Advanced International Journal for Research

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A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 4 (July-August 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

Prolonged Febrile Illness Due to Brucellosis in a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Thalassemia Minor and Vitamin D deficiency: A diagnostic Challenge

Author(s) Dr. Narender Tatikonda, Dr. Alluraiah Segu, Dr. Shabnam Khanam Javed Khan, Dr. Bala Keerthana Mekala
Country India
Abstract Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with protean manifestations and remains under diagnosed in children, especially when presenting as a prolonged fever without focus. Co-morbid neurodevelopmental disorders and haemoglobinopathies may further complicate evaluation.

Case Presentation: We report a 6 year old boy with autism spectrum disorder, thalassemia minor and vitamin D deficiency, who presented with intermittent high-grade fever, nocturnal limb pain, abdominal discomfort, and hepato-splenic involvement. Extensive evaluation for common tropical and infectious causes was negative. Serology revealed Brucella Immunoglobulin M (IgM) positivity, while blood cultures remained sterile and Brucella polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was negative. The child responded clinically to oral rifampicin and co-trimoxazole therapy, though the course was complicated by intermittent fever recurrence and drug-related cutaneous reactions.

Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering brucellosis in children with prolonged fever, even in the absence of classical exposure history or positive cultures. Early recognition and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are crucial to prevent complications.
Keywords Brucellosis, Paediatrics, Prolonged fever, Autism spectrum disorder, Thalassemia minor, Vitamin D deficiency
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 7, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-06-18

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