On 15/4, Dr. Nguyen Minh Tien, deputy director of Children's Hospital of Ho Chi Minh City, reported that the child patient from Tay Ninh was admitted in a semi-conscious state with high blood pressure measuring 180/100 mmHg. Brain and lung scans showed no abnormalities. However, laboratory tests revealed very high antistreptolysin O (ASO) antibody levels, along with protein and red blood cells in her urine.
Doctors diagnosed the child with acute glomerulonephritis associated with *Streptococcus pyogenes* (group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus), a known complication that can occur after streptococcal pharyngitis. The elevated blood pressure was determined to be the direct cause of her seizures.
The patient received intensive treatment, which included oxygen therapy, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antihypertensives, and diuretics. This was combined with a strict low-sodium diet. After one week, her condition improved significantly; she regained consciousness, her blood pressure stabilized with oral medication, and her kidney function gradually recovered. She was subsequently discharged from the hospital.
The family reported that approximately one week before hospital admission, the girl experienced a fever, sore throat, and pain and swelling in her jaw angle area, for which they self-medicated. After several days, her symptoms subsided, and she returned to school. However, while studying, she suddenly developed a headache, nausea, and then fainted. Subsequently, the patient experienced two generalized seizures and was transferred to a higher-level emergency unit with an initial suspected diagnosis of meningoencephalitis.
According to Dr. Tien, streptococcal glomerulonephritis was formerly quite common but is now less frequently encountered. This rarity can lead to misdiagnosis, as its complications may be mistaken for other neurological or infectious diseases.
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Medical staff in a laboratory. Photo: Quynh Tran |
Group A streptococcal pharyngitis typically has a sudden onset, presenting with fever, sore throat, headache, nausea, and poor appetite. Some cases may also involve tonsillitis, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, or a rash. If not properly treated with antibiotics, the condition can lead to severe complications such as glomerulonephritis, rheumatic heart disease, otitis media, sinusitis, or abscesses.
Doctors advise that if a child exhibits prolonged fever and sore throat, parents should not attempt self-medication. Instead, they should seek a medical examination for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Administering antibiotics correctly, as prescribed, is crucial for reducing the risk of dangerous complications.
To prevent this illness, it is necessary to wear a mask when required, avoid crowded places, and minimize contact with sick individuals. Maintaining body warmth and avoiding iced drinks and tobacco smoke are also important. Practice thorough hand hygiene before eating, after using the restroom, and before caring for children. Additionally, ensure the living environment and children's toys are kept clean.
Ensure children receive vitamin A supplements and vaccinations according to the national immunization program. Regular health check-ups every six months or at least annually are recommended to detect and promptly treat potential causes of acute pharyngitis.
Le Phuong
