Search

OBJECTIVE: There is widespread overuse of antibiotics in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The objective of this study was to safely reduce antibiotic use in participating NICUs by targeting early-onset sepsis (EOS) management. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty-eight NICUs participated in this statewide multicenter antibiotic stewardship quality improvement collaborative. The primary aim was to reduce the total monthly mean antibiotic utilization rate (AUR) by 25% in participant NICUs. RESULT: Aggregate AUR was reduced by 15.3% (p

BACKGROUND: Neonatal Escherichia coli (E coli) meningitis results in significant morbidity and mortality. We present a case of a premature infant with extensive central nervous system (CNS) injury from recurrent E coli infection and the non-traditional methods necessary to identify and clear the infection. CASE PRESENTATION: The infant was transferred to our institutions pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) after recurrence of E coli CNS infection requiring neurosurgical intervention. He had been treated for early onset sepsis (EOS) with ampicillin and gentamicin for 10 days followed by rapid development of ampicillin-resistant E coli septic shock and meningitis after discontinuation of antibiotics. Sterility of the CNS was not confirmed at the end of 21 days of cefepime therapy and was subsequently followed by recurrent ampicillin-resistant E coli septic shock and CNS infection. Despite 6 weeks of appropriate therapy with sterility of CSF by traditional methods, he suffered from intractable seizures with worsening hydrocephalus. Transferred to our institution, he underwent endoscopic 3rd ventriculostomy with cyst fenestration revealing purulent fluid and significant pleocytosis. An additional 3 weeks of systemic and intraventricular antibiotics with cefepime and tobramycin were given but a significant CNS neutrophil-predominant pleocytosis persisted (average of ∼ 21,000 cells/mm3). Repeated gram stains, cultures, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and metagenomic next generation sequencing (NGS) testing of CSF were negative for pathogens but acridine orange stain (AO) revealed numerous intact rod-shaped bacteria. After the addition of ciprofloxacin, sterility and resolution of CSF pleocytosis was finally achieved. CONCLUSION: Neonatal E coli meningitis is a well-known entity but unlike other bacterial infections, it has not proven amenable to shorter, more narrow-spectrum antibiotic courses or limiting invasive procedures such as lumbar punctures. Further, microbiologic techniques to determine CSF sterility suffer from poorly understood limitations leading to premature discontinuation of antibiotics risking further neurologic damage in vulnerable hosts.

Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection remains a leading cause of newborn morbidity and mortality. The study aimed to determine the adherence rate to the universal screening policy a decade after its introduction. Secondly, whether the timing of antibiotics given in GBS carriers reduces the incidence of neonatal sepsis. Methods: Delivery records at Hong Kong Baptist Hospital in 2022 were examined to retrieve antenatal and intrapartum details regarding maternal GBS carrier status, previous maternal GBS carrier status, antibiotic treatment, timing of treatment, neonatal condition at birth and whether the neonate had sepsis. Univariate statistics was used to assess the relationship between maternal GBS carrier and neonatal sepsis overall. Incidence of neonatal sepsis was stratified according to mode of delivery and timing of antibiotic. Results: The adherence rate to the universal GBS screening policy was 97%. The risk of neonatal sepsis was 5.45 (95% CI 3.05 to 9.75) times higher in women who were GBS screened positive when compared to non-GBS carriers (p < 0.001). Amongst term neonates from GBS carriers delivered by Caesarean section, the risk of neonatal sepsis significantly decreased by 70% after antenatal antibiotic treatment (p = 0.041) whereas in term neonates delivered vaginally, the risk of neonatal sepsis decreased by 71% (p = 0.022) if intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis was given 4 or more hours. Conclusion: Giving antenatal antibiotic treatment before Caesarean section or intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis for 4 or more hours before vaginal delivery may decrease the risk of neonatal sepsis in term neonates delivered from GBS carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Early onset sepsis (EOS) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the newborn period. This has led to overinvestigation and antibiotic overuse, which remains a concern in EOS management. Sepsis risk calculator (SRC), a tool validated in American and European populations, aids physicians in sepsis risk stratification and has been shown to decrease antibiotics overuse for EOS. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the SRC in a tertiary referral center in Lebanon. Methods This was a single-center retrospective cohort study, conducted at a tertiary medical center in Beirut, Lebanon, that included infants born at more than 34 weeks' gestational age between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2019. Data was collected on risk factors for neonatal sepsis and the clinical management performed on each newborn. The SRC was used to calculate a sepsis risk score for each patient. Comparison between actual management performed and SRC recommendation was measured. Results We reviewed 3,085 charts, out of which 257 charts were excluded. Patients were stratified into two groups: high sepsis risk and low sepsis risk. Out of the 2,828 patients included, 81 infants (2.9%) had high risk of sepsis, out of which 2 patients had positive blood cultures. There were no patients with a low SRC score who had positive blood cultures. There were no patients who were supposed to receive antibiotics per the SRC recommendation who did not undergo workup for sepsis. Implementing SRC would have prevented antibiotics administration in 42 (1.5%) patients. Conclusion SRC was adequately capable of detecting neonates with sepsis without missing actual cases of EOS, providing initial support for its safety in the population studied. Implementing the SRC would result in reduced usage of antibiotics, laboratory tests, and admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is no consensus regarding the relationship between neonatal transfer and duration of hospitalization in cases of impaired mother-infant bonding (MIB). This study aimed to determine whether neonatal transfer and duration of hospitalization of newborns increase the risk for impaired MIB. The MIB Scale was used to assess impaired MIB 1 year after delivery, using data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study. A score ≥ 5 points indicated impaired MIB. