Kawasaki disease shock syndrome rescued by a combination of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, steroids, and intravenous immunoglobulin

Kawasaki disease shock syndrome (KDSS) is defined as a sustained decrease in systolic blood pressure or signs of poor perfusion. Some children with KDSS are refractory to conventional therapy, such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). A 4-year-old boy with Kawasaki disease was referred to the emergency department. Despite the conventional therapy, his vital signs and cardiac function worsened. The boy promptly underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which did not relieve the symptoms. Subsequently, he underwent methylprednisolone pulse therapy and the second cycle of IVIG therapy. Two days after the start of a combination of ECMO, steroids, and IVIG started, his clinical condition was stabilized, and finally, ECMO was removed. This case highlights the combination of ECMO, steroids, and IVIG as a treatment option for children with IVIG-resistant KDSS.

Severe Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage in a Child after Taking an Improper Oral Rehydration Solution / 대한소아소화기영양학회지

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is safe and effective for the prevention and treatment of dehydration in children. It has been commercially available as a small packaging unit that needs to be taken with a specified amount of water. Intake of incorrectly formulated ORS results in side effects, such as electrolyte imbalance and upper gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance. We experienced a case of severe GI hemorrhage from gastric and duodenal ulcers in a previously healthy child following intake of incorrectly formulated ORS. GI hemorrhage in children is often life threatening and reaching a diagnosis may be challenging. Commercially manufactured packets of powdered oral rehydration salts have been widely used and GI hemorrhage associated with an improperly diluted ORS has been rarely reported. Caution and education for proper preparation of ORS are imperative.