Influenza B Myositis in Children A Rare but Manageable Post Viral Complication

Introduction

Influenza B isn’t just about respiratory symptomsit can lead to unexpected complications such as viral myositis, particularly in young children. A recent case report from Hospital Roosevelt in Guatemala City highlights a benign yet painful condition resulting from Influenza B. The documented case, involving an 8-year-old previously healthy male, brings to light the importance of recognizing and managing this condition effectively.
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Case Summary and Findings

• Patient Profile:
  8-year-old previously healthy male, unvaccinated for influenza.
• Symptoms:
  Developed fever (39°C), followed by a non-specific cough, lower limb weakness, and muscle pain, especially while walking.
• Diagnosis:
  • Rapid influenza test: Positive for Influenza B.
  • Elevated muscle enzymes:
    • CPK: 6160 U/L
    • CK-MB: 150.3 U/L
• Treatment and Recovery:
  • No signs of rhabdomyolysis.
  • Managed with NSAIDs.
  • Observed for 48 hours with a decline in enzyme levels (CPK to 750 U/L).
  • Full recovery within 10 days, no complications.

Understanding Influenza B-Associated Myositis

Acute viral myositis is a self-limiting muscle inflammation condition occurring during the convalescent phase of respiratory infections like Influenza B. It is more common in preschool and school-age children and presents as:

• Bilateral calf pain
• Muscle tenderness
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Normal neurological findings

Though rare, the most serious complication can be rhabdomyolysis, which necessitates early detection and proper monitoring.

External Medical Perspective

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that influenza complications can extend beyond the respiratory tract, occasionally affecting muscles and the nervous system, particularly in children and adolescents. Prompt recognition and supportive care remain the mainstays of treatment.
Learn more from CDC on influenza complications

Read the Full Case Report

A detailed analysis can be found in our main journal article:
https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.ijcv.1001051

Explore Related Topics

• Pediatric Influenza
• Viral Complications in Children
• Case Reports in Virology

Conclusion and Implications

This case underscores the need for heightened awareness among pediatricians and emergency care physicians about post-influenza complications like myositis. While rare, they are easily manageable with supportive care and can prevent unnecessary hospital admissions if properly diagnosed.

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