Early diagnosis and management of neonatal sepsis: a perspective

Excerpt

Neonatal sepsis is an illness caused by bloodstream bacteria or fungal infections that affect newborn infants under 28 days of age. It stands as a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). With the improved survival rates of very low-birth-weight or extremely premature infants, a growing number of these vulnerable infants are receiving intensive care and undergoing invasive procedures, making nosocomial infections a persistent challenge in NICUs. The mortality rate associated with neonatal sepsis varies depending on factors such as birth weight, gestational age, and other co-morbidities. It can also lead to a range of long-term health consequences, including neurodevelopmental disabilities like cerebral palsy, visual or hearing impairments, and cognitive problems. Furthermore, neonatal sepsis is linked to various adverse outcomes, including respiratory complications, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, nutritional and growth issues, and immunological dysfunction [1]. Due to its atypical clinical presentation and the low rate of specific diagnostic indicators, such as a positive blood culture, accurately diagnosing neonatal sepsis is challenging. Consequently, the appropriateness of antibiotic treatment is often a matter of controversy. …