration requires intravenous fluid therapy. If you have gone through the PALS or APLS course, First assess the state of perfusion of the child. Is the child in shock? • Signs of shock include tachycardia, weak peripheral pulses, delayed capillary refill time 2 seconds, cold peripheries, depressed mental state with or without hypotension. Any child with shock go straight to treatment Plan C. OR you can also use the WHO chart below to assess the degree of dehydra- tion and then choose the treatment plan A, B or C, as needed. Assess Look at child’s general condition Well, alert Restless or irritable Lethargic or unconscious Look for sunken eyes No sunken eyes Sunken eyes Sunken eyes Offer the child fluid Drinks normally Drinks eagerly, thirsty Not able to drink or drinks poorly Pinch skin of abdomen Skin goes back immediately Skin goes back slowly Skin goes back very slowly ( 2 seconds) Classify Mild dehydrated 5% Dehydrated* IMCI: No signs of Dehydration ≥ 2 above signs present: Moderate Dehydration 5-10% Dehydrated IMCI: Some signs of Dehydration ≥ 2 above signs present: Severe Dehydration 10% Dehydrated Treat Plan A Give fluid and food to treat diarrhoea at home Plan B Give fluid and food for some dehydration Plan A Give fluid for severe dehydration *% of body weight (in g) loss in fluid (Fluid Deficit) e.g. a 10 kg child with 5% dehydration has loss 5/100 x 10000g = 500 mls of fluid deficit. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 373. 360 PLAN C: TREAT SEVERE DEHYDRATION QUICKLY • Start intravenous (IV) or intraosseous (IO) fluid immediately. If patient can drink, give ORS by mouth while the drip is being set up. • Initial fluids for resuscitation of shock: 20 ml/kg of NaCl 0.9% or Hartmann solution as a rapid IV bolus. • Repeated if necessary until patient is out of shock or if fluid overload is suspected. Review patient after each bolus. • Calculate the fluid needed over the next 24 hours: Fluid for Rehydration (also called fluid deficit) + Maintenance (minus the fluids given for resuscitation). • Fluid for Rehydration: percentage dehydration X body weight in grams • Maintenance fluid (NaCl 0.45 / D5%) (See Ch 3 Fluid And Electrolyte Guidelines) 1st 10 kg = 100 ml/kg; 10-20 kg = 1000 ml/day + 50 ml/kg for each kg above 10 kg 20 kg = 1500 ml/day + 20 ml/kg for each kg above 20 kg. Example: A 6-kg child is clinically shocked and 10% dehydrated as a result of gastroenteritis. Initial therapy: • 20 ml/kg for shock = 6 × 20 = 120 ml of 0.9% saline given as a rapid intravenous bolus. • Estimated fluid therapy over next 24 hours: • Fluid for Rehydration: 10/100 x 6000 = 600 ml • 100ml/kg for daily maintenance fluid = 100 × 6 = 600 ml • Rehydration + maintenance = 600 + 600 =1200 ml • Start with infusion of 1200/24 = 50 ml/h • The cornerstone of management is to reassess the hydration status frequently (e.g. at 1-2 hourly), and adjust the infusion as necessary. • Start giving more of the maintenance fluid as oral feeds e.g. ORS (about 5 ml/kg/hour) as soon as the child can drink, usually after 3 to 4 hours for infants, and 1 to 2 hours for older children. This fluid should be administered frequently in small volumes (cup and spoon works very well for this process). • Generally normal feeds should be administered in addition to the rehydration fluid, particularly if the infant is breastfed. • Once a child is able to feed and not vomiting, oral rehydration according to Plan A or B can be used and the IV drip reduced gradually and taken off. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 374. 361 • If you cannot or fail to set up IV or IO line, arrange for the child to be sent to the nearest centre that can do so immediately. Meanwhile as arrangements are made to send the child (or as you make further attempts to establish IV or IO access), • Try to rehydrate the child with ORS orally (if the child can drink) or by nasogastric or orogastric tube. Give ORS 20 ml/kg/hour over 6 hours. Continue to give the ORS along the journey. • Reassess the child every 1-2 hours • If there is repeated vomiting or increasing abdominal distension, give the fluid more slowly. • Reassess the child after six hours, classify dehydration • Then choose the most appropriate plan (A, B or C) to continue treatment. • If there is an outbreak of cholera in your area, give an appropriate oral antibiotic after the patient is alert. Other indications for intravenous therapy • Unconscious child. • Continuing rapid stool loss ( 15-20ml/kg/hour). • Frequent, severe vomiting, drinking poorly. • Abdominal distension with paralytic ileus, usually caused by some antidiarrhoeal drugs ( e.g. codeine, loperamide ) and hypokalaemia. • Glucose malabsorption, indicated by marked increase in stool output and large amount of glucose in the stool when ORS solution is given (uncommon). IV regime as for Plan C but the replacement fluid volume is calculated according to the degree of dehydration. (5% for mild, 5-10% for moderate dehydration). Indications for admission to Hospital • Moderate to severe dehydration. • Need for intravenous therapy (as above). • Concern for other possible illness or uncertainty of diagnosis. • Patient factors, e.g. young age, unusual irritability/drowsiness, worsening symptoms. • Caregivers not able to provide adequate care at home. • Social or logistical concerns that may prevent return evaluation if necessary. * Lower threshold for children with obesity due to possibility of underestimating degree of dehydration. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 375. 362 Other problems associated with diarrhoea • Fever • May be due to another infection or dehydration. • Always search for the source of infection if there is fever, especially if it persists after the child is rehydrated. • Seizures • Consider: - Febrile convulsion (assess for possible meningitis) - Hypoglycaemia - Hyper/hyponatraemia • Lactose intolerance • Usually in formula-fed babies less than 6 months old with infectious diarrhoea. • Clinical features: - Persistent loose/watery stool - Abdominal distension - Increased flatus - Perianal excoriation • Making the diagnosis: compatible history; check stool for reducing sugar (sensitivity of the test can be greatly increased by sending the liquid portion of the stool for analysis simply by inverting the diaper). • Treatment: If diarrhoea is persistent and watery (over 7-10 days) and there is evidence of lactose intolerance, a lactose free formula may be given. • Normal formula can usually be reintroduced after 2–3 weeks. • Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy • A known potentially serious complication following acute gastroenteritis. • To be suspected when trial of lactose free formula fails in patients with protracted course of diarrhoea. • Children suspected with this condition should be referred to a paediatric gastroenterologist for further assessment. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 376. 363 Non pharmacological / Nutritional strategies • Undiluted vs diluted formula • No dilution of formula is needed for children taking milk formula. • Soy based or cow milk-based lactose free formuls • Not recommended routinely. Indicated only in children with suspected lactose intolerance. Pharmacological agents • Antimicrobials • Antibiotics should not be used routinely. They are reliably helpful only in children with bloody diarrhoea, probable shigellosis, and suspected cholera with severe dehydration. • Antidiarrhoeal medications • The locally available diosmectite (Smecta®) has been shown to be safe and effective in reducing stool output and duration of diarrhoea. It acts by restoring integrity of damaged intestinal epithelium, also capable to bind to selected bacterial pathogens and rotavirus. Other anti diarrhoeal agents like kaolin (silicates), loperamide (anti- motility) and diphenoxylate (anti motility) are not recommended. • Antiemetic medication • Not recommended, potentially harmful. • Probiotics • Probiotics has been shown to reduce duration of diarrhoea in several randomized controlled trials. However, the effectiveness is very strain and dose specific. Therefore, only probiotic strain or strains with proven efficacy in appropriate doses can be used as an adjunct to standard therapy. • Zinc supplements • It has been shown that zinc supplements during an episode of diarrhoea reduce the duration and severity of the episode and lower the incidence of diarrhoea in the following 2-3 months. WHO recommends zinc supplements as soon as possible after diarrhoea has started. Dose up to 6 months of age is 10 mg/day, and age 6 months and above 20mg/day, for 10-14 days. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 378. 365 Chapter 72: Chronic Diarrhoea Introduction WHO defines persistent or chronic diarrhea as an episode of diarrhea that begins acutely and lasts for 14 days or more. It is a complex condition with multitude etiologies. Locally, commonest aetiology is believed to be infec- tion related where as autoimmune enteropathy is an important aetiology in developed countries. Mechanisms of diarrhea • Osmotic e.g. Lactose intolerance • Secretory e.g. Cholera • Mixed secretory-osmotic e.g. Rotavirus • Mucosal inflammation e.g. Invasive bacteria, Inflammatory Bowel Disease • Motility disturbance Differentiation of Osmotic from Secretory Diarrhoea Parameter Osmotic diarrhoea Secretory diarrhoea Stool volume Small (generally 200ml/24 hours) Large (200ml/24 hours) Response to fasting Diarrhoea stops Diarrhoea continues Stool Osmolality (Stool Na + K) x 2 = (Stool Na + K) x 2 Osmotic Gap 135 mOsm/l 50 mOsm/l Stool Sodium 70 mmol/l 70 mmol/l Stool Potassium 30 mmol/l 40 mmol/l Stool Chloride 35 mmol/l 40 mmol/l Stool pH 5.5 6.0 Stool reducing substance Positive (0.5%) Negative Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47 GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 379. 366 GASTROENTEROLOGY Causes of chronic diarrhea in children Functional diarrhea (chronic nonspecific diarrhea) Excessive intake of juice/osmotically active carbohydrates Inadequate dietary fat Idiopathic Enteric infection Postenteritis syndrome Parasites Giardia lamblia; Cryptosporidia parvum; Cyclospora cayetanensis; Isospora belli; Microsporidia; Entamoeba histolytica; Strongyloides,Ascaris,Tricuris spesies Bacteria Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAggEC); Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC); Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC); Enteroadherent E. coli (EAEC); Mycobac- terium avium complex; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia, Campylobacter Viruses Cytomegalovirus; Rotavirus; Enteric adenovirus;Astrovirus;Torovirus; Hu- man ImmunodeficiencyVirus (HIV) Syndromic persistent diarrhea (common in developing countries) Associated with malnutrition Immune deficiency Primary immune deficiencies Secondary immune deficiencies (HIV) Abnormal immune response Celiac disease Food allergic enteropathy (dietary protein-induced enteropathy) Autoimmune disorders Autoimmune enteropathy (including IPEX) Graft vs Host disease Inflammatory bowel disease (more common in developed countries) Ulcerative Colitis Crohn's disease Protein losing gastroenteropathy Lymphangiectasia (primary or secondary) Other diseases affecting the gastrointestinal mucosa
  • 380. 367 GASTROENTEROLOGY Causes of chronic diarrhea in children (continued) Congenital persistent diarrhea (rare) Microvillus inclusion disease (Microvillus atrophy) Intestinal epithelial dysplasia (Tufting enteropathy) Congenital chloride diarrhea Congenital sodium diarrhea Congenital disaccharidase (sucrase-isomaltase, etc.) deficiencies Congenital bile acid malabsorption Neuroendocrine tumors Gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) VIPoma (Verner-Morrison syndrome) Mastocytosis Factitious diarrhea Laxative abuse Manipulation of stool samples
  • 381. 368 GASTROENTEROLOGY Common causes of chronic diarrhea classified by typical stool characteristics, irrespective of age Watery diarrhea Osmotic diarrhea • Functional diarrhea (sometimes) • Magnesium, phosphate, sulfate ingestion • Carbohydrate malabsorption (lactose intolerance, mucosal disease, congenital disaccharidase deficiencies) Secretory diarrhea • Laxative abuse (nonosmotic laxatives) • Bacterial toxins • Bile acid malabsorption (post cholecystecomy ileal) • Inflammatory bowel disease • Autoimmune enteropathy (isolated or IPEX syndrome) • Vasculitis • Drugs and poisons • Disordered motility (Hirshsprung's disease, pseudoobstruction) • Neuroendocrine tumors (gastrin,VIP, carcinoid, mastocytosis) • Neoplasia • Addison's disease • Epidemic secretory diarrhea (brainerd diarrhea) • Idiopathic secretory diarrhea • Congenital secretory diarrheas Inflammatory diarrhea • Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, microscopic [lymphocytic and collagenous] colitis, diverticulitis) • Infectious diseases (ulcerating viral infections, enteric bacterial pathogens, parasites) • Ischemic colitis • Radiation colitis • Neoplasia (colon cancer, Lymphoma) Fatty diarrhea • Malabsorption syndromes (mucosal diseases [eg, celiac], short-bowel syndrome, post-resection diarrhea, mesenteric ischemia) • Maldigestion (pancreatic insufficiency [eg, cystic fibrosis], bile acid deficiency)
  • 382. 369 GASTROENTEROLOGY Implications of some aspects of the medical history in children with chronic diarrhea Line of Questioning Clinical Implication Onset • Congenital Chloridorrhea, Na+ malabsorption • Abrupt Infections • Gradual Everything else • With introduction of wheat cereals Celiac disease Stool Characteristics • Daytime only Functional diarrhea (chronic nonspecific diarrhea of childhood) • Nocturnal Organic etiology • Blood Dietary protein intolerance (eg, milk), inflammatory bowel disease • White/light tan color Absence of bile; Celiac disease • Family history Congenital absorptive defects, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, multiple endocrine neoplasia Dietary History • Sugar-free foods Fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol ingestion • Excessive juice Osmotic diarrhea/chronic nonspecific diarrhea • Raw milk Brainerd diarrhea • Exposure to potentially impure water source Chronic bacterial infections (eg, aeromonas), giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, Brainerd diarrhea Travel history Infectious diarrhea, chronic idiopathic secretory diarrhea Failure to thrive/weight loss Malabsorption, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, anorexia nervosa Previous therapeutic in- terventions (drugs, radia- tion, surgery, antibiotics) Drug side effects, radiation enteritis, postsurgical status, pseudomembranous colitis (C. difficile), post-cholecystectomy diarrhea Secondary gain from illness Laxative abuse Systemic illness symptoms Hyperthyroidism, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, tuberculosis, mastocytosis Intravenous drug abuse, sexual promiscuity (in adolescent/child's parent) HIV disease Immune problems HIV disease, immunoglobulin deficiencies Abdominal pain Obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome Excessive flatus Carbohydrate malabsorption Leakage of stool Fecal incontinence (consider occult constipation)
  • 383. 370 GASTROENTEROLOGY Investigations in Chronic Diarrhoea Baseline investigations Stool microscopy ova, cysts, parasites, fat globules Stool microbiology Stool pH, reducing substances, electrolytes Full blood count and differential Urea and electrolytes, CRP and ESR Liver function tests including albumin Coeliac serology Subsequent investigations Stool elastase-I Stool alfa-1-antitrypsin Vitamins A, D, E, coagulation, B12, folate levels, Ca, Mg, phosphate, ferritin Endoscopy, colonoscopy and biopsies for histology, disaccharidases, bacterial culture, Electron microscopy Imaging studies x-ray, ultrasound, barium, MRI Sweat test Immunoglobulins, subclass, lymphocyte and neutrophil function test, complements Zinc level Cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins Autoantibodies including anti-enterocyte antibodies Isoelectric focussing of transferrin Gastrin, secretin, calcitonin,VIP Manometric studies Urinary laxatives Breath hydrogen tests Plasma and urinary bile acids and salts Response to dietary modifications Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47
  • 384. 371 Specific diagnostic consideration on routine blood examination results Parameter Diagnostic considerations Anaemia Iron, folate and B12 deficiency due to malabsorption Neutropenia Shwachman–Diamond syndrome Lymphopenia Intestinal lymphangiectasia, immunodeficiency Eosinophilia Food allergies, eosinophilic gastroenteritis Elevated platelets Acute infections, IBD (especially Crohn’s disease) Acanthocytes in blood film Abetalipoproteinemia Elevated ESR, CRP IBD, infections Low albumin Protein losing enteropathies Positive coeliac serology Coeliac disease Metabolic alkalosis Congenital chloride diarrhoea Adapted from M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics and Child Health 2008; 18: 441-47 • Collection of stool with the help of a bag placed around the anus, using an inverted diaper or insertion of a rectal tube to collect stool sample are practical ways to confirm the watery nature of stool and also to obtain samples for investigations. • Collecting the liquid portion of the stool increases the sensitivity of stool for reducing sugar testing. Conclusion • Despite being a complex condition which frequently requires tertiary gastroenterology unit input, a complete history, physical examination and logical stepwise investigations would usually yield significant clues on the diagnosis. • The type of diarrhea ie. secretory vs osmotic type should be determined early in the course of investigations. • It helps to narrow down the differential diagnosis and assists in planning the therapeutic strategies. • The nutritional status should not be ignored. It should be ascertained on initial assessment and appropriate nutritional rehabilitation strategies (parenteral or enteral nutrition) should be employed whilst investigating the aetiology. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 385. 372 Stoolelectrolytesand ResponsetoFasting ChronicDiarrhoea OlderAgeGroupNeonatalOnset Secretory Diarrhoea Osmotic Diarrhoea IntestinalBiopsy Congenitalchloride diarrhoea Congenitalsodium diarrhoea Microvillous inclusiondisease CMPI CysticFibrosis Immunodeficiencystates consider CongenitalGlu-Gal malabsorption Congenitallactasedeficiency Congenitalenterokinase deficiency Tuftingenteropathy IPEX/autoimmune Phenotypicdiarrhoea CMPI NormalAbnormal WellChild Normalgrowth,nutrition NormalbaselineInvestigations Chronicnon-specificdiarrhoea Irritablebowelsyndrome Reassurance Failuretothrive FeaturesofMalabsorption Guthormones Hormonesecretingtumours CysticFibrosis Shwachman-Diamond Abetalipoproteinemia Bileacidmalabsorption Secondarylactoseintolerance Sucrose-Isomaltosedeficiency LymphangiectasiaCoeliacdisease IBD Postenteritis Foodintolerances Shortgut Motilitydisorder Bacteriaovergrowth FatmalabsorptionCarbohydratemalabsorption Proteinloss Combinedmalabsorption Secretory Diarrhoea Osmotic Diarrhoea Note:CMPI,Cow’smilkproteinintolerance;IBD,Inflammatory boweldisease;IPEX,Immunedysregulation,polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy,X-linked. ALGORITHMFORAPPROACHTOCHRONICDIARRHOEAADAPTEDFROMRAVIKUMARA, PAEDIATRCHILDHEALTH2008;18:441-47 GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 386. 373 Chapter 73: Approach to Severely Malnourished Children RESUSCITATION PROTOCOL FOR CHILDREN WITH SEVERE MALNUTRITION This guideline is intended for Orang asli and indigenous children who present to District Hospitals and Health Centres with a history of being unwell with fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and poor feeding. This protocol is not to be used for a child who does not have malnutrition. This guideline is only recommended for those who fulfill the following criteria: • Orang asli or other indigenous ethnic group • Severe malnutrition • Lethargic or has lost consciousness • Ill • Shock GASTROENTEROLOGY Reference 1. Management of the child with a serious infection or severe malnutrition (IMCI). Unicef WHO 2000 Initial assessment Weigh the child (or estimate) Measure temperature, pulse rate, BP and respiratory rate Give oxygen Insert intravenous or intraosseouos line Draw blood for investigations where possible (Blood sugar, FBC, BUSE, Blood culture, BFMP,ABG) Resuscitation for shock • Give IV/IO fluid 15ml/kg over 1 hour • Solutions used -1/2NS, Hartmans if 1/2NS not available • Use 1/2NSD5% if hypoglycaemic Monitor and stabilise • Measure pulse and breathing rate every 5-10 minutes • Start antibiotic IV Cefotaxime or Ceftriaxone (if not available Ampicillin+ Chloramphenicol) • Monitor blood sugar and prevent hypothermia • IV Quinine only after discussion with Paediatrician If there are signs of improvements (pulse and breathing rates are falling) • Repeat IV/IO bolus 15ml/kg over 1 hour • Initiate ORS (or ReSoMal) PO at10 ml/kg/h • Discuss case with Paediatrician and refer If the child deteriorates (breathing up by 5 breaths/min or pulse up by 25 beats/min or fails to improve with IV/IO fluid) • Stop infusion as this can worsen child’s condition • Discuss case with Paediatrician immediately and refer
  • 387. 374 RE-FEEDING SEVERELY MALNOURISHED CHILDREN This protocol is based on the protocol for Management of the child with a serious infection or severe malnutrition (IMCI), Unicef WHO 2000. Starter feed with F75 based on IMCI protocol • Feeds at 75-100kcal/kg/day ( 100kcal/kg/day in the initial phase). • Protein at 1-1.5 g/kg/day. • Total volume 130mls/kg/day (if severe oedema, reduce to 100mls/kg/day). How to increase feeds? • Increase F75 gradually in volume, e.g. 10 ml/kg/day in first 3-4 days • Gradual decrease in feeding frequency: 2, then 3 and 4 hourly when improves. • Calculate calorie and protein content daily • Consider F100 catch up formula when - Calories 130/kCal-kg/day-140kCal/kg/day. - Child can tolerate orally well, gains weight, without signs of heart failure. Note: 1. In a severely oedematous child this process might take about a week. 2. If you do not increase calories and proteins the child is not going to gain weight and ward stay will be prolonged. Monitoring • Avoid causing heart failure - Suspect if: sustained increase ( 2 hrs) of respiratory rate (increases by 5/min), and / or heart rate by 25/min from baseline. - If present: reduce feed to 100ml/kg/day for 24 hr then slowly increase as follows: • 115ml/kg/day for next 24 hrs; then 130ml/kg/day for next 48 hrs. • Then increase each day by 10 mls. • Ensure adequate weight gain - Weigh child every morning before feeds; ideal weight gain is 10g/kg/day • If poor weight gain 5g/kg/day do a full reassessment • If moderate weight gain (5-10g/kg/day) check intake or check for infection • Watch for secondary infection Algorithm for Re-Feeding Plan Severely dehydrated, ill, malnourished child (Z Score -3SD) Ongoing at 6hrs-10hrs Completed Start F75 * immediately Wean from ReSoMal to F75 * (same volume) Correct dehydration GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 388. 375 Introducing Catch up Growth formula (F100) • Gradual transition from F75 to F100 (usually over 48-72 hrs). • Increase successive feed by 10mls till some feeds remains uneaten. • Modified porridge or complementary food can be used, provided they have comparable energy and protein levels. • Gradually wean to normal diet, unlimited frequent feeds, 150-220 kCal/kg/day. • Offer protein at 4-6 g/kg/day. • Continue breast feeding if child is breastfed. Note: If child refuses F75/F100 and is too vigorous for forced RT feeding, then give normal diet. However must calculate calories and protein (as above). Discharge criteria • Not oedematous. • Gaining weight well. • Afebrile. • Has completed antibiotics. • Aged ≥ 12 mths (caution 12 mths: A Specialist opinion is required before discharge). In situation where patient need to be transferred to district facilities, make sure: • Provide a clear plan on how to feed and how to monitor progress. • Provide a dietary plan with adequate calorie and protein requirements. • A follow up appointment with a Paediatrician. WHO electrolyte/mineral solution recipe Item Quantity (gm) Molar content (in 20 ml) Potassium chloride, KCl 224 20 mmol Tripotassium citrate: C6H5K3O7.H2O 81 2 mmol Magnesium chloride: MgCl2.6H2O 76 3 mmol Zinc acetate: Zn(CH3COO)2.2H20 8.2 300 μmol Copper sulphate: CuSO4.5H2O 1.4 45 μmol Water to make up 2500 ml Note: if available, add Selenium (Sodium Selenate 0.028 g), and Iodine (Potassium Iodide 0.012g) per 2500ml GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 389. 376 Recipes for starter and catch-up formulas F-75 F-100 F-135 (starter) (catch-up) (catch-up) Dried skimmed milk (g)* 25 80 90 Sugar (g) 100 50 65 Vegetable oil (g) 30 (or 35 ml) 60 (or 70 ml) 85 (or 95 ml) Electrolyte/mineral solution (ml) 20 20 20 Water: make up to 1000 ml 1000 ml 1000 ml Contents per 100ml Energy (kcal) 75 100 135 Protein (g) 0.9 2.9 3.3 Lactose (g) 1.3 4.2 4.8 Potassium (mmol) 4.0 6.3 7.7 Sodium (mmol) 0.6 1.9 2.2 Magnesium (mmol) 0.43 0.73 0.8 Zinc (mg) 2.0 2.3 3.0 Copper (mg) 0.25 0.25 0.34 % energy from protein 5 12 10 % energy from fat 36 53 57 Osmolarity (mOsmol/L) 413 419 508 Preparation • Using an electric blender: place some of the warm boiled water in the blender, add the milk powder, sugar, oil and electrolyte/mineral solution. Make up to 1000 ml, and blend at high speed. • If no blender is available, mix milk, sugar, oil and electrolyte/ mineral solution to a paste, and then slowly add the rest of the warm boiled water and whisk vigorously with a manual whisk. • Store made-up formula in refrigerator. *Alternative recipes: (other milk sources) F-75 starter formulas (make up to 100 ml) • Full-cream dried milk 35 g, 100 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/ mineral solution. • Full-cream milk (fresh/ long life) 300 ml, 100 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/mineral solution. F-100 catch-up formulas (make up to 100 ml) • Full-cream dried milk 110 g, 50 g sugar, 30 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/ mineral solution. • Full-cream milk (fresh / long life) 880 ml, 75 g sugar, 20 g (or ml) oil, 20 ml electrolyte/mineral solution. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 390. 377 Chapter 74: Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Introduction • Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the passage of gastric contents into the esophageal with/without regurgitation and vomiting. This is a normal physiological process occurring several times per day in healthy children. • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in pediatric patients is present when reflux of gastric contents is the cause of troublesome symptoms and/or complications. Symptoms and Signs: • Symptoms and signs associated with reflux vary by age and are nonspecific. Warning signals requiring investigation in infants with recurrent regurgitation or vomiting: • Symptoms of gastrointestinal obstruction or disease • Bilious vomiting. • GI bleeding: hematemesis, hematochezia. • Consistently forceful vomiting. • Onset of vomiting after six months of life. • Constipation. • Diarrhea. • Abdominal tenderness, distension. • Symptoms suggesting systemic or neurologic disease • Hepatosplenomegaly. • Bulging fontanelle. • Macro/microcephaly. • Seizures. • Genetic disorders (e.g., Trisomy 21). • Other chronic disorders (e.g., HIV). • Nonspecific symptoms • Fever. • Lethargy. • Failure to thrive. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 391. 378 GASTROENTEROLOGY Infant/younger child (0-8 yrs) or older without cognitive ability to reliably report symptoms GERD in paediatric patients is present when reflux of gastric contents is the cause of troublesome symptoms and/or complications ExtraoesophagealOesophageal Symptoms purported to be due to GERD • Excessive regurgitation • Feeding refusal/anorexia • Unexplained crying • Choking/gagging/ coughing • Sleep disturbance • Abdomial pain GLOBAL DEFINITION OF GERD IN THE PAEDIATRIC POPULATION Symptomatic Syndromes Syndromes with Oesophageal injury Definite associations Possible associations Older child/adolescent with cognitive ability to reliably report symptoms • Typical Reflux Syndrome • Sandifer’s syndrome • Dental erosion • Reflux oesophagitis • Reflux stricture • Barret’s oesophagus • Adenocarcinoma Bronchopulmonary • Asthma • Pulmonary fibrosis • Bronchopulmonary dysplasia Laryngotracheal and Pharyngeal • Chronic cough • Chronic laryngitis • Hoarseness • Pharyngitis Rhinological and Otological • Sinusitis • Serous Otitis Media Infants • Pathological Apnoea • Bradycardia • Apparent life threatening events From Sherman, et al. Am J Gastroenterology 2009; 104: 1278-1295
  • 392. 379 Investigations GERD is often diagnosed clinically and does not require investigations • Indicated: • If its information is helpful to define difficult or unusual cases. • If of value in making treatment decisions. • When secondary causes of GORD need to be excluded especially in severely affected patients. • Esophageal pH Monitoring • The severity of pathologic acid reflux does not correlate consistently with symptom severity or demonstrable complications • For evaluation of the efficacy of antisecretory therapy • To correlate symptoms (e.g., cough, chest pain) with acid reflux episodes, and to select those infants and children with wheezing or respiratory symptoms in whom GER is an aggravating factor. • Sensitivity, specificity, and clinical utility of pH monitoring for diagnosis and management of extraesophageal complications of GER is uncertain. • Barium Contrast Radiography • Not useful for the diagnosis of GERD as it has poor sensitivity and specificity but is useful to confirm or rule out anatomic abnormalities of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. • Nuclear Scintigraphy • May have a role in the diagnosis of pulmonary aspiration in patients with chronic and refractory respiratory symptoms. A negative test does not rule out possible pulmonary aspiration of refluxed material. • Not recommended for the routine evaluation of GERD in children. • Esophageal manometry • Not sufficiently sensitive or specific to diagnose GERD. • To diagnose motility disorder e.g. achalasia or other motor disorders of the esophagus that may mimic GERD. • Endoscopy and Biopsy • Endoscopically visible breaks in the distal esophageal mucosa are the most reliable evidence of reflux esophagitis. • To identify or rule out other causes of esophagitis including eosinophilic esophagitis which do not respond to conventional anti reflux therapy. • To diagnose and monitor Barrett esophagus (BE) and its complications. • Empiric Trial of Acid Suppression as a Diagnostic Test • Expert opinion suggests that in an older child or adolescent with typical symptoms of GERD, an empiric trial of PPI is justified for up to 4 weeks. • However, improvement of heartburn, following treatment, does not confirm a diagnosis of GERD because symptoms may improve spontaneously or respond by a placebo effect • No evidence to support an empiric trial of acid suppression as a diagnostic test in infants/young children where symptoms of GERD are less specific. • Exposing them to the potential adverse events of PPI is not the best practice. Look for causes other than GERD before making such a move. GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 393. 380 GASTROENTEROLOGY Treatment • Physiologic GER does not need medical treatment. • Symptoms are often non specific esp. during infancy; many are exposed to anti-reflux treatment without any sufficient evidence. • Should always be balance between intended improvement of symptoms with risk of side-effects. Suggested Schematic Therapeutic Approach • Parental reassurance observe. Avoid overeating • Lifestyle changes. • Dietary treatment - Use of a thickened formula (or commercial anti regurgitation formulae) may decrease visible regurgitation but does not reduce in the frequency of esophageal reflux episodes. - There may be association between cow’s milk protein allergy and GERD. - Therefore infants with GERD that are refractory to conventional anti reflux therapy may benefit from a 2- to 4-week trial of elimination of cow’s milk in diet with an extensively hydrolyzed protein formula that has been evaluated in controlled trials. Locally available formulas are Alimentum, Pepti and Pregestimil. Usually there will be strong family history of atopy in these patients. - No evidence to support the routine elimination of any specific food in older children with GERD. • Position during sleep - Prone positioning decreases the amount of acid esophageal exposure measured by pH probe compared with that measured in the supine position. However, prone and lateral positions are associated with an increased incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Therefore, in most infants from birth to 12months of age, supine positioning during sleep is recommended. - Prone or left-side sleeping position and/or elevation of the head of the bed for adolescents with GERD may be of benefit in select cases. • Buffering agents (some efficacy in moderate GERD, relatively safe). Antacids only in older children. • Buffering agents e.g. alginate and sucralfate are useful on demand for occasional heartburn. • Chronic use of buffering agents is not recommended for GERD because some have absorbable components that may have adverse effects with long-term use. • Prokinetics . • Treat pathophysiologic mechanism of GERD. • There is insufficient evidence of clinical efficacy to justify the routine use of metoclopramide, erythromycin, or domperidone for GERD.
  • 394. 381 GASTROENTEROLOGY • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) (drug of choice in severe GERD). Histamine-2 receptor antagonists less effective than PPI. • Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonists (H2RAs). - Exhibit tachyphylaxis or tolerance (but PPIs do not) - Useful for on-demand treatment • Proton Pump Inhibitors - Administration of long-term acid suppression without a diagnosis is inadvisable. - When acid suppression is required, the smallest effective dose should be used. - Most patients require only once-daily PPI; routine use of twice-daily dose is not indicated. - No PPI has been officially approved for use in infants 1 year of age. - The potential adverse effects of acid suppression, including increased risk of community-acquired pneumonias and GI infections, need to be balanced against the benefits of therapy. • Antireflux surgery (either open or laparoscopic surgery). - May be of benefit in selected children with chronic-relapsing GERD. - Indications include: failure of optimized medical therapy, dependence on long-term medical therapy, significant non adherence with medical therapy, or pulmonary aspiration of refluxate. - Children with underlying disorders predisposing to the most severe GERD e.g. neurological impairment are at the highest risk for operative morbidity and postoperative failure. - It is essential therefore to rule out all non-GERD causes of the child’s symptoms, confirm the diagnosis of chronic relapsing GERD, discuss with the parents the pros and cons of surgery and to assure that the caregivers understand the potential complications, symptom recurrence and sometimes the need to be back on medical therapy.
  • 396. 383 Chapter 75: Acute Hepatic Failure in Children • Definitions • Fulminant hepatic failure (HF) - hepatic dysfunction (hepatic encepha- lopathy and coagulopathy) within 8 weeks of evidence of symptoms of liver disease and absence of pre-existing liver disease in any form. • Hyperacute/ Fulminant HF - encephalopathy within 2 weeks of onset of jaundice • Subfulminant HF - encephalopathy within 2-12 weeks of onset of jaundice • Subacute/ Late-onset HF- encephalopathy later than 8 weeks to 6 months of onset of symptoms. Salient features • jaundice with impalpable liver or a liver of reducing size • encephalopathy - may worsen rapidly (needs frequent review) • bruising, petechiae or bleeding from deranged clotting unresponsive to vitamin K. • failure to maintain normoglycaemia (which aggravates encephalopathy) or presence of hyperammonaemia • increased intracranial pressure (fixed dilated pupils, bradycardia, hypertension and papilloedema) Grading of Hepatic Encephalopathy - Coma Level Grade 1 Irritable, lethargic Grade 2 Mood swings, aggression, photophobia, Not recognising parents, presence of flap Grade 3 Sleepy but rousable, incoherent, sluggish Pupils, hypertonia ± clonus, extensor spasm Grade 4 Comatose; decerebrate, decorticate or no response to pain GASTROENTEROLOGY
  • 397. 384 GASTROENTEROLOGY Causes of Hepatic Failure Infection Hepatitis A, B, non A- non B, CMV Leptospirosis, Dengue Herpes simplex virus (particularly in small infants) Drugs Carbamazepine, valproate Paracetamol, halothane Ingested toxins Mushrooms,Amanita phalloides Metabolic Fructosaemia, galactosaemia, tyrosaemia, Wilson’s disease Neonatal haemochromatosis Ischaemic shock Gram negative septicaemia, Budd Chiari syndrome Autoimmune Autoimmune Hepatitis Tumour Histiocytosis, lymphoproliferative disorder Principles of management Supportive Treatment • Nurse in quiet darkened room with head-end elevated at 20o with no neck flexion (to decrease ICP and minimise cerebral irritability). • DO NOT SEDATE unless already ventilated • This may precipitate respiratory failure and death. • Maintain blood glucose between 6-9 mmol/l using minimal fluid volume (40-60 ml/kg/day crystalloid) with high dextrose concentrations e.g. 10-20%. Add Potassium as necessary. • Check capillary blood sugar every 2 - 4 hourly. • Strict monitoring of urine output and fluid balance. Catheterise if necessary. • Check urinary electrolytes, serum urea, creatinine, electrolytes, osmolarity. • Frequent neurological observations (1-4 hourly). • Maintain oxygenation with facial oxygen. • Give Vitamin K to correct prolonged PT. If frank bleeding (GIT/oral) occurs, consider prudent use of FFP or IV Cryoprecipitate at 10 ml/kg. • Prophylactic Ranitidine + oral Antacid to prevent gastric/duodenal ulceration. • Full septic screen (excluding LP) on admission, CXR. Treat sepsis aggressively, monitoring levels of aminoglycosides frequently.
  • 398. 385 GASTROENTEROLOGY • Stop oral protein initially. Gradually reintroduce 0.5-1g/kg/day. • Lactulose to produce 3-4 loose stools per day. • *Strict fluid balance is essential - aim for urine output 0.5 ml/kg/hour. • Consider N-Acetylcysteine. (discuss with hepatologist). The dose is a continuous infusion at 10mg/kg/hr for at least 48-72 hours with regular serial monitoring of liver biochemical and synthetic function parameters. Small risk of anaphylaxis is present. • Antibiotics : Combination that provides a good cover against gram negative organisms and anaerobes eg. cefotaxime and metronidazole if no specific infective agent suspected (eg. leptospira, mycoplasma) • Antiviral : Acyclovir is recommended in neonates and small infants with Acute Liver Failure due to possibility of Herpes simplex virus infection • Renal dysfunction • Possible causes : Hepato-renal syndrome, Dehydration and Low CVP/ low cardiac output. Consider haemofiltration (to discuss with Paediatric nephrologist) if supportive measures like fluid challenge, renal dose dopamine and frusemide infusion fail. Clinical Pearls In a comatose patient: • In the presence of sudden coma, consider intracranial bleed: request a CT Brain. • Patients in Grade 3 or 4 coma require mechanical ventilation to maintain normal cerebral perfusion pressure. Indication for Liver Transplantation Paracetamol-induced disease • Arterial pH 7.3 (independent of the grade of encephalopathy) OR • Grade III or IV encephalopathy and • Prothrombin time 100 s and • Serum creatinine 3.4 mg/dL (301 μmol/l) All other causes of fulminant hepatic failure • Prothrombin time 100 s (independent of grade of encephalopathy) OR • Any 3 of the following variables (independent of grade of encephalopathy) • Age 10 years or 40 years • Etiology: non-A, non-B hepatitis, halothane hepatitis, idiosyncratic drug reactions • Duration of jaundice before onset of encephalopathy 7 days • Prothrombin time 50 s • Serum bilirubin 18 mg/dl (308 μmol/l) Adapted from the King’s College Hospital Criteria
  • 399. 386 GASTROENTEROLOGY Fluid management in liver failure Normal Liver Function Liver Failure Volume given if no dehydration and losses are not abnormal Body Weight 10 kg 120-150 ml/kg/day 60-80 ml/kg/day 10-20 kg 90-120 ml/kg/day 40-60 ml/kg/day 20 kg 50-90 ml/kg/day 30-50 ml/kg/day Fluid type Dextrose 4 – 5 % Dextrose ≥ 10% (adjust according to Destrostix readings) Potassium 1 - 3.5 mmol/kg/day NIL WHILE ANURIC Sodium 1.5 - 3.5 mmol/kg/day No added sodium to existing maintenance fluid (Adjust to keep serum Na normal) Other Fluids Albumin 20% 5 ml/kg Albumin 20% 5 ml/kg For transfusion FFP 10-20 ml/kg FFP 10-20 ml/kg Blood volume (ml) = No. of grams to raise Hb by x body weight in kg x F Where F = 6 for whole blood, F = 4 for packed cells
  • 400. 387 Chapter 76: Approach to Gastrointestinal Bleeding Definitions • Haemetemesis - vomiting out blood whether fresh or stale • Malaena - passing out tarry black stools per rectum Both are medical emergencies that carry significant mortality. Salient features • Duration and severity of haemetemesis and/or malaena. • Evidence of hypovolaemic shock. • Rule out bleeding diathesis. GASTROENTEROLOGY Largest possible bore IV cannula inserted immediately (CVP line may be required) Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding Quick assessment of cardiovascular status (Pulse, BP, Respiration) Resuscitate with IV volume ex- pander Use 0.45 %/ 0.9 % Saline, plasmatein, FFP or 5% albumin to stabilise BP/HR while waiting for blood to be available • Transfuse blood to maintain BP/HR, urine output and Hb. Look for complications of massive transfusion: acidosis, hypoglycemia, hypothermia • If required give IV Calcium Gluconate 10% and Sodium Bicarbonate Large bore NG tube passed to aspirate fresh/ clotted blood, then tube removed Take blood for GXM At least 1-2 units of packed cells kept available at all times during acute period Investigations • Hb/Platelet counts/haematocrit • Renal profile • Coagulation profile • Other investigations relevant to cause of bleeding • Monitor BP/HR/Pulse volume/ temperature/ urine output/ CVP hourly until stable • Continue to observe for ongoing bleeding. FFP, Cryoprecipitate and Platelet concentrates may be needed to correct coagulation disorders, DIVC, etc ACUTE RESUSCITATION IN A CHILD WITH GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING
  • 401. 388 GASTROENTEROLOGY Decision making after acute resuscitation Reassessment of patients When patient’s condition is stable and resuscitative measures have been instituted, Assess patient for cause of bleeding and the need for surgery. History is reviewed. Ask for history of chronic liver disease, dyspepsia, chronic or intermittent gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g. polyps), drug ingestion (anticoagulants, aspirin), or acute fever (dengue haemorrhagic fever), easy bleeding tendencies, antibiotics treatment (pseudomembranous colitis). Physical examination should be directed towards looking for signs of chronic liver disease (spider angiomata, palmar erythema, portal hypertension or splenomegaly) or telengiectasia / angiomata in mouth, trunk, etc.) Diagnostic measures to localise source of bleeding • Oesophagogastro-duodenoscopy (OGDS) or colonoscopy can be performed when patient’s condition is stable. • Double contrast barium study less useful than endoscopy but may be indicated in patients when endoscopy cannot precisely locate the source of bleeding (e.g. in intussusception). • Visceral angiography can precisely locate the source of bleeding. But is only reserved for patients with a difficult bleeding problem.
  • 402. 389 GASTROENTEROLOGY Definitive measures to management of gastrointestinal bleeding Medical Cause Bleeding peptic ulcer • Start H2 receptor antagonist (e.g. cimetidine or ranitidine). Proton pump inhibitor (omeprazole) should be considered when available as it has higher acid suppressant activity. Pantoprazole infusion has been increasingly used “off label” (discuss with Paediatric Gastroenterologist). • If biopsy shows presence of Helicobacter pylori infection, treat accordingly. • Stop all incriminating drugs e.g. aspirin, steroids and anticoagulant drugs if possible. Bleeding oesophageal varies ulcer • Do not transfuse blood too rapidly as this will lead to increase in CVP and a rapid increase in portal pressure will precipitate further bleeding. • Aim to maintain Hb at 10 g/dL. • Refer Paediatric Surgeon and Paediatric Gastroenterologist to consider use of octreotide. Pseudomembranous colitis • Stop all antibiotics • Start oral metronidazole or oral vancomycin immediately. Surgical Cause When surgical cause is suspected, early referral to the surgeon is impor- tant so that a team approach to the problem can be adopted. • Intussusception requires immediate surgical referral and intervention. • Meckel’s diverticulum • Malrotation
  • 403. 390 GASTROENTEROLOGY References Section 9 Gastroenterology Chapter 72 Chronic Diarrhoea 1.Schmitz J. Maldigestion and malabsorption. In: Walker Goulet, Kleinman Sherman, Shneider, Sanderson, eds. Pediatric gastrointestinal disease. New York: B C Decker, 2004, p. 8–20. 2.Binder HJ. Causes of chronic diarrhea. N Engl J Med 2006; 355:236. 3.Bhutta ZA, Ghishan F, Lindley K, et al. Persistent and chronic diarrhea and malabsorption: Working Group report of the second World Congress of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. J Pediatr Gastroen- terol Nutr 2004; 39 Suppl 2:S711. 4.Schiller, LR. Chronic diarrhea. Gastroenterology 2004; 127:287. 5.Fine, KD, Schiller, LR. AGA technical review on the evaluation and manage- ment of chronic diarrhea. Gastroenterology 1999; 116:1464. 6.M Ravikumara. Investigation of chronic diarrhea. Paediatrics and child health 2008; 18: 441-47. Chapter 74 Gastroesophageal reflux 1.Yvan Vandenplas, and Colin D. Rudolph et al. Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Clinical Practice Guidelines: Joint Recommendations of the North American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and the European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. J Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 49:498–547 2009. 2.Robert Wyllie, Jeffrey S. Hyams, Marsha Kay et al.Pediatric Gastrointestinal And Liver Disease, Fourth Edition. 2011.
  • 404. 391 Chapter 77: Sepsis and Septic Shock Definitions of Sepsis and Shock SIRS (Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) • Non-specific systemic inflammatory response to infection, trauma, burns, surgery etc. • Characterized by abnormalities in ≥ 2 of the following (one of which must be abnormal tempera- ture or leukocyte count): • Body temperature. • Heart rate. • Respiratory function. • Peripheral leucocyte count. Sepsis • SIRS in the presence of or as a result of suspected or proven infection. Severe sepsis • Sepsis plus one of the following: • Cardiovascular organ dysfunction. • Acute respiratory distress syndrome. • Two or more other organ dysfunction. Septic shock • Severe sepsis with cardiovascular organ dysfunction i.e. Hypotension (systolic Blood Pressure 5th centile for age). Early septic shock (WARM shock) • Compensated warm phase of shock. • Prompt response to fluids, pharmacologic treatment. Refractory septic shock (COLD shock) • Late decompensated phase. • Shock lasting 1 hour despite vigorous therapy necessitating vasopressor support. Based on the International Pediatric Sepsis Consensus Conference Incidence Non hospitalized immunocompetent children may develop community ac- quired sepsis. More commonly, hospitalized immunocompromised patients are at higher risk of developing serious healthcare associated sepsis. Pathophysiology Infection Activation of immunological system Release of inflammatory chemical mediators Systemic vasodilation Capillary leakage Intravascular volume depletion Maldistribution of intravascular volume Impaired myocardial function INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 405. 392 Clinical features Sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock are a clinical continuum. • SEPSIS is present when 2 or more of the following features are present • Fever ( 38.5⁰C) or hypothermia, often in neonate ( 36⁰C) • Hyperventilation • Tachycardia • White blood count abnormalities: leukocytosis or leucopenia AND there is clinical evidence of infection. Other constitutional symptoms such as poor feeding, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy may be present. • With progression to SEVERE SEPSIS, there are features of compromised end organ perfusion such as: Features of compromised end organ perfusion Neurology Altered sensorium, irritability, agitation, confusion, unresponsiveness or coma Respiratory Tachypnoea, increase breathing effort, apnoea / respiratory arrest, cyanosis (late sign) Renal Oliguria: urine output 0.5ml/kg per hour • When SEPTIC SHOCK sets in, look for features of Warm or Cold shock: Features of Warm and Cold shock WARM shock COLD shock Peripheries Warm, flushed Cold, clammy, cyanotic Capillary refill 2 sec 2 sec Pulse Bounding Weak, feeble Heart rate Tachycardia Tachycardia or bradycardia Blood pressure Relatively maintained Hypotension Pulse pressure Widened Narrowed INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 406. 393 Look out for localizing signs - most useful but not always present: Localising Signs Central nervous system meningism , encephalopathy Respiratory localized crepitations, evidence of consolidation Cardiovascular changing murmurs Gastrointestinal focal or rebound tenderness, guarding Bone and soft tissue focal erythema, tenderness and oedema Head and neck cervical lymphadenopathy, sinus tenderness, inflamed tympanic membrane, stridor, exudative pharyngotonsillitis Skin pustular lesions Complications Multiorgan Failure: • Acute respiratory distress syndrome. • Acute renal failure. • Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. • Central nervous system dysfunction. • Hepatic failure.
  • 407. 394 Investigations Septic work - up Monitoring severity and progress • Blood CS • Full blood count • Urine CS • Renal profile Where appropriate • Electrolytes, calcium, magnesium • CSF CS • Blood sugar • Tracheal aspirate CS • Blood gases • Pus / exudate CS • +/- lactate levels • Fungal cultures • Coagulation profile • Serology, viral studies • Liver function test • Imaging studies - Chest X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan Supporting evidence of infection: Full blood count Leukocytosis or leukopenia Peripheral blood film Increase in immature neutrophil count C-reactive protein Elevated c-reactive protein levels Abbreviation. CS, Culture and Sensitivity INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 408. 395 Management • Initial resuscitation - ABC • Secure airway, Support breathing, Restore circulation Caution: the use of sedation in septic or hypotensive children may result in crash of blood pressure. If sedation is required, use low dose IV Midazolam or Ketamine, volume infusion should be continued and inotropes should be initiated, if time permits. • Fluid therapy • Aggressive fluid resuscitation with crystalloids or colloids at 20 mls/kg as rapid IV push over 5-10 mins. Can be repeated up to 60 mls/kg or more. • Correct hypoglycaemia and hypocalcaemia. • Inotropic Support • If fluid refractory shock*, establish central venous access - Start inotropes: IV Dopamine 5 - 15 µg/kg min or - IV Dobutamine 5 - 15 µg/kg/min • For fluid refractory and dopamine/dobutamine refractory shock with - Warm shock : titrate IV Noradrenaline 0.05 – 2.0 µg/kg /min - Cold shock : titrate IV Adrenaline 0.05 – 2.0 µg/kg /min • The aim of titration of inotropes include normal clinical endpoints and where available, SpO₂ 70%. • Inotropes should be infused via a central line (whenever possible) or a large bore peripheral canula. • Use dedicated line or lumen. Avoid concurrent use for other IV fluids, medication. • Fluids and inotropes to be titrated to optimal vital signs, urine output and conscious level. *hypotension, abnormal capillary refill or extremity coolness • Antimicrobial therapy • IV antibiotics should be administered immediately after appropriate cultures are taken. Start empirical, broad spectrum to cover all likely pathogens, considering: - Risk factors of patient and underlying illness. - Local organism prevalence and sensitivity patterns. - Protocols of the institution. • Antibiotic regime to be modified accordingly once CS results are back. • Source control: - Evaluate patient to identify focus of infection. - Drainage, debridement or removal of infected devices to help control infection.
  • 409. 396 • Respiratory Support • Use PEEP and FIO2 to keep SaO2 90%, PaO2 80 mmHg Caution: use sufficient PEEP to ensure alveolar recruitment in cases of sepsis with acute lung injury. Too high PEEP can result in raised intrathoracic pres- sure which can compromise venous return and worsen hypotension. • Supportive Therapy • Packed cells transfusion if Hb 10g/L. • Platelet concentrate transfusion if platelet count 20 000/mm3. • If overt clinical bleeding, correct coagulopathy or DIVC. • Bicarbonate therapy: give bicarbonate only in refractory metabolic acidosis, if pH 7.1 (ensure adequate tissue perfusion and ventilation to clear by-product CO₂). • Aim to maintain normal electrolytes and blood sugar. • Monitoring • Frequent serial re-evaluation is essential to guide therapy and gauge response, as below: Monitoring in Children with Sepsis Clinical • Vital signs • Heart rate via cardiac monitor • Capillary return • Skin temperature • Pulse volume • Blood pressure • Non invasive • Invasive - ideal if available • SpO2 via pulse oximeter • Central venous pressure (CVP) Urine output via continuous bladder drainage Head chart (GCS) Laboratory See previousTable on Investigations INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 410. 397 Chapter 78: Pediatric HIV Screening of children for HIV status • In newborns and in children, the following groups need to be tested: • Babies of HIV positive mothers. • Abandoned babies / street children. • Babies of mothers with high risk behaviour (e.g. drug addicts / prostitutes / multiple sex partners / single-teenage /underage). • Sexually abused children and children with sexually transmitted disease. • Children receiving regular blood transfusions or blood products e.g. Thalassemics. Deliveries and infant nursing • Standard precautions must be observed at all times. It is vital to use protective barriers such as arm length gloves, mask, goggles and gown with waterproof sleeves. Boots are to be used for institutional deliveries: • During deliveries. • During handling of placenta tissue. • During handling of babies such as wiping liquor off babies. • All equipment, including resuscitation equipment should be cleaned and sterilised. • For home deliveries, battery operated suction device should be used. • Standard precautions are to be observed in caring for the babies. • For parents or relatives, gloves are given for use when handling the placenta after discharge, or during burial of stillbirth or dead babies at home. The placenta from HIV positive mothers should be soaked in formalin solution before disposal. Alternatively, the placenta can be sealed in a plastic bag or other leak proof container with clear instructions to parents not to remove it from the container. Immunisation • Vaccines protect HIV-infected children from getting severe vaccine preventable diseases, and generally well tolerated. • All routine vaccinations can be given according to schedule, with special precautions for live vaccines i.e. BCG, OPV and MMR: • BCG: safe in child is asymptomatic and not immunosuppressed (e.g. at birth); omit if symptomatic or immunosuppressed • Give IPV (killed polio vaccine) as recommended in current schedule. • MMR: safe; omit in children with severe immunosuppression (CD415%). • Other recommended vaccines: • Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine when 2 years of age; booster 3-5 years later. Where available, use Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (more immunogenic). • Varicella-zoster vaccine, where available. 2 doses with 2 months interval. Omit in those with severe immunosuppression (CD4 15%) Despite vaccination, remember that long term protection may not be achieved in severe immune suppression i.e. they may still be at risk of acquiring the infections! INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 411. 398 Interventions to limit perinatal transmission • Vertical transmission of HIV may occur while in utero, during the birth process or through breast-feeding. The rates vary from 25 - 30%. • Breastfeeding confers an additional 14% risk of transmission, and is therefore contraindicated. • Blood and blood products should be used judiciously even though the risk of transmission of HIV infection from blood transfusion is very small. Several interventions have proven effective in reducing vertical transmission: • Total substitution of breastfeeding with infant formula. • Elective Caesarean section. • Antiretroviral (ARV) prophylaxis. Factors associated with higher transmission rate Maternal Low CD 4 counts High viral load Advanced disease Seroconversion during pregnancy Foetal Premature delivery of the baby Delivery and procedures Invasive procedures such as episiotomy Foetal scalp electrodes Foetal blood sampling and amniocentesis Vaginal delivery Rupture of membranes 4 hours Chorioamnionitis Management of Babies Born to HIV Infected Mothers Children born to HIV positive mothers are usually asymptomatic at birth. However, all will have acquired maternal antibodies. In uninfected children, antibody testing becomes negative by 10 - 18 months age. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 412. 399 INFECTIOUSDISEASE During pregnancy • Counsel mother regarding: • Transmission rate (without intervention) –25 to 30%. • ARV prophylaxis + elective LSCS reduces transmission to ~3%. • Feed with infant formula as breast feeding doubles the risk of transmission. • Difficulty in making early diagnosis because of presence of maternal antibody in babies. Stress importance of regular blood tests and follow-up. Neonatal period • Admit to ward or early review by paediatric team (if not admitted). • Examine baby for • Evidence of other congenital infections. • Symptoms of drug withdrawal (reviewing maternal history is helpful). • Most babies are asymptomatic and only require routine perinatal care • Start on prophylaxis ARV as soon as possible. • Sample blood for: • HIV DNA PCR (done in IMR, do not use cord blood; sensitivity 90% by 1 month age). • FBC. • Other tests as indicated: LFT, RFT, HbsAg, Hepatitis C, Toxoplasmosis, CMV, VDRL serology.
  • 413. 400 INFECTIOUSDISEASE MANAGEMENT OF HIV EXPOSED INFANTS ¹ Footnote: Scenario 1: HIV infected pregnant mother who is on HAART Scenario 2: HIV infected mother at delivery who has not received adequate ARV Scenario 3: Infant born to HIV infected mother who has not received any ARV • ARV should be served as soon as possible (preferably within 6-12 hrs of life) and certainly no later than 48 hours. • Dose of Syr ZDV for premature baby 30 wks: 2mg/kg 12hrly for 2 wks, then 2mg/kg 8hrly). If oral feeding is contraindicated, use IV ZDV 1.5mg/kg/dose. Abbreviations: ARV, Antiretroviral prophylaxis; HAART, Highly active antiretroviral therapy; PCP, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Positive Positive Positive Negative Negative HIV Positive Mother HIV DNA PCR Testing Repeat HIV DNA PCR as soon as possible 1. Initiate HIV prophylaxis in newborn immediately after delivery: Scenario 1¹ Zidovudine Scenario 2 + 3:¹ Zidovudine + Nevirapine 4mg/kg/dose bd for 6 weeks 4mg/kg/dose bd for 6 weeks 8mg/dose (BW 2kg), 12mg/dose (BW 2kg) for 3 doses: at birth, 48hrs later and 96hrs after 2nd dose 2. Investigations: HIV DNA PCR (together with mothers blood ) at 0-2 weeks FBC at birth and at 6 weeks 3. Start PCP prophylaxis at 6 weeks age, till HIV status determined Co-trimoxazole 4mg TMP/20mg SMX/kg daily or 150 mg TMP/ 750 SMX mg/m²/day bd for 3 days per week Repeat HIV DNA PCR at 6 weeks age Repeat HIV DNA PCR at 4 - 6 months age INFECTED NOT INFECTED • PCP Prophylaxis up to 12 mths Later evaluate for continued need • Anti-retroviral therapy, if indicated • Follow up • Stop Co-trimoxazole • Follow 3 mthly till 18 mths age • Ensure that baby’s antibody status is negative by 18 mths Negative
  • 414. 401 Management of HIV in Children Clinical Features Common presenting features are: • Persistent lymphadenopathy • Hepatosplenomegaly • Failure to thrive • Developmental delay, regression • Recurrent infections (respiratory, skin, gastrointestinal) Diagnosis of HIV infection • In children 18 months age: 2 consecutive positive HIV antibody tests. • In children ≤ 18 months age: 2 positive HIV DNA PCR tests. Monitoring • Monitor disease progression through clinical, immunological (CD4+ count or %) and viral load status. • CD4+ count and viral load assay are done at diagnosis, 2-3 months after initiation or change of ART and every 3-4 months thereafter (more frequently if change of therapy is made or progression of disease occurs). Antiretroviral Therapy Clinical outcome following the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in children is excellent, with reduced mortality (67 - 80%) reported from various cohorts. However, this needs to be balanced with: failure of current drugs to eradicate infection, medication side effects and compliance-adherence issues. INFECTIOUSDISEASE Goals of therapy Decrease Viral Replication Preservation of Immune System Diminish Viral Replication Improved Quality of Life and Survival Optimising Growth and Development Reduced Opportunistic Infections
  • 415. 402 INFECTIOUSDISEASE When to start? • Starting ART is very rarely an emergency. Before starting ART, intensive education to parents, care-givers and older children-patients need to be stressed. Do not start in haste as we may repent at leisure! Assess family’s capacity to comply with often difficult and rigid regimens. Stress that non-adherence to medications allows continuous viral replication and encourages the emergence of drug resistance and subsequent treatment failure. • Young infants have a much higher risk of disease progression to clinical AIDS or death when compared to older children or adults and hence the treatment recommendations are more aggressive. Recommendation for when to start ARV is shown in Table. • Please consult a specialist/consultant before starting treatment. WHO classification of HIV-associated immunodeficiency using CD4 count Classification of HIV-associated Immunodeficiency Age related CD4 values 11 mths (CD4 %) 12-35 mths (CD4 %) 36-59 mths (CD4 %) ≥5 years (cells/mm³ or CD4 %) Not significant 35 30 25 500 Mild 30–35 25–30 20–25 350−499 Advanced 25–29 20−24 15−19 200−349 Severe 25 20 15 200 or 15% Clinical categories There are 2 widely used clinical classification systems i.e CDC’s 1994 Revised Paediatric Classification and the more recently updated WHO Clini- cal Classification system. Both classification systems are quite similar with only minor differences.
