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Early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis

A bacterial infection acquired intrapartum that appears within the first 72 hours of life.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis?

Early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS) is a bacterial infection that appears within the first 72 hours after birth and is acquired intrapartum. The most common pathogens are Group B streptococcus (GBS), Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes.

Risk factors include maternal GBS colonization, prolonged rupture of membranes (>18 hours), maternal fever, chorioamnionitis, preterm labor and a previous infant with GBS infection. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) has markedly reduced GBS sepsis.

Diagnosis is made through clinical suspicion, blood and CSF cultures, CRP, IL-6 and CBC. Initial empiric treatment is ampicillin plus gentamicin and is narrowed according to culture and sensitivity results. Cefotaxime is added if meningitis is present.

Symptoms

Hypothermia or fever
Respiratory distress, apnea
Feeding intolerance
Lethargy or irritability
Skin color changes (pale, gray)
Seizures
Hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia

Risk Factors

Maternal GBS carriage
Prolonged rupture of membranes (>18 hours)
Maternal fever or chorioamnionitis
Preterm birth
Previous history of GBS sepsis
Inadequate intrapartum prophylaxis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • During postnatal observation in the presence of risk factors
  • When hypothermia, feeding intolerance or respiratory distress develops
  • When lethargy or irritability is observed
  • When seizures occur
  • When deterioration in laboratory values is detected

Treatment Methods

01
Blood and CSF cultures, CBC, CRP
02
Ampicillin plus gentamicin (empiric)
03
Adding cefotaxime in meningitis
04
Respiratory and circulatory support
05
Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (prevention)
06
GBS screening (35-37 weeks of gestation)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.