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Free flap for lower limb salvage in infectious purpura fulminans. ANN CHIR PLAST ESTH 2021; 66:420-428. [PMID: 34782172 DOI: 10.1016/j.anplas.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious purpura fulminans is a disabling disease often leading to amputations. Free flaps preserve limb length, covering exposed areas. We examined the efficacy of free flaps for lower limb salvage in infectious purpura fulminans survivors by evaluating surgical management, walking ability and quality of life. METHODS This single-center, observational, descriptive, retrospective study was conducted in from 2016 to 2019. Adult purpura fulminans survivors who received a free flap for lower limb salvage were included. Patient characteristics and data on surgical management and rehabilitation were collected. Quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire), limb function and walking ability were later evaluated post-surgically. RESULTS The 6 patients included, mean age 38 years, had all required amputations. Nine free flaps were performed to cover important structures in 7 cases and for stump resurfacing in 2. All flaps were successful. Patients resumed walking at a mean of 204±108 days after the onset of purpura fulminans. Post-surgical evaluation was performed at a mean of 30±9.3 months. Five patients required secondary revision. All were independent for the activities of daily living. Mean physical component score was 37.6±9.4 and mental component score was 44.6±13.2 (minimum 0, maximum 100). CONCLUSIONS Use of the free flap in patients with infectious purpura fulminans, after multidisciplinary reflection, is an appropriate procedure that preserves limb length. In spite of secondary complications, preservation of limb length enables patients to resume walking, with relatively good independence and quality of life.
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2
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Singh D, Swann A. Skin demarcation and amputation level for foot gangrene following meningococcal septicemia. Foot Ankle Spec 2013; 6:384-8. [PMID: 23966262 DOI: 10.1177/1938640013501548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A case report of a 55-year-old woman who was being considered for bilateral below knee or Syme's amputations after gangrene at the level of both forefeet due to meningococcal septicaemia is described. An expectant approach for 6 months revealed that the tissues deep to the necrotic skin were viable and she was subsequently able to mobilize independently with normal footwear after bilateral toe amputations at the metatarsophalangeal joint levels. This case and a literature review suggest that the demarcation of healthy skin from necrotic skin (eschar) should not dictate the level of amputation in dry gangrene of the foot following meningococcal septicemia. Magnetic resonance imaging can overestimate the degree of muscle necrosis. Treatment should be individualized for each patient, but advice should include the option of prolonged conservative treatment to preserve limb length and function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, Level IV: Case study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dishan Singh
- Foot and Ankle Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Middlesex, UK
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3
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Abstract
Fever is the most common reason that children and infants are brought to emergency departments. Emergency physicians face the challenge of quickly distinguishing benign from life-threatening conditions. The management of fever in children is guided by the patient's age, immunization status, and immune status as well as the results of a careful physical examination and appropriate laboratory tests and radiographic views. In this article, the evaluation and treatment of children with fevers of known and unknown origin are described. Causes of common and dangerous conditions that include fever in their manifestation are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Wing
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
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4
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Claudius I, Baraff LJ. Pediatric Emergencies Associated with Fever. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2010; 28:67-84, vii-viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2009.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Woolley SL, Smith DRK, Surridge J. Knee pain: an unusual late complication of meningococcal septicaemia. Eur J Emerg Med 2008; 15:97-9. [DOI: 10.1097/mej.0b013e32826fb783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Duteille F, Thibault F, Perrot P, Renard B, Pannier M. Salvaging Limbs in Cases of Severe Purpura Fulminans: Advantages of Free Flaps. Plast Reconstr Surg 2006; 118:681-5; discussion 686-7. [PMID: 16932177 DOI: 10.1097/01.prs.0000233039.99945.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Purpura fulminans remains a severe and potentially life-threatening disorder, despite advances in intensive care that have led to a significant increase in the survival rate. One major risk is amputation of extremities. METHODS The present report concerns a series of four patients (all male; mean age, 19 years) whose lower limb extremities were salvaged by the use of free flaps in the feet. In total, six flaps were performed (mean per patient, 1.7): three latissimus dorsi, two serratus anterior, and one combination latissimus dorsi/serratus anterior. RESULTS There were no flap failures, and the results are favorable after a mean follow-up of 25.5 months (range, 18 to 34 months), with all patients able to walk normally. CONCLUSION Although microsurgery of this type has been criticized when performed in cases of purpura fulminans, the authors' series indicates that it can be particularly effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Duteille
- Service de Chirurgie Plastique et Reconstructrice, Hopital Jean Monnet, CHU, 44 093, Nantes, France.