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the association between neonatal transfer and duration of hospitalization of newborns with the risk of impaired MIB. A total of 66,402 pregnant women were included in the study. The overall incidence rate of impaired MIB was 11.2 %. The mean duration of hospitalization of newborns was 7.1 ± 6.4 days. After adjusting for potential confounders, neonatal transfer (adjusted odd ratio (OR): 1.13 [95 % confidence interval (CI)), 1.01–1.27]) and duration of hospitalization of newborns (adjusted OR 1.007; 95 % CI 1.003–1.010) were associated with impaired MIB. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the duration of hospitalization of newborns for impaired MIB was 0.53. Maternal childhood abuse and neglect history were not evaluated, and information regarding whether the infants were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit was unavailable. Japanese women whose newborns underwent neonatal transfer should be followed up for at least 1 year after delivery, regardless of the duration of hospitalization of newborns. • We report whether newborn hospitalization duration indicates MIB impairment. • Neonatal transfer was associated with a MIB impairment 1 year after delivery. • Related neonates should be monitored for at least 1 year after delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a frequent colonizer of the human genital and gastrointestinal tract. In pregnant or postpartum persons, colonization is often asymptomatic and can contribute to infectious morbidity in both the parturient and the newborn. The prevalence of invasive GBS disease has dramatically decreased over the past 3 decades. However, despite standardized clinical algorithms, GBS disease remains a public health concern. Our review summarizes the GBS bacteria pathophysiology, morbidity, management guidelines, and summarizes ongoing research. While novel testing and parturient vaccination are being explored, barriers exist, preventing guideline updates and widespread implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In India, 25%–65% of neonatal deaths are due to sepsis. Since it produces nonspecific symptoms, it is difficult to diagnose and manage. The present study assessed the value of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to predict sepsis along with blood culture. Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from 90 neonates with suspected sepsis, submitted for blood culture, CRP by latex agglutination kit, and BNP by ELISA. Results: Of the 90 cases, blood culture was positive in 25 (28%) cases, BNP in 45 (50%) cases, and CRP in 36 (40%) cases. BNP was positive among 25 (100%) blood culture-positive cases. CRP, BNP, and blood culture were positive in 16 (18%) cases. Conclusion: Although BNP is an equally good marker in predicting sepsis, it is not widely available. Hence, screening by serial CRP along with blood culture alone reinforces the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal mortality poses a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with congenital heart disease emerging as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates, especially in countries like Ethiopia. Despite efforts to reduce neonatal mortality rates, Ethiopia continues to experience an increased mortality rate, particularly among neonates with congenital heart disease. This study aims to investigate the incidence and predictors of mortality in this vulnerable population within Ethiopia. Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at an institution, involving 583 randomly selected neonates diagnosed with congenital heart disease. In the current study, the dependent variable was survival status. Data entry utilized EpiData data version 4.6, and analysis was performed using STATA version 16. Probability of death was compared using the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier failure curve. Significant predictors were identified using bivariable and multivariate Cox regression. Model fitness and proportional hazard assumptions were evaluated using the Cox-Snell graph and Global test, respectively. Associations were assessed by adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The study participants were followed for 4844 days. The mortality rate was 9.9%. The incidence density was 11.9 per 1000 person-days of observation. Neonatal sepsis (AHR: 2.24; 95% CI [1.18–4.23]), cyanotic congenital heart disease (AHR: 3.49; 95% CI [1.93–6.28]), home delivery (AHR: 1.9; 95% CI [1.06–3.6]), maternal history of gestational diabetes mellitus (AHR: 1.94; 95% CI [1.04–3.61]), and having additional congenital malformations (AHR: 2.49; 95% CI [1.33–4.67]) were significant predictors for neonatal mortality. Conclusion and recommendation: The incidence density of mortality was high compared to studies conducted in developed countries. Neonatal sepsis, type of congenital heart disease, place of delivery, maternal history of gestational diabetes mellitus, and having an additional congenital malformation were significant predictors of mortality among neonates with congenital heart disease. Therefore, healthcare providers should pay special attention to patients with identified predictors. Furthermore, the Federal Ministry of Health, stakeholders, and policymakers should collaborate to address this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal sepsis is a major global health challenge, leading to significant morbidity and mortality in newborns. The search for precise biomarkers for its early prediction in clinical settings has been ongoing, with heparin-binding protein (HBP) emerging as a promising candidate. Originating from granules in neutrophils, HBP is released into the bloodstream in response to infection and plays a pivotal role in the body's inflammatory response. Its significance