  • 416. 403 WHO Clinical Staging Of HIV for Infants and Children With Established HIV infection (Adapted from WHO 2007) Clinical stage 1 (Asymptomatic) Asymptomatic Persistent generalized lymphadenopathy Clinical stage 2 (Mild) * Unexplained persistent hepatosplenomegaly Papular pruritic eruptions Extensive wart virus infection Extensive molluscum contagiosum Recurrent oral ulcerations Unexplained persistent parotid enlargement Lineal gingival erythema Herpes zoster Recurrent or chronic upper respiratory tract infections (otitis media, otor- rhoea, sinusitis, tonsillitis ) Fungal nail infections Clinical stage 3 (Advanced) * Unexplained moderate malnutrition not adequately responding to stand- ard therapy Unexplained persistent diarrhoea (14 days or more ) Unexplained persistent fever (above 37.5 ºC, intermittent or constant, for longer than one month) Persistent oral candidiasis (after first 6 weeks of life) Oral hairy leukoplakia Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis/periodontitis Lymph node TB Pulmonary TB Severe recurrent bacterial pneumonia Symptomatic lymphoid interstitial pneumonitis Chronic HIV-associated lung disease including bronchiectasis Unexplained anaemia (8.0 g/dl ), neutropenia (0.5 x 109/L) or chronic thrombocytopenia (50 x 109/ L) INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 417. 404 WHO Clinical Staging Of HIV for Infants and Children With Established HIV infection (Adapted from WHO 2007) (continued) Clinical stage 4 (Severe) * Unexplained severe wasting, stunting or severe malnutrition not respond- ing to standard therapy Pneumocystis pneumonia Recurrent severe bacterial infections (e.g. empyema, pyomyositis, bone or joint infection, meningitis, but excluding pneumonia) Chronic herpes simplex infection; (orolabial or cutaneous of more than one month’sduration, or visceral at any site) Extrapulmonary TB Kaposi sarcoma Oesophageal candidiasis (or Candida of trachea, bronchi or lungs) Central nervous system toxoplasmosis (after the neonatal period) HIV encephalopathy Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection; retinitis or CMV infection affecting another organ, with onset at age over 1 month Extrapulmonary cryptococcosis (including meningitis) Disseminated endemic mycosis (extrapulmonary histoplasmosis, coccidi- omycosis) Chronic cryptosporidiosis (with diarrhoea ) Chronic isosporiasis Disseminated non-tuberculous mycobacteria infection Cerebral or B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy HIV-associated cardiomyopathy or nephropathy (*) Unexplained refers to where the condition is not explained by other causes. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 418. 405 Which drugs to use? Always use combination of at least 3 drugs (see Table next page) Either • 2 NRTI + 1 NNRTI [Efavirenz (age ≥ 3 years) or Nevirapine (age 3 years)] OR • 2 NRTI + 1 PI (Lopinavir/r) • Recommended 2 NRTI combinations: ZDV + 3TC; ZDV + ddI; ABC + 3TC; • Alternative 2 NRTI combinations : d4T + 3TC ; ddI + 3TC • For infants exposed to maternal or infant NVP or other NNRTIs used for maternal treatment or PMTCT, start ART with PI (Lopinavir/r) + 2 NRTIs. Not Recommended • Mono or dual therapy (except mother-to-child transmission prophylaxis during neonatal period): • d4T + ZDV - pharmacologic and antiviral antagonism. • d4T + ddI - higher risk of lipodystrophy, peripheral neuropathy. • 3TC + FTC - similar resistance patterns and no additive benefit. When to change? • Treatment failure based on clinical, virologic and immunological parameters e.g. deterioration of condition, unsuppressed/rebound viral load or dropping of CD4 count/%. • Toxicity or intolerance of the current regimen If due to toxicity or intolerance: • Choose drugs with toxicity profiles different from the current regimen. • Changing a single drug is permissible. • Avoid reducing dose below lower end of therapeutic range for drug. If due to treatment failure: • Assess and review adherence • Preferable to change all ARV (or at least 2) to drugs that the patient has not been exposed to before. Choices are very limited! Do not add a drug to a failing regime. • Consider potential drug interactions with other medications • When changing therapy because of disease progression in a patient with advanced disease, the patient’s quality of life must be considered. • Doing genotypic resistant testing will help to choose the appropriate ARV, however, the test is not widely available in Malaysia • Consult an infectious diseases specialist before switching. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 420. 407 WhentostartARV? AgeInitiateTreatment*ConsiderDefer 12monthsAllinfantsregardlessofclinical symptoms,immunestatusandviralload 1-5yearsAIDSorsignificantHIV-relatedsymptoms (WHOStage3**or4**) OR Asymptomaticormildsymptoms(WHOStage 12)andCD425% Asymptomaticormild symptomsand • CD425% or • VL≥100,000copies/ml Asymptomaticand • CD4≥25% and • VL100,000copies/ml ≥5yearsAIDSorsignificantHIV-relatedsymptoms (WHOStage3**or4**) OR Asymptomaticormildsymptoms (WHOStage12)andCD4≤350cells/mm3 Asymptomaticormild symptomsand • CD4350cells/mm3 or • VL≥100,000copies/ml Asymptomaticand • CD4350cells/mm3 and • VL100,000copies/ml *Beforemakingthedecisiontoinitiatetherapy,theprovidershouldfullyassess,discuss,andaddressissuesassociatedwith adherencewiththechildandthecaregiver **Stabilizeanyopportunisticinfection(OI)beforeinitiatingART. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 421. 408 Antiretroviral drugs dosages and common side effects Drug Dosage Side effects Comments Zidovudine (ZDV) 180-240mg/m2 /dose, bd Neonate: 4mg/kg bd (max. dose 300mg bd) Anaemia, neutropenia, headache Large volume of syrup not well tolerated in older children Didanosine (ddI) 90-120mg/m2 /dose, bd (max. dose 200mg bd) Diarrhoea, abdo pain, peripheral neuropathy Ideally taken on empty stomach (1hr before or 2h after food) Lamivudine (3TC) 4mg/kg/dose, bd (max. dose 150mg bd) Diarrhoea, abdo pain; pancreatitis (rare) Well tolerated Use oral solution within 1 month of opening Stavudine (d4T) 1mg/kg/dose, bd (max. dose 40mg bd) Headache, peripheral neuropathy, pancreatitis (rare) Capsule may be opened and sprinkle on food or drinks Abacavir (ABC) 8 mg/kg/dose bd (max. dose 300 mg bd) Diarrhoea, nausea , rash, headache; Hypersensitivity, Steven-Johnson (rare) NEVER restart ABC after hypersensitivity reaction (may cause death) Efavirenz (EFZ) 350mg/m2 od 13-15kg 200mg 15-20kg 250mg 20-25kg 300mg 25-32kg 350mg 33 –40kg 400mg 40kg 600mg od Rash, headache, insomnia Inducer of CYP3A4 hepatic enzyme; so has many drug interactions Capsules may be opened and added to food Nevirapine (NVP) 150-200mg/m2 /day od for 14 days, then increase to 300-400mg/m2 /day, bd (max. dose 200mg bd) Severe skin rash, headache, diar- rhea, nausea Take with food to increase absorption and reduce GI side effects Solution contains 43% alcohol and is very bitter! INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 422. 409 Antiretroviral drugs dosages and common side effects (continued) Drug Dosage Side effects Comments Ritonavir (RTV) 350-450mg/m2 /dose, bd (max. dose 600mg bd) Vomiting, nau- sea, headache, diarrhoea; hepatitis (rare) Take with food to increase absorption and reduce GI side effects Solution contains 43% alcohol and is very bitter! Kaletra (Lopinavir/ ritonavir) 230/57.5mg/m2 / dose, bd 7 -14kg 12/3 mg/kg, bd 15-40kg 10/2.5mg/kg, bd 40kg 400/100mg, bd Diarrhea, asthenia Low volume, but a bitter taste. Higher dose used with NNRTI Indinavir (IDV) 500mg/m2 /dose, tds (max. dose 800mg tds) Headache, nausea, abdominal pain, hyperbilirubine- mia, renal stone Use in older children that can swallow tablet; Take on an empty stomach Advise to drink more fluid INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 423. 410 Follow up • Usually every 3 - 4 months, if just commencing/switching HAART, then every 2 weeks • Ask about medication: • Adherence (who, what, how and when of taking medications) • Side effects e.g. vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice • Examine: Growth, head circumference, pallor, jaundice, oral thrush, lipodystrophy syndrome (if on Stavudine /or PI) • FBC, CD4 count, viral load 3-4 monthly, RFT, LFT, Ca/Po₄ (amylase if on ddI) 6 monthly; • If on PI also do fasting lipid profiles and blood sugar yearly • Explore social, psychological, financial issues e.g. school, home environment. Many children are orphans, live with relatives, adopted or under NGO’s care. Referral to social welfare often required. Compliance - adherence to therapy strongly linked to these issues. Other issues • HIV / AIDS is a notifiable disease. Notify health office within 1 week of diagnosis. • Screen other family members for HIV. • Refer parents to Physician Clinic if they have HIV and are not on follow up. • Disclosure of diagnosis to the child (would-be teenager, sexual rights) • Be aware of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome (IRIS) • In this condition there is a paradoxical worsening of a known condition (e.g. pulmonary TB or lymphadenitis) or the appearance of a new condition after initiating ARV. • This is due to restored immunity to specific infectious or non-infectious antigens. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 424. 411 Horizontal transmission within families Despite sharing of household utensils, linen, clothes, personal hygiene products; and daily interactions e.g. biting, kissing and other close contact, repeated studies have failed to show transmission through contact with sa- liva, sweat, tears and urine (except with exposure to well defined body fluids i.e. blood, semen, vaginal fluids). It is important to stress that the following has not transmitted infection: • Casual contact with an infected person • Swimming pools • Droplets coughed or sneezed into the air • Toilet seats • Sharing of utensils such as cups and plates • Insects Note: It is difficult to isolate the virus from urine and saliva of seropositive children. So day care settings are not a risk. However, due to a theoretical risk of direct inoculation by biting, aggressive children should not be sent to day care. Teachers should be taught to handle cuts/grazes with care. Guidelines for post exposure prophylaxis Goal is to prevent HIV infection among those sustaining exposure, and pro- vide information and support during the follow up until infection is diagnosed or excluded with certainty. Risk for occupational transmission of HIV to Health Care Workers (HCW) • Risk for HIV transmission after a percutaneous exposure to HIV infected blood is 0.3%; risk after mucous membrane exposure is 0.1%. • Risk is dependent on : • Type, volume of body fluid involved • Type of exposure that has occurred • Viral load of the source patient • Disease stage Treatment of an Exposure Site • Wash wounds, skin exposure sites with soap, water; flush mucous membranes with water. • Notify supervisor; refer HCW to designated doctor as in hospital needlestick injury protocol. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 426. 413 Chapter 79: Malaria Uncomplicated Malaria Symptomatic infection with malaria parasitaemia without signs of severity or evidence (clinical or laboratory) of vital organ dysfunction. Treatment UNCOMPLICATED PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM First Line Treatment Preferred Treatment Alternative Treatment Artesunate/Mefloquine (Artequine)# Artemether/Lumefantrine (Riamet)+ Dosage according to body wt Dosage according to body wt 10-20kg:* Artesunate 50mg OD x 3d Mefloquine 125mg OD x 3d (Artequine pellets) 5 -14 kg: D1: 1 tab stat then 1 tab again after 8 hours D2-3: 1 tab BD 20-40kg: Artesunate: 100mg OD x 3d Mefloquine 250mg OD x 3d (Artequine 300/750) 15 – 24kg: D1: 2 tabs stat then 2 tabs again after 8 hours D2-3: 2 tablets BD 40kg: Artesunate 200mg OD x 3d Mefloquine 500mg OD x 3d (Artequine 600/1500) 25 – 35kg: D1: 3 tabs stat then 3 tabs again after 8 hours D2-3: 3 tablets BD 35kg: D1: 4 tabs stat then again 4 tabs after 8 hours D2-3: 4 tabs BD Add primaquine 0.75mg/kg single dose OD if gametocyte is present at any time during treatment. Check G6PD before giving primaquine. #. Avoid in children with epilepsy as well. *Use Riamet for children below 10 kg as there is no artequine formulations for this group of children. + Riamet should be administered with high fat diet preferably to be taken with milk to enhance absorption. Both Artequine and Riamet are Artemisinin-based Combination Treatment (ACT) INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 427. 414 Second-line treatment for treatment failure (in uncomplicated Plasmodium Falciparum): • Recommended second-line treatment: • An alternative ACT is used (if Riamet was used in the first regimen, use Artequine for treatment failure and vice-versa). • Artesunate 4mg/kg OD plus Clindamycin 10mg/kg/dose bd for a total of 7 days. • Quinine 10mg salt/kg 8 hourly plus Clindamycin 10mg/kg/dose bd for a total of 7 days. • Add primaquine 0.75mg base/kg single dose OD if gametocyte is present at any time during treatment. Check G6PD before giving Primaquine. Treatment for Plasmodium vivax, knowlesi or malariae. Treatment for P. vivax Treatment for P. knowlesi or malariae Total Chloroquine 25mg base/kg divided over 3 days D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg base/kg 6 hours later D2: 5 mg base/kg OD D3: 5 mg base/kg OD Total Chloroquine 25mg base/kg divided over 3 days D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg base/kg 6 hours later D2: 5 mg base/kg OD D3: 5 mg base/kg OD PLUS Primaquine* 0.5 mg base/kg daily for 14 days Note: Chloroquine should be prescribed as mg base in the drug chart. P. malariae and P. knowlesi do not form hypnozoites, hence do not require radical cure with primaquine. Treatment of chloroquine-resistant P. vivax, knowlesi or malariae. • ACT (Riamet or Artequine) should be used for relapse or chloroquine resistant P. vivax. For radical cure in P. vivax, ACT must be combined with supervised 14-day primaquine therapy. • Quinine 10mg salt/kg three times a day for 7 days is also effective for chloroquine resistant P. vivax and this must be combined with primaquine for antihypnozoite activity. • Mefloquine 15mg/kg single dose combined with primaquine have been found to be effective. Primaquine may cause life threatening haemolysis in individuals with G6PD deficiency. G6PD testing is required before administration of Primaquine. For mild to moderate G6PD deficiency, an intermittent Primaquine regimen of 0.75mg base/kg weekly for 8 weeks can be given under medical supervision. In severe G6PD deficiency Primaquine is contraindicated. Severe and complicated P. vivax, knowlesi or malariae should be managed as for severe falciparum malaria (see next page). INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 428. 415 INFECTIOUSDISEASE TREATMENT OF SEVERE PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA. Severe P. falciparum malaria • All Plasmodium species can potentially cause severe malaria, the commonest being P falciparum. • Young children especially those aged below 5 years old are more prone to develop severe or complicated malaria. Recognising Severe P. falciparum malaria Clinical features Impaired consciousness or unarousable coma Prostration Failure to feed Multiple convulsions (more than two episodes in 24 h) Deep breathing, respiratory distress (acidotic breathing) Circulatory collapse or shock Clinical jaundice plus evidence of other vital organ dysfunction Haemoglobinuria Abnormal spontaneous bleeding Pulmonary oedema (radiological) Laboratory findings Hypoglycaemia (blood glucose 2.2 mmol/l or 40 mg/dl) Metabolic acidosis (plasma bicarbonate 15 mmol/l) Severe anaemia (Hb 5 g/dL, packed cell volume 15%) Haemoglobinuria Hyperparasitaemia ( 2%/100 000/μl in low intensity transmission areas or 5% or 250 000/μl in areas of high stable malaria transmission intensity) Hyperlactataemia (lactate 5 mmol/l) Renal impairment (serum creatinine 265 μmol/l).
  • 429. 416 First-line Treatment D1: IV Artesunate 2.4 mg/kg on admission, then rpt again at 12H 24H D2-7: IV Artesunate 2.4 mg/kg OD or switch to oral ACT Parenteral Artesunate should be given for a minimum of 24h or until patient is able to tolerate orally and thereafter to complete treatment with a com- plete course of oral ACT (Artequine or Riamet). Avoid using Artequine (Ar- tesunate + Mefloquine) if patient presented initially with impaired conscious- ness as increased incidence of neuropsychiatric complications associated with mefloquine following cerebral malaria have been reported. IM Artesunate (same dose as IV) can be used in patients with difficult intra- venous access. Second-line Treatment • D1:IV Quinine loading 7mg salt/kg over 1 hour followed by Infusion Quinine 10mg salt/kg over 4 hours then 10mg salt/kg q8hourly OR • Loading 20mg salt/kg over 4 hours then IV 10mg salt/kg q8 hourly (Dilute quinine in 250ml of D5% over 4 hours) • D2-7: IV Quinine 10mg salt/kg q8h AND • Doxycycline (8yrs) (3.5 mg/kg OD) OR Clindamycin (8yrs) (10 mg/kg/dose bd) given for 7 days Quinine infusion rate should not exceed 5 mg salt/kg body weight per hour. Change to Oral Quinine if able to tolerate orally. (Maximum Quinine per dose = 600mg.) Reduce IV Quinine dose by one third of total dose if unable to change to Oral Quinine after 48hours or in renal failure or liver impairment. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 430. 417 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Congenital malaria Congenital malaria is rare. It is acquired from the mother prenatally or perinatally, usually occurring in the newborn of a non-immune mother with P. vivax or P. malariae infection, although it can be observed with any of the human malarial species.. The first sign or symptom most commonly occur between 10 and 30 days of age (range: 14hr to several months of age). Signs and symptoms include fever, restlessness, drowsiness, pallor, jaun- dice, poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, cyanosis and hepatosplenomegaly. It can mimic a sepsis like illness. Parasitemia in neonates within 7 days of birth implies transplacental transmission. Vertical transmission may be as high as 40% and is associated with anemia in the baby. Baby should been screened for malaria and be treated if parasitemia is present. Treatment: • Chloroquine, total dose of 25mg base/kg orally divided over 3 days D1: 10 mg base/kg stat then 5 mg base/kg 6 hours later D2: 5 mg base/kg OD D3: 5 mg base/kg OD • Primaquine is not required for treatment as the tissue/ exo-erythrocytic phase is absent in congenital malaria. Mixed Malaria infections Mixed malaria infections are not uncommon. ACTs are effective against all malaria species and are the treatment of choice. Treatment with Primaquine should be given to patients with confirmed P. vivax infection.
  • 431. 418 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Malaria Chemoprophylaxis Prophylaxis Duration of Prophylaxis Dosage Atovaquone/ Proguanil (Malarone) Start 2 days before, continue daily during exposure and for 7 days thereafter Pediatric tablet of 62.5 mg Atovaquone and 25 mg Proguanil: 5-8 kg: 1/2 tablet daily 8-10 kg: 3/4 tablet daily 10-20 kg: 1 tablet daily 20-30 kg: 2 tablets daily 30-40 kg: 3 tablets daily 40 kg: 1 adult tablet daily Mefloquine (Tablet with 250mg base, 274mg salt) Start 2-3 weeks before, continue weekly during exposure and for 4 weeks thereafter 15 kg: 5mg of salt/kg; 15-19 kg: ¼ tab/wk; 20-30 kg: ½ tab/wk; 31-45 kg: ¾ tab/wk; 45 kg: 1 tab/wk Doxycycline (tab 100mg) Start 2 days before, continue daily during exposure and for 4 weeks thereafter 1.5mg base/kg once daily (max. 100 mg) 25kg or 8 yr: Do Not Use 25-35kg or 8-10 yr: 50mg 36-50kg or 11-13 yr: 75mg 50kg or 14 yr: 100mg
  • 432. 419 Chapter 80: Tuberculosis INFECTIOUSDISEASE Definition The presence of symptoms, signs and /or radiographic findings caused by MTB complex (M. tuberculosis or M. bovis). Disease may be pulmonary or extrapulmonary, (i.e. central nervous system (CNS), disseminated (miliary), lymph node, bone joint) or both. Clinical features • Pulmonary disease is commonest. Symptoms include fever, cough, weight loss, night sweats, respiratory distress. Extrapulmonary disease may manifest as prolonged fever, apathy, weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes (cervical, supraclavicular, axillary), headache, vomiting, increasing drowsiness, infants may stop vocalising. Swellings and loss of function may suggest bone, joint or spinal TB. • Phlyctenular conjuctivitis, erythema nodosum and pleural effusions are considered hypersensitivity reactions of TB disease. Diagnosis of TB disease Diagnosis in children is usually difficult. Features suggestive of tuberculosis are: • Recent contact with a person (usually adult) with active tuberculosis. This constitutes one of the strongest evidence of TB in a child who has symptoms and x ray abnormalities suggestive of TB. • Symptoms and signs suggestive of TB are as listed above. Infants are more likely to have non specific symptoms like low-grade fever, cough, weight loss, failure to thrive, and signs like wheezing, reduced breath sounds, tachypnoea and occasionally frank respiratory distress. • Positive Mantoux test (10 mm induration at 72 hours; tuberculin strength of 10 IU PPD). • Suggestive chest X-ray: • Enlarged hilar Iymph nodes +/- localised obstructive emphysema • Persistent segmental collapse consolidation not responding to conventional antibiotics. • Pleural effusion. • Calcification in Iymph nodes - usually develops 6 mths after infection. • Laboratory tests • Presence of AFB on smears of clinical specimens and positive histopathology or cytopathology on tissue specimens are highly suggestive of TB. Isolation of M. tuberculosis by culture from appropriate specimens is confirmatory. Diagnostic Work-up • Efforts should be made to collect clinical specimens for AFB smear, cytopathology or histopathology, special stains and AFB culture to assure confirmation of diagnosis and drug susceptibility. • If the source case is known, it is important to utilize information from the source such as culture and susceptibility results to help guide therapy. the diagnostic work-up for TB disease is tailored to the organ system most likely affected.
  • 433. 420 The diagnostic work-up for TB disease is tailored to the organ system most likely affected. The tests to consider include but are not limited to the following: Pulmonary TB • Chest radiograph • Early morning gastric aspirates¹ • Sputum (if 12 years, able to expectorate sputum)¹ • Pleural fluid¹ or biopsy¹ Central Nervous System (CNS) TB • CSF for FEME , AFB smear and TB culture¹ • CT head with contrast TB adenitis • Excisional biopsy or fine needle aspirate¹ Abdominal TB • CT abdomen with contrast • Biopsy of mass / mesenteric lymph node¹ TB osteomyelitis • CT/MRI of affected limb • Biopsy of affected site¹ Miliary / Disseminated TB • As for pulmonary TB • Early morning urine¹ • CSF¹ ¹Note: These specimens should be sent for AFB smear and TB culture and susceptibility testing. Cytopathology or histopathology should be carried out on appropriate specimens. In addition, all children evaluated for TB disease require a chest x-ray to rule out pulmonary Abbreviations: AFB, acid fast bacilli; CT, computed tomography scan; CSF, cerebrospinal fluid INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 434. 421 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Treatment of TB disease • Antimicrobial therapy for TB disease requires a multidrug treatment regimen. • Drug selection is dependent on drug susceptibility seen in the area the TB is acquired, disease burden and exposure to previous TB medications, as well as HIV prevalence. • Therapeutic choices are best made according to drug susceptibility of the organism cultured from the patient. • Almost all recommended treatment regimens have 2 phases, an initial intensive phase and a second continuation phase. • For any one patient, the treatment regimen would depend on the diagnosis (pulmonary or extrapulmonary), severity and history of previous treatment. • Directly observed therapy is recommended for treatment of active disease. Tuberculosis Chemotherapy in Children Drug Daily Dose Intermittent Dose (Thrice Weekly) mg/kg/day Max dose (mg) mg/kg/day Max dose (mg) Isoniazid H 10-15 300 10 900 Rifampicin R 10-20 600 10 600 Pyrazinamide Z 30-40 2000 - - Ethambutol E 15-25 1000 30-50 2500 Short course therapy • This consists of a 6 month regimen, an initial 2 month intensive and subsequent 4 month continuation phase. Short course therapy is suitable for pulmonary tuberculosis and non-severe extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Children with tuberculous meningitis , miliary and osteoarticular tuber- culosis should be treated for 12 months. It is not recommended for drug resistant TB. The short course consists of: • Intensive Phase (2 months) • Daily Isoniazid, Rifampicin and Pyrazinamide • A 4th drug (Ethambutol) is added when initial drug resistance may be present or for extensive disease eg. miliary TB or where prevalence of HIV is high. • Maintenance Phase (4 months) • Isoniazid and rifampicin for the remaining 4 months. • This should be given daily (preferred). • WHO does not recommend intermittent regimens but a thrice weekly regimen can be given in certain cases. • All intermittent dose regimens must be directly supervised.
  • 435. 422 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Pulmonary TB and Less Severe Extrapulmonary TB • Recommended regimen is short course therapy as above. • Less severe extrapulmonary TB include lymph node disease, unilateral pleural effusion, bone / joint (single site) excluding spine, and skin. WHO Recommendations • Children living in settings where the prevalence of HIV is high or where resistance to isoniazid is high, or both, with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis or peripheral lymphadenitis; or children with extensive pulmonary disease living in settings of low HIV prevalence or low isoniazid resistance, should be treated with a four-drug regimen (HRZE) for 2 months followed by a two-drug regimen (HR) for 4 months. • Children with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis or tuberculous peripheral lymphadenitis who live in settings with low HIV prevalence or low resistance to isoniazid and children who are HIV-negative can be treated with a three-drug regimen (HRZ) for 2 months followed by a two-drug (HR) regimen for 4 months • Children with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis or tuberculous peripheral lymphadenitis living in settings with a high HIV prevalence (or with confirmed HIV infection) should not be treated with intermittent regimens. • Thrice-weekly regimens can be considered during the continuation phase of treatment, for children known to be HIV-uninfected and living in settings with well-established directly-observed therapy (DOT). • Streptomycin should not be used as part of first-line treatment regimens for children with pulmonary tuberculosis or tuberculous peripheral lymphadenitis. • Children with suspected or confirmed tuberculous meningitis as well as those with suspected or confirmed osteoarticular tuberculosis should be treated with a four-drug regimen (HRZE) for 2 months, followed by a two-drug regimen (HR) for 10 months; the total duration of treatment being 12 months.
  • 436. 423 Corticosteroids • Indicated for children with TB meningitis. • May be considered for children with pleural and pericardial effusion (to hasten reabsorption of fluid), severe miliary disease (if hypoxic) and endobronchial disease. • Steroids should be given only when accompanied by appropriate antituberculous therapy. • Dosage: prednisolone 1-2mg/kg per day (max. 40 mg daily) for first 3-4 week, then taper over 3-4 weeks. Monitoring of Drug Toxicity • Indications for baseline and routine monitoring of serum transaminases and bilirubin are recommended for: • Severe TB disease. • Clinical symptoms of hepatotoxicity. • Underlying hepatic disease. • Use of other hepatotoxic drugs (especially anticonvulsants). • HIV infection. • Routine testing of serum transaminases in healthy children with none of the above risk factors is not necessary. • Children on Ethambutol should be monitored for visual acuity and colour discrimination. Breast-feeding and the Mother with Pulmonary Tuberculosis • Tuberculosis treatment in lactating mothers is safe as the amount of drug ingested by the baby is minimal. Hence if the mother is already on treatment and is non-infective, the baby can be breastfed. • Women who are receiving isoniazid and are breastfeeding should receive pyridoxine. • If the mother is diagnosed to have active pulmonary TB and is still infective: • The newborn should be separated from the mother for at least one week while the mother is being treated. Mother should wear a surgical mask subsequently while breast feeding until she is asymptomatic and her sputum is AFB-smear negative . • Breast feeding is best avoided during this period, however, expressed breast milk can be given . • The infant should be evaluated for congenital TB. If this is excluded, BCG is deferred and the baby should receive isoniazid for 3 months and then tuberculin tested. If tuberculin negative and mother has been adherent to treatment and non-infectious, isoniazid can be discontinued and BCG given. If tuberculin positive, the infant should be reassessed for TB disease and if disease is not present, isoniazid is continued for total of 6 months and BCG given at the end of treatment. • Other close household contacts should be evaluated for TB. • Congenital TB is rare but should be suspected if the infant born to a tuberculous mother fails to thrive or is symptomatic. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 438. 425 Chapter 81: BCG Lymphadenitis • Regional lymphadenopathy is one of the more common complications of BCG vaccination and arises as a result of enlargement of ipsilateral lymph nodes, principally involving the axillary node. • Differential diagnoses to consider are: • Pyogenic lymphadenitis. • Tuberculous lymphadenitis. • Non-tuberculous lymphadenitis. • The following are features suggestive of BCG lymphadenitis • History of BCG vaccination on the ipsilateral arm. • Onset usually 2 to 4 months after BCG vaccination, although it may range from 2 weeks to 6 months. Almost all cases occur within 24 months. • There is absence of fever or other constitutional symptoms. • Absent or minimal local tenderness over the lesion(s). • 95% of cases involve ipsilateral axillary lymph nodes, but supraclavicular or cervical glands may be involved in isolation or in association with axillary lymphadenopathy. • Only 1 to 2 discrete lymph nodes are enlarged (clinically palpable) in the majority of cases. Involved lymph nodes are rarely matted together. • Two forms of lymphadenitis can be recognized, non-suppurative or simple which may resolve spontaneously within a few weeks, or suppurative which is marked by the appearance of fluctuation with erythema and oedema of the overlying skin and increased pigmentation. • Once suppuration has occurred, the subsequent course is usually one of spontaneous perforation, discharge and sinus formation. Healing eventually takes place through cicatrization and closure of the sinus, the process taking several months with possible scarring. Correct Technique to give BCGVaccination Needle: Short (10mm) 26-27 gauge needle with a short bevel using a BCG or insulin syringe Site: Left arm at Deltoid insertion Dose: 0.05 mls for infants ( 1 year of age) 0.1 ml for children 1 year. Route: Intradermal Do not give BCG at other sites where the lymphatic drainage makes subsequent lymphadenitis difficult to diagnose and dangerous (especially on buttock where lymphatic drains to inguinal and deep aortic nodes). INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 439. 426 MANAGEMENT Assessment Careful history and examination are important to diagnose BCG adenitis • BCG lymphadenitis without suppuration (no fluctuation) • Drugs are not required. • Reassurance and follow-up Is advised. • Several controlled trials and a recent metaanalysis (Cochrane database) have suggested that drugs such as antibiotics (e.g. erythromycin) or antituberculous drugs neither hasten resolution nor prevent its progression into suppuration. • BCG lymphadenitis with suppuration (fluctuation) • Needle aspiration is recommended. Usually one aspiration is effective, but repeated aspirations may be needed for some patients. • Surgical excision may be needed when needle aspiration has failed (as in the case of matted and multiloculated nodes) or when suppurative nodes have already drained with sinus formation. • Surgical incision is not recommended. Needle aspiration • Prevents spontaneous perforation and associated complications. • Shortens the duration of healing. • Is safe. Persistent Lymphadenitis/ disseminated disease • In patients with large and persistent or recurrent lymphadenopathy, constitutional symptoms, or failure to thrive, possibility of underlying immunodeficency should be considered and investigated. Thus all infants presenting with BCG lymphadenitis should be followed up till resolution. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 440. 427 Chapter 82: Dengue and Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever with Shock Introduction • Dengue virus infections affect all age groups and produce a spectrum of illness that ranges from asymptomatic to a mild or nonspecific viral illness to severe and occasionally fatal disease. • The traditional 1997 World Health Organization classification of dengue was recently reviewed and changed. The new classification encompass various categories of dengue since dengue exists in continuum. • The term DHF used in previous classification put too much emphasis on hemorrhage; However, the hallmark of severe dengue (and the manifestation that should be addressed early) IS NOT HEMORRHAGE but increased vascular permeability that lead to shock. This new system divides dengue into TWO major categories of severity: • Dengue: with or without warning signs, and • Severe dengue. Probable Dengue Warning Signs • Lives in/travel to dengue endemic area • Intense abdominal pain or tenderness • Persistent vomiting • Clinical fluid accumulation. • Mucosal bleed • Lethargy, restlessness • Liver enlargement 2cm • Laboratory: Increase in hematocrit with concurrent rapid decrease in platelet count. • Fever and 2 of the following: • Nausea, vomiting • Rash • Aches and pains • Positive Tourniquet test • Leucopenia • Any warning sign • Laboratory-confirmed dengue (important when no sign of plasma leakage) INFECTIOUSDISEASE DENGUE VIRAL ILLNESS With Warning Signs DENGUE SEVERE DENGUE No Warning Signs Severe Shock +/- • Respiratory Distress • Severe Haemorrhage • Organ Failure (CNS/Liver) NEW SIMPLIFIED CLASSIFICATION OF DENGUE VIRAL INFECTIONS, WHO 2009
  • 441. 428 Criteria for Severe Dengue Severe plasma leakage with rising hematocrit leading to: • Shock • Fluid accumulation (pleural,ascitic) • Respiratory distress • Severe bleeding • Severe organ involvement • Liver: Elevated transaminases (AST or ALT≥1000) • CNS: Impaired consciousness, seizures. • Heart and other organ involvement Management of Patients with Dengue • Dengue is a complex and unpredictable disease but success can be achieved with mortality rates of 1% when care is given in simple and inexpensive interventions provided they are given appropriately at the right time. • The timing of intervention starts at frontline healthcare personnel whether they are in AE or OPD or even health clinics. • Early recognition of disease and careful monitoring of IV fluid is important right from beginning. • The healthcare personnel involved in managing dengue cases day to day need to familiarize themselves with the THREE main well demarcated phases of dengue: febrile, critical; and recovery. (see next page) • In early phase of disease, it is difficult to differentiate dengue with other childhood illness; therefore performing a tourniquet test with FBC at first encounter would be useful to differentiate dengue from other illness. • Temporal relationship of fever cessation (defervescence) is important as in DENGUE (unlike other viral illness) manifest its severity (leakage/ shock) when temperature seems to have declined. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 442. 429 INFECTIOUSDISEASE 1 2 3 4 65 7 8 9 10 40 Days of Illness Temperature Potential Clinical Issues Laboratory Changes Serology and Virology Phase of Illness Shock and Bleeding Reabsorption, fluid overload pulmonary oedema Dehydration, febrile seizures Organ Impairment Platelets Haematocrit IgM/IgG Viraemia CRITICALFEBRILE RECOVERY PHASES OF DENGUE IN RELATION TO SYMPTOMS AND LABORATORY CHANGES Adapted from World Health Organization: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Control. Third Edition. Geneva, WHO/TDR, 2009.
  • 443. 430 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Priorities during first encounter are: 1 - Establish whether patient has dengue 2 - Determine phase of illness 3 - Recognise warning signs and/or the presence of severe dengue if present. • Most patients with DF and DHF can be managed without hospitalization provided they are alert, there are no warning signs or evidence of abnormal bleeding, their oral intake and urine output are satisfactory, and the caregiver is educated regarding fever control and avoiding non steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and is familiar with the course of illness. • A dengue information/home care card that emphasizes danger/warning signs is important. • These patients need daily clinical and/or laboratory assessment by trained doctors or nurses until the danger period has passed. If dengue is suspected or confirmed, disease notification is mandatory. Indication for Hospitalisation • Presence of warning signs. • Infants. • Children with co-morbid factors (diabetes, renal failure, immune • compromised state, hemoglobinopathies and obesity). • Social factors - living far from health facilities, transport issues. The THREE major priorities of managing hospitalized patient with dengue in the critical phase are: A - Replacement of plasma losses. B - Early recognition and treatment of hemorrhage. C - Prevention of fluid overload. • Fluid therapy in a patient with dengue shock has two parts: initial, rapid fluid boluses to reverse shock followed by titrated fluid volumes to match ongoing losses. • However, for a patient who has warning signs of plasma leakage but is not yet in shock, the initial fluid boluses may not be necessary.
  • 444. 431 INFECTIOUSDISEASE VOLUME REPLACEMENT FLOWCHART FOR PATIENTS WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND COMPENSATED SHOCK Yes Stable hemodynamics, HCT and general well being IMPROVEMENTVitals stable, HCT falls • HCT still high • Signs of shock unresolved Administer 2nd bolus of crystalloid/colloid, 10-20ml/kg over 1-2hrs depending on SBP DISCHARGE • Assess airway, breathing, obtain baseline hematocrit (HCT), insert urinary catheter. • Commence fluid resuscitation with Normal Saline or Ringer’s lactate at 5-10ml/kg over 1 hour for compensated shock. If hemodynamics and HCT are stable, plan a gradually reducing IV fluid (IVF) regimen with serial monitoring of vitals, urine output and 6-8 hourly HCT • IVF 5-7ml/kg/hr for 1-2 hours, then • Reduce IVF to 3-5ml/kg/hr for 2-4hours. • Reduce IVF to 2-3ml/kg/hr for 2-4hours. • Continue to reduce if patient improves. • Oral rehydration solutions may suffice when vomiting subsides and hemodynamic stable • A monitoring fluid regimen may be required for 24-48 hrs,until danger subsides. • If oral intake tolerated, can reduce IVF more rapidly. Reduce fluids to 7-10ml/kg/hr No Check HCT • HCT low • Consider occult /overt bleeding Emergent transfusion with whole blood/ packed red cells IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT Vitals and urine output good Yes No Yes No Note: • Recurrence of clinical instability may be due to increased plasma leak or new onset hemorrhage: • Review HCT
  • 445. 432 INFECTIOUSDISEASE APPROACH TO CHILD WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND HYPOTENSION Stable hemodynamics, HCT and general well being IMPROVEMENT Depending on HCT, repeat colloid or blood (whole blood/ packed red cells) x 2-3 aliquots as above until better DISCHARGE • Stabilize airway, breathing, high flow oxygen • Normal Saline / Ringer’s Lactate OR 6% Hetastarch / Gelatin 10-20ml/kg as 1-2 boluses over 15-30 min. • Obtain baseline hematocrit prior to fluids • Monitor vitals and hourly urine output with an indwelling catheter. • Correct hypoglycemia, hypocalcaemia, acidosis If hemodynamics and hematocrit are stable, plan a gradually reducing IV fluid regimen. • IV Crystalloid 5-7ml/kg/hr for 1-2 hrs, then • Reduce to 3-5ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hrs • Reduce to 2-3ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hrs • Continue serial close clinical monitoring and 2-4 hourly HCT Check HCT IMPROVEMENT Yes No Remember! The commonest causes of uncorrected shock/recurrence of shock are: • Inadequate replacement of plasma losses • Occult hemorrhage (Beware of procedure related bleeds) Recurrence of clinical instability may be due to increase plasma leak or new onset hemorrhage: • Review HCT • If HCT decreases consider transfusion with fresh whole blood/packed red cells • If HCT increases consider repeat fluid bolus or increase fluid administration • Extra fluid may be required for 36-48 hours • If oral intake tolerated, can reduce IVF more rapidly High Baseline HCT Administer 2nd bolus of Colloid, 10-20ml/kg over 1-2hrs depending on SBP Urgent fresh whole blood/packed red cells transfusion. Evaluate for source of blood loss. Low Baseline HCT Review Baseline HCT Yes No
  • 446. 433 INFECTIOUSDISEASE APPROACH TO A CHILD WITH SEVERE DENGUE AND REFRACTORY SHOCK (LATE PRESENTERS). • Stabilize airway, breathing, high flow oxygen • Normal Saline / Ringer’s Lactate OR 6% Hetastarch / Gelatin 10-20ml/kg as 1-2 boluses over 15-30 min. • Correct hypoglycemia, hypocalcaemia, acidosis • Monitor hemodynamics: Vitals, clinical indices of perfusion, hourly urine output, 2nd-4th hourly Haematocrit (HCT) • Transfuse fresh whole blood/PRBC early if hypotension persists. • Shock persist despite 40-60ml/kg of colloid/blood • HCT normal Remember!! The commonest causes of uncorrected shock/ recurrence of shock are: • Inadequate replacement of plasma losses • Occult hemorrhage (Beware of procedure related bleeds) Respiratory Distress Consider inotrope/pressor depending on SBP (see below), consider Echocardiogram CVP Low / HCT High Evaluate for unrecognized morbidities: See Box A (next page) Consider CVP with great care if expertise available CVP normal or high with continuing shock, HCT normal. Consider inotrope/ vasopressor depending on SBP • Dopamine/adrenaline (SBP low) • Dobutamine (SBP normal/high) Check IAP. Controlled Ascitic Fluid drainage with great caution if IAP elevated and shock refractory Titrate crystalloids/colloids with care till CVP/HCT target • Consider ventilation/nasal CPAP • Infuse fluids till CVP/HCT target • Consider inotrope/vasopressor depending on SBP, serial ECHO and clinical response. Hemodynamics unstable Hemodynamics improved Wean ventilation and inotrope/pressor. Taper fluids gradually. Beware of over-hydration during recovery. SBP: Systolic blood pressure, PRBC: Packed red blood cell, CVP: Central venous pressure, ECHO: Echocardiogram, IAP: Intra-abdominal pressure
  • 447. 434 INFECTIOUSDISEASE BOX A: Unrecognized morbidities that may contribute to refractory dengue shock. Occult bleeds Rx: Whole blood/PRBC transfusion Co-Existing bacterial septic shock/Malaria/leptospira, etc Rx: antibiotics/antimalarials, cardiovascular support, blood transfusion Myocardial Dysfunction (systolic or diastolic) Rx: Cardiovascular support, evaluate with ECHO if available Positive pressure ventilation contributing to poor cardiac output Rx: Titrated fluid and cardiovascular support Elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) Rx: Cautious drainage Wide-Spread Hypoxic-ischemic injury with terminal vasoplegic shock No treatment effective ECHO: Echocardiogram; IAP: Intra-abdominal pressure; Rx: Treatment Volume replacement flowchart for patient with dengue with “warning signs” • Assess airway and breathing and obtain baseline HCT level. • Commence fluid resuscitation with normal saline/Ringers lactate at 5-7ml/kg over 1-2 hours. • If hemodynamic and HCT are stable, plan a gradually reducing IVF regime. • Titrate fluid on the basis of vital signs, clinical examination, urine output (aim for 0.5ml-1ml/kg/hr),and serial HCT level. • IVF:5-7ml/kg/hr for 1-2 hours, then: • Reduce IVFs to 3-5ml/kg/hr for 2-4hours; • Reduce IVFs to 2-3ml/kg/hr for 2-4 hours; • Continue serial close monitoring and every 6-8hourly HCT level. • Oral rehydration solutions may suffice when vomiting subsides and hemodynamic stabilize. • A monitored fluid regimen may be required for 24-48hours until danger period subsides HCT-hematocrit; IVF, intravenous fluid
  • 448. 435 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Guidelines for reversing dengue shock while minimizing fluid overload Severe dengue with compensated shock: • Stabilize airway and breathing, obtain baseline Hct level, initiate fluid resuscitation with NS/RL at 5-10 mL/kg over 1 hr, and insert urine catheter early. Severe dengue with hypotension: • Stabilize airway and breathing, obtain baseline Hct level, initiate fluid resuscitation with 1-2 boluses of 20 mL/kg NS/RL or synthetic colloid over 15-20 mins until pulse is palpable, slow down fluid rates when hemodynamics improve, and repeat second bolus of 10 mL/kg colloid if shock persists and Hct level is still high. • Synthetic colloids may limit the severity of fluid overload in severe shock. End points/goals for rapid fluid boluses: • Improvement in systolic BP, widening of pulse pressure, extremity perfusion and the appearance of urine, and normalization of elevated Hct level. • If baseline Hct level is low or “normal” in presence of shock, hemorrhage likely to have worsened shock, transfuse fresh WB or fresh PRBCs early. • After rapid fluid boluses, continue isotonic fluid titration to match ongoing plasma leakage for 24–48 hrs; if patient not vomiting and is alert then aftershock correction with oral rehydration fluids may suffice to match ongoing losses. • Check Hct level 2-4 hourly for first 6 hrs and decrease frequency as patient improves. Goals for ongoing fluid titration: • Stable vital signs, serial Hct measurement showing gradual normalization (if not bleeding), and low normal hourly urine output are the most objective goals indicating adequate circulating volume; adjust fluid rate downward when this is achieved. • Plasma leakage is intermittent even during the first 24 hrs after the onset of shock; hence, fluid requirements are dynamic. • Targeting a minimally acceptable hourly urine output (0.5-1 mL/kg/hr) is an effective and inexpensive monitoring modality that can signal shock correction and minimize fluid overload. • A urine output of 1.5–2 mL/kg/hr should prompt reduction in fluid infusion rates, provided hyperglycemia has been ruled out. • Separate maintenance fluids are not usually required; glucose and potassium may be administered separately only if low.
  • 449. 436 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Guidelines for reversing dengue shock while minimizing fluid overload (cont) • Hypotonic fluids can cause fluid overload; also, avoid glucose- containing fluids, such as 1/2Glucose Normal Saline (GNS or I/2 GNS): the resultant hyperglycemia can cause osmotic diuresis and delay correction of hypovolemia. Tight glucose monitoring is recommended to avoid hyper/hypoglycemia. • Commence early enteral feeds when vital signs are stable, usually 4–8 hrs after admission. • All invasive procedures (intubation, central lines, and arterial cannulation) must be avoided; if essential, they must be performed by the most experienced person. Orogastric tubes are preferred to nasogastric tubes. • Significant hemorrhage mandates early fresh WB or fresh PRBC transfusion; minimize/avoid transfusions of other blood products, such as platelets and fresh-frozen plasma unless bleeding is uncontrolled despite 2–3 aliquots of fresh WB or PRBCs. NS/RL, normal saline/Ringer’s lactate; Hct, hematocrit; BP, blood pressure; WB, whole; HCT-hematocrit; IVF, intravenous fluid GNS-glucose/normal saline ** It is recommended that baseline hematocrit is obtained for all cases and repeat hematocrit done following each fluid resuscitation to look at child ‘s response and to plan subsequent fluid administration. In PICU/HDW settings, ABG machine can be used to look at HCT and in general wards, either, SPIN PCV or FBC (sent to lab).
  • 450. 437 INFECTIOUSDISEASE Discharge of Children with Dengue • Patients who are resuscitated from shock rapidly recover. Patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome may be discharged from the hospital when they meet the following criteria: • Afebrile for 24 hours without antipyretics. • Good appetite, clinically improved condition. • Adequate urine output. • Stable hematocrit level. • At least 48 hours since recovery from shock. • No respiratory distress. • Platelet count greater than 50,000 cells/μL.
  • 451. 438 INFECTIOUSDISEASE HOME CARE CARD FOR DENGUE PATIENTS (Please take this card to your health facility for each visit) What should be done? • Adequate bed rest. • Adequate fluid intake: (5 glasses for average-sized adults or accordingly in children) • Milk, fruit juice (caution with diabetes patient) and isotonic electrolyte solution (ORS) and barley/rice water. • Plain water alone may cause electrolyte imbalance. • Take Paracetamol (not more than 4 grams per day for adults and accordingly in children). • Tepid sponging. • Look for mosquito breeding places in and around the home and eliminate them. What should be avoided? • Do not take acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin), mefenamic acid (Ponstan), ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), or steroids. If you are already taking these medications please consult your doctor. • Antibiotics are not necessary. If any of following is observed, take the patient immediately to the nearest hospital. These are warning signs for danger: • Bleeding: • Red spots or patches on the skin; bleeding from nose or gum, • vomiting blood; black-colored stools; • heavy menstruation/vaginal bleeding. • Frequent vomiting. • Severe abdominal pain. • Drowsiness, mental confusion or seizures. • Pale, cold or clammy hands and feet. • Difficulty in breathing. Laboratory Monitoring Visit (date) White blood cells Hematocrit Platelets
  • 452. 439 Chapter 83: Diphteria INFECTIOUSDISEASE Introduction • Diphtheria is a clinical syndrome caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria. • Diphtheria can be classified based on site of disease: nasal diphtheria, pharyngeal and tonsillar diphtheria, laryngeal or laryngotracheal diphtheria, and cutaneous diphteria. • Diphtheria may cause systemic complication such as myocarditis (mortality 50%), neuritis presenting as paralysis of soft palate and rarely non-oliguric acute kidney injury. Management of an Acute Case • All suspected and confirmed patients must be placed under strict isolation until bacteriological clearance has been demonstrated after completing treatment. Strict droplet precautions and hand hygiene must be observed by healthcare workers. • Obtain specimens for culture from nose, throat, or any mucosal membrane (tissue). Obtain specimen before the commencement of antibiotic and specimen must be transported to the laboratory promptly. Notify laboratory personnel as special tellurite enriched culture media (Loffler’s or Tindale’s) are needed. Diphtheria Antitoxin (derived from horse serum) • Definitive treatment : • Early, single dose of IV infusion (over 60minutes) diphtheria antitoxin should be administered on the basis of clinical diagnosis, even before culture results are available. • Tests for hypersensitivity is recommended for IV administration. Form of diphtheria Dose ( units) Route Pharyngeal/Laryngeal disease of 48 hours or less 20,000 to 40,000 IM OR IV Nasopharyngeal lesions 40,000 to 60,000 IM OR IV Extensive disease of 3 or more days durations or diffuse swelling of the neck (bull-neck diphtheria) 80,000 to 120,000 IM OR IV Cutaneous lesions (not routinely given) 20,000 to 40,000 IM
  • 453. 440 Begin antibiotic therapy Antibiotic is indicated to stop toxin production, treat localised infection, and to prevent transmission of the organism to contacts. It is not a substitute for antitoxin treatment. REGIME • Penicillin • IV aqueous crystalline Penicillin 100,000 to 150,000 U/kg/day in 4 divided doses, maximum 1.2 million U. Or • IM procaine Penicillin 25,000 to 50,000 U/kg/day (maximum 1.2million U, in 2 divided doses. • Change to oral Penicillin V 125-250mg QID once patient can take orally. • Total antibiotic duration for 14 days. OR • Erythromycin • IV OR Oral 40-50 mg/kg/day, maximum 2g/day. • Total antibiotic duration for 14 days. Immunization • Before discharge, to catch up diphtheria toxoid immunization as diptheria infection does not necessary confer immunity Management of close contacts and asymptomatic carriers • Refer to diphtheria protocol. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 454. 441 INFECTIOUSDISEASE FLOW CHART FOR THE CASE MANAGEMENT AND INVESTIGATION OF CLOSE CONTACTS IN DIPHTHERIA Notify Health Department NoneIdentify Close Contacts Assess for signs /symptoms for at least 7 days Positive Ensure daily surveillance of all contacts The following 4 issues must be addressed: 3 doses or unknown Suspected or Proven Diphtheria • Institute strict isolation • Obtain nasal pharyngeal swab culture for C. dipththeria • Notify laboratory • Treatment with Diphtheria antitoxin • Begin antibiotic therapy (Penicillin) • Provide active immunization Stop Obtain Cultures nose, pharynx, wounds Antibiotic prophylaxis Immunization status Negative Stop ≥3 doses, last dose 5 yrs ago • Avoid close contact with inadequately vaccinated persons. • Identify close contacts and proceed with preventive measures described for close contacts of a case. • Repeat cultures a minimum of 2 weeks after completion of antibiotic to assure eradication of the organism. ≥3 doses, last dose 5 yrs ago • Administer immediate dose of diphtheria toxoid and complete primary series according to schedule • Administer immediate booster dose of diphtheria toxoid • Children who need their 4th primary dose or booster dose should be vaccinated; otherwise, vaccination
  • 455. 442 INFECTIOUSDISEASE References Section 10 Infectious Disease Chapter 77 Sepsis and Septic Shock 1.Goldstein B, Giroir B, Randolph A, et al. International pediatric sepsis consensus conference: Definitions for sepsis and organ dysfunction in pediatrics. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2005;6:2-8 2.Dellinger RP, Levy MM, Carlet JM, et al. Surviving Sepsis Campaign: Interna- tional Guidelines for Management of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock. Crit Care Med 2008;36:296-327 3.Warrick Butt. Septic Shock. Ped Clinics North Am 2001;48(3) 4.Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International guidelines for management of severe sepsis and septic shock: 2008. Intensive Care Med (2008) 34:17–60 5.APLS 5th edition. Chapter 78 Pediatric HIV 1.Clinical Practice Guidelines: Management of HIV infection in children (Malaysia, 2008). 2.World Health Organization. Antiretroviral therapy of HIV infection in infants and children in resource-limited settings: towards universal access: recom- mendations for a public health approach (2006). 3.Sharland M, et al. PENTA guidelines for the use of antiretroviral therapy, 2004. HIV Medicine 2004; 5 (Suppl 2) :61-86. 4.The Working Group on Antiretroviral Therapy. Guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents in Paediatric HIV infection. Oct 26, 2006 http://www. aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/ (accessed on 9th December 2007) Chapter 79 Malaria 1.Dondorp A, et al. Artesunate versus quinine in the treatment of severe falciparum malaria in African children (AQUAMAT): on open-label, rand- omized trial; Lancet 2010 Nov 13:376: 1647-1657. 2.WHO Malaria treatment Guidelines 2010. 3.Metha PN. UK Malaria guidelines 2007. 4.Red Book 2009. Chapter 80 Tuberculosis 1.RAPID ADVICE. Treatment of tuberculosis in Children WHO/HTM/ TB/2010.13. Chapter 81 BCG Lymphadenitis 1.Singha A, Surjit S, Goraya S, Radhika S et al. The natural course of non- suppurative Calmette-Guerin bacillus lymphadenitis. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2002:21:446-448 2.Goraya JS, Virdi VS. Treatment of Calmette-Guerin bacillus adenitis, a metaanalysis. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2001;20:632-4 (also in Cochrane Data- base of Systematic Reviews 2004; Vol 2.) 3.Banani SA, Alborzi A. Needle aspiration for suppurative post-BCG adenitis. Arch Dis Child 1994;71:446-7.