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9
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Sisco M, Dumanian GA. Discussion. Plast Reconstr Surg 2006. [DOI: 10.1097/01.prs.0000233120.62444.d4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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10
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Belthur MV, Bradish CF, Gibbons PJ. Late orthopaedic sequelae following meningococcal septicaemia. A multicentre study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 87:236-40. [PMID: 15736750 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.87b2.14827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Between 1990 and 2001, 24 children aged between 15 months and 11 years presented with late orthopaedic sequelae after meningococcal septicaemia. The median time to presentation was 32 months (12 to 119) after the acute phase of the disease. The reasons for referral included angular deformity, limb-length discrepancy, joint contracture and problems with prosthetic fitting. Angular deformity with or without limb-length discrepancy was the most common presentation. Partial growth arrest was the cause of the angular deformity. Multiple growth-plate involvement occurred in 14 children. The lower limbs were affected much more often than the upper. Twenty-three children underwent operations for realignment of the mechanical axis and limb-length equalisation. In 15 patients with angular deformity around the knee the deformity recurred. As a result we recommend performing a realignment procedure with epiphysiodesis of the remaining growth plate when correcting angular deformities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Belthur
- Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, England.
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11
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Lowe KG, Boyce JM. Rehabilitation of a child with meningococcal septicemia and quadrilateral limb loss: a case report. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2004; 85:1354-7. [PMID: 15295765 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2003.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Acquired quadrilateral limb loss is a rare occurrence in children. One cause of this condition is severe meningococcal septicemia. We present the case of a boy who, at 14 months of age, required extensive amputation after an episode of meningococcal septicemia. We review his medical recovery and rehabilitation, including upper- and lower-limb prosthetic prescription and training, and adaptation to his altered body. A multidisciplinary approach led to effective management of his complex clinical and psychologic needs. This case illustrates the need to address a range of medical, prosthetic, and family issues central to successful clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin G Lowe
- Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
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12
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Harley OJH, Ahmed OA, Ng RLH. Imaging to guide amputation of necrotic limbs in paediatric patients with meningococcal septicaemia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 57:174-5. [PMID: 15037177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2003.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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13
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Bichet JC, Mojallal A, Delay E, Ziad S, Foyatier JL. [Surgical management of cutaneous necrosis in the purpura fulminans: report of 2 clinical cases]. ANN CHIR PLAST ESTH 2003; 48:216-21. [PMID: 12927881 DOI: 10.1016/s0294-1260(03)00070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The authors report their experience of the management of 2 patients with purpura fulminans. After a review of the epidemiology, diagnostic methods, natural course and prognosis of the disease, the various stages of the treatment are described. The urgency of the medical treatment is stressed and the specific technique of the surgical approach to the artificial dermis is detailed. The quality of initial management is of crucial importance and such extensive and deep cutaneous destruction is best dealt in burn centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Bichet
- Service de chirurgie plastique, hôpital Saint-Luc-Saint-Joseph, 9 rue du Professeur-Grignard, 69007 Lyon, France.
