Why are you being referred to an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Pediatric infectious disease specialists—the best care for children
Children’s bodies are growing and have unique medical needs. They are usually anxious and frightened and express their concerns differently than adults do. They cannot always answer medical questions and are not always able to be patient and cooperative. Pediatric infectious disease specialists know how to examine and treat children in a way that makes them relaxed and cooperative. They also understand the unique signs, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes/prognoses associated with infectious diseases in children. Furthermore, they understand that addressing the concerns of the parents is often just as important as meeting the needs of the child.
Pediatric Infectious Disease
Certain infections are often beyond the scope of a general pediatrician and family practitioner. Your child may require specialized testing and/or treatment that are best coordinated by an infectious disease specialist. Reviewing detailed information regarding your child’s history, performing a complete physical exam and reviewing diagnostic tests will often require more than the typical 10-15 minute appointment. Be prepared for an extended visit with an ID specialist. Furthermore, children are not “little adults”. Certain antibiotics that are often given to adults are unsafe and inappropriate in children. A pediatric infectious disease specialist is trained in use of appropriate treatment and testing for children alone. Rest assured that when you are referred to our practice that your child will be in the hands of a physician trained in the latest treatment options and diagnostic tools.
What kind of training do pediatric infectious disease specialists have?
Pediatric infectious disease specialists are medical doctors who have
- Graduated from medical school
- Completed pediatric residency training (at least 3 years)
- Completed infectious disease training (at least 3 years)
- Certification as a pediatric infectious disease specialist from the American Board of Pediatrics
What type of infections does an infectious disease specialists see?
Pediatric infectious disease specialists treat a wide range of infectious and immunologic diseases. Sometimes simple infections respond poorly to routine treatment requiring additional intervention. Other more complicated or rare infections require specialized care. Common conditions often seen in our office include the following:
- Illnesses that are of unclear cause, have a prolonged course or are recurrent
- Upper and lower respiratory infections such as sinusitis and pneumonia
- Bone and joint infections
- Recurrent staph skin infections
- Surgical infections
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Travel associated infections – malaria, typhoid
- HIV/Acquired Immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- Congenital/Newborn infections
- Meningitis
- Kawasaki Disease
- STD’s
- Immunodeficiency syndromes
If we can be any help to you in any way please don't hesitate to call 713-464-9776 or email us.
International travel for vacationing families can be an exciting and memorable trip for many children. However, certain vacation destinations and activities are prone for serious infections.
