Abstract

*Dr. (Colonel) Mahendra Narain Mishra, Dr. Murugan Timri Palani, Dr. Bianchi Sangma, Dr. Pallavi Mishra and Dr. Divya M. George

ABSTRACT

Introduction Bordetalla pertussis infections are underreported in India due to paucity of advanced diagnostic facilities and lack of clinical suspicion. A presumptive diagnosis is therefore often based on clinical and haematological profile without confirmation by culture or polymerase chain reaction. In this paper we present laboratory and clinical profile of seven infants with pertussoid illness treated in a secondary care centre in Assam of which three had leukemoid counts. Case Series Description Seven infants aged two -five months were brought with variable symptoms including paroxysmal cough, fever, rapid breathing and feeding difficulty. Investigations included complete blood counts (CBC), C reactive proteins, serum creatinine, Blood culture, Plain X –Ray chest and blood gas analysis for two patients. Leukocytosis with increased absolute lymphocyte count, and raised C -reactive protein, normal serum creatinine was present. A probable diagnosis of Pertussoid illness was made and aggressive indoor treatment was administered resulting in a successful outcome in five infants in spite of limited resources. Conclusion In resource poor settings it is possible to manage pertussoid illness successfully with limited laboratory facilities. High ALC and thrombocytosis were useful in prognostication.