Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting 16S rDNA for bacterial identification in empyema.

Background: Empyema in children causes significant morbidity and mortality. However, identification of organisms is a major concern.

Objective: To detect bacterial pathogens in pus specimens of children with empyema by 16S rDNA nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and correlate it with culture and sensitivity.

Status epilepticus in a child with Sanjad Sakati syndrome.

We report a 6-year-old boy who presented with status epilepticus, who had facial dysmorphism, growth and mental retardation. On investigation, he had hypocalcaemia, hypoparathyroidism and bilateral calcification of basal ganglia in cranial tomographs; features consistent with Sanjad Sakati syndrome. He was treated with intravenous calcium gluconate initially followed by oral calcium and calcitriol and recovered completely.