The evaluation of brucellosis in children in an endemic region of Turkey, Van

Brucellosis is an important infectious disease especially endemic in Eastern and Southeastern Turkey. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and treatment results of Brucellosis in children. Children with nonspecific findings suggestive of Brucellosis were included from September 2010 to February 2011 from the outpatient clinic. The symptoms, physical findings and laboratory values are analyzed in 43 children who were diagnosed as Brucellosis.The mean age of children was 9.3 years (range: 4-13 years), 51%n:22) were male. Most common complaint was fatigue (100%), myalgia (100%) and weight loss (86%). Arthritis (48%), lymphadenopathy (6%), and splenomegaly (13%) has been identified. Laboratory values revealed high sedimentation rates (51%), high AST/ALT (65%), high CRP levels (72%). Brucella agglutination test was positive in all of the patients. Brucella was identified in 6% of blood cultures. All of the patients were treated with antibiotics of least two-drug combination. The relapse rate was 11% (n=5) and no mortality was observed. Brucellosis is an important health issue, especially in endemic regions, necessitating preventive measures and effective treatment.

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