Definition: A serious condition caused by multi-
plying bacteria in the bloodstream.
1. What caused this condition?
Infections due to bacteria in the bloodstream may occur during the
birthing process when bacteria from the birth canal get onto the
newborn’s skin, nose, mouth, and eyes. These bacteria can then get
into the lungs and/or bloodstream to cause the infection.
Another way that the newborn may become infected is by bacteria
infecting the placenta and getting into the infant’s bloodstream
through the placenta and umbilical cord. The most common bacteria
that cause neonatal infections are Group B streptococcus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Occasionally, viruses such as
herpes or cytomegalovirus may also cause infections in the newborn.
2. What problems does it pose?
Infections in newborns can be relatively minor, causing problems such
as mild breathing issues, decreased temperature, or low blood sugar. They can also be life-threatening or fatal, resulting in severe breathing concerns, decreased heart function, and/or seizures.
3. What tests are needed to further define the condition?
The growing of the bacteria or virus on a culture, which is a test performed
by applying samples of the baby’s blood onto a plate with nutrients,
confirms the presence of an infection in the blood. In addition to blood,
samples of the airway secretions; swabs of the eyes, nose, and skin; urine;
and spinal fluid (spinal tap) may also be collected and tested in this manner.
4. How is blood infection treated?
Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria causing the infection. Some
viral infections can be treated with antiviral medications. The labora-
tory tests (culture) will confirm which medications are most effective
in treating the infection. In serious infections, other medications and
treatments may be necessary to assist with breathing, to help the heart
function properly, and to control seizures.
5. Do we need to consult with a neonatologist (newborn
specialist) or an infectious disease specialist?
Very minor or “suspected” infections can be treated by the pediatrician.
If the infection is significant or other support is needed, then referral to
a neonatologist and/or an infectious disease specialist should occur.
6. How long will it take for my baby to recover from
this illness?
Infections that are confirmed in the bloodstream will require a
minimum of seven to fourteen days treatment with intravenous (IV)
antibiotics. If the infection is in the spinal fluid, the antibiotics maybe required for up to twenty-one days or more. Depending on the seriousness of the infection, the time for recovery may extend beyond the
end of taking antibiotics.
7. Will this condition weaken my baby in any way in
the future, and will there be any long-term ill
effects caused by it?
In serious infections or infections that involve the spinal fluid or the
brain, there can be long-term effects, such as movement abnormalities,
mental retardation, cerebral palsy, or hearing loss. There may be some
continuing lung abnormalities due to the use of a breathing machine.
Occasionally, the blood infection also infects a joint or bone. This could
result in an injury to that joint or a limitation of the growth of the bone.
8. How long will my baby have to stay in the hospital
as a result of this disorder?
At least seven to fourteen days will be required, as the antibiotics to
treat the infection have to be given through an IV. In serious infections with complications it may be a month or longer.
9. After discharge from the hospital, what kind of
follow-up will be needed?
Infections that did not require significant levels of support other than
antibiotics may be monitored under routine care by the pediatrician.
If there are complications, especially of the brain and nervous system,
developmentalists or neurologists (specialists that monitor the development of the brain) may be recommended.
|
Respected Readers:
|
0 comments on "BLOOD INFECTION (Bacterial Sepsis)"
Post a Comment