extends beyond its inflammatory origins; research indicates dynamic changes in HBP levels are strongly linked to reduce in-hospital mortality, offering a prognostic advantage over existing biomarkers. Furthermore, HBP has demonstrated considerable clinical utility in the early diagnosis and stratification of neonatal sepsis, suggesting its potential as a reliable blood marker for early prediction of the disease and its severity. Its application may extend to guiding the judicious use of antibiotics in treating newborns, addressing a critical aspect of neonatal care. Despite these encouraging results, the precise clinical utility of HBP for diagnosing and treating sepsis in neonates still demands further clarification through extensive research. This review delves into the current scientific understanding of HBP's contribution to diagnosing, prognosticating, and treating neonatal sepsis, while considering its future clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal sepsis is a catastrophic condition of global concern, with reported mortality rates exceeding 10%. Bloodstream infections are an important cause of sepsis, and epidemiological studies of these infections are crucial for predicting the most common aetiological agents and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and for developing antimicrobial guidelines. For the ten-year study period from July 2013 to June 2023, all neonatal bacteraemia cases were reviewed prospectively using an enhanced surveillance protocol. The patients were stratified according to their age at the time of blood culture collection: early onset if diagnosed in the first 72 hours of life, and late onset if diagnosed after that time. During the study period, 170 blood cultures were positive from 144 patients, of which 89 specimens from 64 patients represented the growth of significant pathogens. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) were the most common pathogens identified (52%, 33/64), followed by Escherichia coli (14%, 9/64), Group B Streptococcus (GBS: 11%, 7/64) and Staphylococcus aureus (11%, 7/64). GBS was more commonly identified in early onset patients, while CoNS were predominantly associated with late onset. The presence of an intravascular catheter, maternal urinary tract infections and the receipt of total parenteral nutrition or transfused blood were identified as significant risk factors. The fatality rate was 8% (5/64). in summary, this study provides a detailed overview of the epidemiology of neonatal bacteraemia in a large teaching hospital in the Midwest of Ireland over a decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) often colonizes the human skin, upper respiratory and genital tracts. In the female genital tract, it can be passed on to the newborn during vaginal delivery leading to either ordinary colonization, or neonatal infections notably umbilical stump sepsis, scalded skin syndrome, arthritis, or bacteraemia/sepsis. These infections are mediated by staphylococcal virulence factors such as (i) Staphylococcal Enterotoxins A, B, C, D, and E encoded by the sea, seb, sec, sed, see genes, (ii) Exfoliative Toxins A and B encoded by the eta and etb genes, (iii) Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin 1 (TSST-1) encoded by the tst gene, (iv) Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) encoded by the pvl gene, and (v) Hemolysins alpha and delta encoded by the hla and hld genes, respectively. We determined the prevalence of S. aureus possessing one or more virulence factor genes and of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in this population. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, which used 85 S. aureus isolates from the Chlorohexidine (CHX) clinical trial study in Uganda. The isolates had been obtained by culturing vaginal swabs (VS) from 1472 women in labour, frozen at minus 80oC, then thawed, sub-cultured, and tested for the selected virulence genes sea, seb, sec, sed, see eta, etb, tst, pvl, hla and hld, and for the methicillin resistance determining gene (mecA). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: Of the 85 S. aureus isolates 13 (15.3%) were positive for one or more virulence factor genes, as follows: pvl 9/85 (10.6%), hld 5/85 (5.9%), sea 1/85 (1.2%) and seb genes 1/85 (1.2%). The other virulence genes (sec, sed, see, eta, etb, hla and tst) were not detected in any of the isolates. MRSA was detected in 55.3% (47/85) of the isolates, but only two of these carried the pvl virulence gene. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that 15% of the S. aureus colonizing the female lower genital tract of mothers in labour in central Uganda carried one or more virulence genes, mostly pvl, indicating potential for newborn infection with S. aureus acquired in the maternal birth canal. More than half of the isolates were MRSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a common cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Though antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment in culture‐positive neonatal sepsis, the dilemma persists for the optimum duration of antimicrobial therapy. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of short‐course antibiotics for uncomplicated culture‐positive neonatal sepsis. This systematic review and meta‐analysis (PROSPERO: CRD42023444899) identified, appraised, and synthesised the available evidence from randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials related to the efficacy of short‐course (7–10 days) versus standard‐course (14 days) antibiotics for uncomplicated culture‐positive neonatal sepsis on the rate of treatment failure, mortality, duration of hospitalisation, morbidities including antibiotics‐related adverse events, long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes and cost analysis. Data were pooled using RevMan 5.4 software. Certainty of evidence (COE) for predefined outcomes was analysed by GRADE. Available evidence showed no significant difference in the rate of treatment failure between 7‐ to 10‐day versus 14‐day antibiotics courses [risk ratio (95% confidence interval, CI), 2.45 (0.93–6.47), I2 = 0%, six studies, n = 573, very low COE]. No incidence of death was reported in either treatment arm in the two included studies. Duration of hospitalisation was significantly shorter with the short‐course antibiotics arm compared to standard‐course [mean difference (95% CI), −3.88 (−4.22 to −3.54) days, I2 = 0%, five studies, n = 507, low COE]. Morbidities reported in the three studies were similar. Other outcomes were not reported. To conclude the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of short‐course antibiotic regimen, compared to a standard‐course, on the treatment failure rate in uncomplicated culture‐positive neonatal sepsis. Adequately powered trials with outcomes including death and long‐term neurodevelopmental impairment are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides insights into the left heart dynamics in neonatal cold septic shock through a case series of infants with septic shock and cardiovascular dysfunction. The study emphasizes the need for further research on the prognostic value of echocardiography in septic children and the lack of large-scale neonatal data on cardiovascular dysfunction in sepsis. The infants in the case series exhibited symptoms such as oxygenation failure, pulmonary hypertension, and metabolic acidosis, with echocardiograms revealing low biventricular output and valve regurgitation. The article underscores the importance of early and serial assessments using echocardiography to monitor shock progression and tailor treatment accordingly, but notes the absence of prospective studies on the prevalence of cardiac dysfunction and its impact on outcomes in neonatal sepsis. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The emergence and rapid spread of gram-negative bacteria resistant to carbapenems among newborns is concerning on a global scale. Nonetheless, the pooled estimate of gram-negative bacteria resistant to carbapenem that cause neonatal sepsis in developing nations remains unknown. Thus, this study aimed to determine the combined prevalence of gram-negative bacteria resistant to carbapenem in African newborns who were suspected of having sepsis. Methods: All studies published from January 1, 2010, up to December 30, 2023, from PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus electronic databases, and the Google Scholar search engine were researched. Isolates tested for carbapenem from neonates with sepsis, English language papers conducted in Africa, and cross-sectional and cohort studies papers were included. Using PRISMA guidelines, we systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed studies that assessed the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria. The "Joanna Briggs Institute" was used critically to evaluate the quality of the included studies. The data analysis was carried out using STATA™ version 17. Heterogeneity across the studies was evaluated using Q and I 2 tests. The subgroup analysis was done and, funnel plot and Egger's regression test were used to detect publication bias. A sensitivity analysis was conducted. Results: All 36 studies were included in the meta-analysis and systematic review. The pooled prevalence of carbapenem resistance in Africa was 30.34% (95% CI 22.03–38.64%). The pooled estimate of gram-negative bacteria resistant to imipenem, and meropenem was 35.57% (95% CI 0.67–70.54%) and 34.35% (95% CI 20.04% – 48.67%), respectively. A. baumannii and Pseudomonas spp. had pooled prevalence of 45.9% (95% CI 33.1–58.7%) and 43.0% (95% CI 23.0–62.4%), respectively. Similarly, Pseudomonas spp. and A. baumannii also exhibited strong meropenem resistance, with a pooled prevalence of 29.2% (95% CI 4.8–53.5%) and 36.7% (95% CI 20.1–53.3%), respectively. E. coli and K. pneumoniae were the two most common isolates. Conclusion: There should be urgent antimicrobial stewardship practices, strengthened surveillance systems and effective treatment for neonates with sepsis. There was remarkable variation in resistance across the continent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a complex disease characterized by gastrointestinal inflammation and is one of the most common gastrointestinal emergencies in neonates. Mild to moderate cases of NEC require medical treatment, whereas severe cases necessitate surgical intervention. However, evidence for surgical indications is limited and largely dependent on the surgeon's experience, leading to variability in outcomes. The primary aim of this study is to identify the risk factors for surgical intervention in neonatal NEC, which will aid in predicting the optimal timing for surgical intervention. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases for case-control studies exploring risk factors for NEC requiring surgical intervention. The search was completed on June 16, 2024, and data analysis was performed using R Studio 4.3.2. Results: 18 studies were included, comprising 1,104 cases in the surgery group and 1,686 in the medical treatment group. The meta-analysis indicated that high C-reactive protein (CRP) levels [OR = 1.42, 95% CI (1.01, 1.99)], lower gestational age [OR = 0.52, 95% CI (0.3, 0.91)], sepsis [OR = 2.94, 95% CI (1.87, 4.60)], coagulation disorder [OR = 3.45, 95% CI (1.81, 6.58)], lack of enteral feeding [OR = 3.18, 95% CI (1.37, 7.35)], and hyponatremia [OR = 1.22, 95% CI (1.07, 1.39)] are significant risk factors for surgical treatment in neonatal NEC. Conclusions: High CRP levels, coagulation disorders, sepsis, lower gestational age, lack of enteral feeding, and hyponatremia are significant risk factors for surgical intervention in neonatal NEC. These findings have potential clinical significance for predicting surgical risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sepsis is associated with neurocognitive impairment among preterm neonates but less is known about term neonates with sepsis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide an update of neurocognitive outcomes including cognitive delay, visual impairment, auditory impairment, and cerebral palsy, among neonates with sepsis. Methods: We performed a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL and Web of Science for eligible studies published between January 2011 and March 2023. We included case–control, cohort studies and cross-sectional studies. Case reports and articles not in English language were excluded. Using the adjusted estimates, we performed random effects model meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of developing neurocognitive impairment among neonates with sepsis. Results: Of 7,909 studies, 24 studies (n = 121,645) were included. Majority of studies were conducted in the United States (n = 7, 29.2%), and all studies were performed among neonates. 