Search

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), endemic in certain regions of the world, is listed as a priority disease with pandemic potential. Since CCHF was first identified in Turkey, children have been known to experience milder disease than adults. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we observed an unusually severe disease course, including hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). We examined cytokine/chemokine profiles of 9/12 case-patients compared with healthy controls at 3 time intervals. Interferon pathway–related cytokines/chemokines, including interleukin (IL) 18, macrophage inflammatory protein 3α, and IL-33, were elevated, but tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6, CXCL8 (formerly IL-8), and cytokines acting through C-C chemokine receptor 2 and CCR5 were lower among case-patients than controls. Interferon pathway activation and cytokines/chemokines acting through CCR2 and CCR5 improved health results among children with severe CCHF. Children can experience severe CCHF, including HLH, and HLH secondary to CCHF can be successfully treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and steroid therapy.

Objective: A questionnaire form was prepared by the Turkish Pediatric Hematology Society- Subcommittee of Hemostasis, Thrombosis and Hemophilia to determine the current approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood ITP in our country. Our aim was to share the results of this study, and to do new, national, multicenter prospective studies. Methodology: This form, which consists of twenty questions with multiple choices, but a brief explanation is requested when there is a different approach other than the options given, was sent to all pediatric hematologists via e-mail. Results: The response was obtained from 55 hematologists experienced in ITP from 47 centers in total. Due to space constraints, this summary could not present the survey questions and answers. Conclusion: In conclusion, the approaches for diagnosis and management of childhood ITP differ between centers.