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Warner PM, Kagan RJ, Yakuboff KP, Kemalyan N, Palmieri TL, Greenhalgh DG, Sheridan RL, Mozingo DW, Heimbach DM, Gibran NS, Engrav L, Saffle JR, Edelman LS, Warden GD. Current management of purpura fulminans: a multicenter study. THE JOURNAL OF BURN CARE & REHABILITATION 2003; 24:119-26. [PMID: 12792230 DOI: 10.1097/01.bcr.0000066789.79129.c2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Seven burn centers performed a 10-yr retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with purpura fulminans. Patient demographics, etiology, presentation, medical and surgical treatment, and outcome were reviewed. A total of 70 patients were identified. Mean patient age was 13 yr. Neisseria meningitidis was the most common etiologic agent in infants and adolescents whereas Streptococcus commonly afflicted the adult population. Acute management consisted of antibiotic administration, volume resuscitation, ventilatory and inotropic support, with occasional use of corticosteroids (38%) and protein C replacement (9%). Full-thickness skin and soft-tissue necrosis was extensive, requiring skin grafting and amputations in 90% of the patients. One fourth of the patients required amputations of all extremities. Fasciotomies when performed early appeared to limit the level of amputation in 6 of 14 patients. Therefore, fasciotomies during the initial management of these patients may reduce the depth of soft-tissue involvement and the extent of amputations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Warner
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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15
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Wheeler JS, Anderson BJ, De Chalain TMB. Surgical interventions in children with meningococcal purpura fulminans--a review of 117 procedures in 21 children. J Pediatr Surg 2003; 38:597-603. [PMID: 12677574 DOI: 10.1053/jpsu.2003.50130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE There are few reports describing the surgical management and outcome of children suffering purpura fulminans secondary to meningococcal sepsis. New Zealand is in the grips of a meningococcal epidemic, and, with the attendant sequalae of the disease process, the authors sought to formally review the children who have required surgical involvement. METHODS A retrospective case review of children with the sequalae of meningococcal disease presenting to the Orthopedic and Plastic Surgical Units in a university teaching hospital was undertaken. RESULTS There were 117 procedures in 21 children performed over a 12-year period. Surgical management was separated into 2 phases-early and late. The mean delay from admission with acute sepsis to the first surgical procedure (ie, early intervention) was 15.9 days. Debridement and autologous skin grafting was the mainstay of managing the necrotic defects; however, allograft skin proved a useful adjunct as a physiologic dressing. Local flaps were used with deep defects down to bone, but in the extremities amputation to viable tissue was required once gangrene was demarcated. Amputations were carried out in 9 of 21 children. Late interventions were related to relief of contractures or fibula overgrowth causing stump ulceration. Clinical follow-up showed that all children interviewed over 5 years of age (9 children) attend ordinary regular school classes and were physically active within the context of their physical disabilities. CONCLUSIONS The data would suggest that children requiring surgery for purpura fulminans achieve age-appropriate milestones and are primarily limited by their physical disability related to amputations, scarring, and abnormal bone growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Simon Wheeler
- Centre for Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery at Middlemore Hospital and the Department of Anaesthesia at Auckland Children's Hospital, Auckland, NZ
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16
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Childers BJ, Cobanov B. Acute Infectious Purpura Fulminans: A 15-Year Retrospective Review of 28 Consecutive Cases. Am Surg 2003. [DOI: 10.1177/000313480306900119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Acute infectious purpura fulminans (AIPF) is a rare syndrome of hemorrhagic infarction of the skin, extremity loss, and intravascular thrombosis. It progresses rapidly and is accompanied by disseminated intravascular coagulation and vascular collapse. The victims often succumb to the disease. Our objective was to investigate the clinical manifestations, outline the clinical course, and delineate factors related to mortality among the patients with AIPF. Patients diagnosed with AIPF over a 15-year period were reviewed retrospectively for patient history, comorbid conditions, progression of clinical course, and medical and surgical management. The vast majority of the patients were under the age of 7; however, the disease process can be seen in adults. The overall mortality rate was 43 per cent. The major predisposing factors were history of recent upper respiratory infection, recent surgery or childbirth, young age, and absence of a spleen. The most common clinical manifestations were skin discoloration, disseminated intravascular coagulation, fever, and septic shock. The most common bacteria cultures were Neisseria meningitidis, Hemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. There appears to be a higher mortality in patients who did not undergo a surgical intervention. Compartment syndrome needs to be evaluated early on in the presentation. Rapid diagnosis, intensive care unit management, and prompt surgical consultation and debridement may decrease the mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben J. Childers
- From the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
| | - Brando Cobanov
- From the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California
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17
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Mercier JC, Bingen E, Schlegel N, Elion J, Casanova JL, Mira JP, Beaufils F. [Meningococcal purpura fulminans: untoward result of genetic polymorphism?]. Arch Pediatr 2001; 8:843-52. [PMID: 11524916 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(01)00529-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant progress in intensive care medicine, the mortality of septic shock has not changed in recent years. Early recognition of subtle signs in favor of meningococcal sepsis, early antibiotic treatment, and aggressive hemodynamic support remains the cornerstone of therapy of severe meningococcal shock in children. Recent work has emphasized the role of genetic polymorphisms in various systems to explain the most severe cases: anti-inflammatory cytokine profile IL-10/TNF-alpha, elevated levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1, variants of the gene for mannose-binding lectin complement pathway. This may explain the disillusionment of pediatric intensivists, and the general failure of immunotherapy for sepsis. Reasonable hope lies upon new meningococcal vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Mercier
- Service de pédiatrie-réanimation, hôpital Robert-Debré, 48, boulevard Sérurier, 75019 Paris, France.
