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bulging anterior fontanelle

Today's case:
I'm covering ER this weekend and at noon get called in to see a 3 month old
with a 4 day hx of fever (99.5-102 otic), no vomiting, one "sort of loose"
stool, and bulging fontanelle since 7pm previous evening.
One day prior to onset of fever baby was exposed to neighbor child with
"viral illness".
Baby has decreased po intake [low Fe similac and has been on "baby cereal"
for 3 weeks], and decreased urine output. Described by mom as "irritable"
and not her "usual self", but still interactive and recognizes parents.

PMH: Full term, SVD, only previous issue occasional diaper rash, imms up to
date for 2 months.

SH: Cared for by mom, first baby - lives with mom & dad, grandparents
involved.

PE: T=38.7 rectal [last tylenol 3am] other VS nl
bulging ant. fontanelle - 5 cm x 4 cm x 2.5 cm high - firm
PERRL, would track objects, interactive (smiled) but fussy
rest of exam unremarkable -

My question is this: The only kids I've seen before with a bulging ant.
fontanelle have been VERY ill [status or comatose] - have you seen this
level of presentation before?

[I'll post labs, etc. in a later post]
Gail
Gail S. Hertz, MD, IBCLC
Resident,  Dept. of Pediatrics
PSGHS Children's Hospital
Hershey  PA