Malignant Pertussis in 2-Month-Old Infant: A case report

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. This case report describes a 2-month-old female infant with malignant pertussis, complicated by marked hyperleukocytosis—a condition associated with poor prognosis. Upon emergency admission, the infant presented with severe respiratory distress, oral cyanosis, and bilateral wheezing. Laboratory tests revealed a white blood cell (WBC) count of 125 G/L, with hyperbasophilic lymphocytes observed on blood smear. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test confirmed Bordetella pertussis infection. Despite the prompt initiation of macrolide antibiotic therapy, the patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, and she died within 24 hours of admission to the intensive care unit. This case underscores the critical importance of early diagnosis and intervention in malignant pertussis and advocates for enhanced preventive strategies, particularly maternal vaccination during pregnancy to protect vulnerable neonates.