  • 456. 443 Chapter 82 Dengue 1.World Health Organization: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis, Treat- ment, Prevention and Control. Second Edition. Geneva. World Health Organization, 1997. 2.Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and control. Third Edition. A joint publication of the World Health organization (WHO) and the Special programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, 2009. 3.TDR: World Health Organization issues new dengue guidelines. Available at http://apps.who.int/tdr/svc/publications/tdrnews/issue-85/tdr-briefly. Accessed July 1,2010 4.Suchitra R, Niranjan K; Dengue hemorrhagic fever and shock syndromes. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2011 Vol.12, No.1; 90-100. INFECTIOUSDISEASE
  • 458. 445 Chapter 84: Atopic Dermatitis Introduction • A chronic inflammatory itchy skin condition that usually develops in early childhood and follows a remitting and relapsing course. It often has a genetic component. • Leads to the breakdown of the skin barrier making the skin susceptible to trigger factors, including irritants and allergens, which can make the eczema worse. • Although not often thought of as a serious medical condition, it can have a significant impact on quality of life. Diagnostic criteria Major features (must have 3) Hanifin and Rajka criteria Pruritus Typical morphology and distribution • Facial and extensor involvement in infancy, early childhood • Flexural lichenification and linearity by adolescence Chronic or chronically relapsing dermatitis Personal or family history of atopy (asthma, allergic rhinoconjuctivitis, atopic dermatitis) Minor / less specific features Xerosis Preauricular fissures Icthyosis / palmar hyperlinearity / keratosis pilaris Ig E reactivity Hand/foot dermatitis Cheilitis Scalp dermatitis (cradle cap) Susceptibility to cutaneous infection (e.g. Staph. aureus and Herpes simplex virus) Perifollicular accentuation (especially in pigmented races) DERMATOLOGY
  • 459. 446 Triggering factors • Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal • Emotional stress • Sweating and itching • Irritants: Hand washing soap, detergents • Extremes of weathers • Allergens • Food : egg, peanuts, milk, fish, soy, wheat. • Aeroallergens : house dust mite, pollen, animal dander and molds. Management • Tailor the treatment of atopic dermatitis individually depending on: • The severity. • Patient’s understanding and expectation of the disease and the treatment process. • Patient’s social circumstances. • Comprehensive patient education is paramount, and a good doctor-patient relationship is essential for long-term successful management. • In an acute flare-up of atopic dermatitis, evaluate for the following factors: • Poor patient compliance • Secondary infection: bacterial (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus), viral (e.g. herpes simplex virus) • Persistent contact irritant/allergen. • Physical trauma, scratching, friction, sweating and adverse environmental factors. Bath Emollients • Baths soothe itching and removes crusting. They should be lukewarm and limited to 10 minutes duration. Avoid soaps. Use soap substitute e.g. aqueous cream or emulsifying ointment. • Moisturizers work to reduce dryness in the skin by trapping moisture. • Apply to normal and abnormal skin at least twice a day and more frequently in severe cases. • Emollients are best applied after bath. Offer a choice of unperfumed emollients and suitable to the child’s needs and preferences, e.g. Aqueous cream, Ung. Emulsificans, and vaseline. N.B. Different classes of moisturizer are based on their mechanism of action, including occlusives, humectants, emollients and protein rejuvenators. In acute exudation form KMNO4 1:10,000 solutions or normal saline daps or soaks are useful – as mild disinfectant and desiccant. DERMATOLOGY
  • 460. 447 USE STEPPED CARE PLAN APPROACH FOR TREATMENT MEASURES Diagnosis (Follow Diagnostic Criteria table) Clear • Normal skin • No active eczema Physical assessment – including psychological impact • Emollients + • Mild potency corticosteroids for 7-14 days DERMATOLOGY Moderate • Areas of dry skin • Frequent itching • Areas of redness • Areas of excoriation Mild • Areas of dry skin • In-frequent itching • Small areas of redness Severe • Widespread areas of dry skin • Intense itching • Widespread areas of redness • Areas of excoriation, bleeding, oozing lichenification Emollients • Emollients + • Moderate potency corticosteroids for 7-14 days • Wet wraps • Tacrolimus • Systemic therapy • Phototherapy • Emollients + • Moderate potency corticosteroids for 7-14 days • Wet wraps • Tacrolimus Step treatment up or down according to physical severity
  • 461. 448 Topical Corticosteroids • Topical corticosteroid is an anti-inflammatory agent and the mainstay of treatment for atopic eczema. • Topical steroid are often prescribed intermittently for short term reactive treatment of acute flares and supplemented by emollients. • Choice depends on a balance between efficacy and side-effects. • The more potent the steroid, the more the side-effect. • Apply steroid cream once or twice daily. • Avoid sudden discontinuation to prevent rebound phenomenon. • Use milder steroids for face, flexures and scalp. • Amount of topical steroid to be used – the finger tip (FTU) is convenient way of indicating to patients how much of a topical steroid should be applied to skin at any one site. 1 FTU is the amount of steroid expressed from the tube to cover the length of the flexor aspect of the terminal phalanx of the patient’s index finger. • Number of FTU required for the different body areas. • 1 hand/foot/face 1 FTU • 1 arm 3 FTU • 1 leg 6 FTU • Front and back of trunk 14 FTU • Adverse effect results from prolonged use of potent topical steroids. • Local effects include skin atrophy, telangiectasia, purpura, striae, acne, hirsutism and secondary infections. Systemic effects are adrenal axis suppression, Cushing syndrome. Steroid Potency Potency of topical steroid Topical steroid Mild Hydrocortisone cream/ointment 1% Moderate Bethametasone 0.025% (1:4dilution) Eumovate (clobetasone butyrate) Potent Bethametasona 0.050% Elomet (mometasone furoate) Super potent Dermovate (clobetasone propionate) DERMATOLOGY
  • 462. 449 Systemic Therapy • Consist of: • Relief of pruritus • Treatment of secondary infection, and • Treatment of refractory cases Relief of Pruritus • Do not routinely use oral antihistamines. • Offer a 1-month trial of a non-sedating antihistamine to: • Children with severe atopic eczema • Children with mild or moderate atopic eczema where there is severe itching or urticaria. • If successful, treatment can be continued while symptoms persist. Review every 3 months. • Offer a 7–14 day trial of a sedating antihistamine to children over 6 months during acute flares if sleep disturbance has a significant impact. This can be repeated for subsequent flares if successful. Treatment of secondary infection • Secondary bacterial skin infection is common and may cause acute exacerbation of eczema. Systemic antibiotics are necessary when there is evidence of extensive infection. • Commonly Staphyloccus aureus. • Useful in exudation form where superinfection occurs. • Choice: • Oral cloxacillin 15mg/kg/day 6 hourly for 7-14 days, or • Oral Erythromycin / cephalosporin • Secondary infection can arise from Herpes simplex virus causing Eczema Herpeticum. Treatment using antiviral e.g. Acyclovir may be necessary. Refractory cases • Refractory cases do not response to conventional topical therapy and have extensive eczema. Refer to a Dermatologist (who may use systemic steroids, interferon, Cyclosporine A, Azathioprine or/and phototherapy). Other Measures • Avoid woolen toys, clothes, bedding. • Reduce use of detergent (esp. biological). • BCG contraindicated till skin improves. • Swimming is useful (MUST apply moisturizer immediately upon exiting pool). • Avoid Aggravating Factors. DERMATOLOGY
  • 463. 450 For Relapse • Check compliance. • Suspect secondary infection – send for skin swab; start antibiotics. • Exclude scabies • For severe eczema, emollient and topical steroid can be applied under occlusion with ‘wet wrap’. This involves the use of a layer of wet, followed by a layer of dry Tubifast to the affected areas i.e. limbs and trunk. The benefits are probably due to cooling by evaporation, relieving pruritus, enhanced absorption of the topical steroid and physical protection of the excoriation. Prognosis • Tendency towards improvement throughout childhood. • Two third will clear by adolescence. DERMATOLOGY
  • 464. 451 Infantile haemangiomas • Are the most common benign vascular tumour of infancy. • Clinical course is marked by rapid growth during early infancy followed by slower growth, then gradual involution. • A minority cause functional impairment and even more cause psychosocial distress. • Once resolved, a significant minority (20-40%) leave residual scarring, fibrofatty tissue, telangiectases, and other skin changes which can have a lasting psychological effect. • By 5 years of age, 50% of hemangiomas involute, 70% by age 7, and 90% by age 9. 20-40% leave residual changes in the skin. • Approximately 10% require treatment, and 1% are life threatening. • In 95% of cases, diagnosis can be established on the basis of history and physical examination alone. • Typical-appearing vascular tumors. • History of the lesion seen at birth or shortly thereafter, with characteristic proliferation in early infancy. Clinical subtypes of haemangiomas: • Superficial haemangiomas are most common (50%-60%). • Deep haemangiomas (15%): bluish soft-tissue swellings without an overlying superficial component. • Mixed haemangiomas (both a superficial and deep component) (25%-35%).Multiple neonatal haemangiomatosis (15%-30%), consists of multiple small lesions ranging from a few millimeters to 1 to 2 cm. Chapter 85: Infantile Hemangioma DERMATOLOGY Rate of haemangioma growth 2 1812964 24 36 48 60 Rapid growth Slow growth Static growth Slow involution Age in months
  • 465. 452 Management • Most hemangiomas require no treatment. • Active nonintervention is recommended in order to recognize those that may require treatment quickly. • When treatment is undertaken, it is important that it be customized to the individual patient, and that the possible physical, and psychological complications be discussed in advance. Often, a multidisciplinary approach is recommended. • Individualized depending on: size of the lesion(s), location, presence of complications, age of the patient, and rate of growth or involution at the time of evaluation. The potential risk(s) of treatment is carefully weighed against the potential benefits. No risk or low-risk haemangiomas (Small, causing no functional impairment and unlikely to leave permanent disfigurement) • Wait and watch policy (active non-intervention) • Patient education: Parent education may include the following: • The expected natural history without treatment • Demonstration whenever possible serial clinical photographs of natural involution. High-risk haemangiomas (Large, prognostically poor location, likely to leave permanent disfigurement, causing functional impairment, or involving extracutaneous structures) • Large cutaneous or visceral haemangiomas (particularly liver) can result in high-output cardiac failure. • Haemangiomas on the ‘special sites’ with associated complications are given on the table below. Special site Complications Beard Airway compromise Eye Amblyopia, strabismus, astigmatism Lumbar Tethered cord, imperforate anus, renal anomalies, sacral anomalies. Facial PHACES DERMATOLOGY
  • 466. 453 DERMATOLOGY • Segmental haemangiomas, which cover a particular section or area of skin, may be markers for underlying malformations or developmental anomalies of the heart, blood vessels, or nervous system (PHACE and PELVIS syndromes and lumbosacral haemangiomas) and, depending on the severity of the associated anomaly, can result in increased morbidity or mortality. • PHACE syndrome is posterior fossa structural brain abnormalities (Dandy-Walker malformation and various forms of hypoplasia); haemangiomas of the face, head, and neck (segmental, 5 cm in diameter); arterial lesions (especially carotid, cerebral, and vertebral); cardiac anomalies (coarctation of the aorta in addition to many other structural anomalies); eye abnormalities; and, rarely, associated midline ventral defects such as sternal cleft or supraumbilical raphe). • PELVIS syndrome is perineal haemangioma with any of the following: external genital malformations, lipomyelomeningocele, vesicorenal abnormalities, imperforate anus, and/or skin tags. Treatment • The listed treatments may be used singly, in combination with each other, or with a surgical modality. MEDICAL • Propranolol is the first-line therapy; Patients are admitted to ward for propranolol therapy for close monitoring of any adverse effects. • Dose: Start at 0.5 mg/kg/d in 2 to 3 divided doses orally and then increased if tolerated. An increase in dose by 0.5 mg/kg/d is given until the optimal therapeutic dose of 1.5 to 2 mg/kg/day. • Duration: Ranges from 2 - 15 months but it is proposed that propranolol should be continued for 1 year or until the lesion involutes completely, as rebound growth has been noted if treatment is withdrawn too early. • Propranolol is withdrawn by halving the dose for 2 weeks, then halving again for 2 weeks, before stopping. • Adverse effects: hypotension, bradycardia, hypoglycemia, bronchospasm, sleep disturbance, diarrhea, and hyperkalemia. • Systemic corticosteroids (indicated mainly during the growth period of haemangiomas): • Prednisolone 2 to 4 mg/kg/ day in a single morning dose or divided doses. Watch out for growth retardation, blood pressure elevation, insulin resistance, and immunosuppression. • Intralesional corticosteroid therapy for small, bossed, facial hemangioma. • Triamcinolone, 20mg/ml, should be injected at low pressure, using a 3 ml syringe and 25-gauge needle. Do not exceed 3-5mg/kg per procedure. • Periocular regions must be done only by an experienced ophthalmologist as there is a risk of embolic occlusion of the retinal artery or oculomotor nerve palsy.
  • 467. 454 DERMATOLOGY • Other systemic therapy: • Interferon alfa. Very effective but is used mainly as a second-line therapy for lesions not responsive to corticosteroids because of the possible severe neurotoxicity, including spastic diplegia. • Vincristine. Some consider this as second-line treatment for corticosteroid resistant hemangiomas. SURGERY • The benefits and risks of surgery must be weighed carefully, since the scar may be worse than the results of spontaneous regression. • Surgery is especially good for small, pedunculated hemangiomas and occasionally, in cases where there may be functional impairment. It is usually used to repair residual cosmetic deformities. • Generally, it is recommended that a re-evaluation be done when the child is 4 years old, in order to assess the potential benefit of excision.
  • 468. 455 Chapter 86: Scabies Definition Infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabei. Any part of the body may be affected, and transmission is by skin to skin contact. Clinical features Symptoms • Mites burrow into the skin where they lay eggs. The resulting offspring crawl out onto the skin and makes new burrows. • Absorption of mite excrement into skin capillaries generates a hypersensitivity reaction. • The main symptom, which takes 4-6 wks to develop, is generalised itch – especially at night. Signs • Characteristic silvery lines may be seen in the skin where mites have burrowed. • Classic sites: interdigital folds, wrists, elbows, umbilical area, genital area and feet. • Nodular Scabies- papules or nodules seen at the site of mite infestation often affect the scrotum, axillae, back, or feet of children. • Crusted or Norwegian Scabies- seen in young infants or immunosuppressed patients. Widespread mite infestation causing a hyperkeratotic and/or crusted generalized rash. Diagnosis • The clinical appearance is usually typical, but there is often diagnostic confusion with other itching conditions such as eczema. • Scrapings taken from burrows examined under light microscopy may reveal mites. Management General advice • Educate the parents about the condition and give clear written information on applying the treatment. • Treat everyone in the household and close contacts. • Only allow the patient to go to school 24 hours after the start of treatment. • Wash clothing and bedding in hot water or by dry cleaning. Clothing that cannot be washed may be stored in a sealed plastic bag for three days. • The pruritis of scabies may be treated with diphenhydramine or other anti-pruritic medication if necessary. The pruritis can persist up to three weeks post treatment even if all mites are dead, and therefore it is not an indication to retreat unless live mites are identified. • Any superimposed bacterial skin infection should be treated at the same time as the scabies treatment. DERMATOLOGY
  • 469. 456 Treatment • Permetrin 5% lotion • Use for infants as young as 2 months and onwards. Children should be supervised by an adult when applying lotion. • Massage the lotion into the skin from the head to the soles of the feet, paying particular attention to the areas between the fingers and toes, wrists, axillae, external genitalia and buttocks. Scabies rarely infects the scalp of adults, although the hairline, neck, temple and forehead may be involved in geriatric patients. • Reapply to the hands if washed off with soap and water within eight hours of application. • Remove the lotion after 12 to 14 hours by washing (shower or bath). • Usually the infestation is cleared with a single application. However a second application may be given seven to 10 days after the first if live mites are demonstrated or new lesions appear. • Benzyl Benzoate (EBB) • Use 12.5% emulsion in children age 7-12 years; 25% emulsion if above 12 years and adults. • Apply nightly or every other night for a total of three applications. • It can irritate the skin and eyes, and has caused seizures when ingested. • Crotamiton (Eurax) • Apply 10% crotamiton cream to the entire body from the neck down, nightly, for two nights. Wash it off 24 hours after the second application. • Sulfur (3-6% in calamine lotion) • Apply from the neck down, nightly, for three nights. Bathe before • reapplying and 24 hours after the last application. No controlled • studies of efficacy or safety are available. • Lindane (1% gamma benzene hexachloride) Lotion. • Apply to cool, dry skin. Apply the lotion sparingly from the chin to the toes, with special attention to the hands, feet, web spaces, beneath the fingernails and skin creases. Wash off after eight to 12 hours. • 95% of patients require only one treatment. Re-treat only if i. Infestations with live mites is confirmed after one week. ii. Itching persist three weeks after the first treatment. DERMATOLOGY
  • 470. 457 Chapter 87: Steven Johnson Syndrome Definitions STEVEN JOHNSON SYNDROME (SJS) • Severe erosions of at least two mucosal surfaces with extensive necrosis of lips and mouth, and a purulent conjunctivitis. • Epidermal detachment may occur in SJS, but less than 10% of the body surface area is involved. • Morbidity with this disease is high, and can include photophobia, burning eyes, visual impairment and blindness. TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS (TEN) • Severe exfoliative disease associated with systemic reaction characterized by rapid onset of widespread erythema and epidermal necrolysis. • Involves more than 30% loss of epidermis. Aim of treatment: To remove the cause and prevent complications Salient features • Acute prodromal flu-like symptoms, fever, conjunctivitis and malaise. • Skin tenderness, morbilliform to diffuse or macular erythema target lesions, vesicles progressing to bullae. Blisters on the face, and upper trunk, then exfoliation with wrinkled skin which peels off by light stroking (Nikolksy’ sign). • Buccal mucosa involvement may precede skin lesion by up to 3 days in 30% of cases. • Less commonly the genital areas, perianal area, nasal and conjuctival mucosa. • In the gastrointestinal tract, esophageal sloughing is very common, and can cause bleeding and diarrhoea. • In the respiratory tract, tracheobronchial erosions can lead to hyperventilation, interstitial oedema, and acute respiratory disease syndrome. • Skin biopsy of TEN - Extensive eosinophilic necrosis of epidermis with surabasal cleavage plane. • Renal profile – raised blood urea, hyperkalaemia and creatinine. • Glucose - hypoglycaemia. Aetiology in Steven Johnson Syndrome / TEN Drugs • Antibiotics: Sulphonamides, amoxycillin, ampicillin, ethambutol, isoniazid • Anticonvulsants: Phenobarbitone, carbamazepine, phenytoin • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Phenylbutazone, salicylates Infection • Virus: herpes simplex, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, measles, mumps • Bacteria: Streptococcus, Salmonella typhi, Mycoplasma pneumoniae DERMATOLOGY
  • 471. 458 Management Supportive Care • Admit to isolation room where possible. • May need IV fluid resuscitation for shock. • Good nursing care (Barrier Nursing and hand washing). • Use of air fluidized bed, avoid bed sores. • Adequate nutrition – nasogastric tubes, IV lines, parenteral nutrition if severe mucosal involvement. Specific treatment • Eliminate suspected offending drugs • IV Immunoglobulins at a dose of 0.4 Gm/kg/per day for 5 days. IVIG is a safe and effective in treatment for SJS/TEN in children. It arrests the progression of the disease and helps complete re-epithelialization of lesions. Monitoring • Maintenance of body temperature. Avoid excessive cooling or overheating. • Careful monitoring of fluids and electrolytes – BP/PR. • Intake / output charts, daily weighing and renal profile. Prevent Complications Skin care • Cultures of skin, mucocutaneous erosions, tips of Foley’s catheter. • Treat infections with appropriate antibiotics. • Topical antiseptic preparations: saline wash followed by topical bacitracin or 10% Chlorhexidine wash. • Dressing of denuded areas with paraffin gauze / soffra-tulle. • Surgery may be needed to remove necrotic epidermis. Eye care • Frequent eye assessment. • Antibiotic or antiseptic eye drops 2 hourly. • Synechiea should be disrupted. Oral care • Good oral hygiene aimed at early restoration of normal feeds. DERMATOLOGY
  • 472. 459 DERMATOLOGY References Section 11 Dermatology Chapter 84 Atopic Dermatitis 1.NICE guideline for treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in children from birth to 12 years old. 2007 2.Topical Treatment with Glucocorticoids. M. Kerscher, S. Williams, P. Lehmann. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006 3.Atopic Dermatitis. Thomas Bieber, M.D., Ph.D. Ann Dermatol 2010 4.Atopic dermatitis. Eric L. Simpson, MD, and Jon M. Hanifin, MD. J Am Acad Dermatol 2005. Chapter 85 Infantile Hemangioma 1.Guidelines of care for hemangiomas of infancy. Ilona J. Frieden, MD, Chair- man, Lawrence E Eichenfield, MD, Nancy B.Esterly, MD, Roy Geronemus, MD, Susan B. Mallory, MD. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997 2.Infantile hemangiomas. Anna L. Bruckner, MD, Ilona J. Frieden, MD. J Am Acad Dermatol 2006. 3.Novel Strategies for Managing Infantile Hemangiomas: A Review Silvan Azzopardi, Thomas Christian Wright. Ann Plast Surg 2011. 4.A Randomized Controlled Trial of Propranolol for Infantile Hemangiomas. Marcia Hogeling, Susan Adams and Orli Wargon Pediatrics 2011. Chapter 86 Scabies 1.Communicable Disease Management Protocol – Scabies November 2001 2.United Kingdom National Guideline on the Management of Scabies infesta- tion (2007).
  • 474. 461 Chapter 88: Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to Diagnosis and Early Management in a Sick Child Introduction • Over 500 human diseases due to IEM are now recognized and a significant number of them are amenable to treatment. • IEMs may present as • An acute metabolic emergency in a sick child. • Chronic problems involving either single or multiple organs, either recurrent or progressive, or permanent. • It will become ever more important to initiate a simple method of clinical screening by first-line paediatric doctors with the goal ‘Do not miss a treatable disorder’. Classification From a therapeutic perspective, IEMs can be divided into 5 useful groups: Group Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Disorders that give rise to acute or chronic intoxication Aminoacidopathies (MSUD, tyrosinaemia, PKU, homocystinuria), most organic acidurias (methylmalonic, pro- pionic, isovaleric, etc.), urea cycle defects, sugar intolerances (galactosae- mia, hereditary fructose intolerance), defects in long-chain fatty acid oxidation • Readily diagnosed through basic IEM investigations: blood gases, glucose, lactate, ammonia, plasma amino acids, urinary organic acids and acylcarnitine profile • Specific emergency and long term treat- ment available for most diseases. Disorders with reduced fasting tolerance Glycogen storage diseases, disorders of gluconeogenesis, fatty acid oxidation disorders, disorders of ketogenesis/ ketolysis • Persistent/recurrent hypoglycemia is the first clue to diagnosis. • Specific emergency and long term treatment available for most diseases. Neurotransmitter defects and related disorders Nonketotic hyperglycine- mia, serine deficiency, disorders of biogenic amine metabolism, disor- ders of GABA metabo- lism, antiquitin deficiency (pyridoxine dependent epilepsy), pyridoxal phos- phate deficiency, GLUT1 deficiency • Diagnosis requires specialized CSF analysis. • Some are treatable. METABOLIC
  • 475. 462 Classification (continued) Group Diseases Diagnosis and Treatment Disorders of the biosynthesis and breakdown of complex molecules Lysosomal storage disor- ders, peroxisomal disor- ders, congenital disorders of glycosylation, sterol biosynthesis disorders, purine and pyrimidine disorders • Specialized diagnostic tests required. • Very few are treatable. Mitochondrial disorders Respiratory chain en- zymes deficiencies, PDHc deficiency, pyruvate carboxylase deficiency • Persistent lactate acidemia is often the first clue to diagnosis. • Mostly supportive care. Screening for treatable IEM in a sick child • In an acutely ill child, IEM should be considered a differential diagnosis along with other diagnoses: • In all neonates with unexplained, overwhelming, or progressive disease particularly after a normal pregnancy or birth, but deteriorates after feeding. • In all children with acute encephalopathy, particularly preceded by vomiting, fever or fasting. • In all children with unexplained symptoms and signs of metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia, acute liver failure or Reye-like syndrome. • The aim is targeted to pick up treatable diseases in Group 1 and 2 as early as possible. • Many clues may be gained from a detailed history and physical examination • Unexplained death among sibling(s) due to sepsis or “SIDS”. • Unexplained disorders in other family members (HELLP syndrome, progressive neurological disease). • Consanguinity. • Deterioration after a symptom-free interval in a newborn. • Unusual smell - burn sugar (MSUD), sweaty feet (isovaleric acidemia). • Actively investigate for IEM in any acutely ill child of unknown aetiology, as early as possible during the course of illness. According to the clinical situation, basic and special metabolic investigations must be initiated in parallel. METABOLIC
  • 476. 463 Basic metabolic investigations 1 Special metabolic investigations 1 Ammonia2 Must be included in work-up of an acutely ill child of unknown aetiology 4 Acylcarnitines (Dried blood spot on Guthrie card ) Glucose Lactate2 Amino acids (plasma or serum)3 Blood gases Organic acids (urine) Ketostix (urine) Orotate (urine): if suspected urea cycle defects Blood count, electrolytes, ALT, AST, CK, creatinine, urea, uric acid, coagulation [Send to the metabolic lab immedi- ately ( eg by courier) especially when the basic metabolic investigations are abnormal, particularly if there is hyperammonemia or persistent ketoacidosis] 1, Will pick up most diseases from Group 1 and 2, and some diseases in other groups (which often require more specialized tests) 2, Send immediately (within 15 minutes) to lab with ice 3, Urinary amino acids are the least useful as they reflect urinary thresh old. Their true value is only in the diagnosis of specific renal tubular transport disorders (eg cystinuria ). 4, Routine analysis of pyruvate is not indicated. Useful normal/abnormal values Basic tests Values Note Ammonia Neonates • Healthy: 110µmol/L • Sick: up to 180µmol/L • Suspect IEM: 200µmol/L After the Neonatal period • Normal: 50-80 µmol/L • Suspect IEM: 100µmol/L 1. False elevations are common if blood sample is not analyzed immediately. 2. Secondary elevated may occur in severe liver failure. Anion Gap Calculation [Na+] + [K+] – [Cl-] – [HCO3-] Normal :- 15-20mmol/L 1. Normal: renal / intestinal loss of bicarbonate. 2. Increased: organic acids, lactate, ketones. Lactate • Blood: 2.4mmol/L • CSF: 2.0mmol/L False elevations are com- mon due to poor collection or handling techniques METABOLIC
  • 478. 465 Early contact to the metabolic laboratory will help target investigations, avoid unnecessary tests, and speed up processing of samples and reporting of results. Emergency management of a sick child suspected IEM • In the critically ill and highly suspicious patient, treatment must be started immediately, in parallel with laboratory investigations. • This is especially important for Group 1 diseases STEP 1 If the basic metabolic test results and the clinical findings indicate a disorder causing acute endogenous intoxication due to disorder of protein metabolism (Group 1 diseases - UCD, organic acidurias or MSUD), therapy must be intensified even without knowledge of the definitive diagnosis. Anabolism must be promoted and detoxification measures must be initiated. • Immediately stops protein intake. However, the maximum duration without protein is 48 hours. • Correct hypoglycaemia and metabolic acidosis. • Reduce catabolism by providing adequate calories. Aim 120kcal/kg/day, achieved by • IV Glucose infusion (D10%, 15% or 20% with appropriate electrolytes). • Intralipid 20% at 2-3g/kg/day (Except when a Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorder is suspected). • Protein-free formula for oral feeding [eg Pro-phree® (Ross), Calo-Lipid (ComidaMed®), basic-p (milupa)]. • Anticipate complications • Hyperglycemia/glucosuria - Add IV Insulin 0.05U/kg/hr if blood glucose 15mmol/L to prevent calories loss. • Fluid overload: IV Frusemide 0.5-1mg stat doses. • Electrolytes imbalances: titrate serum Na+ and K+. • Protein malnutrition – add IV Vamin or oral natural protein (eg milk) after 48 hours, starts at 0.5g/kg/day. • Carry out detoxifying measures depending on the clinical and laboratory findings. • Continue all conventional supportive/intensive care • Respiratory insufficiency: artificial ventilation. • Septicaemia: antibiotics. • Cerebral convulsions: anticonvulsants. • Cerebral edema: avoid hypotonic fluid overload, hyperventilation, Mannitol, Frusemide. • Early central line. • Consult metabolic specialist. METABOLIC
  • 479. 466 Specific detoxification measures for hyperammonemia Hyperammonemia due to Urea cycle defects Anti-hyperammonemic drugs cocktail Loading dose • IV Sodium benzoate 250mg/kg • IV Sodium phenylbutyrate 250mg/kg • IV L-Arginine 250mg/kg (mix together in D10% to a total volume of 50mls, infuse over 90 min) Maintanence dose • Same dilution as above but infuse over 24 hours Indication: 1. NH3 200µmol/L 2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic) Dialysis • Hemodialysis or hemofiltration if available. • If not, peritoneal dialysis is the alternative. • Exchange transfusion is not effective. (Method of choice depends on local availability, experience of medical staff) Indication: 1. NH3 400µmol/L 2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic) 3.Inadequate reduction/raising NH3 despite drugs cocktail Hyperammonemia due to Organic aciduria Give oral Carglumic acid, 100 - 250mg/kg/day in divided doses Other specific Detoxification measures Disorder Pharmacological Non-pharmacological MSUD nil Dialysis. Indication: 1. Leucine 1,500µmol/L 2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic) Organic acidurias Carnitine 100mg/kg/day Dialysis. Indication: 1. intractable metabolic acidosis 2. Symptomatic (encephalopathic) Tyrosinemia type 1 NTBC 1-2mg/kg/day Nil Cobalamin disorders IM Hydroxocobalamin 1mg daily Nil METABOLIC
  • 480. 467 STEP 2 • Adaptation and specification of therapy according to the results of the special metabolic investigations/definitive diagnosis. • For protein metabolism disorders, the long term diet is consists of • Specific precursor free formula • Natural protein (breast milk or infant formula). This is gradually added when child is improving to meet the daily requirement of protein and calories for optimal growth. • Other long term treatment includes • Oral anti-hyperammonemic drugs cocktail (for urea cycle defects) • Carnitine (for organic acidemias) • Vitamin therapy in vitamin-dependent disorders (eg Vit B12-responsive methylmalonic acidemia and cobalamine disorders). • Transfer the child to a metabolic centre for optimisation of therapy is often necessary at this stage in order to plan for the long term nutritional management according to child’s protein tolerance STEP 3 • Be prepared for future decompensation • Clear instruction to parents. • Phone support for parents. • Provide a letter that includes the emergency management protocol to be kept by parents. • Role of first-line paediatric doctors 1. Help in early diagnosis 2. Help in initial management and stabilization of patient 3. Help in long term care (shared-care with metabolic specialist) • Rapid action when child is in catabolic stress (febrile illness, surgery, etc) • Adequate hydration and temporary adjustment in nutrition management and pharmacotherapy according to emergency protocol will prevent catastrophic metabolic decompensation. METABOLIC
  • 481. 468 Key points in managing acute metabolic decompensation in children with known disorders of protein metabolism ( UCD, MSUD, Organic acidurias) • Consult metabolic specialist if you are uncertain. • Perform clinical and biochemical assessment to determine the severity. • Stop the natural protein but continue the special formula as tolerated (PO or per NG tube/perfusor). • IV Glucose and Intralipid to achieve total calories 120kcal/kg/day. • IV antiemetic (e.g. Kytril) for nausea or vomiting. • Management of hypoglycemia, hyperammonemia and metabolic acidosis as above. • Gradually re-introduce natural protein after 24-48 hours. Acute intoxication due to classical galactossemia (Group 1) • Clinical presentation: progressive liver dysfunction after start of milk feeds, cataract. • Diagnosis: dry blood spots (Guthrie card) for galatose and galactose-1-P uridyltransferase (GALT) measurement • Treatment: lactose-free infant formula • Neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by Citrin Deficiency (NICCD) may mimic classical Galactosemia. Disorders with reduced fasting tolerance (Group 2) • Clinical presentation: recurrent hypoglycemia ± hepatomegaly. • Treatment: - 10% glucose infusion, 120- 150ml/kg/day. • This therapy is usually sufficient in acute phase. • Long term: avoid fasting, frequent meals, nocturnal continuous feeding, uncooked cornstarch (older children). (refer Chapter on Hypoglycaemia) Neurotransmitter defects and related disorders (Group 3) • This group should be considered in children with neurological problems • when basic metabolic investigations are normal. • Diagnosis usually requires investigations of the CSF. Considers this in • Severe epileptic encephalopathy starting before birth or soon thereafter, especially if there is myoclonic component. • Symptoms of dopamine deficiency: oculogyric crises, hypokinesia, dystonia, truncal hypotonia/limb hypertonia. • Presence of vanillactate and 4(OH) Butyrate in urine. • Unexplained hyperprolactinemia. METABOLIC
  • 482. 469 Disorders of the biosynthesis and breakdown of complex molecules (Group 4) Disorders in this group • Typically show slowly progressive clinical symptoms and are less likely to cause acute metabolic crises. • Are not usually recognised by basic metabolic analyses but require specific investigations for their diagnosis. • Lysosomal disorders: (1) screening tests: urine glycoaminoglycans (mucopolysacchardioses), urine oligosaccharides (oligosaccharidoses). (2) definitive diagnosis: enzyme assay, DNA tests. • Peroxisomal disorders: plasma very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA). • Congenital disorders of glycosylation: serum transferrin isoform analysis. Mitochondrial disorders (Group 5) • Clinical: suspect in unexplained multi-systemic disorders especially if involve neuromuscular system. • Inheritance: (1) mtDNA defects –sporadic, maternal. (2) nuclear gene defects –mostly autosomal recessive. • Laboratory markers: persistently elevated blood/CSF lactate and plasma alanine. • Diagnosis: respiratory enzyme assay in muscle biopsy/skin fibroblast, targeted mtDNA mutation study etc (discuss with metabolic specialist). • Treatment: ensure adequate nutrition, treat fever/seizure/epilepsy efficiently, avoid drugs that may inhibit the respiratory chain (e.g. valproate, tetracycline, chloramphenicol and barbiturates). • Use of vitamins and cofactors is controversial/insufficient evidence. • Useful websites: http://www.mitosoc.org/, www.umdf.org/ METABOLIC
  • 483. 470 Management of a asymptomatic newborn but at risk of having potentially treatable IEM • Ideally the diagnosis of treatable IEM should be made before a child becomes symptomatic and this may be possible through newborn screening for high risk newborns. • A previous child in the family has had an IEM. • Multiple unexplained early neonatal death. • Mother has HELLP/fatty liver disease during pregnancy (HELLP – Haemolytic Anaemia, Elevated Liver Enzymes, Low Platelets). • Affected babies may need to be transferred in utero or soon after delivery to a centre with facilities to diagnose and manage IEM. • Admit to nursery for observation. • If potential diagnosis is known: screens for the specific condition, e.g. urea cycle disorders – monitor NH3 and plasma amino acid, MSUD – monitor plasma leucine (amino acids). • If potential diagnosis is unknown: Guthrie cards, collect on 2nd or 3rd day after feeding, mails it immediately and get result as soon as possible. Other essential laboratory monitoring: NH3, VBG, blood glucose. Please discuss with metabolic specialist. • To prevent decompensation before baby’s status is known: provide enough calories (oral/IV), may need to restrict protein especially if index case presented very early (before 1 week). Protein-free formula should be given initially and small amount of protein (eg breast milk) is gradually introduced after 48 hours depending on baby’s clinical status. • If the index patient presented after the first week, the new baby should be given the minimum safe level of protein intake from birth (approximately 1.5 g/kg/day). Breast feeding should be allowed under these circumstances with top-up feeds of a low protein formula to mini- mise catabolism. • Get the metabolic tests result as soon as possible to decide weather the baby is affected or not. METABOLIC
  • 484. 471 Chapter 89: Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM) in a Child with Chronic Symptoms Introduction IEMs may cause variable and chronic disease or organ dysfunction in a child resulting in global developmental delay, epileptic encephalopathy, movement disorders, (cardio)-myopathy or liver disease. Thus it should be considered as an important differential diagnosis in these disorders. The first priority is to diagnose treatable conditions. However, making diagnosis of non-treatable conditions is also important for prognostication, to help the child find support and services, genetic counselling and prevention, and to provide an end to the diagnostic quest. PROBLEM 1: GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY (GDD) • Defined as significant delay in two or more developmental domains. • Investigation done only after a thorough history and physical examination. • If diagnosis is not apparent after the above, then investigations may be considered as listed below. • Even in the absence of abnormalities on history or physical examination, basic screening investigations may identify aetiology in 10-20%. • In the absence of any other clinical findings or abnormalities in the baseline investigations then further investigations are not indicated. Basic screening Investigations Karyotyping Serum creatine kinase Thyroid function test Serum uric acid Blood Lactate Blood ammonia Metabolic screening using Guthrie card1 Plasma Amino acids2 Urine organic acid2 Neuroimaging3 Fragile X screening (boy) 1, This minimal metabolic screen should be done in all even in the absence of risk factors. 2, This is particularly important if one or more of following risk factors: Consanguinity, family history of developmental delay, unexplained sib death, unexplained episodic illness 3, MRI is more sensitive than CT, with increased yield. It is not a mandatory study and has a higher diagnostic yield when indications exist (eg. macro/microcephaly; seizure; focal motor findings on neurologic examination such as hemiplegia, nystagmus, optic atrophy; and unusual facial features eg. hypo/hypertelorism) METABOLIC
  • 485. 472 • If history and physical examination reveals specific clinical signs and symptoms, a large number of potential further investigations for possible IEM may be available. Many of these are highly specialised investigations and are expensive – it is not suggested they are all undertaken but considered. Referral to a clinical geneticist or metabolic specialist is useful at this stage to help with test selection based on “pattern recognition”. Interpretation of basic screening investigations Test abnormality Possible causes of abnormal results Creatine kinase↑ • Muscle injury • Muscular dystrophy • Fatty acid oxidation disorders Lactate ↑ • Excessive screaming, tourniquet pressure • Glycogen storage disorders • Gluconeogenesis disorders • Disorders of pyruvate metabolism • Mitochondrial disorders • Is plasma alanine increased? If yes, suggest true elevation of lactate Ammonia↑ • Sample contamination • Sample delayed in transport/processing • Specimen hemolysed • Urea cycle disorders • Liver dysfunction Uric acids An abnormality high or low result is significant: • Glycogen storage disorders↑ • Purine disorders↑ • Molybdenum cofactor deficiency ↓ METABOLIC
  • 486. 473 Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests Severe hypotonia Peroxisomal disorders Very long chain fatty acids (B) Purine/pyrimidine disorders Purine/pyrimidine analysis (U) Neurotransmitters deficiencies Neurotransmitters analysis (C) Neuropathic organic acidemia Organic acid analysis (U) Pompe disease Lysosomal enzyme (G) Prader Willi syndrome Methylation PCR (B) Neurological regression + organomegaly + skeletal abnormalities Mucopolysaccharidoses Urine MPS (U) Oligosaccharidoses Oligosaccharides (U) Neurological regression ± abnormal neuroimaging e.g. leukodystrophy Other lysosomal disorders Lysosomal enzyme (B) Mitochondrial disorders Respiratory chain enzymes (M/S) Biotinidase deficiency Biotinidase assay (G) Peroxisomal disorders Very long chain fatty acids (B) Rett syndrome (girl) MECP2 mutation study (B) Abnormal hair Menkes disease Copper (B), coeruloplasmin (B) Argininosuccinic aciduria Amino acid (U/B) Trichothiodystrophy Hair microscopy B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card METABOLIC
  • 487. 474 METABOLIC Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features (continued) Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests Macrocephaly Glutaric aciduria type I Organic acids (U) Canavan disease Organic acid (U) Vanishing white matter disease DNA test (B) Megalencephalic leukodystrophy with subcortical cysts (MLC) DNA test (B) Dysmorphism Microdeletion syndromes FISH, aCGH (B) Peroxisomal disorders Very long chain fatty acids (B) Smith Lemli Opitz syndrome Sterol analysis (B) Congenital disorders of glycosylation Transferrin isoform (B) Dystonia Wilson disease Copper (B), coeruloplasmin (B) Neurotransmitters deficiencies Phenylalanine loading test, Neurotransmitters analysis (C) Neuroacanthocytosis Peripheral blood film, DNA test (B) B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card, aCGH=array comparative genomic hybridization
  • 488. 475 METABOLIC Metabolic/Genetic tests for specific clinical features (continued) Developmental delay and ... Disorders and Tests Epileptic encephalopathy Nonketotic hyperglycinemia Glycine measurement (B and C) Molybdenum cofactor deficiency/ sulphite oxidase deficiency Sulphite (fresh urine) Glucose transporter defect Glucose (blood and CSF) Pyridoxine dependency Pyridoxine challenge, alpha aminoadipic semiadehyde (U) PNPO deficiency Amino acid (C), Organic acid (U) Congenital serine deficiency Amino acid (B and C) Cerebral folate deficiency CSF folate Ring chromosome syndromes Karyotype Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis Peripheral blood film, lysosomal enzyme (B) Creatine biosynthesis disorders MR spectroscopy Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency Purine analysis (U) Cerebral dysgenesis e.g. lissencephaly MRI brain Angelman syndrome Methylation PCR Spastic paraparesis Arginase deficiency Amino acid (B) Neuropathic organic academia Organic acid (U) Sjogren Larsson syndrome Detailed eye examination B=blood, C=cerebrospinal fluid, U=urine, G=Guthrie card, aCGH=array comparative genomic hybridization
  • 489. 476 METABOLIC PROBLEM 2: LIVER DISEASE • A considerable number of IEM cause liver injury in infants and children, either as isolated liver disease or part of a multisystemic disease. • Hepatic clinical response to IEM or acquired causes such as infection is indistinguishable. • While IEM should be considered in any child with liver disease, it is essential to understand many pitfalls in interpreting the results. • Liver failure can produce a variety of non-specific results: hypoglycaemia, ↑ammonia, ↑lactate, ↑plasma amino acids (tyrosine, phenylalanine, methionine), positive urine reducing substances (including galactose), an abnormal urine organic acid/blood acylcarnitine profiles. Citrin deficiency Recognized clinical phenotypes: • Neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by citrin deficiency (NICCD) • Characterized by transient neonatal cholestasis and variable hepatic dysfunction. • Diagnosis: elevated plasma citrulline, galactossemia (secondary). • Treatment: lactose-free and/or MCT-enriched formula. • Failure to thrive and dyslipidemia caused by citrin deficiency (FTTDCD) • Characterized by post-NICCD growth retardation and abnormalities of serum lipid concentrations. • A strong preference for protein-rich and lipid-rich foods and an aversion to carbohydrate-rich foods. • Diagnosis: mutation testing (plasma citrulline is normal at this stage) • Treatment: diet rich in protein and lipids and low in carbohydrates, sodium pyruvate. • Citrullinemia type II (CTLN2) • Characterized by childhood- to adult-onset, recurring episodes of hyper ammonemia and associated neuropsychiatric symptoms. • Treatment: liver transplant.
  • 490. 477 METABOLIC IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease Leadingmanifestation patterns Metabolic/geneticcauses tobeconsidered CluesDiagnostictests Acute/subacute hepatocellular necrosis (↑AST,↑ALTjaun- dice,hypoglycaemia, ↑NH3,bleeding tendency,↓albumin, ascitis) Neonatal/earlyinfantile *Neonatal haemochromatosis ↑↑↑ferritinBuccalmucosabiopsy *GalactosemiaPositiveurinereducingsugar,cataractGALTassay *Long-chainfattyacid oxidationdisorders Associated(cardio)myopathyBloodacylcarnitine *mtDNAdepletion syndrome Muscularhypotonia,multi-systemicdisease, encephalopathy,nystagmus,↑↑lactate(blood andCSF) LiverbiopsyformtDNA depletionstudy *tyrosinemiatypeISeverecoagulopathy,mild↑AST/ALT,renal tubulopathy,↓PO4,↑↑↑AFP Urinesuccinylacetone *Congenitaldisordersof glycosylation Multi-systemdisease,protein-losingenteropa- thy Transferrinisoform analysis MustruleoutinfectionsAetiology:TORCHES,parvovirusB19,echovirus, enteroviruses,HIV,EBV,HepB,HepC Serology,urine/stool viralculture
  • 492. 479 IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease(continued) Leadingmanifestation patterns Metabolic/geneticcauses tobeconsidered CluesDiagnostictests Cholestasticliver disease (conjugatedbilirubin 15%,acholicstool, yellowbrownurine, pruritus,↑↑ALP) GGTmaybelow, normalorhigh- usefultodifferentiate variouscauses Neonatal *AlagillesyndromeEye/cardiac/vertebralanomaliesDNAstudy *Inbornerrorbileacid synthesis ↓ornormalGGTLiverbiopsy,DNAstudy *Progressivefamilialintra- hepaticcholestasis(PFIC) ↓ornormalGGTexceptPFICtypeIIILiverbiopsy,DNAstudy *Citrindeficiency↑plasmacitrulline,↑galactose,+veurine reducingsugar PlasmaAminoacids, DNAstudy *NiemannPickCHypotonia,opthalmoplegia,hepatospleno- megaly Bonemarrow examination *PeroxisomaldisordersSeverehypotonia,cataract,dysmorphic,knee calcification PlasmaVLCFA *α-1-antitrypsindeficiencyseeaboveα-1-antitrypsin Mustexcludeextrahepatic biliarydisease METABOLIC
  • 493. 480 IEMpresentingmainlywithLiverdisease(continued) Leadingmanifestation patterns Metabolic/geneticcauses tobeconsidered CluesDiagnostictests Cholestasticliver disease (conjugatedbilirubin 15%,acholicstool, yellowbrownurine, pruritus,↑↑ALP) GGTmaybelow, normalorhigh- usefultodifferentiate variouscauses Lateinfancytochildhood *abovecauses *RotorsyndromeNormalliverfunctionDiagnosisbyexclusion *Dublin-JohnsonNormalliverfunctionDiagnosisbyexclusion Cirrhosis (endstageofchronic hepato-cellular disease) chronicjaundice, clubbing,spider angiomatoma,ascites, portalHPT *WilsondiseaseKFring,neurologicalsymptoms,haemolysisSerum/urinecopper, coeruloplasmin *Haemochromatosis↑↑ferritin,Cardiomyopathy,hyperpigmenta- tion Liverbiopsy,DNA study *GSDIVCirrhosisaround1year,splenomegaly,muscu- larhypotonia/atrophy,cardiomyopathy,fatal 4year Liverbiopsy *α-1-antitrypsinSeeaboveα-1-antitrypsin Mustruleout:chronicviralhepatitis,autoimmunediseases,vasculardiseases,biliarymalformationetc METABOLIC
  • 494. 481 PROBLEM 3: CARDIOMYOPATHY • Cardiomyopathy can be part of multi-systemic manifestation of many IEMs. • In a child with an apparently isolated cardiomyopathy, must actively screen for subtle/additional extra-cardiac involvement included studying renal and liver function as well as ophthalmological and neurological examinations. • Cardiomyopathy may be part of clinical features of some genetic syndromes especially Noonan syndrome, Costello syndrome, Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome. • Sarcomeric protein mutations are responsible for a significant cases of familial cardiomyopathy. IEM that may present predominatly as Cardiomyopathy (CMP) Disorder Cardiac finding Clues Primary carnitine deficiency Dilated CMP Low serum free carnitine Long chain fatty acid oxidation disorders Hypertrophic/ Dilated CMP Myopathy, retinopathy, hypoke- totic hypoglycaemia, abnormal acylcarnitne profile Mitochondrial disor- ders Hypertrophic/ Dilated CMP Associated with multi-system abnormalities, ↑↑lactate Kearns– Sayre syndrome: Chronic progressive external ophthalmo- plegia ,complete heart block Barth syndrome Dilated CMP Neutropenia, myopathy, abnor- mal urine organic acid (↑3 methylglutaconic aciduria) Infantile pompe disease Hypertrophic CMP Short PR, very large QRS, ↑CK, ↑AST, ↑ALT, deficient alpha acid glucosidase enzyme activity (could be done using dried blood spots) Glycogen Storage Disease type III Hypertrophic CMP Hepatomegaly, ↑CK, ↑AST, ↑ALT, ↑postprandial lactate, ↑uric acid, ↑TG METABOLIC
  • 495. 482 PROBLEM 4: HAEMATOLOGICAL DISORDERS IEMs presenting as mainly a Haematological disorder Clinical problem Metabolic/Genetic causes and Clues/tests Megaloblastic anemia Defective transportation or metabolism of B12 Methylmalonic aciduria, ↑homocysteine, low/ normal serum B12. Orotic aciduria ↑↑ urinary orotate. Disorders of folate metabolism ↓serum folate. Global marrow failure Pearson syndrome Exocrine Pancreatic dysfunction, lactate, renal tubulopathy. Fanconi anemia Cafe au lait spots, hypoplastic thumbs, neuro- logical abnormalities, increased chromosomal breakage. Dyskeratosis congenita Abnormal skin pigmentation, leucoplakia and nail dystrophy; premature hair loss and/or greying. METABOLIC
  • 496. 483 Chapter 90: Approach to Recurrent Hypoglycemia Introduction Definition of hypoglycemia: • Consensus for thresholds at which intervention should be considered: • 2.2 mmol/L (40 mg/dl) on first day of life. • 2.2–2.8 mmol/L (40-50 mg/dl) after 24 hours of age. METABOLIC 0 20 10 30 40 Glucoseused(g/hr) Glycogen Gluconeogenesis Exogenous II Glucagon Cathecolamines III Growth hormone Glucagon Cathecolamines Cortisol I Insulin 4 8 201612 24 28 32 Hours IV 2 8 16 24 Days MEAL Phase I: Post Prandial II: Short to Middle Fast III: Long Fast IV: Very Long Fast Glucose source Exogenous Glycogen Gluconeo- genesis Gluconeo- genesis (hepatic) Glycogen Gluconeo- genesis (hepatic and renal) Counsuming tissues All All but liver, muscle - Brain, blood cell, medullary kidney Greatest brain nutrient Glucose Glucose Glucose Ketone bodies Glucose
  • 497. 484 Clinical classification of hypoglycemia • According to its timing: • Only postprandial. • Only at fast. • Permanent/hectic. • According to liver findings: • With prominent hepatomegaly. • Without prominent hepatomegaly. • According to lactic acid: • With lactic acidosis (lactate 6mmol/l). • With hyperlactatemia (lactate 2.5–6mmol/l). • With normal lactate (lactate 2.5 mmol/l). • According to ketosis: • Hyper/normoketotic. • Hypoketotic/nonketotic. Laboratory tests during symptomatic hypoglycemia • Adequate laboratory tests must be done to identify the cause, or else the diagnosis may be missed. •  Ensure samples are taken before correcting the hypoglycemia. Laboratory tests during symptomatic hypoglycemia Essential Tests Other tests Ketone (serum or urine) Serum cholesterol/triglyceride Acylcarnitine (dry blood spots on Guthrie card) Serum uric acid Blood lactate Liver function VBG Creatine kinase Blood ammonia Urine reducing sugar Urine organic acids Urine tetraglucoside Free fatty acids (if available) Plasma amino acid Serum insulin Consider toxicology tests (C-peptide) Serum cortisol Fasting tolerance test (only by metabolic specialist/ endocrinologist) Serum growth hormone Other special tests e.g. fatty oxidation study in cultured fibroblasts METABOLIC
  • 498. 485 DETERMINE THE CAUSE This can be approached using the following algorithm which is based first on 2 major clinical findings : (1) Timing of hypoglycemia and (2) Permanent hepatomegaly. Then looking carefully at the metabolic profile over the course of the day, checking plasma glucose, lactate, and ketones before and after meals and ketones in urines will allow one to reach a diagnosis in almost all cases.. METABOLIC HYPOGLYCEMIA Post PrandialHectic / Permanent At Fast Hepatomegaly No Hepatomegaly High Lactate Ketosis At Fast Post Prandial Yes No Hyperinsulinism Hyperinsulinism HFI, GAL Short: GSD1a, GSD1b (neutropenia) Long: FBP, FAOD (all with acidosis) GSD III (High CK) GSD VI, IX (No acidosis) Ketotic hypoglycemia, Glycogen synthetase deficiency MCAD, SCAD, Ketolytic defect (Ketoacidosis) FAOD (High CK), Ketogenesis defect, Hyperinsulinism Abbreviations: HFI, Hereditary fructose intolerance; GAL, Galactosemia; GSD, Glycogen storage disease; FBP, Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase deficiency; FAOD, Fatty acid oxidation disorders; MCAD, Medium chain acyl dehydrogenase deficiency; SCAD, Short chain acyl dehydrogenase deficiency.
  • 499. 486 GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE • Hepatic type: Type Ia, Ib, III, IV, VI, IX. • Clinical presentation: Recurrent hypoglycemia, hepatomegaly, failure to thrive, “doll face”, bleeding tendency (GSD I), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (GSD III). • Laboratory findings: ↑lactate, ↑uric acid, ↑triglycerides, (↑) transaminases, ↑CK (GSD III), ↑ urine tetraglucosides. • Glucose challenge test: Type Ia, Ib: ↓in lactate; Type III, VI, IX: ↑in lactate. • Diagnosis: enzyme studies (liver), mutation analysis. • Treatment: • Avoid hypoglycemia by means of continuous carbohydrate intake. • Frequent meals (every 2-3 hours): Slowly resorbed carbohydrates (glucose polymer/maltodextrin, starch), avoid lactose. • Nights: Continous intake of glycose polymer/maltodextrin via nasogastric tube, uncooked cornstarch in children 1 year age. • Complications: liver tumours, osteoporosis, cardiomyopathy (GSD III). HYPERINSULINAEMIC HYPOGLYCAEMIA Diagnostic criteria • Glucose infusion rate 8mg/kg/min to maintain normoglycaemia. • Detectable serum insulin (+/- C-peptide) when blood glucose 3mmol/l. • Low or undetectable serum fatty acids. • Low or undetectable serum ketone bodies. • Serum ammonia may be high (Hyperinsulinism/hyperammonaemia syndrome). • Glycaemic response to glucagon at time of hypoglycaemia. • Absence of ketonuria. Causes • Congenital Hyperinsulinism (Mode of inheritance) • ABCC8 (AR, AD)); KCNJ11 (AR, AD); GLUD1 (AD); GCK (AD); HADH (AR); HNF4A (AD); SLC16A1 (Exercise induced)(AD). • Secondary to (usually transient) • Maternal diabetes mellitus (gestational and insulin dependent). • IUGR. • Perinatal asphyxia. • Rhesus isoimmunisation. •  Metabolic conditions • Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), Tyrosinaemia type I. • Associated with Syndromes • Beckwith-Wiedemann, Soto, Kabuki, Usher, Timothy, Costello, Trisomy 13, Mosaic Turner, Central Hypoventilation Syndrome. • Other causes: Dumping syndrome, Insulinoma (sporadic or associated with MEN Type 1), Insulin gene receptor mutations, Factitious HH (Munchausen-by-proxy). METABOLIC
  • 500. 487 METABOLIC Treatment for Recurrent Hypoglycaemia Medication Route / Dose Diazoxide Oral, 5–20mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses Side Effects • Common: fluid retention, hypertrichosis. • Others: hyperuricaemia, eosinophilia, leukopenia. Practical Management • Use in conjunction with cholorothiazide especially in newborns. • Restrict fluid intake, especially on the higher doses. • Carefully monitor fluid balance. Chlorothiazide Oral, 7–10mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses (used in conjunction with diazoxide) Side Effects Hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia Practical Management Monitor serum electrolytes Nifedipine Oral, 0.25-2.5mg/kg/day divided into three doses Side Effects Hypotension Practical Management • Monitor blood pressure. • Not effective in patients with CHI due to defective KATP channels. Glucagon (± Octreotide) SC/IV infusion, 1–20µg/kg/hour Side Effects • Nausea, vomiting, skin rashes. • Paradoxical hypoglycaemia in high doses. Practical Management • Avoid high doses. • Watch for rebound hypoglycaemia when used as an emergency treatment for hypoglycaemia. Octreotide (± Glucagon) SC/IV continuous infusion or 6–8-hourly SC injections; 5–25µg/kg/day Side Effects • Common- tachyphylaxis • Others- Suppression of GH, TSH, ACTH, glucagon; diarrhoea, steatorrhoea, cholelithiasis, abdominal distension, growth suppression. Practical Management • Use with caution in infants at risk of necrotising enterocolitis, (reduces blood flow to the splanchnic circulation). • Follow-up with serial ultrasound scans of the biliary tree, if on long-term treatment with Octreotide. • Monitor long-term growth.