17 (70.8%) studies provided follow-up till 30 months. Sepsis was associated with increased risk of cognitive delay [adjusted odds ratio, aOR 1.14 (95% CI: 1.01—1.28)], visual impairment [aOR 2.57 (95%CI: 1.14- 5.82)], hearing impairment [aOR 1.70 (95% CI: 1.02–2.81)] and cerebral palsy [aOR 2.48 (95% CI: 1.03–5.99)]. Conclusion: Neonates surviving sepsis are at a higher risk of poorer neurodevelopment. Current evidence is limited by significant heterogeneity across studies, lack of data related to long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes and term infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-Lactam antibiotics are a class of antibiotics commonly used to treat bacterial infections. However, the effects of β-lactam antibiotics on term neonatal intestinal flora have not been fully elucidated. Hospitalized full-term newborns receiving β-lactam antibiotics formed the antibiotic group (n = 67), while those without antibiotic treatment comprised the non-antibiotic group (n = 47). A healthy group included healthy full-term newborns (n = 16). Stool samples were collected for 16 S rDNA sequencing to analyze gut microbiota variations. Further investigation was carried out within the β-lactam antibiotic group, exploring the effects of antibiotic use on the newborns' gut microbiota in relation to the duration and type of antibiotic administration, delivery method, and feeding practices. The antibiotic group exhibited significant difference of microbial community composition compared to the other groups. Genera like Klebsiella, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Alistipes, and Aeromonas were enriched, while Escherichia-Shigella, Clostridium sensu stricto 1, Bifidobacterium, and Parabacteroides were reduced. Klebsiella negatively correlated with Escherichia-Shigella, positively with Enterobacter, while Escherichia-Shigella negatively correlated with Enterococcus and Streptococcus. Regardless of neonatal age, β-lactam antibiotics induced an elevated abundance of Klebsiella and Enterococcus. The impact on gut microbiota varied with the duration and type of antibiotic (cefotaxime or ampicillin/sulbactam). Compared to vaginal delivery, cesarean delivery after β-lactam treatment heightened the abundance of Klebsiella, Enterobacteriaceae_Unclassified, Lactobacillales_Unclassified, and Pectobacterium. Feeding patterns minimally influenced β-lactam-induced alterations. In conclusion, β-lactam antibiotic treatment for neonatal pneumonia and sepsis markedly disrupted intestinal microbiota, favoring Klebsiella, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Alistipes, and Aeromonas. The impact of β-lactam varied by duration, type, and delivery method, emphasizing heightened disruptions post-cesarean delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the etiology, risk factors and antibiotic resistance in neonatal sepsis. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Medicine, National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, Pakistan. Period: October 2023 to March 2024. Methods: A total of 174 neonates of both genders, with suspected neonatal sepsis were analyzed. Neonatal and maternal characteristics were noted. Blood sample was collected in aseptic environment and sent to institutional laboratory for blood culture and drug susceptibility testing. Results: In a total of 174 neonates, 101 (58.0%) were boys. The mean age, and weight were 9.61±7.86 years, and 2.25±0.85 kg, respectively. Neonatal sepsis on the basis of positive blood culture was reported in 38 (21.8%) neonates. Preterm birth had significant association with neonatal sepsis (44.7% vs. 26.5%, p=0.019). History of maternal UTI during pregnancy had significant linkage with neonatal sepsis (36.8% vs. 11.0%, p<0.001). History of maternal fever during pregnancy had statistically significant association with neonatal sepsis (34.2% vs/ 19.1%, p=0.049). E. Coli, and Klebsiella were the most commonly found bacterial isolates, noted in 8 (21.1%), and 4 (10.5%) neonates, respectively. Most commonly used antimicrobial drugs were found to have high resistance rates against most frequent bacterial isolates. Conclusion: E. Coli, and Klebsiella were the most commonly found bacterial isolates in neonatal sepsis. Preterm birth, maternal history of UTI, and maternal history of fever were found to be significant factors linked to neonatal sepsis. Most commonly used antimicrobial drugs were found to have high resistance patterns which should raise alarms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the association of altered serum ferritin during pregnancy with chorioamnionitis and neonatal sepsis. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 78,521 pregnant women who attended antenatal check-ups at maternal and child health centers in Fujian Province, China. Study lasted from January 2014 to January 2019. A total of 59,812 pregnant women were followed up. Patients with suspected infection before the delivery were selected and divided into the chorioamnionitis and non-chorioamnionitis groups according to placental pathology. Differences in late and early pregnancy serum ferritin between the two groups were compared. Multiple logistics regression was used to adjust for confounding factors and to analyze the association between serum ferritin changes and pregnancy outcomes. Importance of altered serum ferritin during pregnancy was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and net reclassification index (NRI). Results: Clinical records of 8506 pregnant women were included in the study. there were 1010 (11.9%) cases of confirmed chorioamnionitis and 263 (3.1%) cases of neonatal sepsis. There was a significant difference in maternal serum ferritin changes between the groups with and without chorioamnionitis. No significant difference was detected in cases with or without neonatal sepsis. Multiple logistic regressions, corrected for confounding factors yielded similar conclusions. Maternal serum ferritin difference NRI 12.18% (p = 0.00014) was similar to the ROC results in predicting the occurrence of chorioamnionitis. Conclusion: Differential serum ferritin during pregnancy may predict chorioamnionitis but does not correlate well with neonatal sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the