Frequency and characteristics of infectious diseases in internationally adopted children: a retrospective study in Nantes from 2010 to 2012

Abstract

Background and aims: Internationally adopted children are more susceptible to developing and carrying acute or chronic infectious diseases. Specialized consultations exist in the main French cities; however, specialized consultation with a pediatrician is not mandatory. The main objective of this study was to determine the frequency and characteristics of infections (bacterial, viral, and parasitic) among a group of international adoptees in Nantes over a 3-year period.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of internationally adopted children who went through the Medical Guidance for Adopted Children Consultation between 2010 and 2012.

Results: A total of 133 children were included in the study. Of these, 55% had an infectious disease; 8% were severe infections. We found a frequency of 38% [confidence interval (CI) 95% 30-46] for parasitic intestinal and 35% (CI 95% 27-43) for dermatologic infections. African children were more likely to have infections that required hospitalization [odds ratio (OR) = 12, p = 0.004, CI 95% 1.3-113.7] and more likely to carry extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing bacteria.

Conclusion: The frequency of infectious diseases, and sometimes severe diseases, found among our cohort of internationally adopted children highlights the need for systematic, specialized medical care.