Pediatric Infectious Disease

Specialized Evaluation and Treatment at Sandy Springs Pediatrics

Sandy Springs Pediatrics offers expert pediatric infectious disease consultations for children experiencing complex, recurrent, or unexplained infections. These evaluations are available by referral and are designed to provide clarity, diagnosis, and tailored care plans for a wide range of conditions.

A Few of the Many Conditions We Evaluate and Treat

Bone and Joint Infections

These infections, such as osteomyelitis or septic arthritis, can occur when bacteria spread through the bloodstream or enter the body through an injury or surgical procedure. They often cause localized pain, swelling, fever, and difficulty moving the affected limb or joint. Prompt evaluation and targeted antibiotic therapy are essential to prevent long-term damage.

Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects children under age 5 and can lead to serious complications involving the heart, including coronary artery aneurysms. Symptoms include prolonged fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, red eyes, and changes in the mouth or extremities. Early diagnosis and treatment with IVIG and aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of cardiac complications.

Recurrent Strep Throat, Tonsillitis, and PFAPA

Children with frequent episodes of sore throat, tonsillitis, or fevers may be experiencing repetitive bacterial infections or conditions like PFAPA (Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, and Adenitis). PFAPA is a non-infectious syndrome characterized by cyclic fever and inflammation. Evaluation helps distinguish between bacterial causes and inflammatory syndromes to guide treatment.

Recurrent Herpes Skin and Eye Infections

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause recurrent infections in children, including cold sores, genital lesions, and ocular herpes. Repeated outbreaks may point to underlying immune issues or require long-term antiviral management to prevent complications, especially when the eyes are involved.

Recurrent Staph/MRSA Skin Infections and Abscesses

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other staph infections can lead to recurrent skin infections, abscesses, or boils. These infections often require drainage and targeted antibiotics. Children with frequent episodes may need evaluation for nasal colonization or underlying immune conditions.

Prolonged Fever or Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO)

A fever lasting more than 7-10 days without an obvious cause may be considered a fever of unknown origin. These cases require comprehensive evaluation to uncover potential infectious, autoimmune, or oncologic causes. Infectious disease specialists play a key role in identifying subtle or uncommon infections.

Congenital Infections (TORCH, Herpes, CMV, Toxoplasmosis)

Congenital infections are transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy and can affect neurological development, vision, hearing, and growth. The TORCH group (Toxoplasmosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex) includes infections that require careful monitoring and early intervention to manage long-term effects.

Serious and/or Frequent Infections

Children with frequent illnesses—such as repeated ear infections, pneumonias, or hospitalizations for infection—may require evaluation for underlying immune deficiencies. Identifying these patterns early allows for proactive treatment, immunologic testing, and infection prevention strategies.

Tuberculosis (TB)

TB is a bacterial infection that typically affects the lungs but can also involve other organs. Pediatric TB may present with persistent cough, weight loss, or fatigue, or be discovered during contact tracing. Diagnosis involves a combination of skin testing, blood tests, imaging, and sometimes culture. Treatment is long-term but highly effective.

HIV in Children and Adolescents

HIV can affect the immune system’s ability to fight infections and is managed very differently in pediatric patients than adults. With modern antiviral therapy, children with HIV can live long, healthy lives. Care involves regular monitoring, medication management, and immune system support.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)

SJS is a rare but serious disorder often triggered by infections or medications, characterized by skin blistering, mucosal involvement, and systemic symptoms. It requires immediate medical attention and supportive care, often in a hospital setting. Long-term follow-up helps manage complications and prevent recurrence.

Medically Complex Children with Recurrent Infections

Children with congenital conditions, neurologic disorders, or other complex medical needs often experience frequent infections due to factors like medical devices or impaired immunity. Infectious disease consultation helps to tailor preventive strategies and coordinate care with subspecialists.

About Dr. Steven L. Shore

Dr. Steven L. Shore is a board-certified pediatric infectious disease and immunology physician. With over five decades of clinical experience, Dr. Shore is one of the most accomplished pediatric infectious disease physicians in the Southeast, bringing deep expertise to complex, chronic, and recurrent infections in children—from newborns to adolescents.

He is widely recognized as a pioneer in his field and has evaluated thousands of pediatric cases with complex or rare infections.

• Medical Degree: Johns Hopkins University
• Pediatric Residency: Boston Children’s Hospital
• Fellowship: Pediatric Infectious Disease and Immunology, Emory University
• Founder and Division Chief of Pediatric Infectious Disease at Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital (1981–2015)
• Honored as one of Atlanta Magazine’s “Best Doctors” from 1988 to 2018

Dr. Shore is accepting infectious disease consultations at Sandy Springs Pediatrics by referral. His extensive knowledge, compassionate care, and collaborative approach make him a trusted resource for both families and referring physicians.

To schedule or refer, call our office at 404-252-4611.