Influenza-like illness in the context of "Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection"

👉 Influenza-like illness in the context of Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection

An overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) is a rare but rapidly fatal infection occurring in individuals following removal (or permanent dysfunction) of the spleen. The infections are typically characterized by either meningitis or sepsis, and are caused by encapsulated organisms including Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Death has been reported to occur within 12 hours.

The spleen is necessary for protection against encapsulated bacteria (see Mechanism) and as such when removed by splenectomy it can lead to rapid unchallenged infection by encapsulated bacteria. The rapid progression from mild viral symptoms to sepsis is one of the things that makes OPSI particularly dangerous.

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Influenza-like illness in the context of Ross River fever

Ross River fever is a mosquito-borne disease caused by infection with the Ross River virus. The illness is typically characterised by flu like symptoms combined with polyarthritis and a rash. The virus is endemic to mainland Australia and Tasmania, the island of New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, the Cook Islands, New Caledonia and several other islands in the South Pacific. The illness is Queensland's most prolific mosquito-borne disease.

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Influenza-like illness in the context of "Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection"

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👉 Influenza-like illness in the context of Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection

Influenza-like illness in the context of Ross River fever