DOI: 10.1177/30502225261501308 ISSN: 3050-2225
Neonatal Hypernatremic Dehydration Presenting as Fever Without a Source: A Case Report
Thanawat Madaeng, Nitiroj Bongkotwilawan, Chayatat Ruangkit, Sasivimon Soonsawad, Sirada ChongthavornvasanaDiagnosis of neonatal hypernatremic dehydration can be challenging, as it may present with nonspecific clinical symptoms such as fever and irritability, and a history of poor feeding may be absent. A high index of suspicion from physicians is therefore required. Our report describes a 5-day-old female neonate who presented with acute febrile illness and presumptive compensated shock, along with hypernatremia and multiple electrolyte derangements. Her parents reported normal feeding and voiding history. However, even a seemingly reassuring history can be misleading, underscoring the importance of detailed history taking.