What is Neonatal Sepsis?
Neonatal sepsis is a severe infection in newborns, typically occurring within the first 28 days of life. It can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi acquired from the mother, the environment, or medical procedures.
Types of Neonatal Sepsis
Neonatal sepsis is categorized into two main types:
1.
Early-onset sepsis (EOS): Occurs within the first 72 hours of life, commonly due to organisms present in the mother's genital tract.
2.
Late-onset sepsis (LOS): Develops after 72 hours of life, often associated with pathogens from the environment or healthcare settings.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes:-
Group B Streptococcus (GBS)- Escherichia coli
- Listeria monocytogenes
- Herpes simplex virus
- Candida species
Risk Factors:
- Prematurity
- Low birth weight
- Prolonged rupture of membranes
- Maternal infection
- Invasive medical procedures
Signs and Symptoms
Neonatal sepsis can present with a wide range of symptoms, which can be non-specific and subtle in newborns:
- Poor feeding
- Lethargy
- Hypothermia or fever
- Respiratory distress
- Apnea
- Irritability
- Jaundice
- Abdominal distensionDiagnosis
Diagnosing neonatal sepsis can be challenging due to the non-specific nature of symptoms. Key diagnostic tests include:
-
Blood cultures- Complete blood count (CBC)
- C-reactive protein (CRP) levels
- Lumbar puncture
- Urine cultures
- Chest X-ray
Treatment
Early and aggressive treatment is crucial for improving outcomes in neonatal sepsis. The mainstay of treatment includes:
-
Antibiotics: Empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics are started immediately after obtaining cultures and adjusted based on the results.
- Supportive care: This may include respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and other treatments as needed.
Prevention
Several strategies can help reduce the risk of neonatal sepsis:
- Maternal screening and treatment for GBS during pregnancy
-
Aseptic techniques during delivery and neonatal care
- Prompt identification and treatment of maternal infections
- Proper hand hygiene and infection control measures in healthcare settings
Prognosis
The prognosis of neonatal sepsis depends on factors such as the type of pathogen, the timing of diagnosis and treatment, and the overall health of the infant. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of recovery.Conclusion
Neonatal sepsis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention and intervention. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing early signs and symptoms, and implementing preventive measures are essential for improving outcomes in affected newborns.
