Fatal rare case of measles complicated by bilateral pulmonary embolism: a case report and short literature review

Abstract

Different endemic outbreaks of measles have been diagnosed worldwide during the last several years. Some have had severe and fatal complications, possibly because of decreasing vaccination rates. The present case report describes an unvaccinated boy aged 2 years 11 months who was diagnosed with severe measles complicated by pulmonary embolism (PE). Clinical examination revealed a maculopapular rash, hyperemic pharynx, Koplik’s spots, upper respiratory airway obstruction, and tachycardia with no meningeal signs of irritation. Laboratory investigations showed leukocytosis, anemia, normal liver enzyme levels, a moderately high C-reactive protein level (26 mg/L), a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (65 mm/h), and immunoglobulin M positivity for measles. The patient was treated with antibiotic therapy (meropenem at 20 mg/kg every 8 hours) and supportive measures (anti-inflammatory drugs and intravenous rehydration). On the fourth day of hospitalization, the patient’s general condition became profoundly altered; although cardiorespiratory resuscitation maneuvers were initiated, the child died. Autopsy revealed bilateral pleural effusion with serous citrine fluid, acute purulent bronchopneumonia, bilateral hilar adenopathy, and bilateral PE. Additional research is needed to establish optimal care for pediatric patients with measles, especially when complicated by PE.