Neonatal and childhood infections Flashcards
The mnemonic TORCH can be used to remember common congenital infections. What does it stand for?
Toxoplasmosis Other (HIV/HBV) Rubella CMV HSV
Describe the aetiology of congenital infection
Transmission from mother
TORCH can also stand for the non-specific features of congenital infection presentation. List these presenting features
Thrombocytopaenia Other (ears/eyes - cataracts, choroidoretinitis) Rash Cerebral abnormality (eg microcephaly) Hepatosplenomegaly
How are congenital infections diagnosed?
Serology
How are congenital infections prevented?
TORCH screen for antibodies in pregnant mothers/women planning a pregnancy NB This screening test is more commonly performed on neonates, but at that point is no longer a preventative measure
List 3 organisms responsible for early onset neonatal sepsis
Group B Strep E. coli Listeria
List 3 maternal factors that can cause early onset neonatal sepsis
PROM Fever Foetal distress
List 3 fetal factors that can cause early onset neonatal sepsis
Respiratory distress Acidosis Asphyxia
How does early onset sepsis present?
Fever Generally unwell - similar to neonatal meningitis
Neonatal sepsis is diagnosed using a “septic screen” of tests. What does this include?
FBC CRP Blood culture Deep ear swab CSF Surface swab CXR
What is the treatment for early onset neonatal sepsis?
ABC Supportive Nutrition Antibiotics: BenPen + Gentamicin OR if listeria suspected, Amoxicillin/Ampicillin
In what time frame would neonatal sepsis be diagnosed as late onset?
48 hrs - 6 weeks after birth
List 4 organisms responsible for late onset neonatal sepsis
Coag -ve staph (eg epidermis) Group B Strep E. coli Listeria
How does late onset neonatal sepsis present?
Bradycardia Apnoea Poor feeding Irritability Convulsions Jaundice Respiratory distress Focal inflammation (examine umbilicus)
How is late onset neonatal sepsis diagnosed?
Septic screen + urine culture