THE PROTEAN manifestations of influenza virus infections are well known. Encephalitis and purpura are rare complications of this infection, and our case is presented to document the occurrence of both these unusual findings in a child who was infected with the Asian influenza virus.
Report of Case
A 12-month-old boy was admitted to the San Francisco General Hospital on April 12, 1963. He had been in good health until three days prior to admission, at which time he developed rhinorrhea, sore throat, and a low-grade fever. On the day before admission his family physician noted congestion of the pharynx and tympanic membranes, and prescribed promethazine (Phenergan) and tetracycline. Several hours before admission the child had "bizarre movements" and could not sit up. Past medical history was noncontributory except for a primary smallpox vaccination 25 days prior to admission (March 18, 1963).On admission this child was irritable, moderately disoriented, with