prevalence, perinatal outcomes and factors associated with neonatal sepsis in referral‐level facilities across Nigeria. Design: Secondary analysis of data from the Maternal and Perinatal Database for Quality, Equity and Dignity Programme in 54 referral‐level hospitals across Nigeria. Setting: Records covering the period from 1 September 2019 to 31 August 2020. Population: Mothers admitted for birth during the study period, and their live newborns. Methods: Analysis of prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with neonatal sepsis and perinatal outcomes. Multilevel logistic regression modelling identified factors associated with neonatal sepsis. Main outcome measures: Neonatal sepsis and perinatal outcomes. Results: The prevalence of neonatal sepsis was 16.3 (95% CI 15.3–17.2) per 1000 live births (1113/68 459) with a 10.3% (115/1113) case fatality rate. Limited education, unemployment or employment in sales/trading/manual jobs, nulliparity/grand multiparity, chronic medical disorder, lack of antenatal care (ANC) or ANC outside the birthing hospital and referral for birth increased the odds of neonatal sepsis. Birthweight of <2500 g, non‐spontaneous vaginal birth, preterm birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, APGAR score of <7 at 5 min, birth asphyxia, birth trauma or jaundice were associated with neonatal sepsis. Neonates with sepsis were more frequently admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (1037/1110, 93.4% vs 8237/67 346, 12.2%) and experienced a higher rate of death (115/1113, 10.3% vs 933/67 343, 1.4%). Conclusions: Neonatal sepsis remains a critical challenge in neonatal care, underscored by its high prevalence and mortality rate. The identification of maternal and neonatal risk factors underscores the importance of improved access to education and employment for women and targeted interventions in antenatal and intrapartum care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the incidence and sociodemographic and clinical risk factors associated with birth asphyxia and the immediate neonatal outcomes of birth asphyxia in Nigeria. Design: Secondary analysis of data from the Maternal and Perinatal Database for Quality, Equity and Dignity Programme. Setting: Fifty‐four consenting referral‐level hospitals (48 public and six private) across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Population: Women (and their babies) who were admitted for delivery in the facilities between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020. Methods: Data were extracted and analysed on prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with birth asphyxia and the immediate perinatal outcomes. Multilevel logistic regression modelling was used to ascertain the factors associated with birth asphyxia. Main outcome measures: Incidence, case fatality rate and factors associated with birth asphyxia. Results: Of the available data, 65 383 (91.1%) women and 67 602 (90.9%) babies had complete data and were included in the analysis. The incidence of birth asphyxia was 3.0% (2027/67 602) and the case fatality rate was 16.8% (339/2022). The risk factors for birth asphyxia were uterine rupture, pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia, abruptio placentae/placenta praevia, birth trauma, fetal distress and congenital anomaly. The following factors were independently associated with a risk of birth asphyxia: maternal age, woman's education level, husband's occupation, parity, antenatal care, referral status, cadre of health professional present at the birth, sex of the newborn, birthweight and mode of birth. Common adverse neonatal outcomes included: admission to a special care baby unit (SCBU), 88.4%; early neonatal death, 14.2%; neonatal sepsis, 4.5%; and respiratory distress, 4.4%. Conclusions: The incidence of reported birth asphyxia in the participating facilities was low, with around one in six or seven babies with birth asphyxia dying. Factors associated with birth asphyxia included sociodemographic and clinical considerations, underscoring a need for a comprehensive approach focused on the empowerment of women and ensuring access to quality antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analyzed plasma melatonin levels in different groups of preterm newborns without hypoxia and their relationship with several perinatal variables like gestational age or neonatal pain. Prospective cohort study of preterm newborns (PTNB) without perinatal hypoxia, Apgar > 6 at 5 min, and oxygen needs on the third day of life. We compared melatonin levels at day 3 of life in different groups of non-hypoxic preterm infants (Student's t-tests, Mann-Whitney U, and chi2) and analyzed the relationship of melatonin with GA, birth weight, neonatal pain (Premature Infant Pain Profile (PIPP) scale), caffeine treatment, parenteral nutrition, or the development of free radical diseases (correlation study, linear regression) and factors associated with moderate/intense pain and free radical diseases (logistic regression analysis). Sixty-one preterm infants with gestational age (GA) of 30.7 ± 2.0 weeks with no oxygen requirements at day 3 of life were studied with plasma melatonin levels of 33.8 ± 12.01 pg/ml. Preterm infants weighing < 1250 g at birth had lower plasma melatonin levels (p = 0.05). Preterm infants with moderate or severe pain (PPIPP > 5) have lower melatonin levels (p = 0.01), and being preterm with PIPP > 5 is associated with lower plasma melatonin levels (p = 0.03). Being very preterm (GA < 32 GS), having low weight for gestational age (LWGA), receiving caffeine treatment, or requiring parenteral nutrition did not modify melatonin levels in non-hypoxic preterm infants (p = NS). Melatonin on day 3 of life in non-hypoxic preterm infants is not associated with later development of free radical diseases (BPD, sepsis, ROP, HIV, NEC). Conclusion: We observed that preterm infants with moderate to severe pain have lower melatonin levels. These findings are relevant because they reinforce the findings of other authors that melatonin supplementation decreases pain and oxidative stress in painful procedures in premature infants. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether melatonin could be used as an analgesic in painful procedures in preterm infants. Trial registration: Trial registration was not required since this was an observational study. What Is Known: • Melatonin is a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger in newborns under stress conditions: hypoxia, acidosis, hypotension, painful procedures, or parenteral nutrition. • Pain stimulates the production of melatonin. • Various studies conclude that melatonin administration decreases pain during the neonatal period. What Is New: • Non-hypoxic preterm infants with moderate to severe pain (PIPP>5) have lower levels of melatonin. • Administration of caffeine and treatment with parenteral nutrition do not modify melatonin levels in non-hypoxic preterm infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe clinical, laboratory, and antibiotic treatment characteristics in pregnant or recently pregnant women diagnosed with maternal sepsis. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a Brazilian tertiary hospital from March 2014 until February 2018. The hospital implemented a Sepsis Protocol, based on the Brazilian Ministry of Health recommendation. All women who were pregnant or recently pregnant (up to 42 days postpartum), and who presented with suspected sepsis were included. Unconfirmed infections were excluded. Three hundred sixty‐five women were included and divided into three groups according to sepsis severity (SEPSIS‐2): sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock. Clinical, laboratory, and management characteristics were described and compared. Results: Pregnancy‐related and respiratory tract infections were the greater causes of maternal sepsis, and the urinary tract was the major cause of septic shock. We found almost total compliance with blood culture sample collection, and samples were positive in 10.8% of the cases, and in 41% of septic shock patients. Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen found and it was resistant to third‐generation cephalosporins in none of the blood cultures and 3.3% of the urine cultures. Using the AWaRe (Access, Watch and Reserve) classification groups of antibiotics, Access and Watch antibiotics were used in virtually all women. We did not find any fatal maternal outcomes. Conclusion: Maternal sepsis is seldom the result of resistant microorganisms in this setting and the use of Access group antibiotics is widely possible. Health professionals' awareness of and institutional policies for maternal sepsis are crucial to its adequate treatment and better outcomes. Synopsis: A protocol for maternal sepsis to be routinely used is able to provide better treatment and improve outcomes reducing infectious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dysregulated immune system is a major driver of the mortality and long-term morbidity from sepsis. With respect to macrophages, it has been shown that phenotypic changes are critical to effector function in response to acute infections, including intra-abdominal sepsis. Invariant natural killer T cells (i NKT cells) have emerged as potential central regulators of the immune response to a variety of infectious insults. Specifically, various i NKT cell:macrophage interactions have been noted across a spectrum of diseases, including acute events such as sepsis. However, the potential for i NKT cells to affect peritoneal macrophages during an abdominal septic event is as yet unknown. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was performed in both wild type (WT) and invariant natural killer T cell knockout (i NKT−/−) mice. 24 h following CLP or sham operation, peritoneal macrophages were collected for analysis. Analysis of macrophage phenotype and function was undertaken to include analysis of bactericidal activity and cytokine or superoxide production. Within i NKT−/− mice, a greater degree of intraperitoneal macrophages in response to the sepsis was noted. Compared to WT mice, within i NKT−/− mice, CLP did induce an increase in CD86+ and CD206+, but no difference in CD11b+. Unlike WT mice, intra-abdominal sepsis within iNKT−/− mice induced an increase in Ly6C-int (5.2% versus 14.9%; P < 0.05) and a decrease in Ly6C-high on peritoneal macrophages. Unlike phagocytosis, i NKT cells did not affect macrophage bactericidal activity. Although i NKT cells did not affect interleukin-6 production, i NKT cells did affect IL-10 production and both nitrite and superoxide production from peritoneal macrophages. The observations indicate that i NKT cells affect specific phenotypic and functional aspects of peritoneal macrophages during polymicrobial sepsis. Given that pharmacologic agents that affect i NKT cell functioning are currently in clinical trial, these findings may have the potential for translation to critically ill surgical patients with abdominal sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: When newborn sepsis occurs, the pathogen may trigger an uncontrollable systemic inflammatory response that results in oxidative damage. Melatonin released naturally, which acts as a safe antioxidant and free radical scavenger in newborns. The aim of the work was to evaluate the significance of plasma melatonin level in early diagnosis of late onset sepsis neonatal sepsis. Methods: 58 full-term babies were included in a case-control study at Zagazig University's neonatal intensive care unit. Twenty-nine newborns in the patient group had complete clinical and biochemical signs of sepsis. The control group included twenty-nine newborns with no clinical or biochemical signs of sepsis. Melatonin level was measured by ELISA, and a septic work-up was done for all the patients. Results: The best cutoff plasma melatonin level in the diagnosis of late onset sepsis was16.2 pg/ml with an area under the curve of 0.97, a sensitivity of 92.6%, specificity of 86.4%, positive predictive value of 90.5 %, negative predictive value of 87% and over all accuracy of 88.6%. Conclusions: A significant elevation of endogenous plasma melatonin level was found in lateonset neonatal sepsis, so early identification of late-onset sepsis could considerably help cases by allowing both the prevention of complications and avoiding multiple drug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a common disease with high morbidity and mortality among newborns in intensive care units world‐wide. Gram‐negative bacillary bacteria are the major source of infection in neonates. Gentamicin is the most widely used aminoglycoside antibiotic in empiric therapy against early‐onset sepsis. However, therapy failure may result due to various factors. The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of gentamicin therapy failure in neonates with sepsis. This was a prospective cross‐sectional study at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Windhoek Central Hospital over a period of 5 months in 2019. Neonates received intravenous gentamicin 5 mg/kg/24 h in combination with either benzylpenicillin 100 000 IU/kg/12 h or ampicillin 50 mg/kg/8 h. Logistic regression modeling was performed to determine the predictors of treatment outcomes. 