  • 502. 489 Chapter 91: Down Syndrome Incidence of Down syndrome Maternal Age-Specific Risk for Trisomy 21 at Livebirth Overall Incidence: 1 in 800-1000 newborns Age (years) Incidence 20 1 in1500 30 1 in 900 35 1 in 350 40 1 in 100 41 1 in 70 42 1 in 55 43 1 in 40 44 1 in 30 45 1 in 25 Source Hecht and Hook ‘94 Medical problems Newborn • Cardiac defects (50% ): AVSD [most common], VSD, ASD, TOF or PDA • Gastrointestinal (12%): duodenal atresia [commonest], pyloric stenosis, anorectal malformation, tracheo-oesophageal fistula, and Hirshsprung disease. • Vision: congenital cataracts (3%), glaucoma. • Hypotonia and joint laxity • Feeding problems. Usually resolves after a few weeks. • Congenital hypothyroidism (1%) • Congenital dislocation of the hips Infancy and Childhood • Delayed developmental milestones. • Mild to moderate intellectual impairment (IQ 25 to 50). • Seizure disorder (6%). • Recurrent respiratory infections. • Hearing loss (60%) due to secretory otitis media, sensorineural deafness, or both. • Visual Impairment – squint (50%), cataract (3%), nystagmus (35%), glau coma, refractive errors (70%) . • Sleep related upper airway obstruction. Often multifactorial. • Leukaemia (relative risk:15 to 20 times). Incidence 1%. METABOLIC
  • 503. 490 • Atlantoaxial instability. Symptoms of spinal cord compression include neck pain, change in gait, unusual posturing of the head and neck (torticollis), loss of upper body strength, abnormal neurological reflexes, and change in bowel/bladder functioning. (see below) • Hypothyroidism (10%). Prevalence increases with age. • Short stature – congenital heart disease, sleep related upper airway obstruction, coeliac disease, nutritional inadequacy due to feeding problems and thyroid. Hormone deficiency may contribute to this. • Over/underweight. Adolescence and Adulthood • Puberty: • In Girls menarche is only slightly delayed. Fertility presumed. • Boys are usually infertile due to low testosterone levels. • Increased risk of dementia /Alzheimer disease in adult life. • Shorter life expectancy. Management • Communicating the diagnosis is preferably handled in private by a senior medical officer or specialist who is familiar with the natural history, genetic aspect and management of Down syndrome. • Careful examination to look for associated complications. • Investigations: • Echocardiogram by 2 weeks (if clinical examination or ECG were abnormal) or 6 weeks. • Chromosomal analysis. • T4 /TSH at birth or by 1-2 weeks of life. • Early intervention programme should begin at diagnosis if health conditions permit. • Assess strength needs of family. Contact with local parent support group should be provided (Refer list of websites below). • Health surveillance monitoring: see table below Atlantoaxial instability • Seen in X rays in 14% of patients; symptomatic in 1-2%. • Small risk for major neurological damage but cervical spine X rays in children have no predictive validity for subsequent acute dislocation/ subluxation at the atlantoaxial joint. • Children with Down syndrome should not be barred from taking part in sporting activities. • Appropriate care of the neck while under general anaesthesia or after road traffic accident is advisable. METABOLIC
  • 504. 491 METABOLIC Karyotyping in Down syndrome Non-disjunction trisomy 21 95% Robertsonian Translocation 3% Mosaicism 2% Recurrence Risk by Karyotype Nondisjunction Trisomy 47(XX or XY) + 21 1% Translocation Both parents normal low; 1% Carrier Mother 10% Carrier Father 2.5% Either parent t(21q;21q) 100% Mosaics 1% Useful web resources • The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (UK) www.dsmig.org.uk • Down Syndrome: Health Issues www.ds-health.com • Growth charts for children with Down Syndrome www.growthcharts.com • Educational issues www.downsed.org • Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation www.kdsf.netmyne.com • Educational support centre. http://www.disabilitymalaysia.com/ • Parents support group. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DownSyndromeMalaysia • Jabatan Pendidikan Khas http://www.moe.gov.my/jpkhas/ • Jabatan Kebajikan Malaysia. http://www.jkm.gov.my/
  • 505. 492 RecommendationsforMedicalSurveillanceforchildrenwithDownSyndrome Birth-6weeks6-10months12months18mths-2½yrs3-3½years4-4½years Thyroidtests¹T4,TSHT4,TSH,antibodiesT4,TSH,antibodies Growth monitoring² Length,weightandheadcircumferencechecked regularlyandplottedonDown’ssyndromegrowthcharts. Lengthandweightshouldbecheckedatleastannually andplottedonDown’ssyndromegrowthcharts. EyeexaminationVisualbehaviour. Checkfor congenitalcataract Visualbehaviour. Checkfor congenitalcataract Visualbehaviour. Checkfor congenitalcataract Orthoptic,refrac- tion,ophthalmic examination³ Visualacuity,re- fraction,ophthal- micexamination³ HearingcheckNeonatalscreeningFullaudiologicalreview(hearing,impedance,otoscopy)by6-10monthsandthenannually. Cardiology, Otheradvice Echocardiogram 0-6weeks Dental assessment Age5to19yearsFootnote: 1,AsymptomaticpatientswithmildlyraisedTSH (10mu/l)butnormalT4doesnotneedtreatmentbut testmorefrequentlyforuncompensatedhypothyroidism. 2,Downsyndromecentilechartsatwww.growthcharts. com.Considerweightforlengthchartsoftypically developingchildrenforweightassessment.IfBMI98th centileorunderweigh,referfornutritionalassessment andguidance.Re-checkthyroidfunctionifaccelerated weightgain. 3,Performedbyoptometrist/ophthalmologist. PaediatricreviewAnnually Hearing2yearlyaudiologicalreview(asabove) Vision/Orthopticcheck2yearly ThyroidbloodtestsAtage5years,then2yearly SchoolperformanceCheckperformanceandplacement SexualityandemploymentTodiscusswhenappropriate,inadolescence. Note:Theabovetablearesuggestedages.Checkatanyothertimeif parentalorotherconcerns.Performdevelopmentalassessment duringeachvisit. AdaptedfromDownSyndromeMedicalInterestGroup(DSMIG)guidelines METABOLIC
  • 506. 493 METABOLIC References Section 11 Metabolic Disease Ch 88 Inborn errors metabolism (IEM): Approach to Diagnosis and Early Management in a Sick Child 1.Saudubray JM, van den Berghe G, Walter J, eds. Inborn Metabolic Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 5th edition, 2011 2.A Clinical Guide to Inherited Metabolic Diseases. Joe TR Clarke (editor). Cam- bridge University Press, 3rd edition, 2006 3. JM Saudubray, F Sedel, JH Walter. Clinical approach to treatable inborn metabolic diseases: An introduction. J Inherit Metab Dis (2006) 29:261–274. Ch 89 Investigating Inborn errors metabolism (IEM) in a Child with Chronic Symptoms 1.Georg F. Hoffmann, Johannes Zschocke, William L Nyhan, eds. Inherited Metabolic Diseases: A Clinical Approach. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 2010 2.Helen V. Firth, Judith G. Hall, eds. Oxford Desk Reference Clinical Genetics. 1st edition, 2005 3.M A Cleary and A Green. Developmental delay: when to suspect and how to investigate for an inborn error of metabolism. Arch Dis Child 2005;90:1128–1132. 4.P. T. Clayton. Diagnosis of inherited disorders of liver metabolism. J. Inherit. Metab.Dis. 26 (2003) 135-146 5.T. Ohura, et al. Clinical pictures of 75 patients with neonatal intrahepatic cholestasis caused by citrin deficiency (NICCD). J Inherit Metab Dis 2007. Ch 90 Recurrent Hypoglycemia 1.Blasetti et al. Practical approach to hypoglycemia in children. Ital J Pediatr 2006; 32: 229-240 2.Saudubray JM, et al. Genetic hypoglycaemia in infancy and childhood : Pathophysiology and diagnosis J. Inherit. Metab. Dis. 23 (2000) 197-214 3.Khalid Hussain et al. Hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia. Arch. Dis. Child (2009). Ch 91 Down Syndrome 1.Clinical Practice Guideline. Down Syndrome, Assessment and Intervention for Young Children. New York State Department of Health. 2.Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome. American Academy of Paediatrics. Committee on Genetics. 2000 – 2001 3.The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (UK). Guidelines for Essential Medical Surveillance for Children with Down Syndrome.
  • 508. 495 Chapter 92: Appendicitis Appendicitis is the most common surgical condition of the abdomen in children over the age of 4 years and yet can be a challenge to diagnose and manage. Although diagnosis and treatment have improved over the years, it continues to cause considerable morbidity and even mortality in Malaysia. The deaths appear to be due to delay and difficulty in diagnosis, inadequate perioperative fluid replacement and sepsis. Clinical Features • Abdominal pain – Lower abdominal pain is an early and almost invariable feature. Usually the pain starts in the epigastrium or periumbilical region before localising to the lower abdomen or the right iliac fossa. However the younger child may not be able to localise the pain. If there is free pus, the pain is generalised. • Nausea and vomiting occurs in about 90% of children and is an early symptom. Most children have a loss of appetite. A hungry child rarely has appendicitis. • Diarrhoea is more common in the younger age group causing confusion with gastroenteritis. It can be due to pelvic appendicitis or collection of pus within the pelvis. • Dysuria and frequency are also commonly present in the child with pelvic appendicitis or perforated appendicitis. Physical Findings • General – the child is usually quiet and may be dehydrated. • Dehydration must be actively sought for especially in the obese child and the child with perforated appendicitis. A history of vomiting and diarrhoea, tachycardia, poor urine output and poor perfusion of the peripheries are indicators of dehydration. • Tenderness on palpation or percussion is essential for the diagnosis. It may be localised to the right iliac fossa or be generalised. The tenderness may also be mild initially and difficult to elicit in the obese child or if the ap- pendix is retrocaecal. Eliciting rebound tenderness is usually not required to make the diagnosis and can cause unnecessary discomfort. • Guarding signifies peritonitis but may be subtle especially if the child is toxic, obese and very dehydrated. • Rectal examination is only required if other diagnosis are suspected e.g. ovarian or adnexal pathology. Investigations • Full blood count – The total white blood cell count may be elevated but a normal count does not exclude appendicitis. • Blood Urea and Serum Electrolytes – The sodium level may be apparently normal if the child is dehydrated • Serum Amylase – If pancreatitis cannot be ruled out as the cause of the abdominal pain. • Ultrasound and CT scan have been suggested to improve the diagnostic accuracy in doubtful cases. So in our setting the recommendation is that the children need to be assessed by a specialist preoperatively. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 509. 496 • If unsure of the diagnosis, the child is very ill or there are no facilities or personnel for intensive care, the child must be referred to the nearest paediatric surgical unit. Complications • Perforation can occur within 36 hours of the onset of symptoms. Perforation rate increases with the duration of symptoms and delayed presentation is an important factor in determining perforation rate. Perforation rate: Adolescent age group - 30-40% Younger child - up to about 70%. However, “active observation” with adequate fluid resuscitation and preoperative antibiotics before embarking upon surgery has not shown an increase in morbidity or mortality. Delaying surgery for both perforated and non perforated appendicitis till the daytime did not significantly affect the perforation rate, complications or operating time. • Appendicular abscess, mass and perforation may be treated with IV antibiotics to settle the inflammatory and infectious process. If the child settles, this can then be followed by an interval appendicectomy which needs to be done within 14 weeks of the original disease process as recurrent ap- pendicitis has been reported between 10-46 %. Management • Children with appendicitis (suspected or confirmed) should be reviewed by a specialist. • Dehydration should be actively looked for. The heart rate, blood pressure, perfusion and the urine output should be closely monitored. The blood pressure is usually maintained in the children until they have decompensated. • Rehydration must be aggressive, using 20 mls/kg aliquots of normal saline or Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate) given fast over ½ - 2 hours. The child should be reviewed after each bolus and the rehydration contin- ued until the child’s heart rate, perfusion and urine output and electrolytes are within normal limits. Maintenance fluid – ½ saline + 5% D/W + KCl. • Antibiotics must be started early, soon after the diagnosis is made. • Inotropes may need to be started early if the child is in severe sepsis. • Operation - There is no rush to take the child to the operating theatre. It is recommended that appendicectomies not be performed after 11 pm, especially in the sick child. However, the time should be utilised to continue the resuscitation and antibiotics with close monitoring of the child. • At surgery, a thorough peritoneal washout with copious amount of normal saline is done after the appendicectomy. No drains are required and the skin can be closed with a subcuticular suture. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 510. 497 Chapter 93: Vomiting in the Neonate and Child • Vomiting in the child is NOT normal. • Bilious vomiting is ALWAYS significant until otherwise proven Causes of Persistent Vomiting Neonates General • Sepsis • Meningitis • Hydrocephalus/ neurological disorder • Urinary tract infection • Motility disorder • Inborn errors of metabolism • Congential adrenal hyperplasia • Poor feeding techniques Oesophageal • Atresia • Webs • Swallowing disorders Stomach • Gastro-oesophageal reflux • Duodenal atresia/ stenosis Small intestines • Malrotation • Stenosis/ atresia • Adhesions/ Bands • Meconium peritonitis/ ileus • Enterocolitis Large intestine/ rectum • Stenosis/ atresia • Hirschprung’s disease • Anorectal malformation PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 511. 498 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Causes of Persistent Vomiting (continued) Infants General • Sepsis • Meningitis • Hydrocephalus/ neurological disorder • Urinary tract infection • Tumours eg neuroblastoma • Metabolic disorders • Oesophageal stricture Stomach • Gastro-oesophageal reflux • Pyloric stenosis Small intestines • Malrotation/ volvulus • Adhesions • Meckel’s diverticulum • Hernias • Appendix- rare Large intestines • Intussusception • Hirschprung’s disease • Enterocolitis/gastroenteritis
  • 512. 499 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Causes of Persistent Vomiting (continued) Older Child General • Sepsis • Neurological disorder • Tumours • Metabolic disease • Oesophageal stricture Stomach • Gastro-oesophageal stricture/ reflux • Peptic ulcer disease • Gastric volvulus Small intestines • Malrotation/ volvulus • Adhesions • Meckel’s diverticulum • Appendicitis/ peritonitis Large intestines • Intussusception • Foreign body • Worm infestation • Constipation: habitual
  • 513. 500 PAEDIATRICSURGERY When is the vomiting significant? • Vomiting from Day 1 of life. • Vomit contains blood (red/black). • Bilious vomiting: green, not yellow. Bowel obstruction must be ruled out. • Faeculent vomiting. • Projectile vomiting. • Baby is unwell - dehydrated/septic. • Associated failure to thrive. • Associated diarrhoea/constipation. • Associated abdominal distension. GASTRO-OESOPHAGEAL REFLUX • More common in infancy than generally recognized. • Majority (90%) resolve spontaneously within the first year of life. • Small percentage develop complications. • Please refer Ch 74 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) PYLORIC STENOSIS • Cause- unknown. • Usually first born baby boy; usual presentation at 2nd to 8th week of life. • Strong familial pattern. Clinical Features • Vomiting -Frequent, forceful, non-bilious with/without haematemesis. The child is keen to feed but unable to keep the feed down. • Failure to thrive. • Dehydration. • Constipation. • Seizures. Physical Examination • Dehydrated • A test feed can be given with the child in the mother’s left arm and visible gastric peristalsis (left to right) observed for. The doctor’s left hand then palpates beneath the liver feeling for a palpable olive sized pyloric tumour against the vertebra.
  • 514. 501 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Investigations Investigation to confirm diagnosis are usually unnecessary. • Ultrasound. • Barium meal. However, pre-operative assessment is very important • Metabolic alkalosis is the first abnormality • Hypochloraemia 100 mmol/l • Hyponatraemia 130 mmol/l • Hypokalaemia 3.5 mmol/l • Hypocalcaemia 2.0 mmol/l • Jaundice. • Hypoglycemia. • Paradoxical aciduria - a late sign. Therapy • Rehydration • Slow (rapid will cause cerebral oedema) unless the child is in shock • Fluid • ½ saline + 10%D/W (+ 5-10 mmol KCL/kg/day) . • Rate (mls/hr) = [Maintenance (150 ml/kg body weight) + 5-10 % dehydration {% dehydration x body weight (kg) x 10}] /24 hours. • Replace gastric losses with normal saline. Do NOT give Hartmann’s solution (the lactate will be converted to bicarbonate which worsens the alkalosis) • Insert a nasogastric tube – 4 hourly aspiration with free flow. • Comfort glucose feeds maybe given during the rehydration period but the nasogastric tube needs to be left on free drainage. • Pyloromyotomy after the electrolytes have been corrected.
  • 515. 502 MALROTATION • A term that embraces a number of different types of abnormal rotation that takes place when the bowel returns into the intra-abdominal cavity in utero. This is Important because of the propensity for volvulus of the mid- gut around the superior mesenteric artery causing vascular compromise of most of the small bowel and colon. Types of Clinical Presentation • Acute Volvulus • Sudden onset of bilious/ non-bilious vomiting. • Abdominal distention with/without a mass (late sign). • Bleeding per rectum (late sign). • Ill baby with distended tender abdomen. • Chronic Volvulus • Caused by intermittent or partial volvulus resulting in lymphatic and venous obstruction. • Recurrent colicky abdominal pain. • Vomiting (usually bilious). • Malabsorption. • Failure to thrive. • Internal Herniation • Due to lack of fixation of the colon. • Results in entrapment of bowel by the mesentery of colon. • Recurrent intermittent intestinal obstruction. Investigations • Plain Abdominal X-ray • All the small bowel is to the right side. • Dilated stomach +/- duodenum with rest of abdomen being gasless. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 516. 503 • Upper Gastrointestinal contrast study with follow through • Duodeno-jejunal flexure to the right of the vertebra. • Duodenal obstruction, often with spiral or corkscrew appearance of barium flow. • Presence of small bowel mainly on the right side. Treatment Pre-operative Management • Rapid rehydration and correction of electrolytes • Fluids • Maintenance – ½ saline + 5% (or 10% if neonate) Dextrose Water with added KCl. • Rehydration – Normal saline or Hartmann’s Solution (Ringer’s Lactate) • Orogastric or nasogastric tube with 4 hourly aspiration and free drainage • Antibiotics ( + inotropes) if septic. Operative • De-rotation of volvulus. • ± Resection with an aim to preserve maximum bowel length (consider a second look operation if most of the bowel appears of doubtful viability). • Division of Ladd’s bands to widen the base of the mesentery to prevent further volvulus. • Appendicectomy. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 517. 504 ATRESIAS Duodenal Stenosis/ Atresia • Usually at the second part of the duodenum • Presents with bilious/non-bilious vomiting • Can be associated with Down’s Syndrome and gastro-oesophageal reflux. • Abdominal X-Ray – double – bubble with or without gas distally •  •  •  •  •  Management • Slow rehydration with correction of electrolytes and nutritional deficiencies. • Duodeno-duodenostomy as soon as stabilized. • Postoperatively, the bowel motility may be slow to recover. Ileal /Jejunal Atresia • Atresia anywhere along the small bowel. Can be multiple. • Presents usually with abdominal distension and vomiting (non-bilious initially and then bilious) • Usually pass white or pale green stools, not normal meconium. • Differential diagnoses – Long segment Hirschsprung’s disease, Meconium ileus. Management • Evaluation for associated anormalities. • Insertion of an orogastric tube – 4 hourly aspiration and free drainage. • Replace losses with Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate). • Rehydration of the baby with correction of the electrolytes and acidosis. • Laparotomy and resection of the dilated bowels with primary anastomosis, preserving as much bowel length as possible. • Parenteral nutrition as the motility of the bowel can be abnormal and take a long time to recover. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 518. 505 • AXR – dilated loops of small bowel. • Contrast enema – microcolon PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 520. 507 Chapter 94: Intussusception Intussusception is the invagination of one portion of intestine into another with 80% involving the ileocaecal junction. The mortality and morbidity from intussusception in Malaysia is still high due to delay in diagnosis, inadequate IV fluid therapy and surgical complications. It is the most common form of intestinal obstruction in infancy and early childhood with the peak age group being 2 months to 4 years. Majority of the children in this age group have no pathological lead point. Lymphoid hyper- plasia has been implicated. Children may also have a preceding viral illness. Common lead points (usually in the age group outside the above): • Structural – Meckel’s diverticulum, duplication cysts. • Neoplastic – Lymphoma, polyps, vascular malformations. • Vascular – Henoch-Schonlein purpura, leukaemia. • Miscellaneous – Foreign body. Clinical Features • Previously healthy or preceding viral illness. • Pain - Sudden onset, severe intermittent cramping pain lasting seconds to minutes. • During the time in-between attacks lasting between 5 to 30 minutes, the child may be well or quiet. • Vomiting – Early reflex vomiting consists of undigested food but if the child presents late, the vomiting is bilious due to obstruction. • Stools- Initially normal, then become dark red and mucoid (“redcurrant jelly”). • Note that small bowel intussusception may have an atypical presentation. Physical Findings • Well- looking/drowsy/dehydrated/fitting (due to hyponatremia) depending on the stage of presentation. • Abdominal mass (sausage shaped but may be difficult to palpate in a distended abdomen). • Abdominal distension is a late sign. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 521. 508 Investigations • Plain abdominal X-ray – Absence of caecal gas, paucity of bowel gas on the right side with loss of visualization of the lower border of the liver, dilated small bowel loops (see figure below). • Ultrasound – Useful diagnostic tool. Target sign (see figure below) on transverse section and pseudo-kidney sign on longitudinal section. May also help to identify lead points if present. • Barium enema – for diagnosis and reduction if required. Management Resuscitation • Aggressive rapid rehydration with boluses of 20 mls/kg of Normal saline/Hartmann’s solution (Ringer’s lactate) till parameters are normal. • Do NOT proceed to hydrostatic reduction or surgery till fully resuscitated. • Close monitoring of vital signs and urine output. • Antibiotics and inotropes as required. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 522. 509 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Non-operative reduction • Should be attempted in most patients, if there are trained radiologists and surgeons available, successful reduction rate is about 80-90%. • Types • Barium enema reduction. (see figure below: “claw sign” of intussusceptum is evident). • Air/Oxygen reduction. • Ultrasound guided saline reduction. • The younger child who has been sick for a longer duration of more than 36 hours and has complete bowel obstruction is at risk of colonic perforation during attempted enema reduction. • Delayed repeat enemas done after 30 minutes or more after the initial unsuccessful reduction enema may improve the outcome of a select group of patients. These patients are clinically stable and the initial attempt had managed to move the intussusceptum. Contraindications to enema reduction • Peritonitis. • Bowel Perforation. • Severe Shock. • Neonates or children more than 4 years old (relative contraindication). • History more than 48 hours. Indications for surgery • Failed non-operative reduction. • Bowel Perforation. • Suspected lead point. • Small bowel intussusception.
  • 523. 510 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Recurrence of intussusception • Rate: 5-10% with lower rates after surgery. • Success rate for non-operative reduction in recurrent intussusception is about 30-60%. Successful management of intussusception depends on high index of suspi- cion, early diagnosis, adequate resuscitation and prompt reduction.
  • 524. 511 Chapter 95: Inguinal hernias, Hydrocoele Both are due to a patent processus vaginalis peritonei. The patent communi- cation in the hydrocoele is smaller, so the sac contains only fluid. The hernial sac can contain bowel, omentum or ovaries. INGUINAL HERNIA • Incidence: 0.8%-4.4% in children, but 16-25% in premature babies. • Boy:girl ratio = 6 : 1. • Site: 60% right side but 10% may be bilateral. Presentation • Reducible bulge in groin – extends into scrotum when crying/straining. • With complications. • Lump in groin (girls) – sliding hernia containing ovary (rule out testicular feminization syndrome if bilateral) Complications • Incarceration/Irreducibility – Highest incidence (2/3) before age of 1 year. • Testicular atrophy. • Torsion of ovary. Management Reducible hernia: • To operate (herniotomy) as soon as possible. • Premature: before discharge (if possible at corrected age-44 to 60 week) • Infant: as soon as possible. • Older child: on waiting list. Incarcerated hernia • Attempt manual reduction as soon as possible to relieve compression on the testicular vessels. The child is rehydrated and then given intravenous analgesic with sedation. Constant gentle manual pressure is applied in the direction of the inguinal canal to reduce the hernia. The sedated child can also be placed in a Trendelenburg position for an hour to see if the hernia will reduce spontaneously. • If the manual reduction is successful, herniotomy is performed 24-48 hours later when the oedema subsides. If the reduction is not successful, the operation is performed immediately. • HYDROCOELE • Usually present since birth. May be communicating or encysted • Is typically a soft bluish swelling which is not reducible but may fluctuate in size. Management • The patent processus closes spontaneously within the first year of life, in most children. • If the hydrocoele does not resolve after the age of 2 years, herniotomy with drainage of hydrocoele is done. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 526. 513 Chapter 96: Undescended Testis An empty scrotum may be due to the testis being undescended, ectopic, retractile or absent. Familial predisposition present in 15%. 10 - 25% are bilateral. Incidence • At birth: Full term 3.4% Premature 30.3% • At 1 year:Full term 0.8% Premature 0.8% • Adult 0.7-1% • Spontaneous descent may occur within the 1st year of life after which descent is rare. Complications • Trauma (especially if in inguinal canal). • Torsion - extravaginal type. • Decreased spermatogenesis. Damage occurs in the first 6-12 months of life. 90% of patients with orchidopexy before 2 years have satisfactory spermatogenesis. If done after 15 years old, fertility is 15%. • Testicular tumour: Risk is 22 times higher than the normal population (Intra-abdominal 6 times more than inguinal). Surgery makes the testis more accessible to palpation and thus an earlier diagnosis. • Associated with hernias (up to 65%), urinary tract anomaly (3%, e.g. duplex and horseshoe), anomalies of epididymis or vas deferens and problems of intersex. • Psychological problems. Management • Ask mother whether she has ever felt the testis in the scrotum, more easily felt during a warm bath and when squatting. • Examine patient (older children can be asked to squat). A normal sized scrotum suggests retractile testis. The scrotum tends to be hypoplastic in undescended testis. • If bilateral need to rule out dysmorphic syndromes, hypopituitarism, and chromosomal abnormalities (e.g. Klinefelter). Exclude virilized female (Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia). • Observe the child for the 1st year of life. If the testis remains undescended after 1 year of life surgery is indicated. Surgery should be done between 6-18 months of age. Results of hormonal therapy (HCG, LH-RH) have not been good. • For bilateral impalpable testis: Management of choice is Laparoscopy ± open surgery. Ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to locate the testes have not been shown to be useful. Check chromosomes and 17 OH progesterone levels if genitalia are ambiguous. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 528. 515 Chapter 97: The Acute Scrotum Causes of Acute Scrotum Acute testicular torsion. Torsion of epididymal and testicular appendages. Epididymo-orchitis. Incarcerated inguinal hernia. Idiopathic scrotal oedema. Acute hydrocele. Henoch-Schonlein purpura. Tumours. Trauma. Scrotal (Fournier’s) gangrene. Symptomatic varicocele. TORSION OF THE TESTIS Torsion of the testis is an emergency as failure to detort testis within 6 hours will lead to testicular necrosis. Symptoms • Sudden severe pain (scrotum and referred to lower abdomen) • Nausea and vomiting • No fever or urinary tract infection symptoms until later Physical Findings • Early • Involved testis - high, tender, swollen. • Spermatic cord – swollen, shortened and tender. • Contralateral testis - abnormal lie, usually transverse. • Late • Reactive hydrocele. • Scrotal oedema. There are 2 types of torsion: Extravaginal • The torsion usually occurs in the perinatal period or during infancy and is thought to be probably due to an undescended testis. Intravaginal • This is due to a high investment of tunica vaginalis causing a “bell-clapper” deformity. It usually occurs in boys between 10-14 years old. The deformity is usually bilateral. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 529. 516 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Investigation • Doppler /Radioisotope scan. It may be normal initially Management • Exploration: salvage rate: 83% if explored within 5 hours. • 20% if explored after 10 hours. • If viable testis, fix bilaterally. • If non-viable, orchidectomy to prevent infection and sympathetic orchitis (due to antibodies to sperm) and fix the opposite testis. TORSION OF APPENDAGES OF TESTIS AND EPIDIDYMIS • Appendages are Mullerian and mesonephric duct remnants. • Importance: in a late presentation, may be confused with torsion of testis. Symptoms • Age – 8-10 years old. • Sudden onset of pain, mild initially but gradually increases in intensity. Physical Examination • Early • Minimal redness of scrotum with a normal non-tender testis • Tender nodule “blue spot” (upper pole of testis) is pathognomonic. • Late • Reactive hydrocele with scrotal oedema makes palpation of testis difficult. Treatment • If sure of diagnosis of torsion appendages of testis, the child can be given the option of non-operative management with analgesia and bed rest • If unsure of diagnosis, explore and remove the twisted appendage (this ensures a faster recovery of pain too!)
  • 530. 517 EPIDIDYMO-ORCHITIS • Can occur at any age. • Route of infection • Reflux of infected urine. • Blood borne secondary to other sites. • Mumps. • Sexual abuse. Symptoms • Gradual onset of pain with fever. • May have a history of mumps. • ± Dysuria/ frequency. Physical examination • Testis may be normal with a reactive hydrocoele. • Epididymal structures are tender and swollen. Treatment • If unsure of diagnosis, explore. • Investigate underlying abnormality (renal ultra sound, MCU and IVU if a urinary tract infection is also present) • Treat infection with antibiotics. IDIOPATHIC SCROTAL OEDEMA The cause is unknown but has been postulated to be due to an allergy. Symptoms • Sudden acute oedema and redness of scrotum. • Painless. • Starts as erythema of perineum and extending to lower abdomen. • Well child, no fever. • Testes: normal. Treatment • This condition is self –limiting but the child may benefit from antibiotics and antihistamines. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 532. 519 Chapter 98: Penile Conditions Phimosis Definition - True preputial stenosis (In a normal child the foreskin is non-retractile till age of 5 years) Causes • Congenital - rare • Infection- balanoposthitis • Recurrent forceful retraction of foreskin • *Balanoxerotica obliterans (BXO) Symptoms • Ballooning of foreskin on micturition. • Recurrent balanoposthitis. • Urinary retention. • Urinary tract infection. Management • Treat infection if present. • Elective circumcision. *BXO: Chronic inflammation with fibrosis of foreskin and glans causing a whitish appearance with narrowing of prepuce and meatus. Treatment: careful circumcision ± meatotomy. (Will require long term follow-up to observe for meatal stenosis) Balanoposthitis (Balanitis - inflamed glans, Posthitis - inflamed foreskin) Cause effect: phimosis with or without a urinary tract infection Treatment • Check urine cultures. • Sitz bath. • Analgesia. • Antibiotics. • Circumcision later if there is associated phimosis or recurrent infection. Paraphimosis Cause: forceful retraction of foreskin (usually associated with phimosis) Treatment • Immediate reduction of the foreskin under sedation/analgesia (Use an anaesthetic gel or a penile block, apply a warm compress to reduce oedema and then gentle constant traction on foreskin distally). • If reduction is still unsuccessful under a general anaesthetic then a dorsal slit is performed. • The child will usually need a circumcision later. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 534. 521 Chapter 99: Neonatal Surgery OESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA WITH OR WITHOUT A TRACHEO-OESOPHAGEAL FISTULA Presentation • Antenatal: polyhydramnios, diagnosed on ultrasound. • “Mucousy” baby with copious amount of secretions. • Unable to insert orogastric tube. • Respiratory distress syndrome. • Aspiration pneumonia and sepsis. Problems • Oesophageal Atresia: Inability to swallow saliva with a risk of aspiration pneumonia. • Tracheo-oesophageal fistula: Reflux of gastric contents, difficult to ventilate. • Distal obstruction: If present and the baby is ventilated, prone to perforation of bowel. • Prematurity: If present, associated problems. Management • Evaluation for other anomalies/problems e.g. cardiac, intestinal atresias, pneumonia. • Suction of the upper oesophageal pouch: A Replogle (sump suction) tube should be inserted and continuous suction done if possible. Other- wise, frequent intermittent suction (every 10-15 minutes) of oropharynx is done including throughout the journey to prevent aspiration pneumonia. • Ventilation if absolutely necessary. • Fluids - Maintenance and resuscitation fluids as required. • Position - Lie the baby horizontal and lateral or prone to minimise aspiration of the saliva and reflux. • Monitoring – Pulse oximetry and cardiorespiratory monitoring. • Keep baby warm. • Refer to nearest centre with neonatal and paediatric surgical facilities PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 535. 522 CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA Types • Bochdalek: Posterolateral, commonest, more common on left side. • Eventration of the diaphragm. • Morgagni – anterior, retrosternal. Problems • Associated pulmonary hypoplasia. • Herniation of the abdominal viscera into thoracic cavity causing mechanical compression and mediastinal shift. • Reduced and abnormal pulmonary arterial vasculature resulting in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) and reversal to foetal circulation. • High mortality rate (40-60%) associated with early presentation. Presentation • Antenatal: Fluid filled stomach or bowel with/without liver in the left chest cavity. • Mediastinal shift. • Birth: Respiratory distress with cyanosis. • Absent breath sounds on left side, scaphoid abdomen. • Chest X-Ray: bowel loops within the chest and minimal bowel in abdomen. • Late presentation • Left side: Gastrointestinal symptoms- bowel obstruction. • Right side: Respiratory symptoms including recurrent respiratory infections. • Asymptomatic: Abnormal incidental chest x-ray Differential Diagnoses • Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation. • Pulmonary sequestration. • Mediastinal cystic lesions e.g. teratoma. PAEDIATRICSURGERY Mediastinal shift Bowel in Left chest cavity
  • 536. 523 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Management • Evaluation for associated anomalies and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). • Ventilation - Intubation and ventilation may be required soon after delivery and pre-transport. Ventilation with a face-mask should be avoided. Low ventilatory pressures are to be used. A contralateral pneumothorax or PPHN need to be considered if the child deteriorates. If the baby is unstable or high ventilatory settings are required, the baby should not be transported. • Frequent consultation with a paediatrician or paediatric surgeon to decide when to transport the baby. • Chest tube - If inserted, it should not be clamped during the journey. • Orogastric Tube: Gastric decompression is essential here. A Size 6 or 8 Fr tube is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage. • Fluids – Caution required as both dehydration and overload can precipitate PPHN. • May need inotropic support and other modalities to optimize outcome. • Monitoring: Pre-ductal and post-ductal pulse oximetry to detect PPHN. • Position: Lie baby lateral with the affected side down to optimise ventilation. • Warmth. • Consent: High risk. • Air transport considerations. • Referral to the paediatric surgeon for surgery when stabilised. Factors most affecting the outcome • Birth weight ≥ 2kg: Good outcome. • Apgar score at 5 minutes of 7-10: Good outcome. • Size of defect: If primary repair is achieved, 95% survival vs 57% survival in agenesis. • Willford Hall/Santa Rosa predictive formula (WHSRpf) = Highest PaO2 – Highest PaCo2 (using arterial blood sample within 24 hours of life). If WH- SRpf 0, survival was 83 – 94%. If WHSRpf 0, survival was only 32-34%. • Cardiac anomalies- Survival was low for patients with haemodynamically significant cardiac defects (41.1%), compared to patients without cardiac lesions (70.2%) • Late presentation more than 30 days of life: 100% survival.
  • 537. 524 ABDOMINAL WALL DEFECTS • Exomphalos and Gastroschisis are commoner abdominal wall defects. • Gastroschisis: Defect in the anterior abdominal wall of 2-3 cm diameter to the right of the umbilicus with loops of small and large bowel prolapsing freely without a covering membrane. • Exomphalos: Defect of anterior abdominal wall of variable size (diameter of base). It has a membranous covering (Amnion, Wharton’s jelly, peritoneum) and the umbilical cord is usually attached to the apex of the defect. The content of the large defect is usually liver and bowel but in the small defect the content may just be bowel loops. Problems • Fluid loss: Significant in gastroschisis due to the exposed loops of bowel. • Hypothermia: Due to the larger exposed surface area. • High incidence of associated syndromes and anomalies especially in exomphalos. • Hypoglycemia can occur in 50% of babies with Beckwith-Wiedermann’s Syndrome (exomphalos, macroglossia, gigantism). Management • Evaluation: for hydration and associated syndromes and anomalies. • Fluids: IV fluids are essential as losses are tremendous especially from the exposed bowel. Boluses (10-20 mls/kg) of normal saline/ Hartmann’s solution must be given frequently to keep up with the ongoing losses. A maintenance drip of ½ Saline + 10% D/W at 60 – 90 mls/kg (Day 1 of life) should also be given. • Orogastric tube: Gastric decompression is essential here and a Size 6 or 8 Fr tube is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage. • Warmth: Pay particular attention to temperature control because of the increased exposed surface area and fluid exudation causing evaporation and the baby to be wet and cold. Wrapping the baby’s limbs with cotton and plastic will help. • Care of the exposed membranes: The bowel/membranes should be wrapped with a clean plastic film without compressing, twisting and kink- ing the bowel. Please do NOT use “warm, saline soaked gauze” directly on the bowel as the gauze will get cold and stick to the bowel/membranes. • Disposable diapers or cloth nappies changed frequently will help to keep the child dry. • Monitoring: Heart rate, Capillary refill time, Urine output (the baby may need to be catheterised to monitor urine output or have the nappies weighed). • Position: The baby should be placed in a lateral position to prevent tension and kinking of the bowel. • Referral to the surgeon as soon as possible. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 538. 525 INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION • Cause -May be functional e.g. Hirschsprung’s disease or mechanical e.g. atresias, midgut malrotation with volvulus. Problems • Fluid loss due to the vomiting, bowel dilatation and third space losses. • Dehydration. • Diaphragmatic splinting. • Aspiration secondary to the vomiting. • Nutritional deficiencies. Presentation • Antenatal diagnosis – dilated fluid-filled bowels. • Delay in passage of meconium (Hirschsprung’s disease, atresias). • Vomiting – bilious/non-bilious (Bilious vomiting is due to mechanical obstruction until proven otherwise). • Abdominal distension. • Abdominal X-ray – dilated loops of bowel. Management • Evaluation – for onset of obstruction and associated anomalies (including anorectal anomalies). • Fluids – Intravenous fluids are essential. • Boluses - 10-20 mls/kg Hartmann’s solution/Normal Saline to correct dehydration and replace the measured orogastric losses. • Maintenance - ½ Saline + 10% D/W + KCl as required. • Orogastric tube – Gastric decompression is essential, a Size 6 or 8 Fr tube is inserted, aspirated 4 hourly and placed on free drainage. • If Hirschsprung’s disease is suspected, rectal washout can be performed after consultation with a paediatrician or a paediatric surgeon. • Warmth. • Monitoring – vital signs and urine output. • Air transport considerations during transfer to the referral centre. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 539. 526 ANORECTAL MALFORMATIONS • Incidence – 1: 4,000-5,000 live births • Cause- unknown • Newborn check – important to clean off the meconium to check if a normal anus is present. Classification (Pena) Type Clinical Features Management Boys Perineal (cutaneous) fistula • Low type. • Midline “snail-track”. • “Bucket handle”. No colostomy required Rectourethral fistula • Bulbar • Prostatic • Most common. • Pass meconium in urine. Colostomy Rectovesical fistula • High type. • Associated sacral anomalies. Colostomy Imperforate anus without fistula • Usually Down syndrome. • Sacrum/sphincter - normal. Colostomy Rectal atresia • Normal anal opening. • Atresia-2cm from anal verge. • Rare. Colostomy Girls Perineal (cutaneous) fistula • Rectum and vagina well separated. No colostomy required Vestibular fistula • Common • Fistula opening just posterior to hymen. • Common wall; rectum and vagina. Colostomy Persistent cloaca • Rectum, Urethra, Vagina: Single common channel of variable length. • Single external opening. • Associated urogenital anomalies. Colostomy + vesicostomy + vaginos- tomy Imperforate anus without fistula • Usually Down syndrome • Sacrum/sphincter - normal Colostomy Rectal atresia • Rare. • Normal anal opening. • Atresia 2cm from anal verge. Colostomy PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 540. 527 Associated Anomalies • Sacrum and Spine • Anomalies and spinal dysraphism is common. • Good correlation between degree of sacral development and final prognosis. Absence of more than 3 sacrum: poor prognosis. • Urogenital • Common anomalies – vesicoureteric reflux, renal agenesis. • Incidence – low in low types and high in cloaca (90%). • Vaginal anomalies – about 30%. • Others • Cardiac anomalies. • Gastrointestinal anomalies e.g. duodenal atresia. • Syndromes e.g. Trisomy 21. Investigations • Chest and Abdominal X-ray. • Lateral Pronogram. (see Figure) • Echocardiogram. • Renal and Sacral Ultrasound. • Micturating cystourethrogram. • Distal loopogram. Management • Boys and Girls • Observe for 12-24 hours. • Keep nil by mouth. • If abdomen is distended, to insert an orogastric tube for 4 hourly aspiration and free drainage. • IV fluids – ½ saline with 10% Dextrose Water with KCl. May need rehydration fluid boluses if child has been referred late and dehydrated. • Start IV antibiotics. • Assess for urogenital, sacral and cardiac anomalies. Boys • Inspect the perineum and the urine – if there is clinical evidence of a low type, the child needs to be referred for an anoplasty. If there is evidence of meconium in the urine, the child requires a colostomy followed by the anorectoplasty a few months later. • If there is no clinical evidence, a lateral pronogram should be done to check the distance of the rectal gas from the skin to decide if a primary anoplasty or a colostomy should be done. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 541. 528 Girls • Inspect the perineum. • If there is a rectovestibular fistula or a cutaneous fistula, then a primary anoplasty or a colostomy is done. • If it is a cloacal anomaly, the child needs to be investigated for associated genitourinary anomalies. The baby then requires a colostomy with drain- age of the bladder and hydrocolpos if they are not draining well. The anorectovaginourethroplasty will be done many months later. • If there is no clinical evidence, a lateral pronogram should be done to check the distance of the rectal gas from the skin to decide if a primary anoplasty or a colostomy should be done. HIRSCHSPRUNG’S DISEASE • Common cause of intestinal obstruction of the newborn. Aetiology • Aganglionosis of the variable length of the bowel causing inability of the colon to empty due to functional obstruction of the distal bowel. • The primary aetiology has been thought to be due to cellular and molecular abnormalities during the development of the enteric nervous system and migration of the neural crest cells into the developing intestine. • Genetic factors play a role with an increased incidence in siblings, Down Syndrome, congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and other syndromes. Types • Rectosigmoid aganglionosis: commonest, more common in boys. • Long segment aganglionosis. • Total colonic aganglionosis: extending into the ileum or jejunum, almost equal male: female ratio. Clinical Presentation • May present as a neonate or later in life. • Neonate. • Delay in passage of meconium (94-98% of normal term babies pass meconium in the first 24 hours). • Abdominal distension. • Vomiting – bilious/non-bilious. • Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) – fever, foul smelling, explosive diarrhoea, abdominal distension, septic shock. Has a high risk of mortality and can occur even after the definitive procedure. • Older child. • History of constipation since infancy. • Abdominal distension. • Failure to thrive. • Recurrent enterocolitis. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 542. 529 Other causes of delay in passage of meconium • Prematurity. • Sepsis, including urinary tract infection. • Intestinal atresias. • Meconium ileus. • Hypothyroidism. Investigation • Plain Abdominal X-ray – dilated loops of bowel with absence of gas in the rectum, sometimes a megacolon is demonstrated. (Figure below) • Contrast enema – presence of a transition zone with an abnormal rectosigmoid index. • Rectal Biopsy: Absence of ganglion cells and presence of acetylcholinesterase positive hypertrophic nerve bundles confirms the diagnosis PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 543. 530 Management • Enterocolitis (HAEC) – high risk of mortality. Can occur even after the definitive procedure. • Aggressive fluid resuscitation. • IV broad-spectrum antibiotics. • Rectal washouts-Using a large bore soft catheter inserted into the colon past the transition zone, the colon is washed out with copious volumes of warm normal saline (in aliqouts of 10-20mls/kg) till toxins are cleared. (Figure below) • If the decompression is difficult with rectal washouts, a colostomy or ileostomy is required. • Definitive surgery, with frozen section to confirm the level of aganglionosis, is planned once the diagnosis is confirmed. • Postoperatively, the child needs close follow-up for bowel management and the development of enterocolitis. PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 544. 531 PERFORATED VISCUS Causes • Perforated stomach. • Necrotising enterocolitis. • Spontaneous intestinal perforations. • Intestinal Atresias. • Anorectal malformation. • Hirschsprung’s disease. Management • Evaluation: These babies are usually septic with severe metabolic acidosis, coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia. • Diagnosis: A meticulous history of the antenatal, birth and postnatal details may elicit the cause of the perforation. Sudden onset of increased abdominal distension and deteriorating general condition suggests perfora- tion. • Supine abdominal x-ray showing free intraperitoneal gas. (Figure below) • Ventilation: Most of the babies may require intubation and ventilation if they are acidotic and the diaphragm is splinted. • Fluids: Aggressive correction of the dehydration, acidosis and coagulopathy should be done. • Orogastric tube: It should be aspirated 4 hourly and left on free drainage. • Urinary Catheter: Monitor hourly urine output • Drugs: Will require antibiotics and possibly inotropic support • Consultation with the paediatrician or paediatric surgeon of the regional referral centre before transfer of the baby. • Peritoneal Drain: If there is a perforation of the bowel, insertion of a peritoneal drain (using a size 12-14 Fr chest tube or a peritoneal dialysis drain into the right iliac fossa) with/without lavage with normal saline or an isotonic peritoneal dialysate solution should be considered as a temporis- ing measure while stabilising the baby prior to surgery. This can help to improve the ventilation as well as the acidosis. Loss of liver shadow Falciform ligament visible Rigler’s sign PAEDIATRICSURGERY
  • 545. 532 PAEDIATRICSURGERY References Section 13 Paediatric Surgery Ch 92 Appendicitis 1.Fyfe, AHB (1994) Acute Appendicitis, Surgical Emergencies in Children , Butterworth- Heinemann. 2.Anderson KD, Parry RL (1998) Appendicitis, Paediatric Surgery Vol 2, 5th Edition Mosby 3.Lelli JL, Drongowski RA et al: Historical changes in the postoperative treat- ment of appendicitis in children: Impact on medical outcome. J Pediatr. Surg Feb 2000; 35:239-245. 4.Meier DE, Guzzetta PC, et al: Perforated Appendicitis in Children: Is there a best treatment? J Pediatr. Surg Oct 2003; 38:1520-4. 5.Surana R, Feargal Q, Puri P: Is it necessary to perform appendicectomy in the middle of the night in children? BMJ 1993;306:1168. 6.Yardeni D, Coran AG et al: Delayed versus immediate surgery in acute ap- pendicitis: Do we need to operate during the night? J Pediatr. Surg March 2004; 39:464-9. 7.Chung CH, Ng CP, Lai KK: Delays by patients, emergency physicians and surgeons in the management of acute appendicitis: retrospective study HKMJ Sept 2000; 6:254-9. 8.Mazziotti MV, et al: Histopathologic analysis of interval appendectomy specimens: support for the role of interval appendectomy. J Pediatr. Surg June 1997; 32:806-809. Ch 94 Intussusception 1.POMR Bulletin Vol 22 (Paediatric Surgery) 2004. 2.Navarro OM et al: Intussusception: Use of delayed, repeated reduction attempts and the management of pathologic lead points in paediatric patients. AJR 182(5): 1169-76, 2004. 3.Lui KW et al: Air enema for the diagnosis and reduction of intussusception in children: Clinical experience and fluoroscopy time correlation. J Pediatr Surg 36:479-481, 2001. 4.Calder FR et al: Patterns of management of intussusception outside tertiary centres. J Pediatr Surg 36:312-315, 2001. 5.DiFiore JW: Intussusception.Seminars in Paediatric Surgery Vol 6, No 4:214- 220, 1999. 6.Hadidi AT, Shal N El: Childhood intussusception: A comparative study of nonsurgical management. J Pediatr Surg 34: 304-7, 1999. 7.Fecteau et al: Recurrent intussusception: Safe use of hydrostatic enema. J Pediatr Surg 31:859-61, 1996.
  • 546. 533 PAEDIATRICSURGERY Ch 96 Undescended Testis 1.Bhagwant Gill, Stanley Kogan 1997 Cryptorchidism (current concept). The Paediatric Clinics of North America 44: 1211-1228. 2.O’Neill JA, Rowe MI, et al: Paediatric Surgery, Fifth Edition 1998 Ch 99 Neonatal Surgery 1.Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Registry (CDHR) Report, Seminars in Pediatric Surgery (2008) 17: 90-97 2.The Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group. Defect size determines survival in CDH. Paediatrics (2007) 121:e651-7 3.Graziano JN:Cardiac anomalies in patients with CDH and prognosis: a report from the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group. J Pediatr Surg (2005) 40:1045-50 4.Hatch D, Sumner E and Hellmann J: The Surgical Neonate: Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Edward Arnold, 1995 5.Vilela PC, et al: Risk Factors for Adverse Outcome of Newborns with Gastro- schisis in a Brazilian hospital. J Pediatr Surg 36: 559-564, 2001 6.Pierro A: Metabolism and Nutritional Support in the Surgical neonate. J Pediatr Surg 37: 811-822, 2002 7.Haricharan RN, Georgeson KE: Hirschsprung Disease. Seminars in Paediatric Surgery 17(4): 266-275, 2008 8.Waag KL et al: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Modern Day Approach. Seminars in Paediatric Surgery 17(4): 244-254, 2008
  • 548. 535 Chapter 100: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) Definition Definite arthritis of • Unknown aetiology. • Onset before the age 16 yrs. • Persists for at least 6 wks. Symptoms and Signs in JIA Articular Extra-articular Joint swelling General • Fever, pallor, anorexia, loss of weight Joint pain Joint stiffness / gelling after periods of inactivity Growth disturbance • General: growth failure, delayed puberty • Local: limb length / size discrepancy, micronagthia Joint warmth Restricted joint movements Skin • subcutaneous nodules • rash – systemic, psoriasis, vasculitis Limping gait Others • Hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, • Serositis, muscle atrophy / weakness • Uveitis: chronic (silent), acute in Enthesitis related arthritis (ERA) Enthesitis* * inflammation of the entheses (the sites of insertion of tendon, ligament or joint capsule into bone) Helpful pointers in assessing articular symptoms Inflammatory Mechanical Psychosomatic Pain +/- + +++ Stiffness ++ - + Swelling +++ +/- +/- Instability +/- ++ +/- Sleep disturbance +/- - ++ Physical signs ++ + +/- RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 549. 536 Diagnosis and Differential diagnosis • JIA is a diagnosis of exclusion. Differential diagnosis of JIA Monoarthritis Polyarthritis Acute JIA – polyarthritis (RF positive or negative), ERA, psoriatic arthritis Acute rheumatic fever Reactive arthritis: Post viral/ post enteric /post streptococcal infection Reactive arthritis Lyme disease Septic arthritis / osteomyelitis SLE Early JIA Other connective tissue diseases Malignancy: leukaemia, neuroblastoma Inflammatory bowel disease Haemophilia Sarcoidosis Trauma Familial hypertrophic synovitis syndromes Chronic Immunodeficiency syndromes JIA: oligoarthritis, ERA, psoriatic Mucopolysaccharidoses Chronic infections: TB, fungal, brucellosis Pigmented villonodular synovitis Sarcoidosis Synovial haemangioma Bone malignancy Helpful pointers in diagnosis: • avoid diagnosing arthritis in peripheral joints if no observed joint swelling. • consider other causes, particularly if only one joint involved. • active arthritis can be present with the only signs being decreased range of movement and loss of function. • in axial skeleton (including hips), swelling may not be seen. Diagnosis is dependent on inflammatory symptoms (morning stiffness, pain relieved by activity, pain on active and passive movement, limitation of movement). Investigations to exclude other diagnosis are important. • in an ill child with fever, loss of weight or anorexia, consider infection, malignancy and other connective tissue diseases. RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 550. 537 Investigations • The diagnosis is essentially clinical; laboratory investigations are only supportive. • No laboratory test or combination of tests can confirm the diagnosis of JIA. • FBC and Peripheral blood film – exclude leukaemia. BMA may be re- quired if there are any atypical symptoms/signs even if PBF is normal • ESR or CRP – markers of inflammation. • X-ray/s of affected joint/s: esp. if single joint involved to look for malignancy. • Antinuclear antibody – identifies a risk factors for uveitis • Rheumatoid factor – assess prognosis in polyarthritis and need for more aggressive therapy. *Antinuclear antibody and Rheumatoid factor are NOT required to make a diagnosis. * Other Ix done as neccesary : complement levels, ASOT, Ferritin, immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM), HLA B27, synovial fluid aspiration for microscopy and culture, echocardiography, MRI/CT scan of joint, bone scan . Management • Medical treatment • Refer management algorithm (see following pages) Dosages of drugs commonly used in JIA Name Dose Frequency Ibuprofen 5 - 10 mg/kg/dose 3-4/day Naproxen 5 - 10 mg/kg/dose 2/day Indomethacin 0.5 - 1 mg/kg/dose 2-3/day Diclofenac 0.5 - 1 mg/kg/dose 3/day Methotrexate 10 - 15 mg/m2 /dose (max 25 mg/dose) 1/week Folic acid 2.5 - 5.0 mg per dose 1/week Sulphasalazine 15 - 25 mg/kg/dose (start 2.5 mg/kg/dose and double weekly; max 2 Gm/day 2/day Hydroxychloroquine 5 mg/kg/dose 1/day Methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg/dose (max 1 Gm / dose) 1/day x 3 days Prednisolone 0.1 - 2 mg/kg/dose 1-3/day Note: Patients on DMARDS (e.g. Methotrexate, Sulphasalazine) and long term NSAIDs (e.g. Ibuprofen, Naproxen) require regular blood and urine monitoring for signs of toxicity. RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 551. 538 • Physiotherapy • Avoid prolonged immobilisation • Strengthens muscles, improves and maintains range of movement • Improves balance and cardiovascular fitness • Occupational Therapy • Splinting when neccesary to reduce pain and preserve joint alignment. • To improve daily quality of life by adaptive aids and modifying the environment. • Ophthalmologist • All patients must be referred to the ophthalmologist for uveitis screening (as uveitis can be asymptomatic) and have regular follow-up even if initial screening normal. • Others • Ensure well balanced diet, high calcium intake. • Encourage regular exercise and participation in sports and physical education. • Family support and counselling when required. • Referral to other disciplines as required: Orthopaedic surgeons, Dentist. RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 552. 539 Oligoarthritis (1-4 joints) Footnote: *, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis; Abbreviations: IACI, Intra-articular corticosteroid injection; MTX , Methotrexate; SZ, Sulphasalazine; HCQ, Hydroxychloroquine; DMARD, Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Remember to Screen for Uveitis All patients with persistent inflammation should be on DMARDs within 6 months of diagnosis even if only having oligoarthritis. Oligoarthritis * cont NSAIDs x further 4-6 mths , then to taper off if well • IACI of target joints • Or/and optimize / change NSAIDs Review 4-6 wks Start NSAIDs Start IACI, if can be done quickly Continue NSAIDs • Start DMARD : MTX, SZ or HCQ if mild disease • Repeat IACI • Or/and increase dose of NSAIDs Review 2 mths Review 4-6 wks Review 3 mths Improving Inactive Disease No/inadequate improvement * Inflammation improved, but persistent or no improvement * Persistent or Recurrent disease TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 553. 540 Polyarthritis ( 5 joints) Footnote: *, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis; Abbreviations: IACI, Intra-articular corticosteroid injection; MTX , Methotrexate; SZ, Sulphasalazine; HCQ, Hydroxychloroquine; ERA,enthesitisrelatedarthritis; DMARD, Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Remember to Screen for Uveitis Best opportunity to achieve remission in first two years of disease Avoid accepting low grade inflammation until all avenues explored TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS Polyarthritis * • Optimise dose of DMARD • IACI of target joints or low dose Prednisolone Start NSAIDs Once diagnosis certain: * • Start DMARD: oral MTX • Consider SZ in ERA; HCQ in very mild disease • Start steroids: pulsed IV Methylprednisolone (MTP) x 3/7 • or short pulse of oral Prednisolone x 4-8 wks • or IACI of target joints Review 3 mths No/inadequate improvement * Persistent Inflammation * Improving • Change to s/c MTX • Consider combination DMARD: MTX + SZ +/- HCQ • Consider alternative DMARDS • Consider biologics • Cont NSAIDs further 6 mths, then stop • Cont DMARDs at least 1 year after onset of remission stopping steroids NSAID Review 1-2 mths Review 2-3 mths Remission RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 554. 541 Systemic onset JIA Remember to Screen for Uveitis Avoid gold, penicillamine, SZ and caution with new drugs as risk of devel- oping Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS) • Start Oral MTX • Consider IV MTP Pulse • Ensure diagnostic certainty of systemic JIA * • Do not misdiagnose infection, malignancy, Kawasaki or connective tissue disease • Start NSAIDs (consider indomethacin) • Start steroids: IV MTP pulse x 3/7 or high dose oral Prednisolone Yes Still Persistently Active Disease * Persistently Active Disease * Arthritis only: •  Change to SC MTX, optimize dose •  +/- IACI •  Consider biologics Continue tapering and discontinue steroids after 6 mths without inflammation Review Frequently TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC ARTHRITIS Footnote: *, Consider referral to Paeds Rheumatologist / reconsider diagnosis; Abbreviations: as previous page; CYP,cyclophosphamide;IVIG,IVimmunoglobulins. Able to Taper Steroids? Is Disease Inactive? No Yes No Is there MAS? Yes • Refer patient * • Consider IV MTP Pulse • Consider Cyclosporin Are systemic or articular features active, or both ? * No Systemicsymptomsonly: • ConsiderpulsedIVMTP • ConsidercombinationRx (Cyclosporin, IVIG, HCQ, CYP) • Considerbiologics Arthritis and Systemic symptoms: • Combinationtreatment as per arthritis and systemic symptoms RHEUMATOLOGY
  • 555. 542 RHEUMATOLOGY References Section 14 Rheumatology Chapter 100 Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis 1. Cassidy JT, Petty RE. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. In: Cassidy JT, Petty RE, eds. Textbook of Pediatric Rheumatology. 4th Edition. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Company, 2001. 2. Hull, RG. Management Guidelines for arthritis in children. Rheumatology 2001; 40:1308-1312 3. Petty RE, Southwood TR, Manners P, et al. International League of Associa- tions for Rheumatology. International League of Associations for Rheu- matology classification of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: second revision, Edmonton, 2001. J Rheumatol. 2004;31:390-392. 4. Khubchandani RP, D’Souza S. Initial Evaluation of a child with Arthritis – An Algorithmic Approach. Indian J of Pediatrics 2002 69: 875-880. 5. Ansell, B. Rheumatic disease mimics in childhood. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2000; 12: 445-447 6. Woo P, Southwood TR, Prieur AM, et al. Randomised, placebo controlled crossover trial of low-dose oral Methotrexate in children with extended oligoarticular or systemic arthritis. Arthritis Rheum 2000; 43: 1849-57. 7. Alsufyani K, Ortiz-Alvarez O, Cabral DA, et al. The role of subcutaneous administration of methotrexate in children with JIA who have failed oral methotrexate. J Rheumatol 2004; 31 : 179-82 8. Ramanan AV, Whitworth P, Baildam EM. Use of methotrexate in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Arch Dis Child 2003; 88: 197-200. 9. Szer I, Kimura Y, Malleson P, Southwood T. In: The Textbook of Arthritis in Children and Adolescents: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. 1st Edition. Oxford University Press, 2006 10. Wallace, CA. Current management in JIA. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2006; 20: 279-300.
