Purulent pericarditis in children: is pericardiotomy needed?

Objectives: This study aimed to describe our experience with pediatric bacterial pericarditis and review the optimal therapy for this entity.

Methods: This is a retrospective study in a pediatric intensive care unit in a university hospital. Three children were diagnosed with purulent pericarditis.

Amino-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide: heart or lung disease in pediatric respiratory distress?

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether plasma levels of amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (N-BNP) could differentiate between heart failure and lung disease among infants with acute respiratory distress. In addition, our aim was to determine whether plasma levels of N-BNP could be used to monitor the effects of treatment among infants with heart failure.

Methods: Infants (age range: 1-36 months; median age: 10 months) who presented with respiratory distress underwent physical examination, plasma N-BNP measurement, and echocardiography within 24 hours after admission.

Respiratory failure and hypercoagulability in a toddler with Lemierre's syndrome.

A 3.5-year-old healthy boy with 4 days of fever was referred to the emergency department for respiratory distress. The physical examination was remarkable for stupor, tachycardia, tachypnea, and dyspnea.

Arginine and nitric oxide metabolism in critically ill septic pediatric patients.

Objective: To investigate whole body, arginine metabolism and nitric oxide synthesis rates in septic, critically ill pediatric patients.

Design: Prospective study.

Setting: Pediatric intensive care unit at a general hospital.