ACUTE INFECTIVE PERICARDITIS IN INFANCY

Abstract

Infective pericarditis [bacterial] is rare; the characteristic presenting illness in 3 children, each aged under 1 yr, is recorded. Early diagnosis is important since surgical drainage of the pericardium is often necessary in addition to antibiotic therapy. The clinical features may suggest pericarditis, but diagnosis is readily and reliably confirmed by echocardiography.