36% of the 50 neonates were classified as having gentamicin treatment failure. Increasing treatment duration by 1 day resulted in odds of treatment failure increasing from 1.0 to 2.41. Similarly, one unit increase in CRP increases odds of gentamicin treatment failure by 49%. The 1 kg increase in birthweight reduces the log odds of treatment failure by 6.848, resulting in 99.9% decrease in the odds of treatment failure. One unit increase in WBC reduces odds of gentamicin treatment failure by 27%. Estimates of significant predictors of treatment failure were precise, yielding odds ratios that were within 95% confidence interval. This study identified the following as predictors of gentamicin therapy failure in neonates: prolonged duration of treatment, elevated C‐reactive protein, low birthweight, and low white blood cell count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Clinicians variably obtain anaerobic blood cultures as part of sepsis evaluations in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Our objective was to determine if anaerobic blood culture bottles yielded clinically relevant information by either recovering pathogens exclusively or more rapidly than the concurrently obtained aerobic culture bottle in the NICU. Methods A retrospective cohort study of blood cultures obtained from infants admitted to the NICU from August 01, 2015 to August 31, 2023. Standard practice was to inoculate 2 mL of blood divided equally between an aerobic and an anaerobic culture bottle. We analyzed positive blood cultures where both aerobic and anaerobic bottles were obtained and compared pathogen recovery and time to positivity between the bottles. Results During the study period, 4599 blood cultures were obtained from 3665 infants, and 265 (5.8%) were positive. Of these, 182 cultures were sent as aerobic–anaerobic pairs and recovered pathogenic organisms. Organisms were recovered exclusively from the anaerobic bottle in 32 (17.6%) cultures. Three organisms were obligate anaerobes; the rest were facultative anaerobes including Coagulase-negative staphylococci (40.6%), Escherichia coli (15.6%), and Staphylococcus aureus (15.6%). Cultures with exclusive recovery in the anaerobic bottle were more frequently obtained ≤3 days after birth, compared to other cultures (31.3% vs 15.3%, P  = .03). When both bottles recovered the pathogen (n  = 113), the anaerobic bottle had a shorter time to positivity in 76 (67.3%) cultures. Conclusions Including anaerobic culture bottles could lead to the identification of pathogens not recovered in the aerobic bottle, as well as earlier identification of pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using whole-genome sequencing, we characterized Escherichia coli strains causing early-onset sepsis (EOS) in 32 neonatal cases from a 2019-2021 prospective multicenter study in France and compared them to E. coli strains collected from vaginal swab specimens from women in third-trimester gestation. We observed no major differences in phylogenetic groups or virulence profiles between the 2 collections. However, sequence type (ST) analysis showed the presence of 6/32 (19%) ST1193 strains causing EOS, the same frequency as in the highly virulent clonal group ST95. Three ST1193 strains caused meningitis, and 3 harbored extended-spectrum ß-lactamase. No ST1193 strains were isolated from vaginal swab specimens. Emerging ST1193 appears to be highly prevalent, virulent, and antimicrobial resistant in neonates. However, the physiopathology of EOS caused by ST1193 has not yet been elucidated. Clinicians should be aware of the possible presence of E. coli ST1193 in prenatal and neonatal contexts and provide appropriate monitoring and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Theme 1) participants reported a lack of awareness of pregnancy-related warning signs. • Theme 2) presenting symptoms participants experienced were not typical of expected warning signs. • Theme 3) participant concerns were met with dismissal leading to delays in diagnosis. • Theme 4) participants experienced long-term sequelae from maternal sepsis. Prior studies have shown that maternal deaths due to sepsis occur due to delays in recognition, treatment, and escalation of care through medical chart reviews. This study was conducted to obtain the patient perspective for near-miss and maternal mortality cases due to sepsis. To identify quality improvement opportunities for improving maternal sepsis through patient and support person experiences. Twenty semi-structured interviews and three follow-up focus groups with patients who experienced critical illness from maternal sepsis in the United States and their support persons (when available) were conducted from May 23, 2022, through October 14, 2022. In this qualitative study, data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. In this qualitative study of patients with maternal sepsis and their support persons, four main quality improvement themes were identified. The themes were the following: (1) participants reported a lack of awareness of pregnancy-related warning signs and symptoms of when to seek care, (2) many of the presenting symptoms participants experienced were not typical of expected warning signs of maternal sepsis, such as severe pain, overwhelming tiredness, and lack of fever (3) participant concerns were met with dismissal leading to delays in diagnosis, (4) participants experienced long-term sequelae but had difficulty receiving screening and referrals for treatment. The findings of this study suggest that standardized patient education about the warning signs of maternal sepsis and provider education about the presentation of maternal sepsis, improved listening to patients, and follow-up for sequalae of sepsis are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]