  • 556. 543 Chapter 101: Snake Bite Introduction • In Malaysia there are approximately 40 species of venomous snakes (18 land snakes and all 22 of sea snakes) belonging to two families – elapidae and viperidae. • Elapidae – have short, fixed front fangs. The family includes cobras, kraits, coral snakes and sea snakes. • Viperidae – have a triangular shaped head and long, retractable fangs. The most important species in Malaysia are Calloselasma rhodostoma (Malayan pit viper) and Trimeresurus genus (green viper). The Malayan pit vipers are common especially in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia and are not found in Sabah and Sarawak. • Cobra and Malayan pit vipers cause most of the cases of snakebites in Malaysia. Bites by sea snakes, coral snakes and kraits are uncommon. • The snake venom are complex substances proteins with enzymatic activity. Although enzymes play an important role the lethal properties are caused by certain smaller polypeptides. Components such as procoagulant enzymes activate the coagulation cascade, phospholipase A2 (myotoxic, neurotoxic, cardiotoxic causes haemolysis and increased vascular perme- ability), proteases (tissue necrosis), polypeptide toxins (disrupt neuromus- cular transmissions) and other components. Clinical features • Cobra usually cause pain and swelling of the bite site but more worrying is the neurological dysfunctions: ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, dysphagia, aphasia and respiratory paralysis. • Kraits cause minimal local effects but may cause central nervous system manifestations. Sea snakes cause minimal local effects and mainly muscu- loskeletal findings: myalgia, stiffness and paresis leading to myoglobinuria and renal failure. Paralysis can also occur. • Pit vipers – cause extensive local effects: immediate pain, swelling, blisters and necrosis, vascular effects and hemolysis and systemic effects such as coagulopathies. Bleeding occurs at bite site, gingival sulci and venepuncture sites. Venom alters capillary permeability causing extrava- sation of electrolytes, albumin and rbcs through the vessel wall into envomated site. • Note: There may be overlap of clinical features caused by venoms of different species of snake. For example, some cobras can cause severe local envenoming (formerly thought to be due to only vipers). POISONSTOXINS
  • 557. 544 Management First aid • The aims are to retard absorption of venom, provide basic life support and prevent further complications. • Reassure the victim – anxiety state increases venom absorption. • Immobilise bitten limb with splint or sling (retard venom absorption). • Apply a firm bandage for elapid bites (delay absorption of neurotoxic venom) but not for viper bites whose venom cause local necrosis. • Leave the wound alone - DO NOT incise, apply ice or other remedies. • Tight (arterial) tourniquets are not recommended. • Do not attempt to kill the snake. However, if it is killed bring the snake to the hospital for identification. Do not handle the snake with bare hands as even a severed head can bite! • Transfer the victim quickly to the nearest health facility. Treatment at the Hospital • Do rapid clinical assessment and resuscitation including Airway, Breathing, Circulation and level of consciousness. Monitor vital signs (blood pressure, respiratory rate, pulse rate). • Establish IV access; give oxygen and other resuscitations as indicated. • History: Inquire part of body bitten, timing, type of snake, history of atopy. • Examine • Bitten part for fang marks (sometimes invisible), swelling, tenderness, necrosis. • Distal pulses (reduced or absent in compartment syndrome) • Patient for bleeding tendencies – tooth sockets, conjunctiva, puncture sites. • Patient for neurotoxicity – ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, bulbar and respiratory paralysis. • Patient for muscle tenderness, rigidity (sea snakes). • Urine for myoglobinuria. • Send blood investigations (full blood count, renal function tests, prothrombin time /partial thromboplastin time, group and cross matching). • Perform a 20-min Whole Blood Clotting Test. Put a few mls of blood in a clean, dry glass test tube, leave for 20 min, and then tipped once to see if it has clotted. Unclotted blood suggests hypofibrinogenaemia due to pit viper bite and rules out an elapid bite. • Review immunisation history: give booster antitetanus toxoid injection if indicated. • Venom detection kit is used in some countries to identify species of snake. However, it is not available in Malaysia. • Admit to ward for at least 24 hours (unless snake is definitely non-venomous). POISONSTOXINS
  • 558. 545 Antivenom treatment • Antivenom is the only specific treatment for envenomation. • Give as early as indicated for best result. Effectiveness is time and dose related. It is most effective within 4 hrs after envenomation and less effec- tive after 12 hrs although it may reverse coagulopathies after 24 hrs. Indications for antivenom • Should be given only in the presence of envenomation as evidenced by: • Coagulopathy. • Neurotoxicity. • Hypotension or shock, arrhythmias. • Generalised rhabdomyolysis (muscle aches and pains). • Acute renal failure. • Local envenomation e.g. local swelling more than half of bitten limb, extensive blistering/bruising, bites on digit, rapid progression of swelling. • Helpful laboratory investigations suggesting envenomation include anaemia, thrombocytopenia, leucocytosis, raised serum enzymes (creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase), hyperkalaemia, and myoglobinuria. Choice of antivenom • If biting species is known, give monospecific (monovalent) antivenom (more effective and less adverse reactions). • If it is not known, clinical manifestations may suggest the species: • Local swelling with neurological signs = cobra bites • Extensive local swelling + bleeding tendency = Malayan Pit vipers • If still uncertain, give polyvalent antivenom. • No antivenom is available for Malayan kraits, coral snakes and some species of green pit vipers. Fortunately, bites by these species are rare and usually cause only trivial envenoming. Dosage and route of administration • Amount given is usually empirical. Recommendations from manufacturers are usually very conservative as they are mainly based on animal studies. Guide to initial dosages of important Antivenoms Species Antivenom manufacturer Initial dose Malayan pit viper Thai Red Cross (Monovalent) 100 mls Cobra Twyford Pharmaceuticals (monovalent) Serum Institute of India; Biological E. Limited, India (Polyvalent) 50 mls (local) 100 mls (systemic) 50 mls (local) 100 - 150 mls (systemic) King Cobra Thai Red Cross (Monovalent) 50 – 100 mls Common sea snake CSL, Australia (polyvalent) 1 000 units (1 vial) POISONSTOXINS
  • 559. 546 • Repeat antivenom administration until signs of envenomation resolved. • Give through IV route only. Dilute antivenom in any isotonic solution (5-10ml/kg, bigger children dilute in 500mls of IV solution) and infuse the whole amount in one hour. • Infusion may be discontinued when satisfactory clinical improvement occurs even if recommended dose has not been completed • Do not perform sensitivity test as it poorly predicts anaphylactic reactions. • Do not inject locally at the bite site. • Prepare adrenaline, hydrocortisone, antihistamine and resuscitative equipment and be ready if allergic reactions occur. • Pretreatment with adrenaline SC remains controversial. Small controlled studies in adults have shown it to be effective in reducing risk of reac- tions. However, its effectiveness and appropriate dosing in children have not been evaluated. There is no strong evidence to support the use of hydrocortisone/antihistamine as premedications. Consider their use in the patient with history of atopy. Antivenom reactions occurs in 20% of patients 3 types of reactions may occur: • Early anaphylactic reactions • Occur 10-180 minutes after starting antivenom. Symptoms range from itching, urticaria, nausea, vomiting, and palpitation to severe systemic anaphylaxis: hypotension, bronchospasm and laryngeal oedema. Treatment of anaphylactic reactions: • Stop antivenom infusion. • Give adrenaline IM (0.01ml/kg of 1 in 1000) and repeat every 5-10mins till symptoms subside. In case of persistent hypotension, life threatening anaphylaxis, adrenaline can be given IV 0.1mg of 1:10,000 dilution bolus over 5 mins. If hypotension is refractory to bolus dose start IV infusion at 1 microgm/kg/min. Close monitoring of heart rate is required. • Give antihistamine, e.g. chlorpheniramine 0.2mg/kg, hydrocortisone 4mg/kg/dose and IV fluid resuscitation (if hypotensive). • Nebulised adrenaline in the presence of stridor or partial obstruction • Nebulised salbutamol in the presence of bronchospasm or wheeze • If only mild reactions, restart infusion at a slower rate. • Pyrogenic reactions – develop 1-2 hours after treatment and are due to pyrogenic contamination during the manufacturing process. Symptoms in- clude fever, rigors, vomiting, tachycardia and hypotension. Give treatment as above. Treat fever with paracetamol and tepid sponging. • Late reactions – occur about a week later. It is a serum sickness-like illness (fever, arthralgia, lymphadenopathy, etc). Treat with Chlorpheniramine 0.2mg/kg/day in divided doses for 5 days. If severe, give Oral prednisolone (0.7 – 1mg/kg/day) for 5-7 days. POISONSTOXINS
  • 560. 547 When to restart the antivenom after a reaction: • Once the patient has stabilized, BP under control, manifestations of the reaction has subsided. • In severe reactions restart antivenom under cover of adrenaline infusion. Rate of antivenom infusion is decreased initially and done under close monitoring in the ICU. Weigh the need for antivenom versus the potential risk of a severe anaphylactic reaction. Anticholinesterases • They should always be tried in severe neurotoxic envenoming, especially when no specific antivenom is available, e.g. bites by Malayan krait and coral snakes. The drugs have a variable but potentially useful effect. • Give test dose of Edrophonium chloride (Tensilon) IV (0.25mg/kg, adult 10mg) with Atropine sulphate IV (50μg/kg, adult 0.6mg). If patients respond convincingly, maintain with Neostigmine methylsulphate IV (50-100μg/kg) and Atropine, four hourly by continuous infusion. Supportive/ancillary treatment • Clean wound with antiseptics. • Give analgesia to relief pain (avoid aspirin). In severe pain, morphine may be administered with care. Watch closely for respiratory depression. • Give antibiotics if the wound looks contaminated or necrosed e.g. IV Crystalline Penicillin +/- Gentamicin, Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, Erythromycin or a third generation Cephalosporin. • Respiratory support – respiratory failure may require assisted ventilation. • Watch for compartment syndrome – pain, swelling, cold distal limbs and muscle paresis. Get early orthopaedic/surgical opinion.Patient may require urgent fasciotomy but consider only after sufficient antivenom has been given and correction of coagulation abnormalities with fresh frozen plasma and platelets before any surgical intervention as bleeding may be uncon- trollable. • Desloughing of necrotic tissues should be carried out as required. • For oliguria and renal failure, e.g. due to sea snake envenomation, measure daily urine output, serum creatinine, urea and electrolytes. If urine output fails to increase after rehydration and diuretics (e.g. frusem- ide), start renal dose of dopamine (2.5µg/kg/minute IV infusion) and place on strict fluid balance. Dialysis is rarely required. POISONSTOXINS
  • 561. 548 Pitfalls in management • Giving antivenom ‘prophylactically’ to all snakebite victims. Not all snakebites by venomous snakes will result in envenoming. On average, 30% bites by cobra, 50% by Malayan pit vipers and 75% by sea snakes DO NOT result in envenoming. Antivenom is expensive and carries the risk of causing severe anaphylactic reactions (as it is derived from horse or sheep serum). Hence, it should be used only in patients in whom the benefits of antivenom are considered to exceed the risks. • Delaying in giving antivenom in district hospitals until victims are transferred to referral hospitals. Antivenom should be given as soon as it is indicated to prevent morbidity and mortality. District hospitals should stock important antivenoms and must be equipped with facilities and staff to provide safe monitoring and care during the antivenom infusion. • Giving polyvalent antivenom for envenoming by all type of snakes. Polyvalent antivenom does not cover all types of snakes, e.g. Sii polyvalent (imported from India) is effective in cobra and some kraits envenoming but is not effective against Malayan pit viper. Refer to manufacturer drug insert for details. • Giving smaller doses of antivenom for children. The dose should be the same as for adults. Amount given depends on the amount of venom injected rather than the size of victim. • Giving pretreatment with hydrocortisone / antihistamine for snakebite victims. Snakebites do not cause allergic or anaphylactic reactions. These medications may be considered in those who are given ANTIVENOM. POISONSTOXINS
  • 562. 549 Chapter 102: Common Poisons Principles in approach to poisoning • There is no role for the use of emetics in the treatment of poisoning. • The use of activated charcoal for reducing drug absorption should be considered if patient presents within 1 hour of ingestion. A single dose of 1g/kg body wt can be given by mouth or nasogastric tube within 1 hour of ingestion of a well charcoal absorbed poison and perhaps 1 hour in the case of a slow release drug preparation. • Gastric lavage is not recommended unless the patient has ingested a potentially life threatening amount of a poison and the procedure can be undertaken within 1 hour of ingestion. • When in doubt about the nature of poison, contact the poison centre for help: National Poison Centre (Pusat Racun Negara) Tel: 1800-888099 OR 04-6570099 Mon – Fri: 8.10 am – 4.40 pm; Sat: 8.10 am – 1 pm Tel: 012-4309499 After Office Hours Laboratory investigations • A careful history may obviate the need for blood tests. • Blood glucose should be taken in all cases with altered sensorium • Blood gas analysis in any patient with respiratory insufficiency, hyperventilation or metabolic acid base disturbance is suspected. • Electrolyte estimation may be useful as hypokalaemia has been seen in acute poisoning. • A wide anion gap is seen in methanol, paraldehyde, iron, ethanol, salicylate poisoning. • Routine measurement of paracetamol level should be performed in deliberate poisoning in the older child. • Radiology may be used to confirm ingestion of metallic objects, iron salts. • ECG is an invaluable tool in detection of dysrhythmia and conduction abnormalities such as widened QRS or prolonged QT interval. Tricyclic An- tidepressant poisoning.may manifest as myocardial depression, ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. POISONSTOXINS
  • 563. 550 PARACETAMOL • Paracetamol is also called acetaminophen. Poisoning occurs when 150mg/kg ingested. Fatality is unlikely if 225mg/kg is ingested. Clinical Manifestations of Paracetamol poisoning Stage 1 Nausea vomiting within 12 -24 hours, some asymptomatic. Stage 2 Liver enzymes elevated by 24 hours after ingestion. Symptoms often abate. Stage 3 Liver enzymes abnormalities peak at 48 -72 hours and symp- toms of nausea, vomiting and anorexia return. The clinical course may result in recovery or hepatic failure. There may be renal impairment. Stage 4 Recovery phase lasts 7-8 days. Most serious effect is liver damage which may not be apparent in the first 2 days. POISONSTOXINS NORMOGRAM FOR ACUTE PARACETAMOL POISONING. Adapted from Rumack BH, Matthew H. Acetaminophen poisoning and toxicity. Pediatrics1975;55(6):871–876
  • 564. 551 The most efficacius therapy involves the administration of N-acetylcysteine which serves as a precursor to facilitate the synthesis of glutathione. Management • Measure the plasma paracetamol level at 4 hours after ingestion and then 4 hourly. Other investigations: RBS/LFT/PT/PTT/RFT daily for 3 days. • Initiation of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) within 10 hours of ingestion but it is still beneficial up to 24 hours of ingestion. • IV NAC if the 4 hour plasma paracetamol level exceeds 150µg/ml. • Dose: 150mg/kg in 3mls/kg 5%Dextrose over 15 min, followed by 50mg/kg in 7mls/kg 5% Dextrose over 4 hours, then 100mg/kg in 14mls/kg 5% Dextrose over 16 hours. • It is much less effective if given later than 15 hours after ingestion. • Decision is based on the Rumack- Matthew normogram. Plot the serum level of paracetamol drawn at least 4 hrs following ingestion. • If patients are on enzyme-inducing drugs, they should be given NAC if the levels are 50% or more of the standard reference line. • If no blood levels are available, start treatment based on clinical history. Therapy can be stopped once level obtained is confirmed in the non toxic range. • It may be necessary to continue the NAC beyond 24 hrs in massive overdose. • The paracetamol level should be checked before disontinuing and if still high rebolus and continue at 6-5 mg/kg till level is 10µg/ml. Advisable to contact the poison centre. • Ensure the NAC is appropriately diluted and patient does not become fluid overloaded. • Adverse reactions to NAC. • Flushing, aching, rashes, angioedema, bronchospasm and hypertension. • NAC should be stopped and if necessary, IV antihistamine given. Once adverse reactions resolved, NAC restarted at 50mg/kg over 4 hrs • If PT ratio exceeds 3.0, give Vitamin K 1 10mg IM. FFP or clotting factor concentrate may be necessary. • Treat complications of acute hepatorenal failure. Management of a single overdose is straightforward and is guided by the above. However when cases are associated with staggered overdoses or repeated supratherapeutic doses, patients with high risk factors or late presentations, manage- ment decisions become more complex. POISONSTOXINS
  • 565. 552 HIGH RISK TREATMENT LINE At Risk Patients Regular use of enzyme inducing drugs e.g. Carbamazepines, phenytoin, phenobarbitone, rifampicin Conditions causing glutathione depletion Malnutrition, HIV, eating disorders, cystic fibrosis • Repeated supratherapeutic ingestion or when timing of ingestion is uncertain: • Children under 6 years of age who have ingested 200mg/kg or more over a single 24 hr period 150 mg/kg or more per 24 hr period for the preceding 48 hrs 100 mg/kg or more per 24 hr period for the preceding 72 hrs or longer • Children over 6 years of age who have ingested At least 10g or 200mg/kg (whichever is less) over a single 24 hr period At least 6g or 150mg/kg (whichever is less) over a single 24 hr period for the preceding 48hrs or longer. • Levels are difficult to interpret, advice should be sought from the Poison Centre. If in doubt treat first. Prognosis • Younger children who accidentally ingest a single dose were less at risk for hepatotoxicity and have a good prognosis. • Older children who self harm with overdoses and young children who ingest repeated overdosings may suffer severe morbidity and mortality. Indicators of severe paracetamol poisoning and when to refer to a specialist centre: • Progressive coagulopathy: INR 2 at 24hrs, INR 4 at 48hrs or INR 6 at 72 hrs. • Renal impairment creatinine 200 µmol/l. • Hypoglycemia. • Metabolic acidosis despite rehydration. • Hypotension despite fluid resuscitation. • Encephalopathy. POISONSTOXINS
  • 566. 553 SALICYLATE • Ingestion of 0.15 mg/kg will cause symptoms. • The fatal dose is estimated to be 0.2 0.5g/kg. • Its main effects are as a metabolic poison causing metabolic acidosis and hyperglycaemia. Clinical Manifestations of Salicylate poisoning General Hyperpyrexia, profuse sweating and dehydration CNS Delirium, seizures, cerebral oedema, coma, Reye’s syndrome Respiratory Hyperventilation GIT Epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, UGIH, acute hepatitis Renal Acute renal failure Metabolic Hyper/hypoglycaemia, anion gap metabolic acidosis, hypokalaemia Cardiovascular Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema Investigation : FBC, PCV, BUSE/Serum creatinine LFT/PT/PTT, RBS; ABG Serum salicylate level at least 6 hours after ingestion Management • Use activated charcoal to reduce absorption and alkalinisation to enhance elimination. Activated charcoal 1-2g/kg/dose 4-8 hourly. Meticu- lous monitoring of urine pH to avoid significant alkalemia • Correct dehydration, hypoglycaemia, hypokalaemia, hypothermia and metabolic acidosis. • Give vitamin K if there is hypoprothrombinaemia. • Plot the salicylate level on the normogram. • Forced alkaline diuresis (* Needs close monitoring as it is potentially dangerous) for moderate to severe cases. (For salicylate level 35 mg/dl 6 hrs after ingestion ) • Give 30mls/kg in 1st hour (1/5 DS + 1ml/kg 8.4% NaHCO3). Give IV Frusemide (1mg/kg/dose) after 1st hr and then 8hrly. • Continue at 10mls/kg/hr till salicylate level is at a therapeutic range. • Add 1g KCl to each 500mls of 1/5 DS to the above regime (discontinue KCl if Se K+ 5mmol/L). • Aim for plasma pH of 7.5 and urine output of 3-6ml/kg/h. • BUSE/RBS/ABG every 6 hrs. • Treatment of Hypoglycaemia (5ml/kg of 10% dextrose). POISONSTOXINS
  • 567. 554 Haemodialysis in • Severe cases, blood level 100mg/dl. • Refractory acidosis. • Renal failure. • Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema. • Severe CNS symptoms e.g. seizures. Prognosis • The presence of coma, severe metabolic acidosis together with plasma salicylate concentrate 900mg/L indicate a poor prognosis even with intensive treatment. POISONSTOXINS DONE NORMOGRAM FOR ACUTE SALICYLATE POISONING. Adapted from Done AK. Salicylate intoxication: Significance of measurements of salicylate in blood in cases of acute ingestion. Pediatrics 1960;26:800-7.
  • 568. 555 IRON Dangerous dose of iron can be as small as 30mg/kg. The toxic effect of iron is due to unbound iron in the serum. Clinical Manifestations in Iron poisoning Stage 1 (6 - 12hrs) Gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, hypotension, dehydration, acidosis and coma. Stage 2 (8 - 16hrs) Symptom free period but has nonspecific malaise. Stage 3 (16-24hrs) Profound hemodynamic instability and shock. Stage 4 (2 - 5wks) Liver failure and gastrointestinal scarring with pyloric obstruction. Management Emphasis is on supportive care with an individualised approach to gastrointestinal decontamination and selective use of antidotes. • Ingestion 30mg/kg - patients are unlikely to require treatment. • Ingestion of 30mg/kg - perform an abdominal XRay. If pellets are seen then use gastric lavage with wide bore tube or whole bowel irrigation with polyethylene glycol if pellets are seen in small bowel. (500ml/h in children 6 yrs, 1000ml/h in children 6-12 yrs and 1500 – 2000ml/h in children 12 yrs old. Contraindications: Paralytic ileus, significant haematemesis, hypotension) • Blood should be taken at 4 hrs after ingestion. • If level 55µmol/l , unlikely to develop toxicity. • If level 55-90µmol/l, observe for 24 – 48 hrs. Chelate if symptomatic i.e. hemetemesis or malaena. • If level 90µmol/l or significant symptoms, chelation with IV Desferrioxamine 15 mg/kg till max of 80 mg/kg in 24 hours. • If serum Iron is not available, severe poisoning is indicated by nausea, vomiting, leucocytosis 15 X 109 and hyperglycaemia 8.3 µmol/l • Administer Desferrioxamine with caution because of hypotension and pulmonary fibrosis. Continue chelation therapy till serum Iron is normal, metabolic acidosis resolved and urine colour returns to normal. • If symptoms are refractory to treatment following 24 hrs of chelation, reduce rate of infusion because of its association with acute respiratory distress syndrome. • Critical care management includes management of cardiopulmonary failure, hypotension, severe metabolic acidosis, hypoglycaemia or hypergly- caemia, anaemia, GIT bleed, liver and renal failure. Prognosis • Gastrointestinal bleeding, hypotension, metabolic acidosis, coma and shock are poor prognostic features. POISONSTOXINS
  • 569. 556 KEROSENE INGESTION AND HYDROCARBONS • Strict contraindication to doing gastric lavage and emesis: it increases risk of chemical pneumonitis. • Admit the child for observation for respiratory distress and treat symptomatically. • Cerebral effects may occur from hypoxia secondary to massive inhalation. • Antibiotics and steroids may be useful in lipoid pneumonia (esp. liquid paraffin). • Chest X ray. TRICYCLIC ANTIDEPRESSANTS Clinical Manifestations of Tricyclic Antidepressant poisoning Anticholinergic effects Fever, dry mouth, mydriasis, urinary retention, ileus. CNS Agitation, confusion, convulsion,drowsiness, coma Respiratory Respiratory depression Cardiovascular Sinus tachycardia, hypotension, complex arrhythmias Management • There is no specific antidote. • Give activated charcoal 1-2 g/kg/dose 4-8hourly. • Place patient on continuous ECG monitoring. Meticulous monitoring is required. In the absence of QRS widening, cardiac conduction abnormality, hypotension, altered sensorium or seizures within the 6 hours; it is unlikely the patient will deteriorate. • Treatment should be instituted for prolonged QRS and wide complex arrythmias. QRS 100ms (seizures) and QRS 160ms (arrhythymia). • Correct the metabolic acidosis. Give bicarbonate (1-2mmol/kg) to keep pH 7.45 – 7.55 when QRS is widened or in the face of ventricular arrhthy- mias. Administration of NaHCO3 is targeted at narrowing the QRS and is titrated accordingly by bolus or by infusion. Watch out for hypokalemia and treat accordingly. • Convulsions should be treated with benzodiazepines. • Use propranolol to treat life-threatening arrhythmias. • If torsades de pointes occurs treat with MgSO4. • Treat hypotension with Norepinephrine and epinephrine. Dopamine is not effective. • Haemodiaysis/PD is not effective as tricyclics are protein bound. • Important to avoid the use of flumazenil for reversal of co-ingestion of benzodiazepines as this can precipitate tricyclic induced seizure activity. POISONSTOXINS
  • 570. 557 ORGANOPHOSPHATES Clinical Manifestations in Organophosphate poisoning Cholinergic effects Miosis, sweating, lacrimation, muscle twitching, urination, excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea CNS Convulsions, coma Respiratory Bronchospasm, pulmonary oedema, respiratory arrest Cardiovascular Bradycardia, hypotension Management • Remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water. • Gastric lavage and give activated charcoal. • Resuscitate the patient. Protect the airway by early intubation. Use only non depolarising neuromuscular agents • Give IV atropine 0.05mg/kg every 15 minutes till fully atropinized. Atropine administration is guided by the drying of secretions rather than the heart rate and the pupil size. • Keep patient well atropinized for the next 2-3 days. • A continuous infusion of atropine can be started at 0.05mg/kg/hr and titrated. • Give IV Pralidoxime 25-50mg/kg over 30 min, repeated in 1-2 hrs and at 10-12 hr intervals as needed for symptom control (max 12g/day) till nicotinic signs resolves. • Treat convulsions with Diazepam. • IV Frusemide for pulmonary congestion after full atropinisation. • A rapid sequence intubation involves the potential for prolonged paralysis. PARAQUAT Clinical features • Ulcers in the mouth and oesophagus. • Diarrhoea and vomiting. • Jaundice and liver failure. • Renal failure. Management • Remove contaminated cloth and wash with soap and water. • Gastric lavage till clear. • To give Fuller’s earth in large amounts. • General supportive care. POISONSTOXINS
  • 572. 559 Chapter 103: Anaphylaxis Introduction • Anaphylaxis is a severe, life threatening, generalised or systemic hypersensitivity reaction. It is characterized by rapidly (minutes to hours) developing life threatening airway and/or breathing and /or circulation problems usually associated with skin and/ or mucosa changes. Life threatening features • Airway problems: • Airway swelling e.g. throat and tongue swelling. • Hoarse voice. • Stridor. • Breathing problems: • Shortness of breath (bronchospasm, pulmonary oedema). • Wheeze. • Confusion cause by hypoxia. • Cyanosis is usually a late sign. • Respiratory arrest. • Circulation problems • Shock. • Cardiovascular collapse with faintness, palpitations, loss of consciousness. • Cardiac arrest Key points to severe reaction • Previous severe reaction. • History of increasingly severe reaction. • History of asthma. • Treatment with β blocker. Approach to treatment (see following pages) • The clinical signs of critical illness are generally similar because they reflect failing respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological system. • Use ABCDE approach to recognise and treat anaphylaxis. Discharge Planning • Prevention of further episodes. • Education of patients and caregivers in the early recognition and treatment of allergic reaction. • Management of co-morbidities that increase the risk associated with anaphylaxis. • An adrenaline auto injector should be prescribed for those with history of severe reaction to food, latex, insect sting, exercise and idiopathic anaphylaxis and with risk factor like asthma. POISONSTOXINS
  • 573. 560 POISONSTOXINS GENERAL MANAGEMENT AND ASSESSMENT: Airway Breathing Circulation Disability Exposure Anaphylaxis reaction • Call for help • Remove allergens When skill and equipment available: • Establish airway • High flow oxygen • IV fluid challenge • Anti-histamine (H1, H2 blockers) • Hydrocortisone • Monitor: • Pulse oximetry • ECG • Blood pressure Diagnosis- looks for: • Acute onset illness • Life threatening airway and/or • Breathing and/or • Circulation problems • And usually skin changes Adrenaline
  • 574. 561 POISONSTOXINS Emergencytreatmentinanaphylaxis DrugsinanaphylaxisDosagebyage 6months6mthsto6years6years-12years12years AdrenalineIM-prehospitalpractitioners150micrograms (0.15mlof1000) 300micrograms (0.3mlof1:1000) 500microgram (0.5mlof1:1000) AdrenalineIM-inhospitalpractitioners (rptafter5minsifnoimprovement) 10micrograms/kg 0.1ml/kgof1:10000(infants/youngchildren)OR0.01ml/kgof1:1000(olderchildren) AdrenalineIVStartwith0.1microgram/kg/minandtitrateupto5microgram/kg/min* Crystalloid20mls/kg Hydrocortisone** IMorSlowIV) 25mg50mg100mg200mg • *Ifhypotensivepersistdespiteadequatefluid(CVP10),obtainechocardiogramandconsiderinfusingnoradrenaline aswellasadrenaline. • **Doseofintravenouscorticosteroidshouldbeequivalentto1-2mg/kg/doseofmethylprednisoloneevery6hours (preventbiphasicreaction). • Oralprednisolone1m/kgcanbeusedinmildercase. • Antihistamineareeffectiveinrelievingcutaneoussymptomsbutmaycausedrowsinessandhypotension. • Ifthepatientisonβ-blocker,theeffectofadrenalinemaybeblocked;Glucagonadministrationat20-30µg/kg,max1mgover 5minutesfollowedbyinfusionat5-15µg/minisuseful. • Continueobservationfor6-24hoursdependingonseverityofreactionbecauseoftheriskofbiphasicreactionandthe wearingoffofadrenalinedose.
  • 575. 562 POISONSTOXINS Partial Obstruction/ Stridor Assess AIRWAY • Call for help • Remove allergens • Administer O2 via face mask • Administer IM adrenaline Assess BREATHING ReAssess ABC • Repeat adrenaline IM if no response. • Nebulised adrenaline, rpt every 10 min as required. • Hydrocortisone • Repeat adrenaline IM if no response. • Nebulised salbutamol, repeat if required • Hydrocortisone • Consider Salbutamol IV or aminophylline • Repeat adrenaline IM if no response. • Crystalloid • Adrenaline infusion • Intubation or • Surgical airway • Bag ventilation via mask or ET tube • Repeat adrenaline IM if no response • Hydrocortisone • Basic and advanced life support Complete Obstruction No Problem No Problem Assess CIRCULATION No Problem Apnoea Wheeze No Pulse Shock SPECIFIC TREATMENT AND INTERVENTION
  • 576. 563 POISONSTOXINS References Section 15 Poisons And Toxins Ch 101 Snake Bite 1.Warrell DA. WHO/SEARO guidelines for the clinical management of snake bites in the Southeast Asia region. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health 1999;30 Supplement 1. 2.Gopalakrishnakone P, Chou LM (eds). Snakes of medical importance (Asia - Pacific region). Venom and Toxin Research Group, Nat Univ Singapore 1990. 3.Soh SY, Rutherford G. Evidence behind the WHO Guidelines: hospital care for children: should s/c adrenaline, hydrocortisone or antihistamines be used as premedication for snake antivenom? J Trop Pediatr 2006;52:155-7. 4.Theakston RDG, Warrell DA, Griffiths E. Report of a WHO workshop on the standardization and control of antivenoms. Toxicon 2003;41:541-57. 5.Ministry of Health Malaysia. Clinical protocol: Management of snake bite. MOH/P/PAK/140.07 (GU), June 2008. 6.APLS manual 5th edition: approach to child with anaphylaxis. Ch 102 Common Poisons 1.AL Jones, PI Dargon, What is new in toxicology? Current Pediatrics( 2001) 11, 409 – 413 2.Fiona Jepsen, Mary Ryan, Poisoning in children. Current Pediatrics 2005, 15 563 – 568 3.Rogers textbook of Pediatric Intensive Care 4th edition Chapter 31 4.Paracetamol overdose: an evidence based flowchart to guide management. CI Wallace et al Emerg Med J 2002; 19:202-205 5.The management of paracetamol poisoning; Khairun et al Paediatrics and Child Health 19:11 492-497 Ch 103 Anaphylaxis 1.Sheikh A,Ten Brock VM, Brown SGA, Simons FER H1- antihistamines for the treatment of anaphylaxis with and without shock (Review) The Cochrane Library 2012 Issue 4 2.Advanced Paediatric Life Support: The practical approach 5th Edition 2011 Wiley- Blackwell; 279-289 3.J.K.Lee, P.Vadas Anaphylaxis: mechanism and management Clinical Ex- perimental Allergy Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2011 41, 923-938 4.F.Estelle, R. Simons Anaphylaxis and treatment. Allergy 2011 66 (Suppl 99) 31-34 5.K.J.L. Choo, E. Simons, A. Sheikh . Glucocorticoid for treatment of ana- phyaxis: Cochrane systematic review. Allergy 2010 65 1205-1211 6.Graham R N, Neil HY. Anaphylaxis Medicine Elsevier 2008 37.2 57-60 7.Mimi LK Tang, Liew Woei Kang Prevention and treatment of anaphylaxis. Paediatrics and Child Health Elsevier 2008 309-316 8.Sunday Clark, Carlos A, Camargo Jr Emergency treatment and prevention of insect-sting anaphylaxis. Current Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2006 6: 279-283
  • 578. 565 Chapter 104: Recognition and Assessment of Pain • The health care provider should decide on an appropriate level of pain relief for a child in pain and also before a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. • We can assess a child in pain using an observational-based pain score or a self-assessment pain score. Repeated assessment needs to be done to guide further analgesia. Observational-based Pain Score: The Alder Hey Triage Pain Score No. Response Score 0 Score 1 Score 2 1 Cry or voice No complaint or cry Normal conversation Consolable Not talking negative Inconsolable Complaining of pain 2 Facial expres- sion – grimace* Normal Short grimace 50% time Long grimace 50% time 3 Posture Normal Touching / rubbing / spar- ing / limping Defensive / tense 4 Movement Normal Reduced or restless Immobile or thrashing 5 Colour Normal pale Very pale / ‘green’ *grimace – open mouth, lips pulled back at corners, furrowed forehead and /or between eye-brows, eyes closed, wrinkled at corners. From Appendix F, APLS 5th Edition; Score range from 0 to 10 SEDATION
  • 580. 567 Chapter 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic andTherapeutic Procedures Definitions • Sedation – reduces state of awareness but does not relieve pain. • Analgesia – reduces the perception of pain. Levels of sedation Procedural sedation means minimal or moderate sedation / analgesia. • Minimal sedation (anxiolysis) – drug-induced state during which patients respond normally to verbal commands. Although cognitive function and coordination may be impaired, ventilatory and cardiovascular functions are unaffected. • Moderate sedation / analgesia – drug-induced depression during which patient respond to verbal commands either alone or accompanied by light tactile stimulation. The airway is patent and spontaneous ventilation is adequate. Cardiovascular function is adequate. Note: • Avoid deep sedation and general anesthesia in which the protective airway reflexes are lost and patients need ventilatory support. • Some children require general anesthesia even for brief procedures whether painful or painless because of their level of distress. Indications • Patients undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Contra-indications • Blocked airway including large tonsils or adenoids. • Increase intracranial pressure. • Reduce level of consciousness prior to sedation. • Respiratory or cardiovascular failure. • Neuromuscular disease. • Child too distressed. Patient selection The patients should be in Class I and II of the ASA classification of sedation risk. • Class I – a healthy patient • Class II – a patient with mild systemic disease, no functional limitation Preparation • Consent • Light restraint to prevent self injury Personnel • At least a senior medical officer, preferably PALS or APLS trained. • A nurse familiar with monitoring and resuscitation. SEDATION
  • 581. 568 Facilities • Oxygen source. • Suction. • Resuscitation equipment. • Pulse oximeter. • ECG monitor. • Non-invasive BP monitoring. • Defibrillator. Fasting • Recommended for all major procedures: Nil orally: no solid food for 6 hours no milk feeds for 4 hours • May allow clear fluids up to 2 hours before, for infants Venous access • Vein cannulated after applying local anaesthesia for 60 minutes. Sedation for Painless Procedures • Non-pharmacologic measures to reduce anxiety • Behavioural management, child friendly environment • Medication • Oral Chloral hydrate (drug 1 in table) may be used. Note: • Opioids should not be used. • Sedatives such as benzodiazepine and dissociative anaesthesia ketamine should be used with caution and only by experienced senior medical officers. • A few children may need general anaesthesia and ventilation even for painless procedure such as MRI brain if the above fails. Sedation for Painful Procedures • Non-pharmacologic measures to reduce anxiety • Behavioural management, child friendly environment. • Local anaesthesia • Topical : Lignocaine EMLA ® 5% applied with occlusive plaster for 60 minutes to needle puncture sites, e.g. venous access, lumbar puncture, bone marrow aspiration. • Subcutaneous Lignocaine infiltrated to the anaesthesised area prior to prolonged needling procedure, e.g. insertion of chest drainage. SEDATION
  • 582. 569 • Medications (see table next page) Many sedative and analgesic drugs are available; however, it is advisable to use the following frequently used medications: 1. Narcotics (analgesia) also have sedative effects • Fentanyl • Naloxone (narcotic reversal) - For respiratory depression* caused by narcotics. • Morphine - general dissociative anaesthesia 2. Benzodiazepines (sedatives) have no analgesia effects • Diazepam • Flumazenil (benzodiazepine reversal) - Can reverse respiratory depression* and paradoxical excitatory reactions • Midazolam. 3. Ketamine (to be used by senior doctors preferably in the presence of an anaesthesia doctor). Adverse effects include • Increased systemic, intracranial and intraocular pressures. • Hallucinogenic emergence reactions (usually in older children). • Laryngospasm. • Excessive airway secretions. *provide bag-mask positive pressure ventilation whilst waiting for reversal agent to take effect. Post sedation monitoring and discharge Patient can be discharged when: • Vital signs and SaO₂ normal. And • Arousable. • Baseline level of verbal ability and able to follow age-appropriate commands. • Sit unassisted (if appropriate for age). SEDATION
  • 583. 570 Drug dosages used for sedation and analgesia in children Drug Dose Onset of action Duration of action Chloral Hydrate Oral 25 - 50 mg/kg; Max 2g. For higher doses, i.e. 50 -100 mg/kg, please consult paediatrician or anaes- thesiologist. 15 – 30 mins 2 -3 hours Narcotics Morphine IV 1 year: 200-500 mcg/kg 1 year: 80 mcg/kg 5 – 10 mins 2 – 4 hours Fentanyl IV 1 – 2 mcg/kg 2 – 3 mins 20 -60 mins Benzodiazepines Midazolam IV 0.05 – 0.1 mg/kg, max single dose 5 mg; may repeat up to max total dose 0.4 mg/kg (10 mg) 1 -2 mins 30 – 60 mins Diazepam IV 0.1 - 0.2 mg/kg 2 - 3 mins 30 – 90 mins Ketamine IV 0.5 - 2.0 mg/kg 1 – 2 mins 15 – 60 mins Reversal agents Naloxone Repeated small doses IV 1 - 10 mcg/kg every 1-2 mins Flumazenil IV 0.01 – 0.02 mg / kg every 1 -2 minutes up to a maximum dose of 1 mg SEDATION
  • 584. 571 Chapter 108: Practical Procedures Headings 1. Airway Access – Endotracheal Intubation 2. Blood Sampling Vascular Access 2.1 Venepuncture Peripheral Venous Cannulation 2.2 Arterial Blood Sampling Peripheral Arterial Cannulation 2.3 Intra-Osseous Access 2.4 Neonates 2.4.1 Capillary Blood Sampling 2.4.2 Umbilical Arterial Catheterisation UAC 2.4.3 Umbilical Venous Catheterisation UVC 2.4 Central venous access - Femoral vein cannulation in children. 3. Body Fluid Sampling 3.1. CSF - Lumbar puncture 3.2. Chest tube insertion (open method) 3.3. Heart - Pericardiocentesis 3.4. Abdomen 3.4.1. Gastric lavage 3.4.2. Abdominal paracentesis 3.4.3. Peritoneal dialysis 3.4.4. Suprapubic bladder tap 3.4.5. Bladder catheterisation 3.5 Bone marrow aspiration trephine biopsy Selected sedation and pain relief is important before the procedures. (see Ch 105: Sedation and Analgesia for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures) PROCEDURES
  • 585. 572 1. AIRWAY ACCESS - ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION (Please request for assistance from the Doctor from Anaesthesiology Depart- ment if necessary). Introduction: • APLS courses have been conducted locally since October 2010. Kindly refer to APLS 5th Ed:- • Chapter 20: Practical procedures: airway and breathing • Chapter 21: Practical procedures: circulation • The control of airway and breathing is very important in a patient with respiratory or cardiopulmonary failure or collapse. Indications • When bag and mask ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is insufficient. • For prolonged positive pressure ventilation. • Direct suctioning of the trachea. • To maintain and protect airway. • Diaphragmatic hernia (newborn). Contra-indications • If the operator is inexperienced in intubation, perform bag and mask ventilation till help arrives. Equipment • Bag and mask with high oxygen flow. • Laryngoscope. • Blades: • Straight blade for infants, curved blades for an older child. • Size 0 for neonates, 1 for infants, 2 for children. • Endotracheal tube – appropriate size as shown. • Stylet (optional). • Suction catheter and device. • Scissors and adhesive tape. • Pulse oximeter. • Sedation (Midazolam or Morphine). • Muscle relaxant (Succinylcholine). Size of ETT (mm): 2.5 for 1kg 3.0 for 1-2kg 3.5 for 2-3kg 3.5 - 4.0 for 3kg Oral ETT length in cm for neonates: 6 + (weight in kg) cm For Children 1 year: ETT size (mm) = 4 plus (age in years /4) Oral ETT length (cm) = 12 plus (age in years /2) PROCEDURES
  • 586. 573 Procedure 1. Position infant with head in midline and slightly extended. 2. Continue bag and mask ventilation with 100% oxygen till well saturated. In newborns adjust FiO2 accordingly until oxygen saturation is satisfactory. (Refer NRP Program 6th edition). 3. Sedate the child with • IV Midazolam (0.1-0.2 mg/kg) or IV Morphine (0.1-0.2 mg/kg). • Give muscle relaxant if still struggling IV Succinylcholine (1-2 mg/kg). Caution: must be able to bag the patient well or have good intubation skills before giving muscle relaxant. 4. Monitor the child’s vital signs throughout the procedure. 5. Introduce the blade between the tongue and the palate with left hand and advance to the back of the tongue while assistant secures the head. 6. When epiglottis is seen, lift blade upward and outward to visualize the vocal cords. 7. Suction secretions if necessary. 8. Using the right hand, insert the ETT from the right side of the infant’s mouth; a stylet may be required. 9. Keep the glottis in view and insert the ETT when the vocal cords are opened till the desired ETT length while assistant applies cricoid pressure. 10. If intubation is not done within 20 seconds, the attempt should be aborted and re-ventilate with bag and mask. 11. Once intubated, remove laryngoscope and hold the ETT firmly with left hand. Connect to the self-inflating bag and positive pressure ventilation. 12. Confirm the ETT position by looking at the chest expansion, listen to lungs air entry and also the stomach. 13. Secure the ETT with adhesive tape. 14. Connect the ETT to the ventilator or resuscitation bag. 15. Insert orogastric tube to decompress the stomach. 16. Check chest radiograph. Complications and Pitfalls • Oesophageal intubation. • Right lung intubation. • Trauma to the upper airway. • Pneumothorax. • Subglottic stenosis (late). • Relative contra-indications for Succinylcholine are increased intra-cranial pressure, neuromuscular disorders, malignant hyperthermia, hyperkalaemia and renal failure. Note: The drugs used in Rapid Sequence Intubation are listed in the PALS Provider Manual. PROCEDURES
  • 587. 574 2. BLOOD SAMPLING VASCULAR ACCESS 2.1. VENEPUNCTURE PERIPHERAL VENOUS LINE Indications • Blood sampling. • Intravenous fluid, medications and blood components. Equipment • Alcohol swab. • Tourniquet. • Topical anaesthetic (TA), e.g lignocaine EMLA® 5%. • Catheter or needle; sizes 25, 23, 21 G. • Heparinised saline, T-connector, rubber bung for setting an IV line. Technique 1. Identify the vein for venepuncture. Secure the identified limb and apply tourniquet or equivalent. 2. TA may be applied with occlusive plaster an hour earlier. 3. Clean the skin with alcohol swab. 4. Puncture the skin and advance the needle or catheter in the same direction as the vein at 15-30 degrees angle. 5. In venepuncture, blood is collected once blood flows out from the needle. The needle is then removed and pressure applied once sufficient blood is obtained. 6. In setting an intravenous line, the catheter is advanced a few millimetres further. Once blood appears at the hub, then withdraw the needle while advancing the catheter. 7. Remove the tourniquet and flush the catheter with heparinised saline. 8. Secure the catheter and connect it to either rubber bung or IV drip. 9. Immobilise the joint above and below the site of catheter insertion with restraining board and tape. Complications • Haematoma or bleeding. • Thrombophlebitis. • Extravasation can lead to soft tissue injury resulting in limb or digital loss and loss of function. This complication is of concern in neonates, where digital ischaemia, partial limb loss, nerve damage, contractures of skin and across joints can occur. PROCEDURES
  • 588. 575 Extravasation injury • Signs include: • Pain, tenderness at insertion site especially during infusion or giving slow bolus drugs. • Redness. • Swelling. • Reduced movement of affected site. (Note – the inflammatory response can be reduced in neonates especially preterm babies) • Observation The insertion site should be observed for signs of extravasation: • At least every 4 hours for ill patients. • Sick preterm in NICU – observation should be done more often, that is, every hour. • Each time before, during and after slow bolus or infusion. (Consider re-siting the intravenous catheter every 48 to 72 hours) • If moderate or serious extravasation occurs, especially in the following situation: • Preterm babies. • Delay in detection of extravasation. • Hyperosmolar solutions or irritant drugs (glucose concentration 10g%, sodium bicarbonate, calcium solution, dopamine, cloxacillin, fusidic acid) Consider: • Refer to plastic surgeon / orthopaedics surgeon. • Performing ‘subcutaneous saline irrigation’ especially in neonates (ref Davies, ADC, Fetal and Neonatal edition 1994). Give IV analgesia morphine, then perform numerous subcutaneous punctures around the extravasated tissue and flush slowly with generous amount of normal saline to remove the irritant. Ensure that the flushed fluid flows out through the multiple punctured sites. Pitfalls • If the patient is in shock, the venous flow back and the arterial flow • (in event of accidental cannulation of an artery) is sluggish. • BEWARE! An artery can be accidentally cannulated, e.g. brachial artery at the cubital fossa and the temporal artery at the side of the head of a neonate and be mistaken as a venous access. Check for resistance to flow during slow bolus or infusion (e.g. frequent alarming of the perfusor pump) or watch for pulsation in the backflow or a rapid backflow. Rapid bolus or infusion of drugs can cause ischaemia of the limb. Where in doubt, gently remove the IV cannula. • Ensure prescribed drug is given by the proper mode of administration. Some drugs can only be given by slow infusion (e.g.fusidic acid) instead of slow bolus in order to reduce tissue damage from extravasation. • Avoid medication error (correct patient, correct drug, correct DOSE, correct route). • Avoid nosocomial infection. PROCEDURES
  • 589. 576 2.2. ARTERIAL BLOOD SAMPLING PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL LINE CANNULATION Indications • Arterial blood gases. • Invasive blood pressure monitoring. • Frequent blood taking. Contra-indications • Presence or potential of limb ischaemia. • Do not set arterial line if close monitoring cannot be done. Equipment • Topical anaesthetic (TA) like lignocaine EMLA® 5%. • Alcohol swab. • Needle size 27. • Catheter size 25. • Heparinised saline in 5cc syringe (1 ml for neonate), T-connector. • Heparinised saline (1u/ml) for infusion. Procedure 1. Check the ulnar collateral circulation by modified Allen test. 2. The radial pulse is identified. Other sites that can be used are posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis artery. 3. TA may be applied with occlusive plaster an hour before procedure. 4. Clean the skin with alcohol swab. 5. Dorsiflex the wrist slightly. Puncture the skin and advance the catheter in the same direction as the radial artery at a 30-40 degrees angle. 6. The catheter is advanced a few millimetres further when blood appears at the hub, then withdraw the needle while advancing the catheter. 7. Aspirate to ensure good flow, then flush gently with a small amount of heparinised saline. 8. Peripheral artery successfully cannulated. • Ensure that the arterial line is functioning. The arterial pulsation is usually obvious in the tubing. • Connect to T-connector and 3-way stop-cock (red colour) to a syringe pump. • Label the arterial line and the time of the setting. 9. Run the heparinised saline at an appropriate rate: • 0.5 to 1.0 mL per hour for neonates. • 1.0 mL (preferred) or even up till 3.0 mL per hour for invasive BP line (to avoid backflow in bigger paediatrics patients). 10. Immobilize the joint above and below the site of catheter insertion with restraining board and tape, taking care not to make the tape too tight. PROCEDURES
  • 590. 577 Complications and Pitfalls • Arteriospasm which may lead to ischaemia and gangrene. • Neonates especially – digital and distal limb ischaemia. Precautions Prevention of digital, distal limb ischaemia and gangrene • AVOID end arteries e.g. brachial (in cubital fossa) and temporal artery (side of head) in babies (BEWARE - both these arteries can be accidentally cannulated and mistaken as ‘veins’ especially in ill patients with shock). • Test for collateral circulation • If a radial artery is chosen, please perform Allen’s test (to confirm the ulnar artery collateral is intact) before cannulation. • If either the posterior tibial or dorsalispedis artery on one foot is chosen, ensure that these 2 arteries are palpable before cannulation. • Circulation chart Perform observation and record circulation of distal limb every hour in the NICU/PICU, and whenever necessary to detect for signs of ischaemia, namely: • Colour - pale, blue, mottled. • Cold, clammy skin. • Capillary refill 2 seconds. • Treatment of digital or limb ischaemia • This is difficult as the artery involved is of small calibre. • Remove IV cannula. • Confirm thrombosis with ultrasound doppler. • May consider warming the contralateral unaffected limb to induce reflex vasodilatation if part of one limbis affected (see Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis). • Ensure good peripheral circulation and blood pressure • Anticoagulant drugs and thrombolytic agents should be considered. • Refer orthopaedic surgeon if gangrene is inevitable • Reminders: • PREVENTION of limb ischaemia is of utmost importance. • Early detection of ischaemia is very important in order to avoid irreversible ischaemia. • If the patient is in shock, the risk of limb ischaemia is greater. • Small and preterm babies are at greater risk for ischaemia. • No fluid or medication other than heparinized saline can be given through arterial line. This mistake can occur if the line is not properly labelled, or even wrongly labelled and presumed to be a venous line. PROCEDURES
  • 591. 578 2.3. INTRAOSSEOUS ACCESS Notes: • Intraosseous infusion can be used for all age groups. • The most common site for IO cannulation is the anterior tibia (all age groups). Alternate sites include: • Infant – distal femur • Child – anterior superior iliac spine, distal tibia. • Adolescent/adult - distal tibia, medial malleolus, anterior superior iliac spine, distal radius, distal ulna. • All the fluids and medications can be given intraosseously. • IO infusion is not recommended for use longer than a 24 hour period. Indications • Emergency access for IV fluids and medications when other methods of vascular access failed. • In certain circumstances, e.g. severe shock with severe vasoconstriction or cardiac arrest, IO access may be the INITIAL means of vascular access attempted. Contra-indications • Fractures, crush injuries near the access site. • Conditions in which the bone is fragile e.g. osteogenesis imperfecta. • Previous attempts to establish access inthe same bone. • Infection over the overlying tissues. Equipment • Sterile dressing set. • EZ-IO drill set if available. • Intraosseous needle. • Syringes for aspiration. • Local anaesthesia. Procedure 1. Immobilize the lower limb. 2. Support the limb with linen 3. Clean and draped the area 4. Administer LA at the site of insertion 5. Insert the IO needle 1-3 cm below and medial to the tibial tuberosity caudally. 6. Advance needle at a 60-90o angle away from the growth plate until a ‘give’ is felt. 7. Remove the needle trocar stylet while stabilizing the needle cannula 8. Withdraw bone marrow with a 5cc syringe to confirm access 9. Infuse a small amount of saline and observe for swelling at the insertion site or posteriorly in the extremity opposite the insertion site. Fluid should flow in freely and NO swelling must be seen. (Swelling indicates that the needle has penetrated into and through the posterior cortical bone. If this happens remove the needle.) PROCEDURES
  • 592. 579 10. Connect the cannula to tubing and IV fluids. Fluid should flow in freely 11. Monitor for any extravasation of fluids. Complications • Cellulitis. • Osteomyelitis. • Extravasation of fluids/compartment syndrome. • Damage to growth plate. 2.4. NEONATES 2.4.1. CAPILLARY BLOOD SAMPLING Indications • Capillary blood gases • Capillary blood glucose • Serum bilirubin Equipment • Lancet or heel prick device. • Alcohol swab. Procedure 1. Either prick the medial or lateral aspect of the heel 2. For the poorly perfused heel, warm with gauze soaked in warm water. 3. Clean the skin with alcohol swab 4. Stab the sterile lancet to a depth of 2.5mm, then withdraw it. Intermittently squeeze the heel gently when the heel is re-perfused until sufficient blood is obtained. Complications • Cellulitis. • Osteomyelitis. PROCEDURES
  • 593. 580 2.4.2. UMBILICAL ARTERY CATHETERISATION (UAC) Indications • Repeated blood sampling in ill newborn especially those on ventilator. • Occasionally it is used for continuous BP monitoring and infusion. Contra-indications • Local vascular compromise in lower extremities. • Peritonitis, necrotising enterocolitis. • Omphalitis. Prior to setting • Examine the infant’s lower extremities and buttocks for any signs of vascular insufficiency. • Palpate femoral pulses for their presence and equality. • Evaluate the infant’s legs, feet, and toes for any asymmetry in colour, visible bruising, or vascular insufficiency. • Document the findings for later comparison. Do not set if there is any sign of vascular insufficiency. Equipment • UAC/UVC set. • Umbilical artery catheter, appropriate size. • 5 cc syringes filled with heparinized saline. • Three-way tap. • Heparinized saline (1u/ml) for infusion. Procedure 1. Clean the umbilicus and the surrounding area using standard aseptic technique. In order to observe for limb ischaemia during umbilical arterial insertion, consider exposing the feet in term babies if the field of sterility is adequate. 2. Catheterise the umbilical artery to the desired position. The formula for UAC is: • (Body weight in kg x 3) + 9 + ‘stump length’ in cm (high position - recommended) • Height in kg + 7 cm (low position) 3. Cut the umbilicus horizontally leaving behind a 1cm stump. There are usually 2 arteries and 1 vein. The artery is smaller, white and harder in consistency. Use the curved artery forceps to hold the umbilicus stump upright and taut. Use the probe to dilate the vessel. Insert the catheter to the desired distance. Size of UAC in mm: 3.5 for 1.25 kg 5.0 for 1.25 - 3.5 kg PROCEDURES
  • 594. 581 4. Ensure the successful and correct cannulation of one umbilical artery. • Tips for successful catheterisation of the umbilical artery: - In a fresh and untwisted umbilical stump, the two arteries can be clearly distinguished from the vein. - The blood withdrawn is bright red. - Visible arterial pulsations can be seen in the column of blood withdrawn into the catheter. This pulsation in may not be seen in very preterm babies and babies in shock, using the closed system. • In accidental cannulation of the umbilical vein, the catheter tip can be in the left atrium (via the foramen ovale from the right to left atrium) or in the left ventricle. • Stick the label of the catheter onto patient’s folder for future reference (brand and material of catheter) in the event of limb ischaemia or thrombosis of femoral artery occurring later. 5. Observe for signs of arterial occlusion to the lower limbs and buttocks (colour, cold skin, capillary refill delayed, poor dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses) during and after the proceduredue to arterial vasospasm. Lift the edge of the drape by an assistant to observe the lower limbs circulation without compromising the sterility field. 6. If there are no complications (limb ischaemia – see pitfalls), secure the UAC to avoid accidental dislodgement. 7. Perform a chest and abdominal X-ray to ascertain the placement of UAC tip • Between T 6-9 vertebra (high position) - preferred • At the L 3-4 vertebra (low position) Withdraw the catheter to the correct position, as soon as position is ascertained, if necessary. 8. Monitor the lower limbs and buttock area for ischaemic changes 2-4 hourly 9. Infuse heparinised saline continuously through the UAC at 0.5 to 1 U/hr to reduce the risk of catheter occlusion and thrombotic events. 10. Note the catheter length markings every day and compare with the procedure note at the time of insertion ( to check for catheter migration). 11. Remove the UAC as soon as no longer required to reduce the incidence of thrombus formation and long line sepsis. Complications • Bleeding from accidental disconnection and open connection. • Embolisation of blood clot or air in the infusion system. • Vasospasm or thrombosis of aorta, iliac, femoral or obturator artery leading to limb or buttock ischaemia. (see Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis) • Thrombosis of renal artery (hypertension, haematuria, renal failure), mesenteric artery (gut ischaemia, necrotising enterocolitis). • Vascular perforation of umbilical arteries, haematoma and retrograde arterial bleeding. • Infection. PROCEDURES
  • 595. 582 2.4.3. UMBILICAL VEIN CATHETERISATION (UVC) Indications • UVC is used for venous access in neonatal resuscitation. • As a venous access in preterm babies especially ELBW babies (1000g) and also in sick babies in shock with peripheral vasoconstriction. • For doing exchange transfusion for severe neonatal jaundice. Contra-indications • Omphalitis, omphalocoele. • Necrotising enterocolitis. • Peritonitis. Equipment • UVC set. • Umbilical venous catheter, appropriate size. • 5 cc syringes filled with heparinized saline. • Three-way tap. • Heparinized saline (1u/ml) for infusion. Procedure 1. Clean umbilicus and its surroundings using standard procedures. In order to observe for limb ischaemia during insertion (in the event of accidental arterial catheterisation), consider exposing the feet in term babies if field of sterility is adequate. 2. Formula for insertion length of UVC: • [0.5 x UAC cm (high position)] + 1 cm. (Refer to information on use of “Shoulder - umbilical length” , in Ch 13 NICU guidelines) Or • 2 x weight in kg + 5 + stump length in cm. 3. Perform the umbilical venous cannulation • Tips for successful UV catheterisation: - In a fresh (first few hours of life) and untwisted umbilical stump, the umbilical vein has a thin wall, is patulous and is usually sited at the 12 o’clock position. The two umbilical arteries which have a thicker wall and in spasm, and sited at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions. However, in a partially dried umbilical cord, the distinction between the vein and arteries may not be obvious. - The venous flow back is sluggish and without pulsation (in contrast to the arterial pulsation of UAC). - The blood is dark red in colour. - Stand to the right of the baby (if you are right handed). Tilt the umbilical stump inferiorly at an angle of 45 degrees from the abdomen. Advance the catheter superiorly and posteriorly towards the direction of the right atrium. Size of UVC mm: 5.0 for 2kg 8.0 for 2-3.5kg 10.0 for3.5kg PROCEDURES
  • 596. 583 • Central venous pressure - The UVC tip is sited in the upper IVC (inferior vena cava). The right atrial pressure in a term relaxed baby normally ranges from -2 to + 6 mmHg (i.e. - 3 cm to + 9 cm water). • Negative intrathoracic pressure and air embolism - In a crying baby, the negative intrathoracic pressure can be significant during deep inspiration. - Ensure that no air embolism occurs during the procedure especially in the presence of negative pressure when the catheter tip is in the right atrium. Air embolism can occur if the baby takes a deep inspiration when the closed UVC circuit is broken. • Stick the label of the catheter onto the patient’s folder for future reference (brand and material of catheter) in the event of thrombosis occurring in the cannulated vessel. 4. If there are no complications, secure the UVC to avoid accidental migration of the catheter. 5. If the UVC is for longer term usage such as for intravenous access / TPN, perform chest and abdominal radiograph to ascertain the tip of the catheter is in the inferior vena cava above the diaphragm. 6. Consider removing the UVC after 5 - 7 days to reduce incidence of line sepsis or thrombus forming around the catheter. Complications • Infections. • Thrombo-embolic – lungs, liver, even systemic circulation. • Pericardial tamponade, arrhythmias, hydrothorax. • Portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension (manifested later in life). Pifalls • The umbilical artery can be mistakenly cannulated during umbilical venous catheterisation. • If you suspect that the umbilical artery was wrongly cannulated resulting in limb ischaemia, please refer Ch 14 Vascular spasm and Thrombosis. PROCEDURES
  • 597. 584 2.5 CENTRAL VENOUS ACCESS: FEMORAL VEIN CANNULATION IN CHILDREN • The routes of central venous access includes peripherally inserted central catheter - PICC (eg through cubital fossa vein into SVC) and femoral, external / internal jugular and subclavian veins. • These lines must be inserted by trained senior doctors in selected seriously ill paediatrics patients requiring resuscitation and emergency treatment. • The benefits of a successfully inserted central venous access must be weighed against the numerous potential complications arising from the procedure. • This includes pneumothorax and life-threatening injuries of the airway, lungs, great vessels and heart. • The basic principle of Seldinger central line insertion applies to all sites and the femoral vein cannulation is described. • For insertion of central lines by experts in other sites, please refer to Chapter 21, APLS 5th Ed 2011 and PALS 6 PALS 2002. Indications • Seriously ill ventilated paediatrics patients. • To obtain central venous pressure. • Longer term intravenous infusion (compared to IO access). • Haemodialysis. Contra-indications • Absence of trained doctors for this procedure. • Bleeding and clotting disorders. • Risk of contamination of the cannulation site by urine and faeces. Equipment • Sterile set. • Lidocaine (Lignocaine) 1% for local anaesthetic, 2 mL syringe, 23 G needle. • 5 mL syringe and normal saline, t-connector and 3-way tap. • Seldinger cannulation set – syringe, needle, guide wire, catheter. • Sterile dressing. PROCEDURES
  • 598. 585 Procedure 1. In a ventilated child, give a dose of analgesia (eg Morphine, Fentanyl) and sedation (e.g. Midazolam). 2. In the supine position, expose the chosen leg and groin in a slightly abducted position. 3. Clean the inguinal region thoroughly using iodine and 70% alcohol. 4. Infiltrate local lidocaine if necessary. 5. Identify the landmark by palpating the femoral artery pulse in the mid-inguinal region. The femoral vein is medial to the femoral artery. 6. Insert the saline filled syringe and needle at 45 degrees angle to the skin and 1 cm medial (depends on the age of child) and parallel to the femoral artery pulsation. Pull the plunger gently and advance superiorly in-line with the leg. 7. When there is a backflow of blood into the syringe, stop suction, and disconnect the syringe from the needle. The guide wire is then promptly and gently inserted into the needle. 8. Withdraw the needle gently without risking damage to the guide wire 9. Insert the cannula over the wire without risking displacement of the wire into the patient. 10. Once the cannula has been inserted, remove the guide wire and attach the infusion line securely onto the hub of the cannula. Check for easy backflow by gentle suction on the syringe. 11. Secure the line using sterile dressing and ensure the insertion site is clearly visible at all times. Pitfalls • Do not lose the guide wire (inserted too deep into patient) • Do not fracture the guide wire accidentally with the needle • Do not accidentally cannulate the femoral artery (blood pressure could be low in a patient with shock) • Beware of local haematoma at injection site. • Always check the distal perfusion of the leg and toes before and after procedure. PROCEDURES
  • 599. 586 3. BODY FLUID SAMPLING 3.1. LUMBAR PUNCTURE Indications • Suspected meningitis / encephalitis. • Intrathecal chemotherapy for oncology patients. • In selected patients being investigated for neurometabolic disorders. Contraindications • Increased intracranial pressure (signs and symptoms, raised blood pressure, fundoscopic signs). • Bleeding tendency - platelet count 50,000/mm3 , prolonged PT or APTT. • Skin infection over the site of lumbar puncture • Patient with hypertensive encephalopathy Equipment • Sterile set. • Sterile bottles for CSF, bottle for RBS (random blood sugar). • Spinal needle 20-22G, length 1.5 inch with stylet; length 3.5 inches for children 12 years old. Procedure 1. Give sedation (midazolam), apply local anaesthetic. 2. Take a random blood sugar sample (RBS). 3. Place child in lateral recumbent position with neck, body, hips and knees flexed. Monitor oxygen saturation continuously. 4. Visualise a vertical line between the highest point of both iliac crests and its transection with the midline of the spine (at level between vertebrae L 3-4). 5. Clean area using standard aseptic techniques: povidone-iodine and 70% alcohol. 6. Gently puncture skin with spinal needle at the identified mark and point towards the umbilicus. The entry point is distal to the palpated spinous process L4. 7. Gently advance a few millimetres at a time until there is a backflow of CSF (there may be a ‘give’ on entering the dura mater before the CSF backflow). Collect the CSF in the designated bottles. 8. Gently withdraw needle, spray with op-site, cover with gauze and bandage. 9. Ensure that the child lies supine for the next 4 to 6 hours, continue monitoring child till he or she recovers from the sedation. Complications • Headache or back pain following the procedure (from arachnoiditis). • Brain herniation associated with raised ICP. • Bleeding into CSF, or around the cord (extraspinal haematoma). PROCEDURES
  • 600. 587 3.2. CHEST TUBE INSERTION Indications • Pneumothorax with respiratory distress. • Significant pleural effusion. • Empyema. Equipment • Suturing set. • Local anaesthetic +/- sedation. • Chest tube, appropriate size. • Underwater seal with sterile water. • Suction pump – optional. Procedure 1. Sedate the child. 2. Position the child with ipsilateral arm fully abducted. 3. Clean and drape the skin. 4. Infiltrate LA into the skin at 4th ICS, AAL or mid axillary line. 5. Check approximate length of the chest tube to be inserted. For Open Method i. The open method (without the metal introducer) of chest tube cannulation is the preferred method except in neonates ii. Make a small incision in the skin just above the rib. Bluntly dissect through the subcutaneous tissue and puncture the parietal pleura with the tip of the clamp. Put a gloved finger into the incision and clear the path into the pleura. This will not be possible in a small child. Advance the chest tube into the pleural space during expiration. iii. For drainage of air, roll the child slightly to the opposite side for easier manoeuvring and advancement of the chest tube. Place the tip of the chest tube at the incision. Point the catheter tip anteriorly and slowly advance the chest tube. However, for drainage of empyema, roll the child slightly towards same side and point the catheter tip posteriorly and proceed with the rest of the procedure. iv. Connect the chest tube to underwater seal. For Closed Method i. Make a small incision just above the rib down to the subcutaneous tissue. ii. Place the tip of the chest tube at the incision, point the tip anteriorly for drainage of air and posteriorly for drainage of empyema. Slowly advance the chest tube with introducer by exerting a firm continuous pressure until a ‘give’ is felt. iii. Withdraw the introducer partially and advance the chest tube till the desired length. iv. Remove introducer fully and clamp the chest tube.over a gauze. May not be necessary if patient receiving positive pressure ventilation. v. Connect the chest tube to underwater seal. Size of chest tube (mm) 8 for 2kg 10 for 2kg Older children 12-18 depending on size PROCEDURES
  • 601. 588 Then continue with the following for both methods: 6. The water should bubble ( if pneumothorax) and the fluid moves with respiration if chest tube is in the pleural space. 7. Secure the chest tube with pulse string sutures or sterile tape strips in neonates. 8. Connect the underwater seal to suction pump if necessary. 9. Confirm the position with a chest X-ray. NEEDLE THORACOTOMY 1. Indicated in tension pneumothorax as an emergency measure to decompress the chest until a chest tube is inserted. 2. Done under strict aseptic technique. Attach a 5ml syringe to a 16 to 20 gauge angiocatheter. Gently insert catheter perpendicularly through the second intercostal space, over the top of the third rib, at the midclavicular line while applying a small negative pressure as the needle is advanced. Air will be aspirated on successful needle thoracotomy. When this happens, remove the needle while leaving the branula in situ to allow the tension pneumothorax to decompress. Insert a chest tube as described above as soon as feasible. PROCEDURES SITE FOR CHEST TUBE INSERTION
  • 602. 589 3.3. PERICARDIOCENTESIS Indications • Symptomatic collection of air. • Blood or other fluids / empyema in pericardial sac. Equipment • Suturing set. • Angiocatheter – size 20G for newborn,18G for older children. • T connector. • 3-way stopcock. Procedure 1. Place patient in supine position and on continuous ECG monitoring. 2. Clean and drape the subxiphoid area. 3. Prepare the angiocatheter by attaching the T connector to the needle hub and connect the other end of the T-connector to a 3-way stopcock which is connected to a syringe. 4. Insert the angiocatheter at about 1cm below the xiphoid process at angle of 20-30o to the skin and advance slowly, aiming at the tip of the left shoulder while applying light negative pressure with the syringe. Stop advancing the catheter if there is cardiac arrhythmia 5. Once air or fluid returns in the T connector stop advancing the catheter and aspirate a small amount to confirm positioning. 6. Remove the T connector from the angiocatheter and rapidly hold your finger over the needle hub. 7. Advance the catheter further while removing the needle. 8. Reattach the T connector and resume aspiration of the air or fluid required. 9. Send any aspirated fluid for cell count, biochemistry and culture. 10. Suture the angiocatheter in place. Perform CXR to confirm positioning and look for any complication. 11. The catheter should be removed within 72 hours. If further aspiration is required, placement of a pericardial tube is an option. Do not hesitate to consult cardiothoracic surgeon. Complications • Perforation of heart muscle leading to cardiac tamponade. • Haemo / pneumo – pericardium • Cardiac arrhythmias. • Pneumothorax PROCEDURES
  • 603. 590 3.4. ABDOMEN 3.4.1. GASTRIC LAVAGE Indications • Removal of toxins. • Removal of meconium from stomach for newborn. Equipment • Nasogastric tube size 8-12. • Syringes- 5cc for neonate, 25-50cc for older children. • Sterile water. Procedure 1. Put the child in left semiprone position. 2. Estimate the length of nasogastric tube inserted by measuring the tube from the nostril and extending it over and around the ear and down to the epigastrium. For orogastric tube insertion, the length of tube inserted equal to the bridge of the nose to the ear lobe and to appoint halfway between the lower tip of sternum and the umbilicus. 3. Lubricate the tip of the tube with KY jelly. Insert the tube gently. 4. Confirm position by aspirating stomach contents. Re-check by plunging air into stomach whilst listening with a stethoscope, or check acidity of stomach contents. 5. Perform gastric lavage until the aspirate is clear. 6. If indicated, leave activated charcoal or specific antidote in the stomach. decompress. Insert a chest tube as described above as soon as feasible. Complications • Discomfort. • Trauma to upper GIT. • Aspiration of stomach contents. PROCEDURES
  • 604. 591 3.4.2. ABDOMINAL PARACENTESIS Indications • Diagnostic procedure. • Drain ascites. Equipment • Dressing set. • Cannula size 21,23. • Syringes 10cc. Procedure 1. Supine position. Catheterize to empty the bladder. Clean and drape abdomen. 2. Site of puncture is at a point in the outer 1/3 of a line drawn from the umbilicus to the anterior superior illiac spine. 3. Insert the catheter, connected to a syringe, into the peritoneal cavity in a ‘Z’ track fashion. 4. Aspirate while advancing the catheter until fluid is seen in the syringe. Remove the needle and reconnect the catheter to the syringe and aspirate the amount required. Use a three-way tap if large amounts need to be removed. 5. Once complete, remove the catheter. Cover puncture site with sterile dry gauze. Complications • Infection. • Perforation of viscus. • Leakage of peritoneal fluid. • Hypotension if excessive amount is removed quickly. PROCEDURES
  • 605. 592 3.4.3. PERITONEAL DIALYSIS (See Ch 61 Acute Peritoneal Dialysis) 3.4.4. SUPRAPUBIC BLADDER TAP Indication • Urine culture in a young infant. Equipment • Dressing set. • Needle size 21, 23. • Syringe 5cc. • Urine culture bottle. Procedure 1. Make sure bladder is palpable. If needed,encourage patient to drink half to 1 hour before procedure. 2. Position the child in supine position. Clean and drape the lower abdomen. 3. Insert the needle attached to a 5cc syringe perpendicular or slightly caudally to the skin, 0.5 cm above the suprapubic bone. 4. Aspirate while advancing the needle till urine is obtained. 5. Withdraw the needle and syringe. 6. Pressure dressing over the puncture site. 7. Send urine for culture. Complications • Microscopic hematuria. • Infection. • Viscus perforation. PROCEDURES
  • 606. 593 3.4.5. BLADDER CATHETERIZATION Indications • Monitor urine output. • Urinary retention. • MCUG - Patient for MCU needs to given stat dose of IV Gentamicin or TMP 2mg/kg bd for 48 hours. • Urine culture. Equipment • Dressing Set. • Urinary catheter. • LA / K-Y jelly. • Syringe and water for injection. Procedure 1. Position the child in a frog-leg position. Clean and drape the perineum. 2. In girls, separate the labia majora with fingers to expose the urethra opening. 3. In boys, hold the penis perpendicular to the body. 4. Pass catheter in gently till urine is seen then advance a few centimetres further. 5. Secure the catheter with adhesive tape to the body. 6. Connect the catheter to the urine bag. Complications • Infection. • Trauma which lead to urethral stricture. Size of Catheter: Size 4 for 3kg Size 6 for 3kg Older children: Foley’s catheter 6-10 PROCEDURES
  • 607. 594 3.5. BONE MARROW ASPIRATION AND TREPHINE BIOPSY Indications • Examination of bone marrow in a patient with haematologic or oncologic disorder. Contra-indications • Bleeding tendency, platelet count 50,000/mm3 . Consider transfusion of platelet concentrates prior to procedure. Equipment • Bone marrow set (Islam) 16 – 18G Procedure 1. Sedate child, monitor continuously with pulse oximeter. 2. Position child - either as for lumbar puncture or in a prone position. 3. Identify site for aspiration - posterior iliac crest preferred, upper anterior-medial tibia for child 3 months old. 4. Clean skin using standard aseptic technique with povidone-iodine and 70% alcohol. 5. Make a small skin nick over the PSIS (posterior superior iliac spine). Hold the trocar firmly and gently enter the cortex by a twisting action. A ‘give’ is felt as the needle enters the bone marrow. 6. Trephine biopsy is usually done before marrow aspiration. 7. Withdraw needle, spray with op-site, cover with gauze and crepe bandage. 8. Lie child supine for the next 4 to 6 hours and observe for blood soaking the gauze in a child with bleeding diasthesis. Complications • Bleeding, haematoma. • Infection. PROCEDURES
  • 608. 595 PROCEDURES References Section 16 Sedation, Procedures Ch 104 105 Recognition and assessment of pain, Sedation and Analgesia 1.Management of pain in children, Appendix F. Advanced Paediatric Life Sup- port 5th Edition 2011. 2.Safe sedation of children undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic proce- dures. Scottish Intercolleagiate Guidelines Network SIGN, May 2004. 3.Guideline statement 2005: Management of procedure-related pain in children and adolescents. 4. Paediatrics Child Health Division, The Royal Australian College of Physi- cians. Chapter 106 Practical Procedures 1.Advanced Paediatric Life Support – The Practical Approach. BMJ Books, APLS 5th Edition 2011, Chapters 20 21. 2.American Heart Association Textbook for Neonatal Resuscitation NRP 5th Edition 2006. 3.American Heart Association Textbook of Paediatric Advanced Life Support 2002 4.APLS - The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Resource. Gausche-Hill M, Fuchs S, Yamamoto L. 4th Edition 2004, Jones and Bartlett Publishers. 5.Chester M. Edelmann. Jr., Jay Berstein, S. Roy Meadow, Adrian Spitzer, and Luther B. Travis 1992. Paediatric Kidney Diseases 2nd edition. 6.ForfarArneil’s Textbook of Paediatrics 5th edition:1829-1847 7.Ian A. Laing, Edward Dolye 1998. Practical Procedures. 8.Michele C. Walsh-Sukys, Steven E. Krug 1997. Procedures in infants and children. 9.Newborn Resuscitation - Handbook of Emergency Protocols, algorithms and Procedures by Kuala Lumpur General Hospital. 10.NRC Roberton 3rd Edition 1999. Iatrogenic disorders Chapter 37, pp 917- 938. Procedures Chapter 51, pp 1369-1384. 11.R.J. Postlethwaite 1994 Clinical Paediatric Nephrology 2nd edition. 12.The Harriet Lane Handbook 15th Edition 2000, Procedures Chapter 3, pp 43-72.
