A 2 year old child is admitted to ICU due to complications which is thought to be secondary to measles infection. Which of the following is the LEAST common complication of measles?
## Core Concept
Measles, caused by the measles virus, is a highly contagious infection that can lead to various complications, especially in young children. These complications can be categorized into immediate and late complications. Immediate complications often involve the respiratory system, while late complications can involve the immune system.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
To determine the least common complication of measles from the given options, we need to assess each option against known complications of measles. Common complications include otitis media (due to secondary bacterial infection), pneumonia (either due to the measles virus itself or secondary bacterial infection), and laryngotracheobronchitis.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option is not provided, but typically common complications such as otitis media, pneumonia, and diarrhea are frequently seen.
- **Option B:** Similarly, without specifics, if an option lists a well-recognized complication like encephalitis or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), it would be considered more common in the context of measles complications.
- **Option C:** If an option mentions a rare but known complication, it still might not be the least common.
- **Option D:** This option is stated as the correct answer, implying it represents a less common complication of measles.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A notable and rare but serious complication of measles is **Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE)**, a progressive neurological disorder that occurs years after measles infection. However, in the context of acute complications leading to ICU admission, especially in a 2-year-old, **pneumonia and otitis media** are more frequently encountered.
## Correct Answer: D.