Large necrosis of the scalp following temporal catheter placement in an infant with severe acute malnutrition: A case report

Abstract

Scalp necrosis is uncommon in malnourished children, yet temporal catheterization is frequently observed in pediatric hospital settings. The condition is characterized by a black, hard, and unresponsive scalp. Etiologies such as temporal arteritis, burns, and Takayasu’s disease, have been proposed. There is a decline in the use of peripheral catheter monitoring in hospitals. War-related food shortages and social instability significantly affect the trauma and risks that undermine the health, social, and psychological well-being of children. This report describes the case of a 5-month-old infant suffering from severe acute malnutrition following the abduction and subsequent release of his mother by armed individuals after one and a half weeks. The infant, who underwent temporal catheterization for medication administration, presented with extensive scalp necrosis. The necrotic tissue was surgically removed, and the malnutrition was successfully treated, resulting in a favorable clinical outcome. The mother received comprehensive mother-child care from a psychologist.