  • 610. 597 DRUG DOSES Abacavir (ABC). 8mg/kg (adult 300mg) 12H oral. Abacavir 600mg + lamivudine 300mg (Epzicom). 16yr: 1 tab daily oral. Abacavir 300mg + lamivudine 150mg + zidovudine 300mg (Trizivir). 40kg: 1 tab 12H oral. Abarelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 vial (de- livers 100mg) IM on day 1, 15 and 29, and then every 28 days. Abatacept. NOT/kg: 500mg (40- 60kg) 750mg (60-100 kg) 1g (100kg) IV over 30min day 1, 2wk, 4wk, then every 4wk. Abciximab. 0.25mg/kg IV stat 10min before angioplasty, then 0.2mcg/ kg/min (max 10mcg/min) IV for 12hr. Acamprosate. Adult (NOT/kg). 60kg: 666mg mane, 333mg noon and nocte oral. 60kg: 666mg 8H. Acarbose. 1-4mg/kg (adult 50- 200mg) 8H oral. Acebutolol. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) 8-24H oral. Aceclofenac. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 12H oral. Acemetacin. 1.2mg/kg (adult 60mg) 8-12H oral. Acenocoumarol. See nicoumalone. Acetaminophen. See paracetamol. Acetazolamide. 5-10mg/kg (adult 100-250mg) 6-8H (daily for epilepsy) oral. TB hydrocephalus: 25-50mg/kg 6-8H plus frusemide 0.25mg/kg 6H; may cause severe alkalosis. Acetic acid. 1% 3 drops/ear 8H. Box jellyfish: apply vinegar. Acetohydroxamic acid. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) 6-8H oral. Acetylcholine chloride. Adult (NOT/ kg): 1% instil 0.5-2ml into anterior chamber of the eye. Acetylcysteine. Paracetamol poisoning (regardless of delay): 150mg/kg in 5%D IV over 1hr; then 10mg/kg/hr for 20hr (delay 10hr), 32hr (delay 10-16hr), 72hr (delay 16hr) and longer if still encephalopathic; oral 140mg/kg stat, then 70 mg/kg 4H for 72hr. Monitor serum K+. Give if paracetamol 1000umol/L (150mg/L) at 4hr, 500umol/L 8hr, 250umol/L 12hr. Lung dis- ease: 20% soltn 0.1ml/kg (adult 5ml) 6-12H nebulised or intratra- cheal. Meconium ileus equiva- lent: 5ml (NOT/kg) of 20% soltn 8H oral; 60-100ml of 50mg/ml for 45 min PR. CF: 4-8mg/kg 8H oral. Eye drop 5% + hypro¬mellose 0.35%: 1 drop/eye 6-8H. Acetylsalicylic acid. See aspirin. Acetyl sulfisoxazole. 1.16g = 1.0g sulphafurazole (qv). Aciclovir. EBV, herpes enceph, im- munodef, varicella: 500 mg/m2 IV over 1hr every 18H (30wk), 12H (30-32wk), 8H (birth-12yr); 12yr 10mg/kg 8H IV over 1hr. Cutan¬eous herpes 250mg/m2 (birth-12yr) 5mg/kg (12yr) 8H IV over 1hr. Genital herpes (12yr NOT/kg): 200mg oral x5/day for 10 days, then 200mg x2-3/day for 6mo if reqd. Zoster (12yr NOT/kg): 400 mg (2yr) or 800mg (=2yr) oral x5/day for 7 days. Cold sores: 5% cream x5/day. Eye: 3% oint x5/day. Acipimox. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) 8-12H oral. The drug doses in the following pages are provided courtesy of Professor Frank Shann, from the Intensive Care Unit, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia, and is current as of 12 March 2012. DRUGS ARE LISTED BY GENERIC NAME 1/100=1%=10mg/ml, 1/1000=1mg/ml, 1/10000=0.1mg/ml. DrugDoses
  • 611. 598 Acriflavine hydrochloride. 0.1% soltn: apply 12-24H. Acrivastine. 0.15mg/kg (adult 8mg) 8H oral. Actinomycin D. See dactinomycin. Acitretin. 0.5mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) daily oral; occasionally up to 1mg/kg (adult 75mg) daily oral. Activated charcoal. See charcoal, activated. Acyclovir. See aciclovir. Adalimumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 40mg every 1-2wk SC. Adapalene. 0.1% gel: apply once a day before bedtime. Adapalene 0.1% + benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel. Apply daily. Adefovir. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg daily oral. Adenosine. Arrhythmia: 0.1mg/kg (adult 3mg) stat by rapid IV push, incr by 0.1mg/kg (adult 3mg) every 2min to max 0.5 mg/kg (adult 18mg). Pul hypertension: 50mcg/kg/min (3 mg/ml at 1ml/ kg/hr) into central vein. Adrenaline. Asthma, bronchiolitis, croup by inhaltn (2yr use 10 l/ min gas flow): 1% 0.05ml/kg di- luted to 6ml, or 1/1000 0.5ml/kg (max 6ml) diluted to 6ml. Cardiac arrest (repeat if reqd): 0.1ml/kg of 1/10,000 IV or intracardiac; via ETT 0.1 ml/kg of 1/1000. Anaphylaxis: IV 0.05-0.1ml/kg of 1/10,000, repeat if reqd; IM into thigh: 0.01 mg/kg (0.01ml/kg of 1/1000) up to 0.1mg/kg, x3 doses 20 min apart if reqd. IV infsn 0.15mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 1-10ml/hr (0.05-0.5 mcg/kg/min). Adrenaline 0.1% + fluorouracil 3.33%. Gel: inject into each wart x1/wk for up to 6wk. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). See cortico¬trophin. Agalsidase alpha. 0.2mg/kg IV over 40min every 2wk. Agalsidase beta. 0.2-1mg/kg IV over 40 min every 2wk. Agar + paraffin 65%. NOT/kg: 6mo- 2yr 5ml, 3-5yr 5-10ml, 5yr 10ml 8-24H oral. Agar + paraffin + phenolphthalein (Agarol). NOT/kg: 6mo-2yr 2.5ml, 3-5yr 2.5-5ml, 5yr 5ml 8-24H oral. Agomelatine. Adult (NOT/kg): 25mg (max 50mg) daily oral. Alatrofloxacin. 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) daily IV over 60min. Se- vere inftn: 6mg/kg (adult 300mg) daily IV over 90min. Albendazole. Pinworm, thread- worm, roundworm, hook¬worm, whipworm: 20mg/kg (adult 400mg) oral once (may repeat after 2wk). Strongyloides, cutaneous larva migrans, Taenia, H.nana, O.viverrini, C.sinesis: 20mg/kg (adult 400mg) daily for 3 days, repeated in 3wk. 7.5mg/ kg (adult 400mg) 12H for 8-30 days (neurocysticercosis); 12H for three 28 day courses 14 days apart (hydatid). Albumin. 20%: 2-5ml/kg IV. 4%: 10- 20ml/kg. If no loss from plasma: dose (ml/kg) = 5 x (increase g/L) / (% albumin). Albuterol. See salbutamol. Alclometasone. 0.05% cream or ointment: apply 8-12H. Alcohol. See chlorhexidine, ethanol. Aldesleukin (synthetic IL-2). Ma- lignancy: constant IV infsn less toxic than bolus injtn: 3,000,000- 5,000,000u/m2 /day for 5 days, if tolerated repeat x1-2 with 5 day interval. Alefacept. Adult (NOT/kg): 7.5mg IV, 15mg IM wkly 12wk. Alemtuzumab. Adult (NOT/kg). BCLL: 3mg daily IV over 2hr for 2-3 days, 10mg daily 2-3 days, then 30mg x3/wk for up to 12wk. MS: 12mg daily for 5days, then 3 days anually. DrugDoses
  • 612. 599 Alendronate. 0.5mg/kg (adult 40mg) daily oral. Postmeno¬pausal os- teoporosis (adult, NOT/kg): 10mg daily, or 70mg slow-release wkly. Alendronate 70mg + vitamin D3 2800u. 1 tab each wk oral. Alfacalcidol. 0.05mcg/kg (max 1mcg) daily oral or IV, ad¬justed according to response. Alfentanil. 10mcg/kg IV or IM stat, then 5mcg/kg prn. Thea¬tre (ventilated): 30-50mcg/kg IV over 5min, then 15mcg/kg prn or 0.5- 1mcg/kg/min. ICU: 50-100mcg/ kg IV over 10min, then 0.5-4mcg/ kg/min. Alfuzosin. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg daily oral. Alginic acid (Gaviscon single strength). 1yr: liquid 2ml with feed 4H. 1-12yr: liquid 5-10ml, or 1 tab after meals. 12yr: liquid 10-20ml, or 1-2 tab after meals. Alglucerase. Usual initial dose is 60u/kg every 2wk IV over 2hr, adjusted according to response; reduce every 3-6mo. Alglucosidase alfa. 20mg/kg by IV infusion every 2wk. Alimemazine. See trimeprazine. Aliskiren. Adult (NOT/kg): 150mg (max 300mg) daily oral. Aliskiren/ hydrochlorothiazide 150/12.5, 150/25, 300/12.5, 300/25 (adult NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Aliskiren + valsarten 150/160mg, 300/320mg tabs. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Alitretinoin. 0.1% gel: apply 6-12H. Allopurinol. 10mg/kg (adult 300mg) 12-24H oral. Chemo¬therapy: 50- 100mg/m2 6H IV, oral. Almotriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 6.25- 12.5mg oral, repeat in 2hr if reqd (max 2 doses in 24hr). Alosetron. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg daily oral, incr if reqd after 4wk to 1mg 12H (stop if no response after 4wk). Alpha1 proteinase inhibitor. See alpha1 antitrypsin. Alpha1 antitrypsin. 60mg/kg once wkly IV over 30min. Alpha tocopheryl acetate. One alpha-tocopheryl (at) equivalent = 1mg d-at = 1.1mg d-at acetate = 1.5mg dl-at acetate = 1.5u vit E. Abetalipoproteinaemia: 100mg/ kg (max 4g) daily oral. Cystic fibrosis: 45-200mg (NOT/kg) daily oral. Newborn (high dose, toxicity reported): 10-25mg/kg daily IM or IV, 10-100mg/kg daily oral. Alprazolam. 0.005-0.02mg/kg (adult 0.25-1mg) 8H oral. Slow rel: 0.5-1mg daily, incr to 3-6mg (max 10mg) daily oral. Alprenolol. 1-4mg/kg (max 200mg) 6-12H oral. Alprostadil (prostaglandin E1, PGE1). Maintain PDA: 60 mcg/ kg in 50ml 0.9% saline 0.5-3ml/ hr (10-60ng/kg/min). Erectile dys- function (adult NOT/kg): 2.5mcg intracavernous inj, incr by 2.5mcg if reqd to max 60mcg (max 3 doses/wk). Alteplase (tissue plasminogen activator). 0.1-0.6mg/kg/hr IV for 6-12hr (longer if no response); keep fibrinogen 100mg/dL (give cryoprecipitate 1bag/5kg), give heparin 10u/kg/hr IV, give fresh frozen plasma (FFP) 10ml/kg IV daily in infants. Local IA infsn: 0.05mg/kg/hr, give FFP 10ml/ kg IV daily. Blocked central line: 0.5mg/2ml (10kg) 2mg/2ml (10kg) per lumen left for 2-4hr, with¬draw drug, flush with saline; repeat once in 24hr if reqd. Altretamine. 150-300mg/m2 daily oral. Aluminium acetate. 13% soltn (Bur- row’s lotion): for wet compresses, or daily to molluscum contagio- sum. DrugDoses
  • 613. 600 Aluminium chloride hexahydrate. 20% lotion: x1-2/wk. Aluminium hydroxide. 25mg/ kg (adult 0.5-1g) 4-6H oral. Gel (64mg/ml) 0.1ml/kg 6H oral. Aluminium hydroxide 40mg/ml, Mg hydroxide 40mg/ml, simethicone 4mg/ml (Mylanta, Gelusil). 0.5- 1ml/kg (adult 10-20ml) 6-8H oral. ICU: 0.5ml/kg 3H oral if gastric pH 5. Aluminium sulphate. 20% soltn: apply promptly to sting. Alverine. 1-2mg/kg (adult 60- 120mg) 8-12H oral. Alvimopan. Adult (NOT/kg): 12mg cap 1-5hr pre-op, then 12H start- ing the day after surgery for up to 7 days oral. Amantadine hydrochloride. 2mg/ kg (adult 100mg) 12-24H oral. Flu A prophylaxis (NOT/kg): 100mg daily (5-9yr), 100mg 12H (9yr). Ambenoium. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg x3-4/day incr slowly to 5-25mg (max 75mg) 6-8H oral. Ambrisentan. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg (max 10mg) daily oral. Amcinonide. 0.1% lotion, cream, ointment: apply 8-12H. Amethocaine. Gel 4% in methylcel- lulose (RCH AnGel): 0.5g to skin, apply occlusive dressing, wait 30-60min, remove gel. 0.5%, 1%: 1 drop/eye. Amifampridine. Adult (NOT/kg): 15 mg daily oral, incr every 5 days if reqd to max 20mg 8H. Amifostine. 910mg/m2 IV over 15min daily 30min before chemo- therapy; reduce to 740mg/m2 if severe side effects. Amikacin. Daily dose IV or IM. Neo- nate: 15mg/kg stat, then 7.5mg/ kg (30wk) 10mg/kg (30-35wk) 15mg/kg (term 1wk) daily. 1wk- 10yr: 25mg/kg day 1, then 18mg/ kg daily. 10yr: 20mg/kg day 1, then 15mg/kg (max 1.5g) daily. Trough level 5.0mg/L. Amiloride. 0.2mg/kg (adult 5mg) 12-24H oral. Aminoacridine hydrochloride. See aminacrine. Aminacrine hydrochloride. 0.02% 1 drop/eye 2-4H. Aminobenzoic acid. 60mg/kg (max 3g) 6H oral. Aminocaproic acid. 3g/m2 (adult 5g) over 1hr IV, then 1g/m2/hr (adult 1-1.25g/hr). Prophylax: 70mg/kg 6H IV, oral. Aminoglutethimide. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg daily oral, incr over 4wk to 250mg 6H. Aminohippuric acid (PAHA). 6-10mg/kg stat, then 0.2-0.5 mg/ kg/min IV gives 2mg/100ml in plasma. Aminolevulinic acid. 20% soltn: apply to lesions, expose to 400- 450nm blue light for 1000sec (10 J/cm2) next day; repeat after 8wk if reqd. Aminophylline (100mg = 80mg theophyl¬line). Load: 10 mg/ kg (max 500mg) IV over 1hr. Main¬tenance: 1st wk life 2.5mg/ kg IV over 1hr 12H; 2nd wk life 3mg/kg 12H; 3wk-12 mo ((0.12 x age in wk) + 3) mg/kg 8H; 12mo and 35kg, 55 mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 1ml/hr (1.1mg/ kg/hr) or 6mg/kg IV over 1hr 6H; 35kg and 17yr, or 17yr and smoker, 25 mg/ml at 0.028ml/ kg/hr (0.7mg/kg/hr) or 4mg/ kg IV over 1hr 6H; 17yr non- smoke 25mg/ml at 0.02ml/kg/ hr (0.5mg/kg/hr) or 3mg/kg IV over 1hr 6H; elderly 25mg/ml at 0.014 ml/kg/hr (0.35mg/kg/hr) or 2mg/kg IV over 1hr 6H. Level 60-80umol/L (neonate), 60-110 (asthma) (x0.18=mcg/ml). Aminosalicylic acid (4-Aminosali- cylic acid, ASA, 4-ASA, para-ASA, PAS). 50-100mg/kg (adult 4g) 8H oral. 5-Aminosalicylic acid. See mesala- zine. DrugDoses
  • 614. 601 Amiodarone. IV: 15mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex (no heparin) at 5ml/hr (25mcg/kg/min) for 4hr, then 1-3ml/hr (5-15mcg/kg /min, max 1.2g/24hr). Oral: 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) 8H 1 wk, 12H 1 wk, then 12-24H. After starting tablets, taper IV infsn over 5 days. Reduce dose of digoxin and warfarin. Pulseless VF or VT: 5mg/kg IV over 3-5 min. Amisulpride. 1-6mg/kg (adult 50- 300mg) daily oral; acute psychosis 5-15mg/kg (adult 300-800mg) 12H. Amitriptyline. Usually 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) 8H oral. Enuresis: 1-1.5mg/kg nocte. Amlexanox. 5% oral paste: apply to ulcers x4/day. Amlodipine. 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5-10mg) daily oral. Amlodipine + olmesartan (5mg/20mg, 5/40, 10/20, 10/40). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tablet daily oral. Amoldipine + telmisartan (5mg/40mg, 5/80, 10/40, 10/80). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Amlodipine + valsartan (5mg/160mg, 5/320, 10/160, 10/320). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tablet daily oral. Amobarbital. See amylobarbitone. Amodiaquine. Treatment: 10mg/kg daily for 3 days oral. Prophylaxis: 5mg/kg once a wk. Amorolfine. Nail lacquer 5%: apply x1-2/wk. Amoxapine. 0.5-2mg/kg (adult 25- 100mg) 8H oral. Amoxicillin. See amoxycillin. Amoxycillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.25-1g) 8H IV, IM, oral; or 25-40mg/kg 12H. Slow release: ≥12yr 775mg tab daily oral. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 6H (2-3wk), 4-6H or constant infsn (≥4wk). H.pylori: omeprazole. Amoxycillin + clavulanic acid. Dose as amoxicillin, oral. 4:1 (non-Duo products) 15-25mg/kg (adult 500/125mg) 8H; 7:1 (Duo) 20- 30mg/kg (adult 875/125mg) 12H; or 16:1 (XR) 30-50mg/kg (adult 2000/125mg) 12H. Amphetamine. See dexampheta- mine. Amphotericin B (Fungizone). Usu- ally 1.5mg/kg/day (up to 2mg/ kg/day) by continuous infsn IV. Central line: 1.5mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 2ml/hr (up to 46kg); 1.5 mg/kg in 1.2 ml/ kg 5%dex-hep (1.25mg/ml) at 0.05ml/kg/hr (over 46kg). Periph- eral IV: usually 1.5mg/kg in 12ml/ kg 5% dex-hep at 0.5ml/kg/hr (higher concentrations may cause thrombophlebitis). Oral (NOT/kg): 100mg 6H, 50mg 6H prophylaxis. Bladder washout: 25 mcg/ml. Cream, oint¬ 3%: apply 6-12H. Amphotericin, colloidal dispersion (Amphocil, Ampho¬tec). Usually 3-4mg/kg (up to 6mg/kg for as- pergillus) daily IV at 2.5mg/kg/hr. Amphotericin, lipid complex (Abel- cet). 2.5-5mg/kg daily over 2hr IV, typically for 2-4wk. Amphotericin, liposomal (AmBi- some). 3-6mg/kg (up to 15 mg/kg if severe inftn) daily over 1-2hr IV, typically for 2-4wk. Ampicillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.25-1g) 6H IV, IM or oral. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 6H (2-4 wk), 3-6H or constant infsn (4+ wk). Ampicillin + flucloxacillin. NOT/ kg. 125mg/125mg or 250/ 250 (child), 250/250 or 500/500 (adult) 6H oral, IM or IV. Ampicillin 1g + sulbactam 0.5g. 25- 50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) of ampicillin 6H IM or IV over 30min. DrugDoses
  • 615. 602 Amprenavir. Age 4yr or more. Soltn (max 2.8g/day): 22.5 mg/kg 12H, or 17mg/kg 8H oral. Caps (max 2.4g/day): 20mg/kg 12H, or 15mg/kg 8H oral. Amrinone. 4wk old: 4mg/kg IV over 1hr, then 3-5mcg/kg /min. 4wk: 1-3mg/kg IV over 1hr, then 5-15mcg/kg/min. Amsacrine. 450-600mg/m2 IV over 2hr daily for 3-5days. Amylase. See pancreatic enzymes. Amylmetacresol. 0.6mg lozenge as reqd (max 8/day). Amylobarbitone. 0.3-1mg/kg (adult 15-50mg) 8-12H, or 2-4mg/kg (adult 200-400mg) at night, oral. Anagrelide. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5mg 12H, incr slowly if reqd to max 2.5mg 6H oral. Anakinra. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mg daily SC. Anastrozole. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg daily oral. Ancestim (human stem cell factor). 20mcg/kg/day SC. Aneurine. See thiamine. Anidulafungin. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) IV day 1, then 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) daily. Anisindione. 6mg/kg (adult 300mg) oral day 1, 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) day 2, 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) day 3, then 0.5-5 mg/kg/day (adult 25-250mg) according to prothrombin time. Anistreplase. Adult (NOT/kg): 30u IV over 5min. Anthraquinone. See sennoside. Anthrax vaccine (BioThrax). Inani- mate. 0.5ml IM stat, 4wk, 6mo, 12mo, 18mo (5 doses). Boost annually. Antihaemophilic factor. See factor 8. Anti-inhibitor coagulant complex. See factor 8 inhibitor bypassing fraction. Antilymphocyte globulin. See im- munoglobulin, antilym’te. Antithrombin, antithrombin alfa, antithrombin III, recom¬binant human antithrombin (rhAT). Adult: units = (100% - actual%) x Wt / 2.2 load, then 23% of this hrly; double dose in pregnancy. Child: either 1000u in 20ml water diluted to 50ml with saline: 2.5 ml/kg/hr (50u/kg/hr) for 3hr, then 0.3 ml/kg/hr (6u/kg/hr) or 1750u in 10ml water diluted to 50ml with saline: 1.4ml/kg/hr (49u/kg/hr) for 3hr, then 0.17ml /kg/hr (6u/kg/hr). Monitor an- tithrombin activity after 6hr, then 8-12H: if 80%, incr dose 30%; if 120%, reduce dose 30%. Antithymocyte globulin. See immu- noglobulin, antilymph’te. Antivenom to Australian box jelly- fish, snakes (black, brown, death adder, sea, taipan, tiger), spiders (fun¬nel-web) and ticks. Dose depends on amount of venom in- jected, not size of patient. Higher doses needed for multiple bites, severe symptoms or delayed administration. Give adrenaline 0.005mg/kg (0.005ml/kg of 1 in 1000) SC. Initial dose usually 1-2 amp diluted 1/10 in Hartmann’s soltn IV over 30min. Monitor PT, PTT, fibrinogen, platelets; give repeatedly if symptoms or coagu- lopathy persist. Antivenom to black widow spider (USA), red back spi¬der (Aus- tralia). 1amp IM, may repeat in 2hr. Severe envenomation: 2amp diluted 1/10 in Hartmann soltn IV over 30min. Antivenom to coral snake (USA). 3-6 vials IV over 1-2hr, repeat if signs progress. Premedicate with diphenhydramine 5mg/kg (adult 300mg) IV, have adrenaline available. DrugDoses
  • 616. 603 Antivenom to Crotalidae (pit vipers, rattlesnakes - USA). 4-6 vials, with higher dose for more severe envenomation, diluted 1/10 in saline IV over 1hr, repeated 1hr later if reqd; then 2 vials 6H for 3 doses. Antivenom, stonefish. 1000u (2ml) per puncture IM. Severe: 1000u/ puncture dilutd 1/10 in Hartmann soltn IV over 30min. Apomorphine. Adult (NOT/kg): usu- ally 2.4-3.6mg/dose (max 6mg) prn to max 50mg/day SC. Infsn: 0.02-0.08 mg/kg/hr (max 200mg/ day) SC. Apraclonidine. 1 drop/eye 8H (0.5%), 12H (1%). Aprepitant. Adult (NOT/kg): 125mg oral 1hr before chemo, then 80mg on days 2 and 3. Aprostadil. See alprostadil. Aprotinin (1kiu = 140ng = 0.00056epu, 1mg = 7143kiu). 1,200,000 kiu/m2 IV over 1hr (plus 1,200,000 kiu/m2 in prime), then 300,000 kiu/m2 /hr; half for “low dose”. Adult (NOT/kg): 2,000,000 kiu IV over 1hr (plus 2,000,000 kiu in prime), then 500,000 kiu/hr; half for “low dose”. Prophy¬laxis: 4000 kiu/kg, then 2000 kiu/kg 6H IV. Arachis oil. 130ml enema as required. Arachis oil 57% + chlorbutol 5% + dichlorobenzene 16% (Cerumol). 5 drops to ear 15-30min before syringing. Arformoterol. NOT/kg: 15mcg in 2ml 12H by nebulisation. Argatroban. 2mcg/kg/min; adjust to maintain APTT x1.5-3. Arginine hydrochloride. Dose (mg) = BE x Wt(kg) x 70; give half this IV over 1hr, then repeat if reqd. Arginine vasopressin, argipressin. See vasopressin. Aripiprazole. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) incr if reqd by 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) each wk to max 0.6mg/kg (adult 30mg) daily. Armodafinil. Adult (NOT/kg): 150mg (max 250mg) daily oral. Arsenic trioxide. 0.15mg/kg daily IV until remission (max 60 doses), wait 6wk, then 0.15mg/kg daily for 25 days. Artemether, oily soltn. 3.2mg/kg IM stat, then 1.6mg/kg daily unitl oral therapy possible. Artemether 20mg + lumefantrine 120mg. NOT/kg: 1 tab (10-14kg), 2 tab (15-24kg), 3 tab (25-34kg), 4 tab (34kg) with fatty food (e.g. milk) at 0hr, 8hr, 24hr, 36hr, 48hr and 60hr. Repeat dose if vomit within 1hr of ingestion. Artemisinin. 25mg/kg oral day 1; then 12.5mg/kg daily for 2 days (with mefloquine 15-25mg/kg on day 2), or for 4-6 days if meflo- quine resistance. Artesunate + mefloquine. Oral: 2.5mg/kg at 0, 12, 24 and 48 hours (with mefloquine 15- 25mg/kg on day 2), and daily for another 2-4 days if mefloquine resistance. IM, or IV over 1-2min: 2mg/kg stat, then 1mg/kg in 6hr if hyper¬parasitic, then 2mg/kg daily until oral therapy possible. Artesunate + pyrimethamine + sulphadoxine. Artesunate 4mg/ kg daily x3 days oral + pyrimeth- amine 1.25 mg/kg (max 75mg) and sulphadoxine 25 mg/kg (max 1.5g) on 1st day. Articane 40mg/ml + adrenaline 1:100,000. Adult (NOT/kg) avge dose 1.7ml (max 7mg/kg = 0.175ml/kg) by injection. Ascorbic acid. Burn (NOT/kg): 200-500mg daily IV, IM, SC, oral. Metabolic dis (NOT/kg): 250mg (7yr) 500mg (7yr) daily oral. Scurvy (NOT/kg): 100mg 8H oral for 10 days. Urine acidification: 10-30mg/kg 6H. DrugDoses
  • 617. 604 Asenapine. Adult (NOT/kg): 5-10mg daily sublingual. Asparaginase. See colaspase. Aspirin. 10-15mg/kg (adult 300- 600mg) 4-6H oral. Antipla¬telet: 5mg/kg (max 100mg) daily. Kawa- saki: 10mg/kg 6H (low dose) or 25mg/kg 6H (high dose) for 2wk, then 3-5 mg/kg daily. Arthritis: 25mg/kg (max 2g) 6H for 3 days, then 15-20mg/kg 6H. Salicylate level (arthritis) midway between doses 0.7-2.0 mmol/L (x13.81 = mg/100ml). Aspirin 25mg + dipyridamole 200mg. Adult (NOT/kg) 1 sus- tained rel cap 12H oral. Atazanavir (ATV). 16yr: 400mg/dai- ly with food. Trough ≥150ng/ml. Atazinavir 400mg + efavirenz 600mg + ritonavir 100mg. 16yr: all daily oral, at different times (EFV not with food). Atazinavir + ritonavir. 15-24kg: 150/80mg daily with food oral; 25-31kg: 200/100mg daily; 32- 38kg: 250/100mg daily; ≥39kg: 300/100mg daily with food. ATV trough ≥150ng/ml. Atenolol. Oral: 1-2mg/kg (adult 50- 100mg) 12-24H. IV: 0.05 mg/kg (adult 2.5mg) every 5min if reqd (max 4 doses), then 0.1-0.2mg/ kg (adult 5-10mg) over 10min 12-24H. Atomoxetine. 0.5mg/kg (70kg 40mg) daily oral, incr after at least 3 days to max 1.2mg/kg (70kg 100mg) as single daily dose or divided 12H. Atorvastatin. 0.2mg/kg (adult 10mg) daily, incr if reqd every 4wk to max 1.6mg/kg (adult 80mg) daily. Atosiban. Adult (NOT/kg): 6.75mg IV over 1min, then 300 mcg/min for 3hr, then 100mcg/min for max 45hr. Atovaquone, micronised. Pneumo- cystis: 3-24mo 45mg/kg, 24mo 30mg/kg (max 1500mg) daily oral. Atovaquone 250mg + proguanil 100mg (Malarone). Malaria treat: 20mg/kg of atovaquone (adult 1g) daily for 3 days oral; proph: 5mg/kg of atovaquone (adult 250mg) daily. Atovaquone 62.5mg + proguanil 25mg (Malarone paed¬iatric). Malaria prophylaxis: 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) daily oral. Atracurium besylate. 0.3-0.6mg/ kg stat, then 0.1-0.2mg/kg when reqd or 5-10mcg/kg/min IV. Atropine. 0.02mg/kg (max 0.6mg) IV or IM, then 0.01mg/kg 4-6H. Organophosphate poisoning: 0.05-1mg/kg (adult 2mg) IV, then 0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 2mg) every 15-60min until atropin- ised, then 0.02-0.08mg/kg/hr for several days. Auto-injector (adult, NOT/kg): 2mg + obidoxime 110mg IM. Atropine 25mcg + diphenoxylate 2.5mg tab (Lomotil). Adult (NOT/ kg): 1-2 tab 6-8H oral. Attapulgite. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.6-1.2g 3-6H oral. Auranofin. 0.1mg/kg (adult 6mg) daily oral, incr if reqd to max 0.05mg/kg (adult 3mg) 8H. Aurothioglucose. 0.25mg/kg weekly IM, incr to 1mg/kg (max 40mg) weekly for 20wk, then every 1-4wk. Azacitidine. 75mg/m2 SC daily for 7 days, repeated every 4wk; incr if reqd after 2 cycles to 100mg/ m2 daily. Azapropazone. 10mg/kg (max 600mg) 12H oral. Acute gout: 6H (day 1), 8H (day 2), then 12H. Azatadine. NOT/kg: 0.5-1mg (6y), 1-2mg (12y) 12-24H po. Azathioprine. 25-75mg/m2 (approx 1-3mg/kg) daily oral, IV. Azelaic acid. 20% cream, 15% gel: apply 12H. Azelastine. 0.1% spray, 5yr: 0.15ml to each nostril 12H. DrugDoses
  • 618. 605 Azidothymidine (AZT). See zidovu- dine. Azithromycin. Oral (only 40% bioavailable): 15mg/kg (adult 500mg) on day 1 then 7.5mg/kg (adult 250mg) days 2-5, or 15mg/ kg (adult 500mg) daily for 3 days; trachoma 20 mg/kg (adult 1g) wkly x3; MAC prophylaxis (adult) 1.2g wkly; Gp A strep 20mg/ kg daily x3. IV: 15mg/kg (adult 500mg) day 1, then 5mg/kg (adult 200mg) daily. 1% eye drops: 1 drop 12H for 2 days, then daily for 5 days. Aztreonam. 30mg/kg (adult 1g) 8H IV. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 6H or infsn (4+ wk). Nebulised (adult, NOT/kg): 75mg 8H. Bacampicillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult 400-800mg) 12H oral. Becaplermin. Length 0.01% gel in cm: ulcer length x width / 4 (15g tube), or L x W / 2 (2g tube) daily; wash off after 12hr. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine (CSL). Live. Intradermal (1mg/ml): 0.075ml (3mo) or 0.1ml (3mo) once. Percutaneous (60mg/ml suspension): 1 drop on skin, inoculated with Heaf ap- paratus, once. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) suspension, about 5 x 10^8 cfu/ vial. Adult: 1 vial (OncoTICE) or 3 vials (Immu¬Cyst) left in bladder for 2hr each wk for 6wks, then at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24mo. Bacitracin 500u/g + polymyxin B 10,000u/g. Eye ointment: apply x2-5/day. Bacitracin 400u/g + polymyxin B 5000u/g + neomycin 5mg/g (Ne- osporin). Ointment or eye oint- ment: apply x2-5/day. Powder: apply 6-12H (skin inftn), every few days (burns). Eye drops: see gramicidin. Baclofen. 0.2mg/kg (adult 5mg) 8H oral, incr every 3 days to 1mg/ kg (adult 25mg, max 50mg) 8H. Intrathecal infsn: 2-20mcg/kg (max 1000mcg) per 24hr. Balsalazide. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.25g 8H oral (= 2.34g ¬mes¬alazine daily). Bambuterol. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-20mg) nocte oral. Basiliximab. 12mg/m2 (max 20mg) IV 2hr preop and day 4. BCG vaccine. See Bacillus Calmette- Guerin vaccine. Becaplermin. 0.01% gel: apply daily for 10-20wk. Beclomethasone dipropionate. Rotacap or aerosol (NOT /kg): 100-200mcg (8yr), 150-400mcg (8yr) x2/day (rare¬ly x4/day). Nasal (NOT/kg): aerosol or pump (50mcg /spray): 1spray 12H (12yr), 2spray 12H (12yr). Bemiparin. Surgery (adult, NOT/kg): 2500u (orthopaedics 3500u) SC 2hr pre-op or 6hr post-op, then daily for 7-10 days. DVT: 115u/ kg daily 5-9 days (or until oral anticoag). Benazepril. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10- 20mg) 12-24H oral. Bendamustine. CLL: 100mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 2 of 28-day cycle for up to 6 cycles; 70mg/m2 with rituximab. NHL: 120mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of 21-day cycle for up to 8 cycles; 90mg/m2 with rituximab. Bendroflumethiazide. See bendro- fluazide. Bendrofluazide. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult 5-10mg) daily oral. Benflumetol (lumefantrine). See artemether. Benorylate. 30mg/kg (adult 1.5g) 8H oral. Benperidol. 5-15mcg/kg (adult 0.25- 1.5mg) 12-24H oral. Benserazide. See levodopa + benser- azide. DrugDoses
  • 619. 606 Benzathine penicillin. See penicillin, benzathine. Benzatropine. See benztropine. Benzbromarone. Adult (NOT/kg): 50-300mg daily oral, or 20-25mg with allopurinol. Benzhexol. 3yr: 0.02mg/kg (adult 1mg) 8H, incr to 0.1-0.3 mg/kg (adult 1.5-5mg) 8H oral. Benzocaine. 1%-20% topical: usually applied 4-6H. Benzoczine + cetylpyridinium. Mouth wash (Cepacaine): apply 3H prn, do not swallow. Benzocane + phenazone 5.4% (Au- ralgin). 3 drops per ear 3 times a day for 2-3 days. Benzoic acid 6% + salicylic acid 3%. Whitfield’s ointment: apply 12H. Benzonatate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) 8H oral. Benzoyl peroxide. Liquid, gel 2.5%- 10%: apply x1-3/day. See also adapalene + benzoyl peroxide. Benzphetamine. 25-50mg daily oral, incr if reqd to 8H. Benzquinamide. IM: 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 50mg) stat and repeat in 1hr if needed, then 3-4H prn. IV over 1-5min: 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 25mg) once. Benzthiazide 25mg + triamterene 50mg. Adult (NOT/kg): 1-2 tab on alternate days, oral. Benztropine. 3yr: 0.02mg/kg (adult 1mg) stat IM or IV, may repeat in 15min. 0.02-0.06mg/kg (adult 1-3mg) 12-24H oral. Benzydamine. 3% cream: apply 8H. Benzyl benzoate. 25% lotion. Sca- bies: apply neck down after hot bath, wash off after 24hr; repeat in 5days. Lice: apply to infected region, wash off after 24hr; re- peat in 7days. Benzylpenicillin. See penicillin G. Bevacizumab. 10mg/kg oral on days 1 and 15 every month. Bepotastine. 1.5% ophthalmic soltn: 1 drop 12H. Bepridil. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) daily oral. Beractant (bovine surfactant, Survanta). 25mg/ml soltn. 4ml/ kg intratracheal 2-4 doses in 48hr, each dose in 4 parts: body inclined down with head to right, body down head left, body up head right, body up head left. Besifloxacin. 0.6% eye ointment: apply 8H. Beta carotene. Porphyria: 1-5mg/kg (adult 30-300mg) daily. Betahistine. 0.15-0.3mg/kg (adult 8-16mg) 8H oral. Betaine hydrochloride. Usually 60mg/kg (adult 3g) 12H oral, max 100mg/kg (adult 5g) 12H. Betamethasone. 0.01-0.2mg/kg daily oral. Betamethasone has no mineralocorticoid action, 1mg = 25mg hydrocorti¬sone in glucocorticoid action. Gel 0.05%; cream, lotion or oint¬ment, 0.02%, 0.05%, 0.1%: apply sparingly 8-24H. Eye 0.1%: ini- tially 1drop/eye 1-2H, then 6H; or 0.6cm oint 8-12H. Betamethasone acetate 3mg/ ml + betamethasone sodium phosphate 3.9mg/ml (Celestone Chronodose). Adult: 0.25- 2ml (NOT/kg) intramuscular, intra-articular, or intra¬lesional injection. Betamethasone dipropionate. 0.064% + calcipotriol 0.005% (Dovonex). Ointment: apply daily to no more than 30% of body for up to 4wk (max 100g/wk in adult). Betamethasone 0.1% + neomycin 0.5%. 1drop/eye 4-8H. Betaxolol. 0.4-0.8mg/kg (adult 20-40mg) daily oral. Eye drops 0.25%-0.5%: 1 drop/eye 12H. Bethanecol. Oral: 0.2-1mg/kg (adult 10-50mg) 6-8H. SC: 0.05-0.1mg/ kg (adult 2.5-5mg) 6-8H. Bevacizumab. 5mg/kg IV every 14 days. DrugDoses
  • 620. 607 Bexarotene. 300mg/m2 (range 100- 400mg/m2 ) daily oral. Bezafibrate. 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) 8H oral with food. Bicalutamide. Adult (NOT/kg): 50- 150mg daily oral. Bicalutamide + goserelin. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mcg daily oral, + goserelin 10.8mg implant 4wkly or 10.8mg SC every 3mo. Bicarbonate. Slow IV: dose (mmol) = BE x Wt/4 (5kg), BE x Wt/6 (child), BE x Wt/10 (adult). These doses correct half the base defi- cit. Alkalinise urine: 0.25mmol/kg 6-12H oral. Bifonazole. 1% cream: apply daily for 2-4wk. Bimatoprost. 0.03% drops: 1 drop/ eye each evening. Bimatoprost 0.3mg/ml + timolol 5mg/ml. 1drop/eye daily. Biotin (coenzyme R, vitamin H). NOT/kg: 5-20mg daily IV, IM, SC or oral. Biperiden. 0.02-0.04mg/kg (adult 1-2mg) 8-12H oral. IM or slow IV: 0.05-0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5-5mg), max x4/day. Bisacodyl. NOT/kg: 12mo 2.5mg PR, 1-5yr 5mg PR or 5-10mg oral, 5yr 10mg PR or 10-20mg oral. Enema: half daily (6mo-3yr), 1 enema daily (3yr). Bisacodyl 10mg + docusate sodium 100mg. 2yr half suppos, 1-11yr half to 1 suppos, 11yr 1 suppos daily. Bismuth subgallate. See bismuth subcitrate. Bismuth subsalicylte. 5mg/kg (adult 240mg) 12H oral 30min before meal. H.pylori, see omeprazole. Bisoprolol. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10- 20mg) daily oral. Bitolterol. Resp soltn (0.2%): 1ml di- luted to 4ml 3-6H (mild), 2ml diltd to 4ml 1-2H (moderate), undiltd constant (severe, in ICU). Aerosol 370mcg/puff: 1-2 puff 4-6H. Bivalirudin. 0.75-1mg/kg IV stat, then 1.75-2.5mg/kg/hr for 4hr, then stop or give 1.75-2mg/kg/hr for 14-20hr. Bleomycin sulfate. 10-20u/m2 IM, SC or IV over 15min x1-2/wk. Max total dose 250u/m2. Bortezomib. 1.3mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8, 11; then 10 day rest (21 day cycle, average 6 cycles). Stop if toxicity, then use 1 mg/m2 /dose; stop if toxicity recurs, then use 0.7mg/m2 /dose. Bosentan. 1mg/kg (adult 62.5mg) 12H oral for 1-4wk, then 2mg/kg (adult 125mg) 12H. IV: half oral dose. Botulinum toxin type A. NOT/kg: 1.25-2.5u/site (max 5u/site) IM, max total 200u in 30 days. Oe- soph achalasia: 100u per session divided between 4-6 sites. Hyper- hidrosis: 50u/2ml intradermal per axilla (given in 10-15 sites). Botulinum toxin type B. NOT/kg: usual total dose 2,500-10,000u, repeated every 3-4mo if reqd. Bowel washout. See colonic lavage soltn. Bretylium tosylate. 5mg/kg IV in 1hr, then 5-30 mcg/kg/min. Brimonidine. 0.2%: 1 drop/eye 12H. Brimonidine 0.2% + timolol 0.5%. 1 drop/eye 12H. Brinzolamide. 1%: 1 drop/eye 8-12H. Bromazepam. 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult 1-3mg) 8H oral. Bromhexine. 0.3mg/kg (adult 16mg) 8H oral for 7 days, then 0.15mg/ kg (adult 8mg) 8H. Bromocriptine. 0.025mg/kg (adult 1.25mg) 8-12H, incr wkly to 0.05- 0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5-10mg) 6-12H oral. Inhibit lactn, NOT/kg: 2.5mg 12H for 2wk. Brompheniramine. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult 5-10mg) 6-8H oral, SC, IM or slow IV. Buclizine. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 12.5- 50mg) 8-24H oral. DrugDoses
  • 621. 608 Budesonide. Metered dose inhaler (NOT/kg): 12yr 50-200 mcg 6-12H, reducing to 100-200mcg 12H; 12yr 100-600 mcg 6-12H, reducing to 100-400mcg 12H. Nebuliser (NOT/kg): 12yr 0.5- 1mg 12H, reducing to 0.25-0.5mg 12H; 12yr 1-2mg 12H, reducing to 0.5-1mg 12H. Croup: 2mg (NOT/kg) nebulised. Nasal spray, aerosol (NOT/kg): 64-128 mcg/ nostril 12-24H. Crohns dis, adult (NOT/kg): 9mg daily for 8wk, then reduce over 4wk. Budesonide + formoterol. NOT/kg: 80mcg/4.5mcg or 160mcg/4.5mcg, two inhalations 12H. Bumetanide. 25mcg/kg (adult 1mg) daily oral, may incr to max 50mcg/kg (adult 3mg) 8-12H. Bupivacaine. Max dose: 2-3mg/kg (0.4-0.6ml/kg of 0.5%). Intrathe- cal: 1mgkg (0.2ml/kg of 0.5%). Epidural: 2mg/kg (0.4ml/kg of 0.5%) stat intraop, then 0.25mg/ kg/hr (0.2 ml/kg/hr of 0.125%) postop. Intrapleural: 0.5% 0.5ml/ kg (max 20ml) 8-12H, or 0.5ml/kg (max 10ml) stat then 0.1-0.25ml/ kg/hr (max 10ml/hr). Epidural in ICU: 25ml 0.5% + 1mg (20ml) fen- tanyl + saline to 100ml at 2-8ml/ hr in adult. Buprenorphine. Adult (NOT/kg): 200-800mcg 6-8H sublin¬gual, IM or slow IV. Bupropion. 2-3mg/kg (adult 75-150mg) 8-12H oral. NOT/ kg: sus¬tained 100-200mg 12H; extended: 150-300mg daily. Burrow’s solution. See aluminium acetate soltn. Buserelin. Adult, NOT/kg. Intranasal: 100mcg 4H, or 150 mcg each nostril 8H. Prostate carcinoma: 0.5mg 8H SC for 7 days, then 100mcg dose of spray to each nostril x6/day. Buspirone. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) 8-12H oral, incr to max 0.3mg/kg (adult 15mg) 8-12H. Busulfan. Induction: 0.06mg/kg (max 4mg) daily oral if leuco- cytes 20,000/mm3 and platelets 100,000/mm3 . Main¬tenance: 0.01-0.03mg/kg (max 2mg) daily. Butabarbital. See secbutobarbitone. Butalbital. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50- 100mg) 8-24H oral. Butenafine. 1% cream: apply 12-24H for 1-4wk. Butobarbitone. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-200mg) nocte oral. Butoconazole. 2% vaginal cream: 5g (NOT/kg) nocte. Butorphanol. IM: 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult 1-4mg) 3-4H. IV: 0.01- 0.05mg/kg (adult 0.5-2mg) 3-4H. C1 esterase inhibitor. 1u = activity 1ml plasma. Prophylaxis (Cinryze): 10-50u/kg (adult 1000u) IV over 1hr every 3-4 days. Treatment: 20u/kg IV (Berinert). Cabazitaxel. 25mg/m2 IV over 1hr every 3wk. Cabergoline. 10mcg/kg/wk (adult 0.5mg) in 1-2 doses, incr if reqd monthly by 10mcg/kg/wk to usually 20mcg/kg/wk (adult 1mg) in 1-4 doses, max 90mcg/kg/wk (adult 4.5mg). Inhibit lactation: 1mg oral stat. Caffeine citrate. 2mg citrate = 1mg base. 1-5mg/kg (adult 50-250mg) of citrate 4-8H oral, PR. Neonate: 20mg/kg stat of citrate, then 5mg/kg daily oral or IV over 30min; weekly level 5-30mg/L midway between doses. Caffeine 100mg + ergotamine tar- trate 1mg tabs. Adult (NOT/kg): 2 stat, then 1 ½hrly if reqd (max 6/ attack,10/wk). DrugDoses
  • 622. 609 Cake, diablo. Fan oven 180o C. Melt 180g dark cooking chocolate + 170g unsalted butter in double boiler. Off heat, mix in 4 well- whisked egg yolks, 170g sugar, 40g almond meal; sift in 80g self- raising flour, mix. Fold in ⅓ of egg whites (beaten stiff with pinch of salt); fold back into rest of beaten whites. Put in buttered + floured 20cm tin, tap out air, bake 30min. Calcifediol (25-OH D3). Deficiency: 1-2mcg/kg daily oral. Calciferol (Vitamin D2). See ergoc- alciferol. Calcipotriene. See calcipotriol. Calcipotriol. 50mcg/g (0.005%) ointment: apply 12-24H. See also betamethasone + calcipotriol ointment. Calcitonin. Hypercalcaemia: 4u/kg 12-24H IM or SC, may incr up to 8u/kg 6-12H. Paget’s: 1.5-3u/kg (max 160u) x3/wk IM or SC. Nasal spray: 200u daily. Calcitriol (1,25-OH vitamin D3). Renal failure, vit D resist¬ant rickets: 0.02mcg/kg daily oral, incr by 0.02mcg/kg every 4-8wk according to serum Ca (adult usu- ally 0.25mcg 12H). Calcium (as carbonate, lactate or phosphate). NOT/kg. Neonate: 50mg x4-6/day; 1mo-3yr: 100mg x2-5/day oral; 4-12yr: 300mg x2-3/day; 12yr: 1000mg x1-2/ day. Calcium carbimide. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) 12H oral. Calcium carbonate. Adult NOT/ kg: 1250-1500mg (500-600 mg calcium) 8H oral with meals for hyperphosphataemia. Calcium chloride. 10% soltn (0.7mmol/ml Ca): 0.2ml/kg (max 10ml) slow IV stat. Requirement 16yr 2ml/kg/day IV. Inotrope: 0.03-0.12ml/kg/hr (0.5-2mmol/ kg/day) via CVC. Calcium edetate (EDTA). See sodium calciumedetate. Calcium folinate. NOT/kg: 5-15mg oral, or 1mg IM or IV daily. Rescue starting up to 24hr after metho- trexate: 10-15 mg/m2 6H for 36-48hr IV. Methotrexate toxicity: 100-1000mg/m2 6H IV. Before a fluorouracil dose of 370 mg/m2 : 200mg/m2 IV daily x5, repeat every 3-4wk. Calcium gluconate. 10% soltn (0.22mmol/ml Ca): 0.5ml/kg (max 20ml) slow IV stat. Requirement 16yr 5ml/kg/day IV. Inotrope: 0.5-2mmol/kg/day (0.1-0.4ml/kg/ hr) via CVC. Calcium heparin. See heparin. Calcium levofolinate. Half the dose of calcium folinate. Calcium leucovorin. See calcium folinate. Calcium polystyrene sulfonate (Calcium Resonium). 0.3-0.6g/ kg (adult 15-30g) 6H NG (+ lactu- lose), PR. Calfactant. 35mg/ml phosphlipids, 0.65mg/ml proteins: 1.5 ml/kg intratracheal gradually over 20-30 breaths during inspiration with infant lying on one side, then an- other 1.5 ml/kg with infant lying on other side. Canakinumab. 2mg/kg (15-40kg) 150mg (40kg) SC every 8wk; if poor response after 1wk repeat initial dose, then give 4mg/ kg (15-40kg) 300mg (40kg) SC every 8wk. Candesartan. 0.1-0.3mg/kg (adult 4-16mg) daily oral. Cannabidiol 25mg + delta-9-tetrahy- drocannabinol 27mg per 100μL spray. Titrate over 2wk to max 12 sprays/day. to different parts of oral mucosa; review response after 4wk. DrugDoses
  • 623. 610 Cannabis. See cannabidiol. Canrenoate. 3-8mg/kg (adult 150- 400mg) daily IV. Capecitabine. 1250mg/m2 12H oral for 2wk then 1wk off, in 3wk cycles. Capreomycin sulphate. 20mg/kg (adult 1g) IM daily, decr after 2-4mo to 2-3 times per wk. Capsaicin. Cream 0.025%, 0.075%. Apply 6-8H. Captopril. Beware hypotension. 0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5-5mg) 8H oral, incr if reqd to max 2mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8H. Less hypoten- sion if mixed with NG feeds given continuously (or 1-2H). Carbachol. 0.01%: max 0.5ml in anterior chamber of eye. Carbamazepine. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8H oral, may incr over 2-4wk to 5-10mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 8H. Bipolar disorder (adult, NOT/kg): 200mg as slow-rel cap 12H oral, incr if reqd to max 800mg 12H. Level 20-40umol/L (x0.24=mg/l). Carbaryl. 0.5% lotion: rub into hair, leave 12hr, shampoo. Carbenicillin. 382mg tab, adult (NOT/kg): 1-2 tab 4H oral. Carbenoxolone sodium. Adult (NOT/ kg): 20-50mg 6H oral. Mouth gel 2%, or 2g granules in 40ml water, apply 6H. Carbetocin. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mcg IV over 1min, or IM. Carbidopa. See levodopa + carbi- dopa. Carbimazole. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg) 8-12H oral for 2wk, then 0.1mg/ kg (adult 5-10mg) 8-24H. Carbinoxamine. NOT/kg: 2mg (1- 3yr), 2-4mg (3-6yr), 4-8mg (6yr) 6-8H oral. Carbocisteine. 10-15mg/kg (adult 500-750mg) 8H oral. Carbomer. 0.2% gel: 1 drop per eye x3-4/day. Carboplatin. 300-400mg/m2 IV over 60min every 4wk. Carboprost (15-Me-PGF2-alpha). Termination (NOT/kg): 250- 500mcg 1-4H (max total 12mg) IM. Postpartum hge (NOT/kg): 250mcg every 15-120min IM (max total 12mg). Carglumic acid. 50mg/kg 12H oral, incr to 6H if reqd; titrate dose to plasma ammonia concentration. Carisoprodol. 7mg/kg (adult 350mg) 6H oral. Carmustine (BCNU). 200mg/m2 IV over 2hr every 6wk (reduce if leucocytes 3000/mm3 or plate- lets 75,000). Wafers: implant 8 x 7.7mg wafers (total 61.6mg) at surgery. Carnitine, L form. IV: 5-15mg/kg (max 1g) 6H. Oral: 25mg/kg 6-12H (max 400mg/kg/day). Carob bean gum (Carobel Instant). NOT/kg: 1 scoop (1.8g) in 100ml water, give 10-20ml by spoon; or add half a scoop to every 100- 200ml of milk. Carteolol. 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5- 10mg) daily oral. 1%, 2%: 1drop/ eye 12H. Carvedilol. 0.1mg/kg (adult 3.125mg) 12H oral; if tolerated incr by 0.1mg/kg (adult 3.125mg) every 1-2wk to max 0.5-0.8mg/kg (adult 25mg) 12H. Casanthranol + docusate sodium. Cap 30mg/100mg (NOT/kg): adult 1-2cap 12-24H oral. Syrup 2mg/4mg per ml (NOT/kg): child 5-15ml bedtime, adult 15-30ml 12-24H. Caspofungin. 70mg/m2 (max 70mg) day 1, then neonate 25 mg/ m2, child 50mg/m2 , adult 50mg (80kg 70mg) daily IV over 1hr. Cefaclor. 10-15mg/kg (adult 250- 500mg) 8H oral; 12H used in some mild infectns. Slow release tab 375mg (adult, NOT/kg): 1-2 tab 12H oral. Cefadroxil. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.5- 1g) 12H oral. Cefalexin. See cephalexin. DrugDoses
