The Successful Management of Gangrenous Pneumococcal Infection in an Infant With Polysplenia Syndrome

This study describes the successful management of gangrenous pneumococcal infection in an infant with polysplenia, a rare congenital malformation characterized by multiple aberrant nodules of splenic tissue. The patient, a three-month-old girl with congenital heart defects and incomplete vaccination, presented with fever, irritability, and oxygen desaturation, followed by erythematous skin changes. The diagnosis revealed sepsis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, accompanied by extensive gangrenous skin lesions and signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Polysplenia was incidentally discovered during radiological investigation. Aggressive resuscitation measures and prolonged antibiotic administration led to significant improvement, including regression of skin lesions. This case emphasizes the importance of timely immunization and parental awareness for infants with spleen-related congenital malformations. Screening for undiagnosed malformative defects in congenital heart disease patients can aid in early detection and prevention of life-threatening complications. The successful management demonstrates the critical role of pediatric intensive care units in treating severe systemic infections.