Severe post-influenza complications leading to multiligamentous limb amputation in a pediatric patient

Title : Severe post-influenza complications leading to multiligamentous limb amputation in a pediatric patient

Abstract:

We report a 19 year old female who presents for follow up for surgical consultation two years post limb amputation. Two years prior, the patient, then 17 years old, had presented to the emergency department with fever, malaise, and respiratory symptoms, progressing to hypotension and multiorgan dysfunction despite supportive care. Viral testing was performed and was positive for influenza A/B. Her inpatient care focused on maintaining stable vital signs and preventing sepsis and intubation. However, as her hospital stay progressed, her nutritional status declined. This resulted in severely compromised perfusion in all four extremities, necessitating amputation of both legs just above the thigh, amputation of the left arm a few inches below the shoulder, and the right arm at the elbow. In the present day, the patient had presented due to an odd occurrence. The patient experienced continued extremity bone growth between the ages of 17-19, requiring repeat amputation.

Biography:

Feryal Hilmi is a medical student with clinical and research interests in infectious disease, and pediatric medicine. Her academic work focuses on the intersection of health policy and access to care. She has contributed to case reports and scholarly projects examining rare clinical presentations and health disparities. Hilmi is particularly interested in prevention-focused models of care and the role of regulatory policy in shaping patient access to dermatologic and medical treatments.