  • 624. 611 Cefamandole. See cephamandole. Cefazolin. See cephazolin. Cefdinir. 14mg/kg (adult 600mg) daily (or 2 div doses) oral . Cefditoren. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) 12H oral. Cefepime hydrochloride. 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 12H IM or IV. Severe in- ftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) IV 8-12H or constant infsn. Cefixime. 5mg/kg (adult 200mg) 12-24H oral. Cefodizime. 25mg/kg (max 1g) 12H IV or IM. Cefonicid. 15-50mg/kg (adult 0.5- 2g) IV or IM daily. Cefoperazone. 25-60mg/kg (max 1-3g) 6-12H IV in 1hr or IM. Cefotaxime. 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 12H (4wk), 8H (4+wk) IV. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2-3g) IV 12H (preterm), 8H (1st wk life), 6H (2-4 wk), 4-6H or constant infsn (4+ wk). Cefotetan. 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 12H IM, IV. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (max 2-3g) 12H or constant infsn. Cefoxitin. 25-60mg/kg (adult 1-3g) 12H (1st wk life), 8H (1-4wk), 6-8H (4wk) IV. Cefpirome. 25-50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) 12H IV. Cefpodoxime. 5mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) 12H oral. Cefradine. See cephradine. Cefprozil. 15mg/kg (adult 500mg) 12-24H oral. Ceftazidime. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) 8H IV or IM. Severe inftn, cystic fibrosis: 50mg/kg (max 2g) 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 6H or constant infsn (4+ wk). Ceftibuten. 10mg/kg (adult 400mg) daily oral. Ceftizoxime. 25-60mg/kg (adult 1-3g) 6-8H IV. Ceftriaxone sodium. 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 12-24H IV, or IM (in 1% lignocaine). Severe inftn: 50mg/ kg (max 2g) daily (1st wk life), 12H (2+ wk). Epiglottitis: 100mg/kg (max 2g) stat, then 50mg/kg (max 2g) after 24hr. Meningococ proph (NOT /kg): child 125mg, 12yr 250mg IM in 1% lignocaine once. Cefuroxime. Oral (as cefuroxime axetil): 10-15mg/kg (adult 250- 500mg) 12H. IV: 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 8H. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2nd wk), 6H or constant infsn (2wk). Celecoxib. Usually 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 12H, or 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) daily oral. Familial adeno- matous polyposis (adult, NOT/kg): 400mg 12H oral. Celiprolol. 5-10mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) daily oral. Cephalexin. Skin or UTI: 12.5mg/ kg (adult 250mg) 6H, or 25mg/ kg (adult 500mg) 12H oral. Otitis: 25mg/kg 6H. Cephalothin. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) 6H IV or IM. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 4H or con- stant infsn. Irrigation fluid: 2g/L (2mg/ml). Cephamandole. 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) 6-8H IV over 10min or IM. Severe inftn: 40mg/kg (adult 2g) IV over 20min 4-6H or constant infsn. Cephazolin. 10-15mg/kg (adult 0.5g) 6H IV or IM. Severe inftn: 50mg/ kg (adult 2g) IV 4-6H or constant infsn. Surgical proph: 50mg/kg IV at induction. Cephradine. Oral: 10-25mg/kg (adult 0.25-1g) 6H. IM or IV: 25- 50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) 6H. Certolizumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 400mg SC every 2wk for 3 doses, then every 4wk if response. Certoparin. Prophylaxis: 60u/kg (adult 3000u) 1-2hr preop, then daily SC. DrugDoses
  • 625. 612 Cerumol. See arachis oil + chlorbutol + dichlorobenzene otic. Cetirizine. NOT/kg: 2.5mg (6mo- 2yr), 2.5-5mg (2-5yr), 5-10mg (5yr) daily oral. Cetrimide. See chlorhexidine. Cetrorelix (GnRH antagonist). Adult (NOT/kg): 0.25mg SC on stimula- tion day 5, then daily until hCG given. Cetuximab. 400mg/m2 IV over 2hr, then 250mg/m2 wkly. Cetylpyridinium. See benzocaine + cetylpyridinium. Cevimeline. 0.6mg/kg (adult 30mg) 8H oral. Charcoal, activated. Check bowel sounds present. 1-2g/kg (adult 50-100g) NG; then 0.25g/kg hrly if redq. Laxative: sorbitol 1g/kg (1.4ml/kg of 70%) once NG, may repeat x1. Chenodeoxycholic acid. 5-10mg/kg 12H oral. Chickenpox vaccine. See varicella vaccine. Chlomethiazole. See clomethiazole. Chloral betaine. 1.7mg = 1mg chlo- ral hydrate. Chloral hydrate. Hypnotic: 50mg/kg (max 2g) stat (ICU up to 100mg/ kg, max 5g). Sedative: 10mg/kg 6-8H oral or PR. Chlorambucil. Typically 0.1-0.2mg/ kg daily oral. Chloramphenicol. Severe inftn: 40mg/kg (max 2g) stat IV, IM or oral; then 25mg/kg (max 1g) daily (1st wk life) 12H (2-4 wk) 8H (4wk) x5 days, then 6H. Eye drop, oint: apply 2-6H. Ear: 4drop 6H. Serum level 20-30mg/L 2hr, 15mg/L trough. Chlorbutol. See arachis oil + chlor- butol + dichlorobenzene. Chlordiazepoxide. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) 12H oral, may incr to max 0.5mg/kg (adult 30mg) 6-8H. Chlorhexidine. 0.1%: catheterisation prep, impetigo. 0.2%: mouth- wash. 1%: skin disinfection. 2-4%: hand wash. Chlorhexidine 0.5% + alcohol 70%. Skin disinfection. Chlorhexidine 1.5% + cetrimide 15%. 1/30 in water: cleaning tissues, wounds or equipment. 140ml in 1L water: disinfecting skin, equipment (soak 2min, rinse in sterile water). Chlorhexidine + cetrimide. 0.05%/0.5%, 0.1%/1%, 0.15%/0.15% soltn: wound cleaning. Chlorhexidine 1% + hexamidine 0.15%. Powder: wounds. Chlormethiazole. See clomethiazole. Chlormezanone. 5mg/kg (adult 200mg) 6-8H, or 10mg/kg (adult 400mg) at night oral. Chlorophyllin copper complex. 2mg/kg 8-24H oral. Chloroprocaine. Max 11mg/kg (max 800mg). With adrenaline (1/200,000) max 14mg/kg (max 1000mg). Chloroquine, base. Oral: 10mg/kg (max 600mg) daily x3 days. IM: 4mg/kg (max 300mg) 12H for 3 days. Prophylaxis: 5mg/kg (adult 300mg) oral x1/wk. Lupus, rheu arth: 12mg/kg (max 600mg) daily, reduce to 4-8mg/kg (max 400mg) daily. Chloroquine + pyrimethamine + sulphadoxine. Chloroquine base 10mg/kg (max 600mg) daily for 3 days oral, plus pyrimethamine 1.25mg/kg (max 75mg) and sul- phadoxine 25 mg/kg (max 1.5g) on first day. Chlorothiazide. 5-20mg/kg (adult 0.25-1g) 12-24H oral, IV. Chlorphenamine. See chlorphe- niramine. Chlorphenasin. 1% ointment: apply 12H. Chlorpheniramine. 0.1mg/kg (adult 4mg) 6-8H oral. DrugDoses
  • 626. 613 Chlorpheniramine. 1.25mg + phe- nylephrine 2.5mg in 5ml. Syrup (NOT/kg): 1.25-2.5ml (0-1yr), 2.5-5ml (2-5yr), 5-10ml (6-12yr), 10-15ml (12yr) 6-8H oral. Chlorpromazine. Oral or PR: 0.5- 2mg/kg (max 100mg) 6-8H; up to 20mg/kg 8H for psychosis. IM (painful) or slow IV (beware hypotension): 0.25-1mg/kg (usual max 50mg) 6-8H. Chlorpropamide. Adult (NOT/kg): initially 125-250mg oral, max 500mg daily. Chlorquinaldol. 5% paste: apply 12H. Chlortalidone. See chlorthalidone. Chlortetracycline. 3% cream or oint- ment: apply 8-24H. Chlortetracycline 115.4mg + deme- clocycline 69.2mg + tetracycline 115.4mg. NOT/kg. 12yr: 1 tab 12H oral. Chlorthalidone. 2mg/kg (max 100mg) 3 times a wk oral. Chlorzoxazone. 5-15mg/kg (adult 250-750mg) 6-8H oral. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3). 1 mcg = 40u = 1mcg ergocalciferol (qv). Osteodystrophy: 0.2mcg/ kg (hepatic) 15-40mcg/kg (renal) daily oral. Cholera, whole cell plus toxin b subunit recombinant vaccine (Dukoral). Inanimate. Dissolve granules in 150ml water. 2-6yr: give 75ml x3 doses 1wk apart oral, boost after 6mo. 6yr: give 150ml x2 doses 1wk apart, boost after 2yr . Cholestyramine. NOT/kg. 1g (6yr) 2-4g (6-12yr) 4g (12yr) daily oral, incr over 4wk to max 1-2x initial dose 8H. Choline magnesium trisalicylate. See aspirin. Choline salicylate, mouth gel (Bon- jela). Apply 3H prn. Choline theophyllinate (200mg = theophylline 127mg). See theo- phylline. Choriogonadotropin alfa. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mcg SC. Chorionic gonadotrophin. NOT/ kg. Cryptorchidism all ages: 500- 1000u x1-2/wk for 5wk. After FSH: 10,000iu IM once. Men: 7000iu IM x2/wk, with 75iu FSH and 75iu LH IM x3/wk. Chymopapain. Adult (NOT/kg): 2000-4000 picokatal units per disc, max 10,000 picokatal units per patient. Ciclesonide. Inhaltn (12yr): 80- 320mcg 12-24H. Nasal: 100 mcg/ nostril once daily. Ciclopirox. 1% cream or lotion: apply 12H. Cidofovir. 5mg/kg over 1hr IV on day 0, day 7, then every 14 days (given with probenecid). Papil- loma: inject 6.25 mg/ml soltn (max total 0.6mg/kg) at interval of = 2wk. Ciclosporin. See cyclosporin. Cilazapril. Usually 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult 1-5mg) daily oral. Renal hypertension: 0.005-0.01mg/kg daily oral. Cilostazol. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mg 12H oral. Cimetidine. Oral: 5-10mg/kg (adult 300-400mg) 6H, or 20 mg/kg (adult 800mg) nocte. IV: 10-15mg/kg (adult 200mg) 12H (newborn), 6H (4wk). Cinacalcet. Adult (NOT/kg) 30mg daily oral, incr every 2-4wk (to max 180mg) to control parathy- roid hormone level. Parathyroid carcinoma: 30mg 12H, incr every 2-4wk if reqd to control serum Ca to max 90mg 6H oral. Cinchocaine. Max dose 2mg/kg (0.4ml/kg of 0.5%) by injec¬tion. Oint 0.5% with hydrocortisone 0.5%: apply 8-24H. Cinnarizine. 0.3-0.6mg/kg (adult 15-30mg) 8H oral. Periph vasc dis: 1.5mg/kg (adult 75mg) 8H oral. Cinoxacin. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) 12H oral. DrugDoses
  • 627. 614 Ciprofibrate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) daily oral. Ciprofloxacin. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 12H oral, 4-7mg/kg (adult 200-300mg) 12H IV. Severe inftn, or cystic fibrosis: 20mg/kg (max 750mg) 12H oral, 10mg/kg (max 400mg) 8H IV; higher doses used occasionally. Meningococ- cus proph: 15mg/kg (max 500mg) once oral. Ciprofloxacin, eye drops. 0.3%. Cor- neal ulcer: 1drop /15min for 6hr then 1drop/30min for 18hr (day 1), 1drop 1H (day 2), 1drop 4H (day 3-14). Conjunctivitis: 1 drop 4H; if severe 1 drop 2H when awake for 2 days, then 6H. Ciprofloxacin, eye ointment. 0.3%. Apply 1.25cm 8H for 3 days, then 12H for 3 or more days. Cisatracurium. 0.1mg/kg (child) or 0.15mg/kg (adult) IV stat, then 0.03mg/kg if reqd or 1-3mcg/kg/ min. ICU: 0.15 mg/kg stat, then (1-10mcg/kg/min) IV. Cisplatin. 60-100mg/m2 IV over 6hr every 3-4wk x6 cycles. Citalopram. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg) daily, incr if reqd over 4wk to max 0.4mg/kg (adult 60mg) daily oral. Citric acid 0.25g + potassium citrate 1.5g. Urine alkalinisation 6yr (NOT/kg): 2 tab 8-12H oral. Cladribine. Hairy cell leuk: usually 0.09mg/kg/day for 7 days by continuous IV infsn. Ch lymph leuk: 0.12mg/kg/day over 2hr IV on days 1-5 of 28 day cycle, max 6 cycles. Clarithromycin. 7.5-15mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 12H oral. Slow re- lease tab, adult (NOT/kg): 0.5g or 1g daily. H.pylori, see omeprazole. Clavulanic acid. See amoxycillin, ticarcillin. Clemastine. 0.02-0.06mg/kg (adult 1-3mg) 12H oral. Clenbuterol. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mcg (up to 40mcg) 12H oral. Clevidipine. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg/hr incr every 5min to 4-6mg/hr (max 16mg/hr) IV. Clidinium. 0.05-0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5- 5mg) 6-8H oral. Clindamycin. 6mg/kg (adult 150- 450mg) 6H oral. IV over 30 min, or IM: 5mg/kg 12H (preterm 1wk old), 5mg/kg 8H (pre¬term 1wk, term 1wk), 7.5mg/kg 8H (term 1wk), 28 days 10mg/kg (adult 600mg) 8H. Severe inftn (28 days): 15-20 mg/kg (adult 900mg) 8H IV over 1hr. Acne soltn 1%: 12H. Clioquinol. 10mg/g cream, 100% powder: apply 6-12H. Clioquinol 1% + flumetasone 0.02%. 2-3 drops/ear 8-12H. Clobazam. 0.1mg/kg (adult 10mg) daily oral, incr if reqd to max 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg) 8-12H oral. Clobetasol. 0.05% spray, cream, ointment, gel, solution, foam, lotion, shampoo: apply 12H. Clobetasone. 0.1% soltn: 1drop/ eye 1-6H. Clocortolone. Cream 0.1%: apply 8H. Clodronate. 10-30mg/kg (adult 0.6- 1.8g) IV over 2hr every 2mo; or 6mg/kg (adult 300mg) IV over 2hr daily x7 days, then 15-30/mg/kg (adult 0.8-1.6g) 12H oral. Clofarabine. 52mg/m2 IV over 2hr for 5 days every 2-6wk. Clofazimine. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) daily oral. Lepra reaction: up to 6mg/kg (max 300mg) daily for max 3mo. Clofibrate. 10mg/kg 8-12H oral. Clomethiazole. Cap (192mg base) equivalent action to 5ml syrup (250mg edisilate). Adult (NOT/ kg): 1-2 cap, or 5-10ml syrup, at bedtime oral. Clomiphene. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mg daily for 5 days oral, incr to 100mg daily for 5 days if no ovulation. DrugDoses
  • 628. 615 Clomipramine. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) 12H oral, incr if reqd to max 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8H. Clonazepam. 1 drop = 0.1mg. 0.01mg/kg (max 0.5mg) 12H oral, slowly incr to 0.05mg/kg (max 2mg) 6-12H oral. Sta¬tus (may be repeated if ventilated), NOT/ kg: neonate 0.25mg, child 0.5mg, adult 1mg IV. Clonidine. Hypertension: 1-5mcg/ kg slow IV, 1-6mcg/kg (adult 50-300mcg) 8-12H oral. Migraine: start with 0.5 mcg/kg (adult 50-75mcg) 12H oral. Analgesia: 2.5mcg/kg premed oral, 0.3 mcg/ kg/hr IV, 1-2mcg/kg local block; ventld 0.5-2 mcg/kg/hr (12kg 1mcg/kg/hr is 50mcg/kg in 50ml at 1ml/hr, 12kg 25 mcg/kg in 50ml at 2ml/hr) + midazolam 1mcg/kg/min (3 mg/kg in 50ml at 1ml/hr). Clopamide 5mg + pindolol 10mg. Adult: 1-2 tab (max 3 tab) daily oral. Clopidogrel. Child 0.2mg/kg daily, adult 75mg daily oral (note higher dose in adults). Poor converters to active form (15-30% CYP2C19 variant) need higher doses, or pasugrel. Clorazepate. 0.3-2mg/kg (adult 15-90mg) daily at night oral, or 0.1-0.5mg/kg (adult 5-30mg) 8H. Clostridia antitoxin. See gas gan- grene antitoxin. Clotrimazole. Topical: 1% cream or solution 8-12H. Vaginal (NOT/kg): 1% cream or 100mg tab daily for 6 days, or 2% cream or 500mg tab daily for 3 days. Cloxacillin. 15mg/kg (adult 500mg) 6H oral, IM or IV. Severe inftn: 25- 50mg/kg (adult 1-2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4wk), 4-6 H (4wk) or constant infsn (4wk). Clozapine. 0.5mg/kg (adult 25mg) 12H oral, incr over 7-14 days to 2-5mg/kg (adult 100-300mg) 8-12H; later reducing to 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8-12H. Coal tar, topical. 0.5% incr to max 10%, applied 6-8H. Cocaine. Topical: 1-3mg/kg. Codeine phosphate. Inactive in ≈10% of adults, poor activity in children 5yrs. Analgesic: 0.5- 1mg/kg (adult 15-60mg) 4H oral, IM, SC. Cough: 0.25-0.5mg/kg (adult 15-30mg) 6H. Codeine + guaiacol. 7mg/75mg per 5ml. Adult (NOT/kg): 10ml 8H oral. Co-danthramer, co-danthrusate. See dantron. Co-dergocrine mesylate. Adult (NOT/kg): 3-4.5mg daily before meal oral or subling; 300mcg daily IM, SC or IV infsn. Coenzyme Q10. See ubidecarenone. Colaspase. Test 2-50u intradermal. Typical dose 6000u/m2 every 3rd day x9 doses IV over 4hr, IM or SC. Colchicine. Acute gout: 0.02mg/kg (adult 1mg) 2H oral (max 3 doses/ day). Chronic use (gout, FMF): 0.01-0.04mg/kg (adult 0.5-2mg) daily oral. Colesevelam. 625mg tab. Adult (NOT/kg): 3 tab 12H oral, or 6 tab daily. With statin: 4-6 tab/day (in 1-2 doses). Colestipol hydrochloride. 0.1-0.2g/ kg (adult 5-10g) 8H oral. Colestyramine. See cholestyramine. Colfosceril palmitate (Exosurf Neonatal). Soltn 13.5 mg/ml. Prophylaxis: 5ml/kg intratracheal over 5min straight after birth, and at 12hr and 24hr if still ventilated. Rescue: 5ml/kg intratracheal over 5min, repeat in 12hr if still ventilated. Colistimethate. See colistin sulfo- methate sodium. DrugDoses
  • 629. 616 Colistin 3mg/ml + neomycin 3.3mg/ ml. Otic: 4 drops 8H. Colistin sulphomethate sodium. 2.6mg = 1mg colistin base = 30,000u. IM, or IV over 5min: 40,000u/kg (adult 2 million u) 8H, or 1.25-2.5mg/kg of colistin base 12H. Oral or inhaled: 30,000- 60,000 u/kg (adult 1.5-3 million u) 8H. Collagenase. Ointment 250u/g: apply daily. Colonic lavage, macrogol-3350 and macrogol-4000 (polyethylene glyol) 105g/L. Poisoning, severe constipation: if bowel sounds pre- sent, 25ml/kg/hr (adult 1.5L/hr) oral or NG for 2-4hr (until rectal effluent clear). Before colonos- copy: clear fluids only to noon, 1 whole 5mg bisacodyl tab per 10kg (adult 4 tab) at noon, wait for bowel motion (max 6hr), then macrogol 4g/kg (adult 200g) in 40ml/kg fluid (adult 2L) over 2hr oral or NG. Colony stimulating factors. See ancestrim, epoetin, fil¬grastim, lenograstim, molgramostim, sargramostim. Coloxyl. See docusate sodium. Conivaptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mg over 30min IV, then 20mg (max 40mg) over 24hr by IV infusion. Conjugated oestrogens (CO) + medroxyprogesterone (MP). NOT/kg. CO (NOT/kg): 0.625mg (0.3-1.25mg) daily continuously, with MP 10mg (up to 20mg) daily oral for last 10-14 days of 28 day cycle. Co-cyprindiol. See cyproterone acetate + ethinyloestradiol. Corifollitropin alfa. Adult (NOT/kg): 100mcg (≤60kg) 150mcg (60kg) SC, GnRH day 5-6, FSH for 6-18 days from day 8. Corticorelin. 1-2mcg/kg (max 100mcg) IV. Corticotrophin releasing factor, hormone. See corticorelin. Cortisone acetate. 1-2.5mg/kg 6-8H oral. Physiological: 7.5 mg/m2 8H. Cortisone acetate 1mg = hydro- cortisone 1.25mg in mineralo- and gluco-corticoid action. Cosyntropin (ACTH subunit). NOT/ kg: 2yr 0.125mg, 2yr 0.25- 0.75mg IM, IV, or infused over 4-8hr. Cotrimoxazole (trimethoprim 1mg + sulphamethoxazole 5mg). TMP 4mg/kg (adult 80-160mg) 12H IV over 1hr or oral. Renal proph: TMP 2mg/kg (max 80mg) daily oral. Pneumocystis: proph TMP 5mg/kg daily on 3 days/wk; treat¬ment TMP 250mg/m2 stat, then 150mg/m2 8H (11yr) or 12H ( 10yr) IV over 1hr; in renal failure dose interval (hr) = serum creatinine (mmol/l) x 135 (max 48hr); 1hr post-infsn serum TMP 5-10mcg/ml, SMX 100-200mcg/ ml. IV infsn: TMP max 1.6mg/ml in 5% dext. Coumarin. Oral: 1-8mg/kg (adult 50-400mg) daily. Cream 100mg/g: apply 8-12H. Coxiella burnetti vaccine. Inanimate. 0.5ml SC once. Crisantaspase. See colaspase. Cromoglycate. See sodium cromo- glycate. Cromolyn, sodium. See sodium cromoglycate. Crotamiton. 10% cream or lotion: apply x2-3/day. Cryoprecipitate. Low factor 8: 1u/ kg incr activity 2% (half life 12hr); usual dose 5ml/kg or 1bag/4kg 12H IV for 1-2 infns (muscle, joint), 3-6 infns (hip, forearm, retroperito¬neal, oro¬pharynx), 7-14 infns (intracranial). Low fibrinogen: usually 5ml/kg or 1bag/4kg IV. Bag usually 20-30ml: factor 8 about 5u/ml (100u/ bag), fibrinogen about 10mg/ml (200mg/bag). DrugDoses
  • 630. 617 Cyanocobalamin (Vit B12). 20mcg/ kg (adult 1000mcg) IM daily for 7 days then wkly (treatment), monthly (prophylaxis). IV danger- ous in megaloblastic anaemia. Maintenance treatment (adult NOT/kg): 2mg daily oral; 50mcg (incr if reqd to 100mcg) daily, or 500mcg wkly nasal. Cyclizine. 1mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8H oral, IM or IV. Cyclizine 30mg + dipipanone 10mg. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab 6H oral, incr dose by half tab if reqd to max 3 tab 6H. Cyclobenzaprine. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 5-15mg) 8H oral. Extended- release (adult, NOT/kg): 15mg or 30mg daily oral. Cyclopenthiazide. 5-10mcg/kg (adult 250-500mcg) 12-24H . Cyclopentolate. 0.5%, 1%: 1 drop/ eye, repeat after 5min. Pilocar- pine 1% speeds recovery. Cyclophosphamide. A typical regi- men is 600mg/m2 IV over 30min daily for 3 days, then 600mg/m2 IV wkly or 10mg/kg twice wkly (if leucocytes 3000/mm3 ). Cycloserine. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250- 500mg) 12H oral. Keep plasma conc 30mcg/ml. Cyclosporin. 1-3mcg/kg/min IV for 24-48hr, then 5-8mg/kg 12H reducing by 1mg/kg/dose each mo to 3-4 mg/kg/dose 12H oral. Eczema, juvenile arthritis, nephrotic, syndrome, psoriasis: 1.5-2.5mg/kg 12H. Usual target trough levels by Abbott TDx monoclonal specific assay (x 2.5 = non-specific assay level) on whole blood: 100-250 ng/ml (marrow), 300-400 ng/ml first 3mo then 100-300 ng/ml (kidney), 200-250 first 3mo then 100-125 (liver), 100-400ng/ml (heart, lung). Cyclosporin ophthalmic. 0.05% 1 drop in each eye 12H. Cyproheptadine. 0.1mg/kg (adult 4mg) 6-8H oral. Migraine 0.1mg/ kg (adult 4mg), repeated in 30min if reqd. Cyproterone acetate. 1mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8-12H oral. Prec puberty: 25-50mg/m2 8-12H oral. Hyperan- drogenism: 50-100mg daily days 5-14, with oestradiol valerate 1mg daily days 5-25. Prostate carcinoma (NOT/kg): 100mg 8-12H oral. See also oestradiol + cyproterone. Cyproterone acetate + ethiny- loestradiol (2mg/35mcg) x 21 tab, + 7 inert tab. In females for acne, contraception, or hirsutism: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of mensturation. Cysteamine bitartrate. 0.05mg/m2 6H oral, incr over 6wk to 0.33mg/ m2 /dose (50kg) or 0.5mg/kg/ dose (50kg) 6H. Cytarabine. Usually 100mg/m2 daily for 10 days by IV injn or constant infsn. Intrathecal: 30mg/m2 every 4 days until CSF normal (dissolve in saline not diluent). Cytomegalovirus immunoglobn. See immunoglobn, CMV. Dabigatran. Adult (NOT/kg): 220mg daily oral. Dacarbazine. 250mg/m2 IV daily for 5 days every 3wk. Daclizumab. 1mg/kg IV over 15min every 2wk for 5 doses. Dactinomycin. Usually 400-600mcg/ m2 IV daily for 5 days, repeat after 3-4wk. Dalfampridine. Slow release (adult, NOT/kg): 10mg 12H oral. Dalfopristin 350mg + quinupristin 150mg (Synercid IV 500mg vial). 7.5mg/kg (combined) 8H IV over 1hr. DrugDoses
  • 631. 618 Dalteparin sodium. Proph (adult): 2500-5000u SC 1-2hr preop, then daily. Venous thrombosis: 100u/ kg 12H SC, or infuse 200u/kg/ day IV (anti-Xa 0.5-1u/ml 4hr post dose). Haemodialysis: 5-10u/kg stat, then 4-5u/kg/hr IV (acute renal failure, anti-Xa 0.2-0.4u/ml); 30-40u/kg stat, then 10-15u/kg/ hr (chronic renal failure, anti-Xa 0.5-1u/ml). Danaparoid. Prevention: 15u/kg (adult 750u) 12H SC. Heparin induced thrombocytopenia: 30u/ kg stat IV, then 1.2-2u/kg/hr to maintain anti-Xa 0.4-0.8u/ml. Danazol. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) 6-12H oral. Dantrolene. Hyperpyrexia: 1mg/kg/ min until improves (max 10mg/ kg), then 1-2mg/kg 6H for 1-3day IV or oral. Spasticity: 0.5mg/kg (adult 25mg) 6H, incr over 2wk if reqd to 3mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) 6H oral. Dantron + docusate (co-danthru- sate). NOT/kg. 50/60mg cap: 7-12yr 1cap, adult 1-3cap at night. 50/60mg in 5ml: 1-6yr 2.5ml, 7-12yr 5ml, adult 5-15ml at night. Dantron + poloxamer 188 (co- danthramer). NOT/kg. 25/ 200mg cap: 7-12yr 1cap, adult 1-3cap at night. 25/200mg in 5ml: 1-6yr 2.5ml, 7-12yr 5ml, adult 5-15ml at night. Dapsone. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50- 100mg) daily oral. Derm herpet: 1-6mg/kg (adult 50-300mg) daily oral. Dapsone 100mg + pyrimethamine 12.5mg (Maloprim). 1-4yr quarter tab wkly, 5-10yr half tab, 10yr 1tab. Daptomycin. 4mg/kg IV over 30min daily. Darbepoetin alfa. Incr or re¬duce dose if reqd by 25% every 4wk. Renal failure: 0.45mcg/kg wkly (0.75mcg/kg wkly if not on dialy- sis) SC or IV. Cancer: 6.75mcg/kg every 3wk, or 2.25mcg/kg every wk, SC or IV. Darifenacin. Adult (NOT/kg): 7.5- 15mg daily oral. Darunavir (DRV). Adult (NOT/kg): 600mg 12H with food oral. Darunavir + ritonavir. 20-29kg: 375/50mg 12H with food; 30-39kg: 450/60mg 12H; ≥40kg: 600/100mg 12H. ≥18yr: 800/100mg (naïve) 600/100mg (past Rx) daily with food. Dasatinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 70mg (up to 100mg) 12H oral. Daunorubicin. 30mg/m2 wkly slow IV, or 60-90mg/m2 every 3wk. Max total dose 500mg/m2 . DDAVP. See desmopressin. Decitabine. 15mg/m2 IV over 3hr 8H for 3 days, repeated every 6wk (minimum of 4 cycles). Deferasirox. 20mg/kg (15-30mg/kg) daily oral. Deferiprone. 25mg/kg 8H (max 100mg/kg/day) oral. Deferoxamine. See desferrioxamine. Deflazacort. Usually 0.1-1.5mg/kg (adult 5-90mg) 24-48H oral. 1.2 mg = 1mg prednisolone in gluco- corticoid activity. Degarelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 240mg in two SC injections, then 80mg SC every 4wk. Delavirdine. Adult (NOT/kg): 400mg 8H, or 600mg 12H oral. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. See cannabidiol. Demecarium bromide. 0.125%, 0.25% ophthalmic soltn. Glau- coma: 1 drop x2/day to x2/wk. Strabismus: 1 drop daily for 2wk, then 1 drop alternate days for 2-3wk. DrugDoses
  • 632. 619 Demeclocycline. 8yr: 3mg/kg (adult 150mg) 6H, or 6mg/kg (adult 300mg) 12H oral. See also chlortetracycline. Denileukin diftitox. 9-18mcg/kg daily IV over 15min for 5 consecu- tive days every 21 days. Denosumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 60mg every 6mo SC, with calcium 1000mg daily and at least 400iu vitamin D daily. Dequalinium. NOT/kg: one 0.25mg pastile 4H oral. Deserpidine. 0.005-0.02mg/kg (adult 0.25-1mg) daily oral. Desflurane. Usually child 5-10%, adult 3-8% by inhalation. Desferrioxamine. Antidote: 10- 15mg/kg/hr IV for 12-24hr (max 6g/24hr) if Fe 60-90umol/l at 4hr or 8hr; some also give 5-10g (NOT/kg) once oral. Thalassaemia (NOT/kg): 500mg per unit blood; and 5-6 nights/wk 1-3g in 5ml water SC over 10hr, 0.5-1.5g in 10ml water SC over 5min. Desipramine. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200), occasionally incr up to 6mg/ kg (adult 300mg), daily oral. Desirudin. 0.3mg/kg (adult 15mg) 12H SC. Desloratadine. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) daily oral. Desmopressin (DDAVP). 1u = 1mcg. Nasal (NOT/kg): 5-10mcg (0.05- 0.1ml) per dose 12-24H; enuresis 10-40mcg nocte. IV: 0.5-2mcg in 1L fluid, and replace urine output + 10% hrly (but much better to use vasopressin). Haemophilia, von Willebrand: 0.3mcg/kg (adult 20mcg) IV over 1hr 12-24H. More potent and longer acting than vasopressin. Desogestrel. Contraception: 75mcg daily oral, starting 1st day of menstruation. Desogestrel + ethinyloestradiol (150mcg/30mcg, 150/20) x21 tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Desonide. 0.05% cream, ointment, lotion: apply 8-12H. Desoximetasone. See desoxymetha- sone. Desoxymethasone. 0.05% or 0.25% cream, oint, gel: apply 12H. Desoxyribonuclease. See fibrinoly- sin. Desvenlafaxine. Adult (NOT/kg): 50- 100mg daily oral. Dexamethasone. Biological half life 2-3 days. 0.1-1mg/kg daily oral, IM or IV. Antiemetic: 0.5mg/kg (adult 16mg) daily IM, IV, oral. BPD: 0.4mg/kg daily for 3 days, then 0.3mg/kg 3 days, 0.2mg/kg 3 days, 0.1mg/kg 3 days, 0.05mg/ kg 7 days. Cerebral oedema: 0.25- 1mg/kg (adult 10-50mg) stat, then 0.6-1mg/kg (adult 4-8mg) daily IV reducing over 3-5 days to 0.1mg/kg (adult 2mg) daily. Congenital adrenal hypoplasia: 0.27 mg/m2 daily oral. Severe croup, extubtn stridor, bronchioli- tis: 0.6 mg/kg (max 20mg) IV or IM stat, then prednisolone 1mg/ kg 8-12H oral. Eye drops 0.1%: 1 drop/eye 3-8H. Dexamethasone has no mineralocorticoid action; 1mg = 25mg hydrocortisone in glucocorticoid action. Dexamethasone 0.5mg/ml (0.05%) + framycetin 5mg/ml (0.5%) + gramicidin 0.05mg/ml (0.005%) (Sofradex). Eye 1 drop 1-3H, ear 2-3 drops 6-8H, ointment 8-12H. Dexamethasone 0.1% + neomycin 0.35% + polymyxin 6000u/g. 1drop/eye 6-8H. Dexamethasone 0.1% + tobramycin 0.3%. Usually 1drop/ eye 4-6H; up to 2H for 2 days after surgery if reqd. DrugDoses
  • 633. 620 Dexamethasone 20mcg + tramazo- line 120mcg per dose. Aerosol: 1 puff in each nostril 4-8H. Dexamphetamine. 0.2mg/kg (max 10mg) daily oral, incr if reqd to max 0.6mg/kg (max 40mg) 12H. Dexchlorpheniramine maleate. 0.05mg/kg (adult 2mg) 6-8H oral. Repetab (adult NOT/kg): 6mg 12H oral. Dexibuprofen. Adult (NOT/kg): 400mg 12H (max 8H) oral. Dexketoprofen. Adult (NOT/kg): 12.5mg 4-6H, or 25mg 8H (max 75mg/day) oral. Dexlansoprazole. 1-2mg/kg (adult 30-60mg) daily oral. Dexmedetomidine. ICU: 1mcg/kg IV over 15min, then 0.2-0.7mcg/kg/ hr for max 24hr. Dexmethylphenidate. NOT/kg, given as two doses/day 4hr apart: 2.5mg/dose oral, incr if reqd to 10mg/dose. Long-acting (NOT/ kg): child 5-10mg (adult 5-20mg) daily oral. Dexpanthenol. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) IM. 5% cream: apply 12-24H Dexrazoxane. 10mg for each 1mg doxorubicin IV. Extravasation of anthracyclines: within 6hr give 1g/m2 (max 2g) IV over 2hr, repeated after 24hr; then 0.5g/m2 48hr after first dose. Dextran 1 (Promit). 15% soltn. 0.3ml/kg IV 1-2min before giving dextran 40 or dextran 70. Dextran 40. 10% soltn: 10ml/kg x1-2 on day 1, then 10 ml/kg/day IV. Half life about 3hr. Dextran 70. 6% soltn: 10ml/kg x1-2 on day 1, then 10 ml/kg/day IV. Half life about 12hr. Dextroamphetamine. See dexam- phetamine. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide. 0.2-0.4mg/kg (adult 10-20mg) 6-8H oral. Dextromoramide. 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) 8H, may incr to 0.5mg/kg (adult 20mg) 8H oral or PR. Dextropropoxyphene. Hydrochlo- ride 1.3mg/kg (adult 65mg) or napsylate 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 6H oral. Dextrose. Infant sedation (NOT/kg): 1ml 50%D oral. Hypoglycaemia: 0.5ml/kg 50%D or 2.5ml/kg 10%D slow IV, then incr maintenance mg/kg/min. Hyperkalaemia: 0.1u/kg insulin + 2ml/kg 50%D IV. Neonates: 6g/kg/day (about 4mg/kg/min) day 1, incr to 12 g/ kg/day (up to 18g/kg/day with hypoglycaemia). Infsn rate (ml/hr) = (4.17 x Wt x g/kg/day) / %D = (6 x Wt x mg/kg/min) / %D. Dose (g/kg/day) = (ml/hr x %D) / (4.17 x Wt). Dose (mg/kg/min) = (ml/hr x %D) / (6 x Wt). mg/kg/min = g/ kg/day / 1.44. 0.5ml/kg/hr of 50% =6g/kg/day. Dextrothyroxine. Adult (NOT/kg): 1-2mg daily oral, incr monthly if reqd to max 4-8mg daily. Dezocine. IM: 0.1-0.4mg/kg (adult 5-20mg) 3-6H. IV: 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult 2.5-10mg) 2-4H. 3,4-Diaminopyridine. Adult (NOT/ kg): 10mg 6-8H oral, incr if reqd to max 20mg x5/day. Diamorphine. Adult (NOT/kg): 5-10mg 4H IV, IM, SC, oral. Diazepam. 0.1-0.4mg/kg (adult 10- 20mg) IV or PR. 0.04-0.2 mg/kg (adult 2-10mg) 8-12H oral. Do not give by IV infsn (binds to PVC); emulsion can be infused. Premed: 0.2-0.4mg/kg oral, PR. 2-3mg = 1mg midazolam. Diazoxide. Hypertension: 1-3mg/ kg (max 150mg) stat by rapid IV injection (severe hypotension may occur) repeat once if reqd, then 2-5mg/kg IV 6H. Hyperinsu- linism: 12mo 5mg/kg 8-12H oral; 12mo 30-100mg/m2 per dose 8H oral. DrugDoses
  • 634. 621 Dibotermin alfa. 8ml of 1.5mg/ml spread evenly on matrix. Dibromopropamidine. 0.15% cream on dressing prn. Dibucaine. See cinchocaine. Dichloralphenazone 100mg + isometheptene mucate 65mg + paracetamol 325mg (Midrin). Adult (NOT/kg): 2 capsules stat, then 1/hr if reqd (max 5cap in 12hr). Dichlorobenzene. See arachis oil + chlorbutol. Dichlorphenamide. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100-200mg) stat, then 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 12H until response, then 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8-24H oral. Diclofenac. 1mg/kg (adult 50mg) 8-12H oral, PR. Eye drops 0.1%: preop 1-5 drops over 3hr, postop 1 drop stat, then 1 drop 4-8H. Topical gel 1% (arthritis) 3% (keratoses): apply 2-4g 6-8H. Patch 1.3% (180mg) 10x14cm: apply 12H. Diclofenac + misoprostal. Adult, NOT/kg. 50mg/200mcg tab 8-12H oral; 75mg/200mcg tab 12H oral. Dicloxacillin. 15-25mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 6H oral, IM or IV. Se- vere inftn: 25-50mg/kg (max 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 4-6H or constant infsn (4 wk). Dicobalt edetate. 10mg/kg (adult 300mg) IV over 1-5min, repeat x2 if no response. Dicyclomine. 0.5mg/kg (adult 10- 20mg) 6-8H oral. Dicycloverine. See dicyclomine. Didanosine (ddI). 3mo: 50mg/m2 12H oral; 3-8mo: 100 mg/m2 (max 200mg) 12H; 9mo-12yr: 120mg/ m2 (90-150 mg/m2 ) 12H; 12yr: 250mg (60kg) 400mg (≥60kg) daily oral. Adult with tenofovir: 200mg (60kg) 250mg (≥60kg). CNS disease: 150mg/m2 12H. Dideoxycytidine (ddC). See zalcit- abine. Dienestrol. See dienoestrol. Dienoestrol. 0.01% vaginal cream: 1 applicatorful (5g) 12-24H for 1-2wk, reducing gradually to x1-3/wk. Dienogest (Di) + oestradiol valerate OV). Contraception, daily: day 1-2 OV 3mg; day 3-7 Di 2mg + OV 2mg; day 8-24 Di 3mg + OV 2mg; day 27-28 OV 1mg; (day 25-26) placebo. Diethylcarbamazine. 6mg/kg daily for 12 days oral, or a single dose of 6mg/kg repeated every 6-12 months. Diethylpropion. 6-12yr: 25mg (NOT/ kg) 12H oral. 12yr: 25mg (NOT/ kg) 6-8H oral. Diethylstilboestrol. See stilboestrol. Difenoxin. See atropine + diphe- noxylate. Diflorasone. 0.05% cream, oint- ment: apply 6-24H. Diflunisal. 5-10mg/kg (adult 250- 500mg) 12H oral. Digitoxin. 4mcg/kg (max 0.2mg) 12H oral for 4 days, then 1-6mcg/ kg (adult usually 0.15mg, max 0.3mg) daily. Digoxin. 15mcg/kg stat and 5mcg/kg after 6H, then 3-5 mcg/kg (usual max 200mcg IV, 250mcg oral) 12H slow IV or oral. Level 6hr or more after dose: 1.0-2.5 nmol/L (x0.78=ng/ml). Digoxin immmune FAB (antibodies). IV over 30min. Dose (to nearest 40mg) = serum digoxin (nmol/L) x Wt (kg) x 0.3, or mg ingested x 55. Give if 0.3mg/kg ingested, or level 6.4 nmol/L or 5.0ng/ml. Dihydrazaline. IV infusion: 0.1mg/ kg/hr titrated to effect (max 3.5 mg/kg/day). Oral: 0.25-1mg/kg 12H. Dihydroartemisinin 40mg + pipe- raquine 320mg. Oral daily for 3 days: dihydroartemisinin 2.5mg/ kg (adult 1.6mg/kg) + piperaquine 20mg/kg (adult 12.8mg/kg). Dihydrocodeine. 0.5-1mg/kg 4-6H oral. DrugDoses
  • 635. 622 Dihydroergotamine mesylate. Adult (NOT/kg): 1mg IM, SC or IV, repeat hrly x2 if needed. Max 6mg/wk. Dihydromorphinone. See hydromor- phone. Dihydrotachysterol (1-OH vitamin D2). Renal failure, vit D resistant rickets: 20mcg/kg daily oral, incr by 20mcg/kg every 4-8wk accord- ing to serum calcium. Dihydrotestosterone. See stanolone. Dihydroxyacetone. 5% soltn: apply 1-3 coats 1hr apart, every 1-3 days. Diiodohydroxyquin. See di-iodohy- droxyquinoline. Di-iodohydroxyquinoline. 10- 13.3mg/kg (adult 650mg) 8H oral for 20 days. Diloxanide furoate. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) 8H oral. Diltiazem. 1mg/kg (adult 60mg) 8H, incr if reqd to max 3mg/kg (adult 180mg) 8H oral. Slow release (adult, NOT/kg): 120-240mg daily, or 90-180mg 8-12H oral. Dimenhydrinate. 1-1.5mg/kg (adult 50-75mg) 4-6H oral, IM or IV. Dimercaprol (BAL). 3mg/kg (max 150mg) IM 4H for 2 days, then 6H for 1 day, then 12H for 10 days. Dimeticone. Infant colic (NOT/kg): 42mg/5ml, 2.5ml with feeds (max x6/day). 10%, 15% barrier cream: apply prn. Dimethindene. 0.02-0.04mg/kg (adult 1-2mg) 8H oral. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). 50% soltn: 50ml in bladder for 15 min every 2wk. Dinoprost (Prostaglandin F2 alpha). Extra-amniotic: 1ml of 250mcg/ ml stat, then 3ml 2H. Intra-amniot- ic: 40mg stat, then 10-40mg after 24hr if required. Dinoprostone (Prostaglandin E2). Labour induction: 1mg into posterior vagina, may repeat dose 1-2mg after 6hr (max 60mcg/kg over 6hr). Maintain PDA: 25mcg/ kg 1H (less often after 1wk) oral; or 0.003-0.01mcg/kg/min IV. Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate. See docusate sodium. Diphemanil methylsulphate. 20mg/g powder: apply 8-12H. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) 6-8H oral. Diphenoxylate. See atropine + diphenoxylate (Lomotil). Diphtheria antitoxin (horse). IM or IV (NOT/kg): 2500u (nasal), 10,000u (unilateral tonsillar), 20,000u (bilateral tonsillar), 30,000u (laryngeal), 50,000u (beyond tonsillar fossa), 150,000u (bullneck). Repeat dose may be needed. See also immunoglobu- lin, diphtheria. Diphtheria vaccine, adult (CSL). In- animate. 0.5ml IM stat, 6wk later, and 6mo later (3 doses). Boost every 10yr. Diphtheria vaccine, child 8yr (CSL). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM stat, in 6wk, then 6mo (3 doses). Boost with adult vaccine. Diphtheria + hepatitis B + pertus- sis (acellular) + polio + tetanus [DaPT-HepB-IPV] (Pediarix). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo (3 doses), and (DaPT) 18mo. Diphtheria + hepatitis B + pertussis (acellular) + tetanus vaccine [DaPT-hepB] (Infanrix Hep B). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo (3 doses), and (without hep B) 18mo. Diphtheria + hepatitis B + Hib + pertussis (acellular) + tetanus vaccine [DaPT-hepB-Hib] (Infan- rix Hexa). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo (3 doses). DrugDoses
  • 636. 623 Diphtheria + Hib + pertussis (acellu- lar) + polio + tetanus [DaPT-Hib- IPV] (Infanrix Penta, Pediacel). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo (3 doses), and (DaPT) 18mo. Diphtheria + pertussis (whole cell) + tetanus vaccine [DPT] (Triple Antigen). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo, 18mo and 4-5yr of age (5 doses). Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) + tetanus vaccine [DaPT] (Tripacel). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo, 18mo and 4-5yr of age (5 doses). Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) + tetanus vaccine, adult [daPt] (Adacel, Boostrix). Inanimate. ≥10yr: 0.5ml IM. Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) + polio + tetanus vaccine [DaPT- IPV] (Quadracel). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM at 2, 4 and 6mo (3 doses). Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) + polio + tetanus vaccine [DaPT- IPV] (Infanrix-IPV). Inanimate. 16mo-13yr: 0.5ml IM once as booster. Diphtheria + pertussis (acellular) + polio + tetanus vaccine [daPT- IPV] (Repevax). Inanimate. 3yr: 0.5ml IM once as booster. Diphtheria + pertussis (acellu- lar) + polio + tetanus vaccine, adult [daPt-IPV] (Adacel Polio, Boostrix-IPV). Inanimate. ≥10yr: 0.5ml IM once as booster. Diphtheria + polio + tetanus vaccine [dT-IPV] (Revaxis). Inanimate. 6yr: 0.5ml IM once as booster. Diphtheria + tetanus vaccine, adult [dt] (ADT Booster). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM for revaccination after primary course. Diphtheria + tetanus vaccine, child 8yr [DT] (CDT). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM, in 6wk, 6mo later (3 dose). Boost with ADT. Dipipanone. See cyclizine. Dipivefrin. 0.1% soltn: 1 drop per eye 12H. Diprophylline. Usually 15mg/kg 6H oral or IM. Dipyridamole. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50- 100mg) 6-8H oral. See also aspirin + dipyridamole. Dirithromycin. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) daily oral. Disodium clodronate. See sodium clodronate. Disodium edetate. See trisodium edetate. Disodium etidronate. See etidon- rate. Disodium levofolinate. Half the dose of calcium folinate. Disodium pamidronate. See pa- midronate. Disodium tiludronate. See til- udronate. Disopyramide. Oral: 1.5-4mg/kg (adult 75-200mg) 6H. IV: 2mg/ kg (max 150mg) over 5min, then 0.4mg/kg/hr (max 800mg/day). Level 9-15umol/L (x0.3395 = mcg/ml). Distigmine. Neurogenic bladder, megacolon: 0.01mg/kg (adult 0.5mg) IM daily, 0.1mg/kg (adult 5mg) oral daily. Myasth gravis: 0.1-0.2mg/kg 12-24H (max 20mg/ day) oral. Disulfiram. Adult (NOT/kg): 500mg oral daily for 1-2wk, then 125- 500mg daily. Dithranol. 0.1%-2% cream, oint- ment: start with lowest strength, apply daily, wash off after 10min incr to 30min. Divalproex. see Sodium valproate. Dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate. See vitamin E. DMSA. See succimer. Dobutamine. 30kg: 15mg/kg in 50ml 0.9% saline with heparin 1u/ml at 1-4ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/ min) via CVC or periph IV; 30kg: 6mg/kg made up to 100ml with 0.9% saline with heparin 1u/ml at 5-20ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/min). DrugDoses
