Erroneous perception of a clinical sign: Sepsis-induced cholestasis mimicking hepatitis in an adolescent patient

Background: In children and adolescents, isolated cholestasis rarely is a first clinical sign of severe sepsis. Case: A previously healthy 14-year-old adolescent had severe S. aureus sepsis. Delayed diagnosis required a prolonged antimicrobial treatment. Conclusion: This unique case illustrates the importance of considering jaundice as an early sign of sepsis.