Differences in laboratory manifestations of enteric fever in children on the basis of age

Abstract

Background: Very scanty literature is available on clinical and laboratory manifestations of enteric fever in children on the basis of age difference in Pakistan. A study was therefore conducted to evaluate the laboratory manifestations of enteric fever on the basis of age. Methods: This study was conducted in Paediatric Department Bacha Khan Medical College Mardan, from1st April 2010 to 31st March 2011. All patients presenting with fever having positive Widal test and/or positive culture for Salmonella were included. In total 36 consecutive patients were included and divided into two age groups, 5years. The laboratory results of the two groups were compared. Recovery period and any complication in the two groups was also observed. Results: Mean age of presentation was 5- (5.0±3.0) years. Male to female ratio was 2:1. Common laboratory features were Anemia (88%), elevated liver enzymes (85%), and elevated ESR (80%). Leucocytosis was more common in 5 years (p=0.04). Complications were seen in 18.18% patients; of which 33.33% had serositis, 1 (16.67%) each had osteomylitis, synovitis, splenic abscess and shock. Majority (93.9%) recovered. 1 died and 1 was lost to follow up. Conclusion: Common Laboratory features of enteric fever include anemia, elevated liver enzymes and elevated ESR. Leukocytosis is mainly seen in 5 years. Recovery time is longer in >5yrs group than