Opportunistic infections in pediatrics: when to suspect and how to approach

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the characteristics of opportunistic infections in pediatrics regarding their clinical aspects, as well as the diagnostic strategy and treatment.

Source of data: Non-systematic review of literature studies in the PubMed database.

Synthesis of data: Opportunistic infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria, fungi, Herpesvirae, and infections affecting individuals using immunobiological agents are analyzed. Because these are severe diseases with a rapid evolution, diagnostic suspicion should be early, associated with the patient's clinical assessment and history pointing to opportunistic infections. Whenever possible, samples of secretions, blood, and other fluids and tissues should be collected, with early therapy implementation.

Conclusions: Despite the improved diagnosis of opportunistic infections in recent years, they remain a challenge for pediatricians who are not used to these infections. They should raise the suspicion and start treating the case, but should also resort to specialists in the management of these infections to provide a better outcome for these patients, who still have high mortality.

Keywords: Alpha tumor necrosis factor; Candidiasis; Candidíase; Fator de necrose tumoral alfa; Fungemia; Herpeviridae imunobiológicos; Immunobiological herpesviridae; Infecções por mycobacterium; Mycobacterium infections.