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Case report
Ref Number: APCP-PP-183

Chikungunya infection camouflaged as acute glomerulonephritis in an infant

Gayani Wijesinghe¹, Mihira Manamperi¹, Thilini Somarathne², Chathuri Chapa Bandara¹, Prabhashwara Kularathne¹
1- Paediatric Department, Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Sri Lanka 2- Medical Research Institute, Sri Lanka
Corresponding Author: Gayani Wijesinghe (gayaneeisurika@gmail.com)
Abstract Body
Introduction: Chikungunya virus infection is an arbo viral illness commonly presenting with fever and joint symptoms. Common Paediactric dermatological manifestations in chikungunya include generalized erythematous rash, purpura and aphthae. We are reporting a rare case of an infant who presented with periorbital swelling and pedal oedema following a chikungunya infection. Case presentation: An 8-month-old boy presented with a 4-day history of high-grade fever,poor feeding, and reduced urine output, along with marked periorbital and pedal oedema which was pronounced on day 4 of illness. His blood pressure was on the 95th centile, without signs of fluid overload or heart failure. The possibility of evolving acute glomerulonephritis was considered and further investigations were planned. Urinalysis revealed trace to 1+ proteinuria, without haematuria or casts. Serum protein, albumin, and cholesterol were within normal limits. Abdominal ultrasonography showed no renal parenchymal changes or free fluid. Fever spikes persisted, and there was a strong contact history of chikungunya infection. Serology was sent on day 6; IgM was positive for chikungunya. Oedema resolved gradually , and the renal function remained normal. Discussion and Conclusion: Although dermatological manifestations are common in chikungunya infection, generalised oedema without renal pathology is unusual. The probable mechanism is transient capillary leakage triggered by viral infection. This presentation can closely resemble acute glomerulonephritis, leading to diagnostic dilemma. In endemic areasduring chikungunya outbreaks, the condition should be considered in infants presenting with periorbital and pedal oedema to avoid unnecessary traumatic invasive investigations and inappropriate treatment.
Keywords: Acute glomerulonephritis; Chikungunya infection; Dermatological manifestations
Presentation Type: Case report
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