ABSTRACT 712

Abstract

Background and aims: The incidence of neonatal sepsis is reducing, especially Group B Streptococcus. We aimed to review a recent cohort of patients to ensure risk factors are identified and assess our current antimicrobial guidelines. Methods: Retrospective review of all cases identified from Regional Retrieval Team (RRT) database of those less than 12 weeks of age with a diagnosis of sepsis between 01/12/2012-30/11/2013. Results: Patients less than 12 weeks of age comprised 69 of total 1127 (6%) referrals to RRT over 12 months. 41 patients (59%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Patients were aged between CGA 36 weeks to 3 months. 7/41 (17%) had CGA less than 38/40 at time of admission and 12/41 (29%) patients were ex preterm. 30/41 (73%) had positive culture results (Table 1) with highest incidence group B streptococcal sepsis. Of these 9 patients, in only 2 cases had maternal group B streptococcus previously been confirmed. In total, 19/41 (46%) had a recognised risk factor for sepsis. All but 2 patients survived to discharge home.Table: No title available.Conclusions: Neonatal sepsis represents a small but significant proportion of RRT workload. Initial presentation and observations may be falsely reassuring. Early recognition of sepsis and appropriate antibiotic therapy is essential. In certain cases, despite best therapies, outcome may be poor.