Childhood infections are one of the most common reasons for a parent to bring a child to see a healthcare provider. While the majority of infections are benign and recovery is quick, situations do arise when consultation with a specialist is needed for evaluation of children with recurrent, prolonged, or severe infections.

The pediatric specialists in the Infectious Disease and Immunology section assist in the diagnosis and management of children with a variety of known or suspected infections as well as immune deficiencies. Children are commonly referred for outpatient evaluation of recurrent or prolonged infections, persistent fever, suspected immune deficiency, enlarged lymph nodes, pneumonia, and a wide range of childhood infections. Children with meningitis, encephalitis, bone infections, endocarditis, and a spectrum of serious or difficult-to-treat infections are usually evaluated by the Infectious Disease specialists in an inpatient setting.


Pediatric & Adolescent HIV Program

HIV infection continues in epidemic proportions worldwide. However, significant advances in the reduction of perinatal transmission (passed to the baby while in the mother's womb or during labor and delivery) and treatment of HIV disease continue to alter and mold standards of HIV medical management in the United States. Physicians caring for HIV-infected children must strive for optimal medical management of the infection to assure the best quality of life possible for each child.

The pediatric and adolescent HIV specialists in the Infectious Diseases and Immunology section assist in the management of infants, children, and adolescents exposed to or infected with HIV. The pediatric and adolescent HIV care team recognizes that each child has unique health care needs, which are best addressed in the context of the family and social environment. The team strives to use all available resources to optimize control of the HIV infection, but also enrich the child's nutrition and development, address emotional and spiritual issues, and enhance the child's quality of life.