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18
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MacLennan SE, Kitzmiller WJ, Yakuboff KP. Free-tissue transfer for limb salvage in Purpura fulminans. Plast Reconstr Surg 2001; 107:1437-42. [PMID: 11335814 DOI: 10.1097/00006534-200105000-00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A series of 13 patients is described to demonstrate the experience of the authors with free-tissue transfer for limb salvage in patients with purpura fulminans. A total of seven free-flap procedures were performed, with a loss of flap in one patient. The flaps were used for lower-extremity salvage in six patients and for upper-extremity salvage in one. Purpura fulminans is a devastating illness caused by endotoxin-producing bacteria such as meningococcus and pneumococcus. Clotting derangements and systemic vasculitis often lead to widespread tissue necrosis in the extremities. Local tissue is usually not available to cover vital structures in these complex wounds. In these situations, free-tissue transfer is necessary to achieve limb salvage. Microsurgical reconstruction in patients with purpura fulminans is a formidable challenge. Because of high platelet counts and systemic vasculitis, successful microvascular anastomosis is difficult. Abnormally high platelet counts persist well into the subacute and chronic phases of the illness. Pretreatment with antiplatelet agents before microvascular surgery may be beneficial. The systemic nature of the vascular injury does not permit microvascular anastomosis to be performed outside the "zone of injury." Extensive vascular exposure, even at a great distance from the wound, does not reveal a disease-free vessel. The friable intima is difficult to manage with a standard end-to-side anastomosis, but conversion to end-to-end anastomosis may salvage free-tissue transfers in cases in which intimal damage is too severe to sustain a patent anastomosis. Patients often have peripheral neuropathies caused by the underlying disease; however, this resolves with time and is not a contraindication to limb salvage.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E MacLennan
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children-Cincinnati Burns Hospital, Ohio, USA
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Abstract
Purpura fulminans (PF) is a haemorrhagic condition usually associated with sepsis or previous infection. Features include tissue necrosis, small vessel thrombosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Gram-negative organisms are the commonest cause of the acute infectious type, which is often associated with multi-organ failure. An idiopathic variety, however, is often confined to the skin. The mortality rate has decreased with better treatment of secondary infections, supportive care and new treatments, but it remains a disabling condition often requiring major amputations. We describe two cases and review the various treatments for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Nolan
- Department of Anaesthesia, Treliske Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK
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Leclerc F, Cremer R, Leteurtre S, Martinot A, Fourier C. Protein C concentrate and recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in meningococcal septic shock. Crit Care Med 2000; 28:1694-7. [PMID: 10834762 DOI: 10.1097/00003246-200005000-00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Potokar TS, Oliver DW, Ross Russell R, Hall PN. Meningococcal septicaemia and plastic surgery--a strategy for management. BRITISH JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2000; 53:142-8. [PMID: 10878838 DOI: 10.1054/bjps.1999.3249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Meningococcal septicaemia is a severe life threatening illness that is part of the spectrum of meningococcal disease. It is of particular concern to the plastic and reconstructive surgeon because as the medical and intensive care of these patients improves, more are surviving the acute phase of the septicaemia and suffering from the associated complications such as skin necrosis and extremity loss. Recently there have been several reports in the literature concerning the management of skin infarction with both skin grafting and free flap surgery. This paper will provide an update on the proposed pathophysiological mechanisms involved, summarise the present data on plastic surgical care and suggest a stratagem for future management of these difficult cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Potokar
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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Abstract
Meningococcal disease remains a major cause of death in young children. A decrease in mortality requires recognition and treatment of the disease at a number of stages in the illness. Life-threatening meningococcal disease usually presents as septicaemia rather than meningitis. The cardinal feature of meningococcal septicaemia is the purpuric rash. Many parents recognise the rash and seek medical advice because of it. When primary care physicians recognise the rash, the administration of parenteral penicillin may decrease mortality. However, antibacterials are not given promptly if there is no rash or if the disease presents in an atypical form. In hospital, antibacterial therapy with a third-generation cephalosporin should be given. Disease severity needs to be assessed by a valid method, such as the Glasgow Meningococcal Septicaemia Prognostic Score (GMSPS). This can identify those patients who need intensive care and/or might benefit from new therapies. The 2 life-threatening complications are septic shock and meningoencephalitis with raised intracranial pressure. Despite numerous case reports of success with potential new treatments, none has been proven safe and/or effective by controlled trials. Although it is tempting to focus on new treatments, the early recognition of severe meningococcal disease by parents, primary care physicians and junior hospital doctors is equally, if not more, important as a potential means of decreasing mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Riordan