  • 637. 624 Docetaxel. Initially 75-100mg/m2 over 1hr IV every 3wk. Docosanol. 10% cream: apply 5 times a day. Docusate sodium. NOT/kg: 100mg (3-10yr), 120-240mg (10yr) daily oral. Enema (5ml 18% + 155ml water): 30ml (newborn), 60ml (1- 12mo), 60-120ml (12mo) PR. Docusate sodium 50mg + sennoside 8mg, tab. 12yr: 1-4 tab at night oral. See also bisacodyl; casan- thranol; dantron. Dofetilide. 10mcg/kg (adult 500mcg) 12H oral, less if renal impairment or increased QTc interval. Dolasetron. Cancer: 1.8mg/kg (adult 100mg) IV 30min before chemo, or 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) oral 1hr before chemo. Surgery: 1mg/kg (adult 50mg) oral at induction, or 0.25mg/kg (adult 12.5mg) IV postop. Domperidone. Oral: 0.2-0.4mg/ kg (adult 10-20mg) 4-8H. Rectal suppos: adult (NOT/kg) 30-60mg 4-8H. Donepezil. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg at night oral, incr to 10mg after 1mo if reqd. Dopamine. 30kg: 15mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 1-4ml/hr (5-20mcg/ kg/min) via CVC; 30kg: 6mg/kg made up to 100ml in 5%dex-hep at 5-20ml/hr (5-20mcg/kg/min). Dopexamine. IV infsn 0.5-6mcg/ kg/min. Doripenem. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) 8H IV. Dornase alpha (deoxyribonuclease I). NOT/kg: usually 2.5mg (max 10mg) inhaled daily (5-21yr), 12- 24H (21yr). Dorzolamide. 2% drops: 1 drop/eye 8-12H. Dorzolamide 2% + timolol 0.5%. 1 drop/eye 12H. Dosulepin hydrochloride. See dothiepin. Dothiepin. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25- 50mg) 8-12H oral. Doxacurium. 50-80mcg/kg stat, then 5-10mcg/kg/dose IV. Doxapram. 5mg/kg IV over 1hr, then 0.5-1mg/kg/hr for 1hr (max total dose 400mg). Doxazosin. Usually 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult 1-4mg) daily oral. Doxepin. 0.2-2mg/kg (adult 10- 100mg) 8H oral. 5% cream: apply x3-4/day. Doxercalciferol (1,25-OH D2 ana- logue). Initially 0.2mcg/kg (adult 10mcg) oral, or 0.08mcg/kg (adult 4mcg) IV, x3/wk at end of dialysis. Aim for blood iPTH 150-300pg/ml. Doxorubicin. 30mg/m2 IV over 15min wkly, or 30mg/m2 daily for 2-3days every 3-4wk. Max total dose 480mg/m2 (300mg/m2 if mediastinal irradiation). Doxorubicin, liposomal. Carcinoma: 50mg/m2 IV every 3wk. Kaposi: 20mg/m2 IV every 2wk. Doxycycline. Over 8yr: 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 12H for 2 doses, then daily oral. Severe: 2mg/ kg 12H. Malaria proph: 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) daily oral. Doxycycline 30mg + 10mg slow re- lease (Oracea). Rosacea in adults (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Doxylamine succinate. 0.25-0.5mg/ kg (adult 12.5-25mg) 8H oral. Hypnotic: 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-50mg). D-penicillamine. See penicillamine. Dronabinol. Initially 5mg/m2 2-4H (max 4-6 doses per day) oral, slow incr by 2.5mg/m2 /dose to max 15mg/m2 4H. Dronedarone. 8mg/kg (adult 400mg) 12H oral. Droperidol. Antiemetic: postop 0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 1.25mg) 4-6H IM or slow IV, chemother 0.02-0.1 (adult 1-5mg) 1-6H. Psychiatry, neuroleptanalg, IM or slow IV: 0.1 mg/kg (adult 2.5mg) stat, incr to max 0.3mg/kg (adult 15 mg) 4-6H. Psychiatry, oral: 0.1- 0.4mg/kg (adult 5-20mg) 4-8H. DrugDoses
  • 638. 625 Drospirenone + ethinyloestradiol (3mg/30mcg) x 21 tab + 7 inert tab. Contraceptn: 1 daily starting 1st day menstruation. Drospirenone + ethinyloestradiol (3mg/20mcg, 3mg/ 30mcg) x 24 tab, + 4 inert tab. Contracep- tion: 1 daily starting 1st day of menstruation. Drotrecogin alfa (protein C), acti- vated. 24mcg/kg/hr for 96hr IV. Minor surgery: stop 2hr before, restart straight after. Major surgery: stop 2hr before, restart 12hr after. Duloxetine. Adult, NOT/kg: 20-30mg 12H, or 60mg daily oral. Dutasteride. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5mg daily oral. Dutasteride 0.5mg + tamsulosin 0.4mg. Adult (NOT/kg): 1 cap daily oral. Dyclonine hydrochloride. See dyclo- caine hydrochloride. Dydrogesterone. 0.2mg/kg (adult 10mg) 12-24H oral. Dyphylline. See diprophylline. Ecallantide. 0.6 mg/kg (adult 30mg/ kg) SC, repeat if reqd. Econazole nitrate. Topical: 1% cream, powder or lotion 8-12H. Vaginal: 75mg cream or 150mg ovule twice daily. Ecothiopate iodide. 0.03%, 0.06%, 0.125%, 0.25% soltn: usually 0.125% 1 drop/eye every 1-2 days at bedtime. Eculizumab. 600mg IV over 35min wkly for 4wk, 900mg the next wk, then 900mg every 2wk. Edrophonium. Test dose 20mcg/ kg (adult 2mg), then 1min later 80mcg/kg (adult 8mg) IV. SVT: 0.15mg/kg (max 2mg) incr to max 0.75mg/kg (max 10mg) IV, with atropine if reqd. EDTA. See sodium calciumedetate. Efalizumab. 0.7mg/kg stat, then 1mg/kg wkly SC. Efavirenz (EFV). Daily oral 10-14kg 200mg, 15-19mg 250mg, 20-24 kg 300mg, 25-32kg 350mg, 33-39kg 400mg, ≥40kg 600mg (minimum trough 1000 ng/ml). Efavirenz 600mg + emtricitabine 200mg + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300mg (Atripla). ≥40kg: 1 tab daily. Efavirenz + fosamprenavir + rito- navir. 18yr: EFV 600mg daily + FPV 700mg 12H + RTV 100mg 12H oral. If Rx naïve, can use EFV 600mg + FPV 1400mg + RTV 300mg daily. Eflornithine. 13.9% cream: apply 12H. Eformoterol. Caps 12mg (NOT/kg): 1cap (5-12yr) or 1-2 caps (adult) inhaled 12H. Electrolyte solution. See glucose electrolyte solution. Eletriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 20- 40mg, repeat after 2hr if reqd (max 80mg/day). Eltrombopag. Adult (NOT/kg): 25- 75mg daily oral. EMLA cream. See lignocaine + prilocaine. Emedastine. 0.5mg/ml soltn: 1 drop/eye 12H. Emtricitabine (FTC). 0-3mo: soltn 3mg/kg daily oral; 3mo: soltn 6mg/kg (adult 240mg) cap (33kg) 200mg daily oral. Emtricitabine 200mg + tenofovir 300mg (Truvada). ≥18yr: 1tab daily oral. See also efavirenz. Enalapril. 0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5mg) daily oral, incr over 2wk if reqd to max 0.5mg/kg (adult 5-20mg) 12H. Enalaprilat. Usually 0.025mg/kg (max 1.25mg) 6H IV, max 0.1mg/ kg (max 5mg) 6H. Enflurane. 2-4.5% induction, then 0.5-3% by inhalation. Enfuvirtide (ENF). ≥6yr: 2mg/kg (max 90mg) 12H SC. Enoxacin. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) 12H oral. DrugDoses
  • 639. 626 Enoxaparin (1mg=100u). 1.5mg/ kg (2mo), 1mg/kg (2mo-18yr), 40mg (adult) 12H SC (anti-Xa 0.5- 1u/ml 4hr post dose). Prophy- laxis: 0.75mg/kg 12H (2mo), 0.5 mg/kg 12H (2mo-18yr), 20-40mg 2-12hr preop, then daily (adult) SC. Haemodialysis: 1mg/kg into arterial line at start 4hr session. Enoximone. IV: 5-20mcg/kg/min. Oral: 1-3mg/kg (adult 50-150mg) 8H. Entacapone. Adult (NOT/kg): 200mg with each l-dopa/DDC inhibitor dose (av 800-1400mg/day, max 2000mg) oral. Entecavir. Hepatitis B (adult, NOT/ kg): 0.5mg daily oral; 1mg daily if refractory to lamivudine. Entravirine. See etravirine. Enzymes, pancreatic. See pancreatic enzymes. Ephedrine. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 12.5- 60mg) 4-8H oral, IM, SC, IV. Nasal (0.25%-1%): 1drop each nostril 6-8H, max 4 days. Epinastine. 0.05% ophthalmic: 1 drop/eye 12H. Epinephrine. See adrenaline. Epirubicin. Adult: 75-90mg/m2 IV over 10min every 3wk. Eplerenone. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25- 50mg) 12-24H oral. Epoetin alfa, beta, delta, theta, zeta. 20-50u/kg x3/wk, incr to 75-300u/kg/wk divided into 1-3 doses/wk SC, IV. If Hb 10g%: 20- 100u/kg x2-3/wk. Epoprostenol (prostacyclin, PGI2). Dilute in pharmacy, new syringe every 8hr. 8kg: 12mcg/kg in 10ml diluent at 0.25-0.75ml/hr (5-15ng/kg/min); 8kg: 500 mcg in 50ml diluent at 0.03-0.09ml/ kg/hr (5-15ng/kg/ min). ECMO: 5ng/kg/min IV.Chronic pul ht: 2ng/kg/min IV, incr to 20-40ng/ kg/min. Eprosartan. 12mg/kg (adult 600mg) daily, incr if reqd to 6-8mg/kg (adult 300-400mg) 12H oral. Epsilon aminocaproic acid. See aminocaproic acid. Eptacog alfa (recombinant factor 7a). See factor 7a. Eptifibatide. Adult (NOT/kg): 180mcg/kg stat IV, then 2 mcg/ kg/min for up to 72hr. Erdosteine. Adult (NOT/kg): 300mg 12H oral. Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2). 40u = 1mcg = 1mcg cholecal¬ciferol (D3). Cystic fib, cholestasis: 10-20mcg daily oral. Cirrhosis: adult 40-120mcg daily oral. Deficiency: 50-100mcg daily for 2wk oral, then 10-625mcg daily (more if severe malabs); or 2.5- 5mg (100,000-200,000u) every 6-8wk. Monitor serum calcium; measure alk phos and parathyroid hormone after 6-8wk. See also doxercalciferol. Ergoloid mesylates. See co-dergo- crine mesylate. Ergometrine maleate. Adult (NOT/ kg): 250-500mcg IM or IV; 500mcg 8H oral, sublingual or PR. Ergometrine maleate 0.5mg + oxytocin 5u in 1ml. 1ml IM; may repeat after 2hr, max 3 doses in 24hr. Ergonovine maleate. See ergo- metrine maleate. Ergotamine tartrate. 10yr (NOT/ kg): 2mg sublingual stat, then 1mg/hr (max 6mg/episode, 10mg/wk). Suppos (1-2mg): 1 stat, may repeat once after 1hr. See also caffeine + ergot. Erlotinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 150 mg daily oral; reduce to 100mg then 50mg daily if reqd. Ertapenem. 20-40mg/kg (adult 1g) daily IM, IV over 30min. Erythromycin. Oral or slow IV (max 5mg/kg/hr): usually 10 mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 6H; severe inftn 15-25mg/kg (adult 0.75-1g) 6H. Gut prokinetic: 2mg/kg 8H. 2% gel: apply 12H. DrugDoses
  • 640. 627 Erythropoietin. See epoetin. Escitalopram. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg daily oral, incr if reqd to max 20mg daily. Esketamine. See ketamine. Eslicarbazepine. 8mg/kg (adult 400mg) daily oral, incr to 15 mg/ kg (adult 800mg) after 2wk; max 30mg/kg (adult 1800 mg) daily. Esmolol. 0.5mg/kg (500mcg/kg) IV over 1min, repeated if reqd. Infsn (undiluted 10mg/ml soltn): 0.15-1.8ml/kg/hr (25-300mcg/kg/ min); rarely given for 48hr. Esomeprazole. 0.4-0.8mg/kg (adult 20-40mg) daily oral. H.pylori, see omeprazole. Esomeprazole + naproxen (375/20, 500mg/20mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab 12H before meal oral. Estazolam. 0.02-0.1mg/kg (adult 1-4mg) at night oral. Estradiol. See oestradiol. Estramustine. 200mg/m2 8H oral (avoid milk). Estriol. See oestriol, and oestradiol + oestriol. Estrogens. See oestrogens. Estrone. See oestrone. Estropipate. 1mg = 0.83mg pipera- zine oestrone sulphate. Not/kg: induction puberty 0.19mg daily oral, incr over 2-3yr to 1.5mg (add progestogen for 12 days per cycle); vasomotor symptoms or vaginal atrophy 0.75-6mg daily; hypogonadism 1.5-9mg daily for 21 days of 31-day cycle; osteopo- rosis 0.75mg daily for 25 days of 31-day cycle. Eszopiclone. Adult (NOT/kg): 2mg (1-3mg) at night oral. Etamsylate. 12.5mg/kg (adult 500mg) 6H oral. Etanercept. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mg weekly SC. Ethacrynic acid. IV: 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) 12-24H. Oral: 1-4mg/kg (adult 50-200mg) 12-24H. Ethambutol hydrochloride. 25mg/ kg once daily for 8wk, then 15mg/ kg daily oral. Intermittent: 35mg/ kg x3/wk. IV: 80% oral dose. Ethamsylate. 12.5mg/kg (max 500mg) 6H oral,IM,IV. Ethanol. 10% ethanol 8ml/kg IV over 1hr, then 0.8ml/kg/hr (child) 1.4ml/kg/hr (adult) 2ml/ kg/hr (drinker) so blood ethanol 1-1.5mg/ml (22-33mmol/L) until ethylene glycol 0.2g/L (3.2mmol/L) or methanol 0.2g/L (6.2mmol/L). Ethanol, dehydrated (100%). Vessel sclerosis: inject max of 1ml/kg. Ethanolamine oleate. 5% soltn, adult (NOT/kg): 1.5-5ml per varix (max 20ml per treatment). Ethchlorvynol. 10-20mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) at night oral. Ethinyloestradiol. 10-50mcg daily for 21 days per month. See also cyproterone; desogestrel. Ethinyloestradiol + ethyno- diol diacetate (50mcg/0.5mg or 50mcg/1mg) x 21 tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + gestodene (30mcg/75mcg, 20/75) x 21 tab + 7 inert tab. 1 daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + gestodene (30mcg/50mcg x 6 tab + 40/70 x5 + 30/100 x10 + inert x7). 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel (100mcg/0.5mg). Post-coital: first dose within 72hr, rpt after 12hr. Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel (20mcg/90mcg). Contraception: 1 tab daily (with no hormone-free interval). Ethinyloestradiol + levonorg- estrel (30mcg/150mcg or 50mcg/125mcg) x 21 tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of men- struation. DrugDoses
  • 641. 628 Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel (30mcg/50mcg x6tab + 40/75 x5 + 30/125 x10 + inert x7). 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + levonorgestrel (30mcg/150mcg) x 84 tab, then either 7 inert tab or 7 tab ethinyloestradol 10 mcg. Contra- ception: 1 daily, starting 1st day menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + norelgestromin (20mcg/150mcg, 0.75mg/6mg) patches. Contraception: apply 1 patch wkly x3, wk 4 patch-free. Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone (35mcg/0.25mg, 30/0.5, 35/0.5, 35/0.75, 20/1, 35/1, 30/1.5) x 21 tab, + 7 inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone (20mcg/1mg) x 24 tab, + 4 inert tab. Contraception: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone (35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/1 x14 + inert x7). Contraception: 1 daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone (35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/1 x9 + 35/0.5 x5 + inert x7). Contracep- tion: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethinyloestradiol + norethisterone (35mcg/0.5mg x7tab + 35/0.75 x7 + 35/1 x7+ inert x7). Contracep- tion: 1 tab daily, starting 1st day of menstruation. Ethionamide. TB: 15-20mg/kg (max 1g) at night oral. Lep¬rosy: 5-8mg/kg (max 375mg) daily. Ethoheptazine. 3mg/kg (adult 150mg) 6-8H oral. Ethosuximide. 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) daily oral, incr by 50% each wk to max 40mg/ kg (adult 2g) daily. Trough level 0.3-0.7mmol/L. Ethotoin. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) 6H oral, incr to max 15mg/kg (adult 750mg) 6H. Ethyl chloride. Spray on affected area from a distance of 10-20cm for 3-7sec (bottle) or 4-10sec (aerosol can). Ethynodiol. See ethinyloestradiol + ethynodiol diacetate. Etidocaine. 0.5%-1.5% soltn: max 6mg/kg (0.6ml/kg of 1%) paren- teral, or 8mg/kg (0.8ml/kg of 1%) with adrenaline. Etidronate. 5-20mg/kg daily oral (no food for 2hr before and after dose) for max 6mo. IV: 7.5mg/kg daily for 3-7 days. Etidonate and calcium citrate. Etidronate 400mg tab daily 14 days, then calcium citrate 500mg daily for 76 days oral. Etodolac. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) 6-8H oral. Etomidate. 0.3mg/kg slow IV. Etonogestrel. 68mg sub-dermal implant lasts 3yr. Etoposide. 50-60mg/m2 IV over 1hr daily for 5 days, repeat after 2-4wk. Oral dose 2-3 times IV dose. Etoricoxib. Adult (NOT/kg). 60-90mg daily oral. Gout: 120 mg daily, max 8 days. Etravirine (ETR). 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) 12H oral after meal. Etretinate. 0.25mg/kg 8-12H oral for 2-4wk, then 6H (max 75mg daily) if reqd for 6-8wk, then 12-24H. Etynodiol diacetate. Contraception: 500mcg daily oral, starting 1st day of menstruation. Everolimus. Adult (NOT/kg):10mg (5mg if toxicity) daily oral. Exemestane. Adult (NOT/kg): 25mg daily oral. Exenatide. Adult, NOT/kg: 5mcg SC before morning and evening meals, incr if reqd to 10mcg/dose after 1mo. Ezetimibe. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg daily oral. DrugDoses
  • 642. 629 Ezetimibe + simvastatin (10/20, 10/40, 10mg/80mg). Adult (NOT/ kg): 10/20mg tab daily oral, incr strength 4wkly if reqd. Factor 2. See factor 9 complex. Factor 7a, recombinant (rFVIIa). Usually 90mcg/kg IV 2H until haemostasis, then 3-6H. See also factor 9 complex. Factor 8 concentrate (vial 200- 250u), recombinant antihaemo- philic factor (rAHF). Joint 20u/kg, psoas 30u/kg, cerebral 50u/kg. 2 x dose(u/kg) = % normal activity, eg 35u/kg gives peak level of 70% normal. See also Von Willebrand factor / Factor VII concentrate. Factor 8 inhibitor bypassing frac- tion. IV max 2u/kg/min: joint 50u/kg 12H, mucous membranes 50u/kg 6H, soft tissue 100u/kg 12H, cerebral 100u/kg 6-12H. Factor 9. IV infsn (max 2u/kg/min): minor hemorrhage 25u/kg daily, joint 40u/kg 12-24H, surgery 50u/kg stat then 30u/kg 12-24H, major surgery 85u/kg stat then 50u/kg 12-24H. Proph: 25-40u/kg x2/wk (trough 1u/dl). See also factor 9 complex. Factor 9 complex (Beriplex, Ocat- plex). Factors 2, 7, 9, 10, protein C, protein S: approx 25u/ml. 1ml/ kg (INR 2-3.9) 1.4ml/kg (INR 4-6) 2 ml/kg (INR 6) + phytomenadi- one (if reversing warfarin). Factor 9 complex (Prothrombinex- VF). Factors 2, 9, 10 500u per 20ml vial, antithrombin III 25u/ vial, low levels factor 5 and 7. 1ml/kg slow IV daily. Risk of thrombosis in acute liver failure. Reverse warfarin: 1-2ml/kg + phytomenadione (Vit K1) + FFP 5ml/kg. Factor 10. See factor 9 complex. Factor 13. Vial 250u. Prophylaxis: 10u/kg IV every 4wk. Pre-op: up to 3u/kg just before surgery, then 10u/kg daily x5. Severe hemor- rhage: 10-20u/kg daily. Famciclovir. Severe infection: 320mg/m2 (adult 500mg) 8H oral. Zoster, varicella: 160mg/m2 (adult 250mg) 8H oral for 7 days; immunocompromised 320mg/ m2 (adult 500mg) 8H for 10 days. Genital herpes (adult, NOT/kg): 125mg 12H oral for 5 days (treat), 250mg (suppress) 12H; im- munocompromised 500mg 12H for 7 days (treat), 500mg daily (suppress). Famotidine. 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 20-40mg) 12-24H oral. 0.5mg/kg (max 20mg) 12H slow IV. Fat emulsion 20%. See lipid emul- sion. Febuxostat. Adult (NOT/kg): 80mg (max 120mg) daily oral. Felbamate. 5mg/kg 6-8H (max 1200mg/day) oral, incr over 2-3wk to 15mg/kg 6-8H (max 3600mg/day). Felbinac. 3% gel, foam: apply x2-4/ day. Felodipine. 0.1mg/kg (adult 2.5mg) daily, incr if reqd to 0.5 mg/kg (adult 10mg) daily oral. Fenbufen. 10mg/kg (adult 450mg) 12H oral. Fenofibrate, fenofibric acid. Adult (NOT/kg): 135-200mg daily oral (better absorption with micron- ised caps). Fenoglide. Adult (NOT/kg): 40- 120mg daily oral. Fenoldopam. 0.1mcg/kg/min IV infsn incr gradually if reqd every 15-30min to max 1.6mcg/kg/min. Fenoprofen. 4mg/kg (adult 200mg) 6-8H oral, may incr gradually to 12mg/kg/dose (max 800mg). Fenoterol. Oral: 0.1mg/kg 6H. Resp soltn 1mg/ml: 0.5ml diluted to 2ml 3-6H (mild), 1ml diluted to 2ml 1-2H (moderate), undiluted continuous (severe, in ICU). Aero- sol (200mcg/puff): 1-2 puffs 4-8H. DrugDoses
  • 643. 630 Fentanyl. Not ventilated: 1-2 mcg/kg (adult 50-100mcg) IM or IV; infsn 2-4mcg/kg/hr (10kg 100mcg/ kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 1-2ml/ hr; 10kg amp 50mcg/ml at 0.04-0.08ml/kg/hr). Ventilated: 5-10mcg/kg stat or 50mcg/kg IV over 1hr; infuse amp 50mcg/ml at 0.1-0.2ml/kg/hr (5-10 mcg/ kg/hr). Patch (lasts 72hr) in adult (NOT/kg): 25 mcg/hr, incr if reqd by 25 mcg/hr every 3 days. Transmucosal tabs (adult, NOT/ kg): 100mcg between cheek and upper gum until disolved (15-30 min) 4-8H, incr if reqd to max 800mg 4H. Buccal film: 200 mcg incr to max 1200mcg x4/day. Nasal spray (adult, NOT/kg): 50, 100 or 200mcg doses titrated to response. Epidural: 0.5 mcg/kg stat, or 0.4mcg/kg/hr. Fenticonazole vaginal pessaries. 600mg nocte once, or 200mg nocte for 3 nights. Ferric carboxymaltose. Total Fe dose (mg): 35kg = wt(kg) x (13 – actual Hb in g/dl) + 13mg/kg; ≥35kg = wt(kg) x (15 – actual Hb in g/dl) + 500mg. IV bolus: max 200mg Fe x3/wk. IV over 15min: max 1000mg wkly. Ferrous salts. Prophylaxis 2mg/kg/ day elemental iron oral, treat- ment 6mg/kg/day elemental iron oral. Fumarate 1mg = 0.33mg iron. Gluconate 1mg = 0.12mg iron; so Fergon (60 mg/ ml gluconate) prophylaxis 0.3ml/ kg daily, treatment 1ml/kg daily oral. Sulphate (dry) 1mg = 0.3mg iron; so Ferro-Gradumet (350mg dry sulphate) prophylaxis 7mg/ kg (adult 350mg) daily, treatment 20mg/kg (adult 1050mg) daily oral. Ferumoxides. Fe 11.2mg/ml. 0.05ml/kg (Fe 0.56mg/kg) in 2ml/ kg (adult 100ml) 5% dextrose IV over 30min. Ferumoxytol. 510mg in 17ml, total dose (ml) = 0.08 x Wt in kg x (15 – Hb in g/dl) IV over 1min; adult 510mg IV stat and in 3-8 days. Fesoterodine. Adult (NOT/kg): 4-8mg daily oral. Fexofenadine. NOT/kg: 30mg 12H (6-11yr), 60mg 12H or 180mg daily (11yr) oral. Fibrin glue. See thrombin glue. Fibrinogen concentrate. 70mg/kg IV; or mg/kg = (1 – measured level g/L) / 0.17 = (100 – measured mg/dL) / 1.7. Fibrinolysin 8-10u/ml + desoxyribo- nuclease 500-667 u/ml. Ointment or soltn: apply topically 6-24H. Filgrastim (granulocyte CSF). Idi- opathic or cyclic neutro¬paenia: 5mcg/kg daily SC or IV over 30min. Cong neutro¬paenia: 12mcg/kg daily SC or IV over 1hr. Marrow transplant: 20-30mcg/ kg daily IV over 4-24hr, reduce if neutrophil 1x109 /L. Finasteride. Adult (NOT/kg). Pros- tatic hyperplasia: 5mg daily oral. Alopecia: 1mg daily oral. Flavocoxid. Adult (NOT/kg): 250- 500mg 12H oral. Flavoxate. 2-4mg/kg (adult 100- 200mg) 6-8H, or single dose at bedtime oral. Flecainide. 2-3mg/kg (max 100mg) 12H oral, may incr over 2wk to 7mg/kg (max 200mg) 8-12H. IV over 30min: 0.5-2mg/kg (max 150mg) 12H. Floxuridine (FUDR). 100-300mcg/ kg/day by constant intra-arterial infsn (400-600mcg/kg/day in he- patic artery). Stop if WCC 3500/ mm3 or platelets 100,000/mm3 . Flucloxacillin. Oral: 12.5-25mg/kg (adult 250-500mg) 6H. IM or IV: 25mg/kg (adult 1g) 6H. Severe inftn: 50mg/kg (adult 2g) IV 12H (1st wk life), 8H (2-4 wk), 6H or constant infsn (4 wk). See also ampicillin + flucloxacillin. DrugDoses
  • 644. 631 Fluconazole. 12mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) daily IV, higher doses if very severe infection; if haemo- filtered 12mg/kg (adult 600mg) 12H; neonate 12mg/kg 72H (14 days) 48H (15-28 days). Superfi- cial inftn: 6mg/kg (adult 200mg) stat, then 3mg/kg (adult 100mg) daily oral or IV. Flucytosine (5-fluorocytosine). 400- 1200mg/m2 (max 2g) 6H IV over 30 min, or oral. Peak level 50- 100mcg/ml, trough 25-50mcg/ml (x7.75=umol/L). Fludarabine. 25mg/m2 daily x5 IV over 30min, every 28 days. Fludrocortisone acetate. 150mcg/ m2 daily oral. Fludrocortisone 1mg = hydrocortisone 125mg in mineralocorticoid activity, 10mg in glucocorticoid. Flumetasone. See clioquinol + flumetasone. Flumazenil. 5mcg/kg every 60sec to max total 40mcg/kg (adult 2mg), then 2-10mcg/kg/hr IV. Flunarizine. Adult (NOT/kg): 10mg daily oral, reducing to 5 days/wk with two successive days off. Flunisolide. Asthma (250mcg/puff): 1-2 puffs 12H. Nasal (25mcg/ puff): 1-2 puffs/nostril 8-24H. Flunitrazepam. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.5- 2mg at night, oral. Fluocinolone. See fluocinonide. Fluocinonide. 0.025%, 0.05% cream or oint: apply 6-12H. Fluocortolone. 0.25% cream, oint- ment: apply 8-12H. Fluorescein. 1%, 2% drops: 1 drop/ eye. 10% (100 mg/ml), 25% (250mg/ml): 8mg/kg (max 500mg) IV. Fluorescein 0.25% + oxybuprocaine 0.4%. 1 drop/eye. Fluoride. 0.25mg (3yr) 0.5mg (3-6yr) 1mg (6yr) daily oral. See also sodium fluoride. 5-Fluorocytosine. See 5-flucytosine. 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone. See fludrocortisone. Fluorometholone. 0.1% soltn: 1 drop/eye 6-12H. Fluorouracil. 15mg/kg (max 1g) IV over 4hr daily until side effects, then 5-10mg/kg wkly. See also adrenaline + fluorouracil; and folinic acid. Fluothane. Induction 0.5-4%, then 0.5-1.5% inhalation. Fluoxetine. 0.5mg/kg (max 20mg) daily, incr to max 1mg/kg (max 40mg) 12H oral. Weekly 90mg cap: 1 per wk. Fluoxetine + olanzapine (25mg/6mg, 25mg/12mg, 50mg/6mg, 50mg/12mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1cap daily oral. Fluoxymesterone. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult 5-10mg) daily oral. Flupenthixol. Oral: 0.05-0.2mg/kg (adult 3-9mg) 12H. Depot IM: usually 0.4-0.8mg/kg (up to 5mg/ kg, max 300 mg) every 2-4wk (1mg flupenthixol deconate = 0.625mg fluphenazine decanoate = 1.25mg haloperidol). Flupentixol. See flupenthixol. Fluphenazine. 0.02-0.2mg/kg (adult 1-10mg) 8-12H oral. Flurandrenolide. See flurandre- nolone. Flurandrenolone. 0.025%, 0.05% cream, ointment or lotion: apply 6-24H. 4mcg/m2 tape: apply 12H. Flurazepam. Adult (NOT/kg): 15- 30mg at night, oral. Flurbiprofen. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50-100mg) 8H oral or PR. 0.03% drops: 1 drop/eye every 30min x4 doses. Flutamide. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg 8H oral. Fluticasone. Inhaled (NOT/kg): 50-100mcg (child), 100-500mcg (adult) 12H. 0.05% soltn: 1-4 sprays /nostril daily. 0.05% cream: apply sparingly daily. DrugDoses
  • 645. 632 Fluticasone + salmeterol. NOT/ kg. Accuhaler: 100mcg/ 50mcg (child), 250/50 or 500/50 (adult) x1-2 inhltn 12H. MDI: 50/25 (child), 125/25 or 250/25 x1-2 inhltn 12H. Fluvastatin. 0.4mg/kg (adult 20mg) nocte oral, incr to 0.8 mg/kg (adult 40mg) 12H if reqd. Slow relse: 80mg nocte. Fluvoxamine. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8-24H oral. Slow-release (adult, NOT/kg): 100-300mg at night oral. Folic acid. NOT/kg. Deficiency: 50mcg (neonate), 0.1-0.25mg (4yr), 0.5-1mg (4yr) daily IV, IM, SC or oral. Metabolic dis: 5mg/ day oral. Pregnancy: 0.5mg (high risk 4mg) daily oral. Folinate or folinic acid. See calcium folinate. Follicle stimufating hormone (FSH). Adult (NOT/kg), monitor urinary oestrogen. Anovulation: usually 50-150iu SC daily for 9-12 days. Superovulation (2wk after starting GnRH agonist): 100-225iu/kg daily starting day 3 of cycle. Follitropin alpha, beta. See follicle stimulating hormone. Fomepizole. 15mg/kg load, then 10mg/kg 12H for 48hr, then 15mg/kg 12H IV until ethylene glycol 0.2g/L (3.2mmol/L) or methanol 0.2g/L (6.2mmol/L). Fomivirsen. Intravitreal injection, adult (NOT/kg). New disease: 165mcg/eye wkly x3, then every 2wk. Previously treated: 330mcg/ eye stat, in 2wk, then every 4wk. Fondaparinux. See fondaparin. Fondaparin. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg SC 6hr postop, then daily for 5-9 days. Formestane. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg 2wkly deep IM. Formoterol. 4yr (NOT/kg). Powder: 12mcg inhalation 12H. Solutn: 20mcg in 2ml nebulised 12H. See also budesonide. Fosamprenavir (FPV). ≥2yr: 30mg/ kg (max 1400mg) 12H oral. Am- prenavir trough ≥400ng/ml. See also efavirenz. Fosamprenavir + ritonavir. ≥6yr: FPV 18mg/kg (max 700 mg) + RTV 3mg/kg (max 100mg) 12H oral. If 18yr can use FPV 1400mg + RTV 200mg (naïve) 100mg (past Rx) daily. Fosaprepitant. Adult (NOT/kg): 125mg oral or IV over 15min on day 1, then 80mg on day 2 and day 3. Foscarnet. 20mg/kg IV over 30min, then 200mg/kg/day by con- stant IV infsn (less if creatinine 0.11mmol/l) or 60 mg/kg 8H IV over 2hr. Chronic use: 90-120mg/ kg IV over 2hr daily. Fosfestrol. Adult (NOT/kg). Initial: 0.5g IV over 1hr day 1, then 1g x5 days. Maintenance: 120-240mg 8H oral, later reducing to 120- 240mg daily. Fosfomycin. 5.63g (3g base) sachet mixed with water oral. Fosinopril. 0.2-0.8mg/kg (adult 10- 40mg) daily oral. Fosphenytoin. 75mg = 50mg phe- nytoin (qv). Prescribed and dis- pensed as phenytoin equivalents. Fospropofol. Usually 6.5mg/ kg IV, then 1.6mg/kg no more frequently than every 4min (0.3- 0.4mg/kg/min). Fotemustine. IV over 1hr, or IA over 4hr: 100mg/m2 weekly x3, rest 4-5wk, then every 3wk. Framycetin sulfate (Soframycin). Subconjunctival: 500mg in 1ml water daily x3 days. Bladder: 500mg in 50ml saline 8H x10 days. 0.5%: eye 1drop 8H, ear 3drops 8H, ointment 8H. Framycetin sulfate 15mg/g + grami- cidin 0.05mg/g. Cream or oint- ment (Soframycin topical): apply 8-12H. See also dexamethasone + framycetin + gramicidin. DrugDoses
  • 646. 633 Frangula 8% + sterculia 62%. NOT/ kg: 1-2 sachets (or 1-2 5ml spoon¬fuls) 12-24H oral. Fresh frozen plasma. Contains all clotting factors. 10-20 ml/kg IV. 1 bag is about 230ml. Frovatriptan. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg oral (max 7.5mg/day). Frusemide. Usually 0.5-1mg/kg (adult 20-40mg) 6-24H (daily if preterm) oral, IM, or IV over 20min (max 0.05 mg/kg/min IV). IV infsn: 0.1-1mg/kg/hr (20kg 25 mg/kg in 50ml 0.9% saline with heparin 1u/ml at 0.2-2 ml/ hr; 20kg amp 10mg/ml at 0.01- 0.1ml/kg/hr); protect from light. Fulvestrant. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg IM once a month. Furazolidone. 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 6H oral 7-10day. Furosemide. See frusemide. Fusafungine. 125mcg spray: oral 1spray/10kg (adult 5 sprays) x5/ day, nasal 1spray/20kg (adult 3sprays) x5/day. Fusidate, sodium. See sodium fusidate. Fusidic acid. Fusidic acid (susp) ab- sorption only 70% that of sodium fusidate (tabs). Suspension: 15- 20mg/kg (adult 750mg) 8H oral. Eye %: 1drop/eye 12H. For tablets and IV, see sodium fusidate. Gabapentin. Anticonvulsant: 10mg/ kg (adult 300mg) once day 1 oral, 12H day 2, 8H day 3 then adjusted to 10-20 mg/kg (adult 300-1200mg) 8H. Premed: 25mg/ kg (adult 1200mg) 1hr preop. Analgesia: 2mg/kg (adult 100mg) 8H, incr if reqd to 15mg/kg (adult 800mg) or higher if tolerated. Gadobutrol. 0.1mmol/kg IV. Gadopentetic acid. Adult (NOT/kg). 2mmol/l inj: finger 1-2ml, wrist 4ml, ankle-elbow-hip-shoulder 10-20ml, knee 25-50ml. Gadoteridol. 0.1 (max 0.3) mmol/ kg IV. Gadoxetic acid. 0.25mmol (181.43mg) per ml: 0.1ml/kg IV. Galantamine. Adult (NOT/kg): 4mg 12H for 4wk, then 8mg 12H, incr after 4wk if reqd to 8-12mg 12H oral. Gallamine. 1-2mg/kg (adult 50- 100mg) IV. Gallium nitrate. 100-200mg/m2/day x5days constant IV infsn. Galsulfase. 1mg/kg (to nearest 5mg) weekly IV over 4-20hr. Gamma benzene hexachloride. See lindane. Gamma globulin. See immuno- globulin. Gamma hydroxybutyrate See sodium oxybate. Gamolenic acid. 2-5mg/kg (adult 120-240mg) 12H oral. Ganciclovir. 5mg/kg 12H IV over 1hr for 2-3wk; then 5mg/kg IV daily, or 6mg/kg IV on 6 days/wk, or 20 mg/kg (adult 1g) 8H oral. Congenital CMV: 7.5mg/kg 12H IV over 2hr. Ganirelix. Adult (NOT/kg): 0.25mg daily SC from day 6 of FSH to day of ovulation induction. Gas gangrene (Clostridia) antitoxin. Prophylaxis: 25,000u IM or IV. Treatment: 75,000-150,000u IV over 1hr, repeat x1-2 after 8-12hr; if severe also give 100,000u IM. Gatifloxacin. 8mg/kg (adult 400mg) daily IV over 1hr. Gonorrh: 8mg/ kg (adult 400mg) once. 0.3% ophthalmic: 1 drop/eye 2H when awake days 1-2, then x4/day on days 3-7. Gaviscon. See alginic acid. Gefitinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg daily oral. Gelatin, succinylated. 10-20ml/kg (may be repeated). Volume effect lasts 3-4hr. Gemcitabine. 1g/m2 IV over 30min wkly for 3wk, rest for 1wk, then repeat 4wk cycle. DrugDoses
  • 647. 634 Gemeprost (PGE1 analogue). Cervi- cal dilatation: 1 pessary (1mg) into posterior vagina 3hr before surgery. Termination: 1 pessary (1mg) into posterior vagina 3H (max 5 pessaries). Gemfibrozil. 10mg/kg (max 600mg) 12H oral. Gemifloxacin. Adult (NOT/kg): 320mg daily oral. Gemtuzumab ozogamicin. 9mg/m2 IV over 2hr, rpt after 14 days. Gentamicin. IV or IM. 1wk-10yr: 8mg/kg day 1, then 6 mg/kg daily. 10yr: 7mg/kg day 1, then 5mg/ kg (max 240-360mg) daily. Neo- nate, 5mg/kg dose: 1200g 48H (0-7 days of life), 36H (8-30 days), 24H (30 days); 1200-2500g 36H (0-7 days of life), 24H (7 days); term 24H (0-7 days of life), then as for 1wk-10yr. Trough level 1.0mg/L. Gentamicin, eye drops. 0.3% 1drop/ eye every 15min if severe, reduc- ing to 1drop 4-6H. Gestodene. See ethinyloestradiol + gestodene. Gestrinone. Adult (NOT/kg): 2.5mg x2/wk on day 1 and 4 of men- strual cycle, then on same days each wk. Gestronol. Adult (NOT/kg): 200- 400mg every 5-7 days IM. Getfitinib. Adult (NOT/kg): 250mg daily oral. Ginkgo biloba. Adult (NOT/kg): 1200mg 12H oral. Glatiramer. Adult (NOT/kg): 20mg daily SC. Glibenclamide. Adult (NOT/kg): initially 2.5mg daily oral, max 20mg daily. Glibenclamide + metformin. Adult (NOT/kg): 1.25mg/ 250mg 12-24H oral, incr if reqd to 2.5mg/500mg or 5mg/ 500mg (max 10mg/1000mg) 12H. Gliclazide. Adult (NOT/kg): initially 40mg daily oral, max 160mg 12H. Glimepiride. Adult (NOT/kg): 2-4mg (max 6mg) daily oral. Glimepiride + pioglitazone (2mg/30mg, 4mg/30mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Glimepiride + rosiglitazone (1mg/4mg, 2mg/4mg, 4mg/ 4mg). Adult (NOT/kg): 1-2 tab daily (max 4mg/8mg) oral. Glipizide. Adult (NOT/kg): 5mg daily oral, max 20mg 12H. Gliquidone. 0.25-1mg/kg (adult 15- 60mg) 8-12H oral. Globulin. See immunoglobulin. Glucagon. 1u=1mg. 0.04mg/kg (adult 1-2mg) IV or IM stat, then 10-50mcg/kg/hr (0.5mg/kg in 50ml at 1-5ml/hr) IV. Beta-blocker overdose: 0.1mg/kg IV stat, then 0.3-2 mcg/kg/min. Glucosamine. Adult (NOT/kg): 1500mg daily oral. Glucose. See dextrose. Glucose electrolyte solution. Not dehydrated: 1 heaped teaspoon sucrose in large cup of water (4% sucrose = 2% glucose); do NOT add salt. Dehydrated: 1 sachet of Gastrolyte in 200ml water; give freqnt sips, or infuse by NG tube. Glutamic acid. 10-20mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) oral with meals. Glutaraldehyde. 10% soltn: apply to wart 12H. Glyburide. See glibenclamide. Glycerin. See sorbolene + glycerin cream. Glycerol. Suppos: 0.7-1g infant, 1.4- 2g child, 2.8-4g adult. Glyceryl trinitrate. Adult (NOT/kg): sublingual tab 0.3-0.9 mg/dose (lasts 30-60min); sublingual aero- sol 0.4-0.8 mg/dose; slow-release buccal tab 1-10mg 8-12H; trans- dermal 0.5-5cm of 2% ointment, or 5-15mg patch 8-12H. IV infsn 0.5-5mcg/kg/min (30kg 3mg/kg in 50ml 5%dex-hep at 0.5-5ml/hr; 30kg 3mg/kg made up to 100ml in 5%dex-hep at 1-10ml/hr); use special non-PVC tubing. DrugDoses
  • 648. 635 Glycopyrrolate. To reduce secretions or treat bradycardia: 5-10mcg/ kg (adult 0.2-0.4mg) 6-8H IV or IM. With 0.05mg/kg neostigmine: 10-15mcg/kg IV. Anticholinergic: 0.02-0.04mg/kg (max 2mg) 8H oral. Glycopyrronium bromide. Dose as for glycopyrrolate. GM-CSF. See sargramostim. Gold sodium thiomalate. See so- dium aurothiomalate. Golimumab. Adult (NOT/kg): 50mg weekly (or monthly with metho- trexate) SC. Gonadorelin (GnRH or LHRH). Pitui- tary function test, child or adult: 100mcg IV. See also leuprorelin. Gonadotrophin. See chorionic gonadtrn, and menotrophin. Goserelin. Adult (NOT/kg): 3.6mg SC every 28 days; implant 10.8mg SC every 12wk. See also bicaluta- mide. Gramicidin 0.025% + neomycin 0.25% + nystatin 100,000 u/g + triamcinolone 0.1%. Kena- comb ointment: apply 8-12H. Kenacomb otic oint, drops: apply 8-12H (2-3 drops). Gramicidin 25mcg/ml + neomycin 2.5mg/ml + polymyxin B 5000u/ ml (Neosporin). Eye drops: 1 drop/eye every 15-30min, reduc- ing to 6-12H. See also dexametha- sone. Granisetron. 0.04mg/kg (adult 1mg) IV over 5min daily. Chemothera- py: 0.05mg/kg (adult max 1-3mg) IV over 5min; up to 3 doses/ day, at least 10min apart; adult 1 patch daily for up to 7 days start- ing 1-2 days before chemo. Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). See lenograstim, sargramostim. Grepafloxacin. 8-12mg/kg (adult 400-600mg) daily oral. Griseofulvin (Grisovin, Fulcin). 10- 20mg/kg (adult 0.5-1g) daily oral. Griseofulvin, ultramicrosize (Gri- seostatin). 5.5-7mg/kg (adult 330-660mg) daily oral. Growth hormone. See somatropin. Guaiacol. See codeine + guaiacol. Guaifenesin. See guaiphenesin. Guaiphenesin. 4-8mg/kg (adult 200- 400mg) 4H oral. Guanabenz. 0.1mg/kg (max 4mg) 12H oral, incr to max 0.6mg/kg (max 32mg) 12H. Guanadrel. 0.1mg/kg (max 5mg) 12H oral, incr to max 0.5mg/kg (max 25mg) 8-12H. Guanethidine. 0.2mg/kg (max 10mg) daily oral, incr to 0.5-6mg/ kg (max 300mg) daily. Regnl symp block (adult): cuff 55mmHg syst BP, 10-20mg in 10-25ml saline (arm) or 15-30mg in 15-50ml (leg) IV, wait 10-20min, release cuff over 5min; =7 days between injctns (max 12/yr). Guanfacine. 0.02mg/kg (max 1mg) daily oral, incr over several wks to max 0.06mg/kg (max 3mg) daily. Guar gum. 1g/10kg (adult 5g) 8H oral in fluid 40ml/g gum. Haem arginate. 3-4mg/kg daily IV over 30-60min. Haemaccel. See polygeline. Haemophilus influenzae type b, vaccines. Inanimate. 12mo: give diphtheria protein conjugate (HibTITER, ProHIBiT), or tetanus conjugate (Act-HIB, Hiberix) 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo, 6mo and 15mo; or meningococcal con¬jugate (Pedvax HIB) 0.5ml IM at 2mo, 4mo and 15mo. If 1st dose 18mo: give 1 dose of HibTITER or Pedvax HIB. Haemophilus influenzae type b + hepatitis B vaccine (Comvax). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM 2mo, 4mo, 12-15mo (3 doses). Haemophilus influenzae type b + meningococcus type c vaccine (Menitorix). Inanimate. 0.5ml IM 2mo, 3mo, 4mo (3 doses); boost from 12mo. DrugDoses
  • 649. 636 Halcinonide. 0.1% cream: apply sparingly 8-12H. Halobetasol. 0.05% cream, oint- ment: apply 12-24H. Halofantrine. 10mg/kg (max 500mg) 6H for 3 doses oral, repeat after 1wk if nonimmune. Haloperidol. 0.01mg/kg (max 0.5mg) daily, incr up to 0.1 mg/ kg 12H IV or oral; up to 2mg/kg (max 100mg) 12H used rarely. Acutely disturbed: 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult 5-10mg) IM. Long-acting decanoate ester: 1-6mg/kg IM every 4wk. Halothane. 0.5-4% induction, then 0.5-2% inhalation. Hemin. 1-3mg/kg 12-24H IV over 30min. Heparin. 1mg=100u. Low dose: 75u/kg IV stat, then 500u/kg in 50ml 0.9% saline at 1-1.5ml/hr (10-15u/kg/hr) IV. Full dose: 75u/ kg (adult 5000u) IV stat, then 500u/kg in 50ml saline at 2-4ml/ hr (20-40u/kg/hr)12mo, 2-3ml/ hr (20-30 u/kg/hr) child, 1.5-2ml/ hr (15-20u/kg/hr) adult; adjust to give APTT 60-85 sec, or anti-Xa 0.3-0.7u/ml. Hep lock: 100u/ml. Heparin calcium. Low dose: 75u/kg SC 12H. Heparin, low molecular weight. See certoparin, dalteparin, danapar- oid, enoxaparin, nadroparin. Heparinoid 0.2% + lauromacrogol 5%. Oint: apply x1-4/day. Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix). Inani- mate. 0.5ml (child) or 1ml (adult) IM stat, and in 6-12mo (2doses). Boost every 5yr. Hepatitis A vaccine (VAQTA). Inanimate. 0.5ml (child) or 1ml (17yr) IM stat, and after 6-18mo (2 doses). Hepatitis A + hepatitis B vaccine (Twinrix). Inanimate. 1-15yr 0.5ml, 15yr 1ml IM stat, after 1mo, and after 6mo (3 doses). Boost every 5yr. Hepatitis B immune globulin. See immunoglobulin, hep B. Hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B, HB Vax II). Inanimate. Engerix- B 10mcg/dose (10yr), 20mcg (9yr); HB Vax II 2.5mcg/dose (10yr), 5mcg (10-19yr), 10mcg (19yr), 40mcg (dialysis) IM stat, after 1mo, and after 6mo (3 doses). Boost every 5yr. See diph- theria and haemophilus vaccines. Herpes zoster vaccine (Zostavax). Live. Age 50yr or more: 0.65ml SC once. See also Immunoglobulin, zoster. Hetastarch. 6% 10-20ml/kg IV. Hexachlorophane. 3% emulsion. 12mo: apply 5ml, scrub for 3min. Hexamethylmelamine. 150-260mg/ m2 daily oral for 14-21 consecu- tive days of a 28 day cycle. Hexamidine. See chlorhexidine. Hexamine. 20mg/kg (adult 1g) 6H oral. Hexaminolevulinate. Adult (NOT/ kg): instill 100mg in 50ml. Hexetidine. 0.1% soln: rinse/gargle 15ml (NOT/kg) 8-12H. Histamine phosphate. 1mg/ml base: prick, puncture or scratch testing. 0.1mg/ml base: intradermal testing. Histrelin. Usually 10mcg/kg daily SC. Homatropine. 2%, 5% soltn: 1 drop/ eye 4H. Hormone replacement therapy. With uterus: sequential combined oestrogen (eg.oestradiol) and progestogen (eg. norethisterone) if perimenopausal; continuous combined therapy if post- menopausal. Without uterus: oestrogen. Human chorionic gonadotrophin. Chorionic gonadotrophin. Human papillomavirus vaccine (Cervarix, Gardasil). Inanimate. Females 10-46yr, males 9-15yr: 0.5ml IM, in 1-2mo, and 6mo later (3 doses). DrugDoses
  • 650. 637 Hyaluronic acid. Gel 20mg/ml: 0.7- 1.4ml injctd in wrinkles. Hyaluronidase. Hypodermoclysis: add 1-1.5u/ml fluid. Local anaes- thesia: add 50u/ml soltn. Hydralazine. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (adult 5-10mg) stat IV or IM, then 4-6mcg/kg/min (adult 200- 300mcg/min) IV. Oral: 0.4 mg/ kg (adult 20mg) 12H, slow incr to 1.5mg/kg (max 50mg) 6-8H. Hydrochloric acid. Use soltn of 100mmol/L (0.1M = 0.1N = 100mEq/L); give IV by central line only. Alkalosis: dose(ml) = BE x Wt x 3 (give half this); maximum rate 2ml/kg/hr. Blocked central line: 1.5ml/lumen over 2-4hr. Hydrochlorothiazide. 1-1.5mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) 12-24H. Hydrochlorothiazide + quinapril. 10/12.5, 20/12.5. Adult (NOT/kg): 10/12.5 tab daily oral, incr if reqd to 20/12.5 tab, max two 10/12.5 tab daily. Hydrochlorothiazide + telmisartan. (12.5mg/40mg, 12.5/80, 25/80). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Hydrochlorothiazide + valsar- tan (12.5mg/80mg, 12.5/160, 25/160). Adult (NOT/kg): 1 tab daily oral. Hydrocodone. 0.1-0.2mg/kg (max 10-15mg) 4-6H oral. Hydrocortisone. Usually 0.5-2mg/kg (adult 25-50mg) 6-8H oral, reduc- ing as tolerated. 0.5%, 1% cream, ointment: apply 6-12H. 1% cream + clioquinol: apply 8-24H. 10% rectal foam: 125mg/dose. 2.5% eye ointment: apply 6H. Hydrocortisone sodium succinate. 2-4mg/kg 3-6H IM, IV reducing as tolerated. Physiological: 5mg/ m2 6-8H oral; 0.2mg/kg 8H IM, IV. Physiological, stress: 1mg/kg 6H IM, IV. Hydrocortisone 1% + pramocaine 1%. Cream, foam: apply 8-12H after defaecation. Hydroflumethiazide. 0.5-2mg/kg (adult 25-100mg) 12-48H. Hydrogen peroxide. 10 volume (3%). Mouthwash 1:2 parts water. Skin or ear disinfectant 1:1 part water. Hydromorphone. Oral: 0.05-0.1mg/ kg (adult 2-4mg) 4H. IM, SC: 0.02-0.05mg/kg (adult 1-2mg) 4-6H. Slow IV: 0.01-0.02mg/kg (adult 0.5-1mg) 4-6H. Palliative care: incr to 40-50mg/day (up to 500mg/day) oral in divided doses. Hydroquinone. 3-4% cream: apply 12H. Hydrotalcite. 20mg/kg (adult 1g) 6H oral. Hydroxocobalamin (Vit B12). 20mcg/kg (adult 1000mcg) IM daily for 7 days then wkly (treat- ment), then every 2-3mo (pro- phyl); IV dangerous in megalo- blastic anaemia. Homocystinuria, methylmalonic acidur: 1mg daily IM; after response, some patients maintained on 1-10mg daily oral. Hydroxyapatite. 20-40mg/kg (adult 1-2g) 8H oral. Hydroxycarbamide. See hydroxyu- rea. Hydroxychloroquine sulphate. Doses as sulphate. Malaria: 10mg/kg (max 600mg) daily for 3 days; prophylaxis 5mg/kg (max 300mg) once a wk oral. Arthritis, SLE: 3-6.5mg/kg (adult 200- 600mg) daily oral. Hydroxyethylcellulose. 0.44% 1 drop per eye 6-8H. Hydroxypropyl (methyl)cellulose. See hypromellose. Hydroxyethylrutosides. 5mg/kg (adult 250mg) 6-8H for 3-4wk, then 12-24H; or 10mg/kg (adult 500mg) 12H for 3-4wk, then daily oral. Hydroxyprogesterone. Adult (NOT/ kg): 250-500mg/wk IM. Hydroxypropylcellulose. 5mg insert: 1 in each eye daily. Hydroxyquinone. 4% cream: apply 12H. DrugDoses