A rare presentation of measles and post-measles complications in a neonate: case report

Abstract

Measles is a common infection in children. Measles infection in children less than 6 months of age is very rare since maternal antibodies play a major role in the prevention of the disease. Here we present a rare case of a 34-day-old infant, who had a history of fever with a rash on the 18th day of life and significant history of measles contact with mother and elder brother. The patient presented to us with septic shock and multiorgan involvement in the form of pneumonia, acute gastroenteritis with severe dehydration, mucopurulent conjunctivitis, and post-measles encephalitis. The patient had a strong measles contact and epidemiological linkage to the measles epicenter, Govandi (a locality in the Mumbai region of western India), so measles IgM antibody was obtained which were significantly raised. The patient was successfully revived from this critical presentation with early and appropriate resuscitation, timely ionotropic support, and the use of empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics. The patient required intensive unit care for four days and was started on feeds and discharged after 12 days of hospital stay. On follow-up, the patient is doing well and gaining weight. Uncommon presentation and the epidemiology of the disease should alert the clinician of having a high index of suspicion. Early intervention and prompt treatment can help reduce morbidity and mortality.