Journal of paediatrics and child health
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Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections remain the leading viral cause of congenital malformations in the developed world. Despite advances in our knowledge, the epidemiology and natural history of congenital CMV infection are still poorly understood, particularly in Australia. ⋯ CMV infects only humans, and in vitro and in vivo models for intrauterine infection are required in order to test new treatments, and better describe the pathogenesis of congenital CMV. Using new knowledge of the epidemiology and natural history of CMV, treatment regimens during late pregnancy are currently undergoing clinical trial although no definitive recommendations are available.
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J Paediatr Child Health · Oct 2000
Epstein-Barr virus associated with immune thrombocytopenic purpura in childhood: a retrospective study.
Although Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is known to cause immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), the epidemiology of this pathogen in children with ITP is not known. In the present study, the clinicoepidemiology and laboratory characteristics of EBV-associated ITP in childhood were analysed retrospectively. ⋯ The incidence of childhood ITP associated with acute EBV infection is relatively high in Taiwan. Patients with EBV-associated ITP tended to resolve more slowly than those without EBV infection.
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J Paediatr Child Health · Aug 2000
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialA randomized controlled trial of azithromycin and amoxycillin/clavulanate in the management of subacute childhood rhinosinusitis.
Subacute childhood rhinosinusitis is a disorder commonly seen in children with allergic rhinitis. Antibiotics have been recommended as a major component of the treatment regime. The objective of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of a 3-day course of azithromycin and a 2-week course of amoxycillin/clavulanate in the treatment of subacute childhood rhinosinusitis. ⋯ This small study did not provide evidence of a difference between 14 days of amoxycillin/clavulanate and 3 days of azithromycin. Larger studies will be needed to determine which, if any, antibiotic regimen should be used in treating subacute childhood rhinosinusitis.
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J Paediatr Child Health · Aug 2000
Prevalence and pattern of childhood abdominal pain in an Australian general practice.
Abdominal pain is a common problem in childhood and accounts for a significant workload in general practice. The aim of this study was assess the nature of abdominal pain in a sample of Australian children attending a Western Australian general practice for any reason, and to determine factors associated with the reporting of such pain. ⋯ Abdominal pain remains a common problem of children attending an Australian general practice, and was associated with features suggesting that it is related to anxiety and coping ability. Abdominal pain is not usually associated with disease; most families recognize this and cope with abdominal pain without medical consultation.