[Re-emergence of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus in French Guiana. Apropos of 1 confirmed case]. / Ré-émergence d'un virus du complexe de l'encéphalomyélite équine vénézuélienne en Guyane française. A propos d'un cas confirmé.

Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a mosquito-borne viral disease that occurs in equine species and in man. The strains can be grouped epidemiologically into two major categories: enzootic and epizootic. Enzootic strains cause sporadic human disease and are not associated with disease among equines. These strains are found throughout Florida. Central America, northern South America and Brazil. Epizootic strains are associated with enormous morbidity and mortality in equine species. In man, VEE virus infections are largely asymptomatic and in children and young adults there is an increased risk of encephalitis and dead. We report the first case in French Guiana of Venezuelan equine encephalitis. Clinical examination and biological studies showed encephalitis, interstitial pneumonia and acute liver failure. Despite an adequate symptomatic treatment, the young patient died five days after her admission in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Diagnosis is establishing by virologic test: VEE virus is isolated from the blood. These example of re-emerging infectious disease vividly illustrate that we remains vulnerable and emphasizes the need for an active surveillance system.

[Probable effect of hemofiltration on hemodynamics and tissue oxygenation in shock secondary to severe malaria]. / Rôle probable de l'hémofiltration sur l'hémodynamique et l'oxygénation tissulaire lors d'un état de choc au décours d'un paludisme grave.

The authors report a case of severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria in a French Guyana endemic area with secondary myocardial dysfunction treated by usual symptomatic therapy and continuous veno-venous haemofiltration (CVVH). Haemodynamic investigations revealed hyperkinetic shock and oxygen supply dependence. Haemodynamic remained critical under conventional therapy and CVVH was introduced. Haemodynamic parameters improved rapidly with reduced oxygen debt. In the absence of associated bacterial, viral and fungal infections, the systemic inflammatory response syndrome with shock and impairment of consciousness seems to be linked to severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The benefits and the probable mechanisms of action of CVVH are discussed.