- Birmingham Heartlands and Solihull NHS Trust (Teaching), England
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Huang DB, Price M, Pokorny J, Gabriel KR, Lynch R, Paletta CE. Reconstructive surgery in children after meningococcal purpura fulminans. J Pediatr Surg 1999; 34:595-601. [PMID: 10235331 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3468(99)90082-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Purpura fulminans (PF) is a serious, often life-threatening disease. As more children are surviving their disease, surgeons are presented with increasing numbers of multiple and complicated wounds as sequelae of PF. The purpose of this paper is to review the management of nine cases of PF, and present the reconstruction method in treating bilateral exposed elbow and knee joints. METHODS All cases of pediatric patients with PF and treated by the division of plastic and reconstructive surgery between 1986 and 1998 were reviewed. RESULTS Seven children (78%) had meningococcal PF, and one (11%) had PF after Haemophilus influenza septicemia. PF developed in one (11%) but with no growth in either blood or cerebrospinal fluid cultures. Five children (56%) required amputation procedures. Two children (22%) required knee disarticulation. Two patients (22%) had free myocutaneous flap transfers for bone coverage. One (11%) had PF involving the face. CONCLUSIONS Meningococcal PF is a rare, often life-threatening disease generally of childhood. More children are surviving their diseases but with devastating sequelae. Successful reconstructive treatment outcome of these children requires a multidisciplinary team approach involving multiple specialties. The goal is to preserve function, maintain maximal length, and salvage limbs when possible. Flexibility and innovation are necessary in treating these multiple and complicated wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- D B Huang
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Saint Louis University School of Medicine and Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, MO, USA
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Abstract
The development of progressive, severe skin changes (purpura fulminans) is a serious complication of septicaemia, particularly meningococcal septicaemia. Purpura fulminans almost invariably leads to some full thickness skin loss and may lead to limb amputation. The pathophysiology may involve microemboli, endotoxins and direct bacterial damage to the vessels. We describe a case of purpura fulminans, probably as a result of meningococcal septicaemia, localising to a recent, healed burn with complete resolution. We can find no other record of the skin manifestations of meningococcal septicaemia localising to a previous injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Wharton
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, UK
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Malley R, Huskins WC, Kuppermann N. Multivariable predictive models for adverse outcome of invasive meningococcal disease in children. J Pediatr 1996; 129:702-10. [PMID: 8917237 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3476(96)70153-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
For prediction of adverse outcome (AO, defined as death or limb amputation) of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in children, two multivariable models were derived and validated by reviewing the data in the medical records of patients with IMD, who ranged from birth to 19 years of age, at three pediatric referral hospitals between 1985 and 1990 (derivation set, n = 153, 19 AO) and between 1991 and 1994 (validation set, n = 92, 11 AO). Variables in the derivation set significantly associated with AO (p < 0.05) were entered into a logistic regression analysis. Because coagulation studies (prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and serum fibrinogen concentration) were available for only 50% of patients, two analyses were performed, either excluding (model 1) or including (model 2) coagulation studies. These analyses identified an absolute neutrophil count less than 3000/mm3, poor perfusion, and a platelet count less than 150,000/mm3 (model 1), and a serum fibrinogen concentration less than 2.5 gm/L (250 mg/dl) and an absolute neutrophil count less than 3000/mm3 (model 2), as independent predictors of AO (p < 0.05). When the models were tested on the validation set, the presence of at least two of the three predictors in model 1 had a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 97% in predicting AO; the presence of both predictors in model 2 had a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 97%. These models can reliably identify patients with IMD at high risk of AO for whom consideration of novel therapies is justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Malley
- Department of Medicine, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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Kirsch EA, Barton RP, Kitchen L, Giroir BP. Pathophysiology, treatment and outcome of meningococcemia: a review and recent experience. Pediatr Infect Dis J 1996; 15:967-78; quiz 979. [PMID: 8933544 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-199611000-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E A Kirsch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9063, USA
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Kennedy NJ, Duncan AW. Acute meningococcaemia: recent advances in management (with particular reference to children). Anaesth Intensive Care 1996; 24:197-216. [PMID: 9133195 DOI: 10.1177/0310057x9602400212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N J Kennedy
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Princess Margaret Hospital, Perth, , Australia
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