Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious intestinal disease that mostly affects newborn babies, especially those who are born prematurely or have a very low birth weight. In this condition, parts of the intestine become inflamed and begin to die (a process called necrosis). If not treated quickly, NEC can cause holes (perforations) in the bowel, … Read more
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that belongs to the herpes family. It can infect people of any age and usually does not cause symptoms in healthy individuals. However, it can lead to serious illness in people with weakened immune systems such as those who have received organ transplants or have HIV/AIDS and in babies … Read more
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common and easily spread virus that infects the lungs and airways. It is a major cause of respiratory illness around the world, especially in infants and young children, but it can also affect older adults and people with weak immune systems. Almost all children come into contact with RSV … Read more
Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by spiral-shaped bacteria called Leptospira. It spreads mainly through contact with water, soil, or food contaminated by the urine of infected animals, especially rodents such as rats. The bacteria can survive for long periods in warm and wet environments, so the disease is more common in tropical and subtropical … Read more
Fifth disease, also known as erythema infectiosum or “slapped cheek syndrome,” is a common viral illness caused by parvovirus B19. This virus infects only humans and is one of the five classic childhood rash illnesses, along with measles, scarlet fever, rubella, and roseola. The infection is found worldwide and often appears during late winter and … Read more
Roseola, also called sixth disease or exanthem subitum, is a common viral illness that mainly affects babies and young children, especially those between 6 months and 2 years old. It is caused by two closely related viruses, human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and, less often, human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7). These viruses belong to the same family … Read more
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral infection that mostly affects babies and young children, although adults can sometimes get it too. It causes fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash that usually appears on the hands and feet, but can also show up on other areas of the body. The illness is … Read more
Epiglottitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which the epiglottis – a small flap of tissue that covers the windpipe during swallowing – becomes swollen and inflamed. This swelling can quickly block the airway, making it difficult to breathe. Because of this risk, the condition requires rapid diagnosis and emergency treatment to prevent … Read more
Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused mainly by two species, Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. It is found worldwide and is most dangerous for people with weakened immune systems. This includes individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS, people who have received organ or stem cell transplants, and patients taking medications that suppress the immune system, such as … Read more
Aspergillosis is an infection caused by Aspergillus, a common type of mold found in soil, decaying plants, dust, and indoor environments. Although more than 300 species of Aspergillus exist, only a few cause illness in humans, with Aspergillus fumigatus being the most frequent source. The infection usually begins in the lungs, since people inhale the … Read more