Definite Sepsis Research Articles

Evaluation of Ema, Töllner and Rodwell scores in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis

Introduction: There are no specific signs, symptoms and rapid laboratory tests to definitively diagnose sepsis in the neonatal period. This makes it difficult to diagnose sepsis in newborns in a timely manner and initiate appropriate treatment, or causes babies without sepsis to receive unnecessary antibiotics. Purpose: Therefore, in this study, we planned to investigate the clinical adequacy and reliability of EMA (European Medicines Agency), Töllner and Rodwell hematological scoring in the early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Method: EMA, Töllner and Rodwell hematological scoring was performed on each patient. Complete blood count, peripheral smear, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, blood gas and blood sugar values of newborn babies with suspected sepsis were recorded, blood culture, urine culture and cerebrospinal fluid examination and cultures taken when necessary were evaluated. Using statistical analysis, the 'Positive Expected Value and Negative Expected Values' ratios of the scores were obtained, and the performance results were examined. Results: 95 newborns with a preliminary clinical diagnosis of sepsis were included in the study. These babies were divided into two groups: clinical (n:71) and proven sepsis (n:24) according to blood culture results. Positive and negative predictive values of scoring systems in definitive sepsis diagnosis; for EMA respectively; 21.5%, 56.3% for Töllner; It was determined as 31.3%, 77.8%, and 100%, 77.8% for Rodwell. Conclusion: Our study showed that clinician opinion and standard laboratory tests are limited in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis, and Rodwell hematological scoring is more prominent in recognizing proven sepsis compared to the other two scores .

Time-dependent changes in cell population data obtained using Sysmex XN-series hematology analyzer in bacterial infections

BackgroundTime-dependent changes in cell populations during acute bacterial infections remain unclear. We assessed time-dependent changes in fluorescent light intensity of the neutrophil area (NE-SFL) and fluorescent light distribution width index of the neutrophil area (NE-WY) and their association with sepsis and bacteremia. MethodsPatients with acute bacterial infections were enrolled in this prospective, observational cohort study. Blood samples were collected from all patients at the onset of bacterial infections (day 0) and on days 1 and 3. Microbiological evaluation included the examination of blood bacterial load using PCR. Cell population data were assessed using an automated hematology analyzer (Sysmex series XN-2000). ResultsForty-three participants with acute bacterial infections were enrolled in the study. Twenty-five participants developed definite sepsis. All the participants improved after the onset of infection. NE-WY levels showed significant time-dependent changes in participants with sepsis, peaking on day 0 and significantly decreasing until day 3, whereas these changes were not statistically significant for NE-SFL. A significant correlation with the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score was observed with NE-WY and NE-SFL in the entire cohort on days 0 and 1. However, only NE-WY showed a significant correlation with blood bacterial load on days 0 and 1. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that NE-WY elevation in sepsis peaked earlier than NE-SFL, which may partly reflect the early bacterial invasion into circulation. These findings advocate caution in interpreting cell population data values as sepsis biomarkers and propose the potential of NE-WY as a therapeutic indicator.

A study of level of procalcitonin as marker of early onset sepsis in neonates

Background: Neonatal sepsis is one of the commonest causes of morbidity and mortality. It is one of the four leading causes of morbidity and mortality in India. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the levels of procalcitonin as a rapid diagnostic test, to identify those with infection as soon as possible, and to classify them into definitive, clinical, or no sepsis. The rise in Procalcitonin levels in the neonate with sepsis is very rapid. Hence, it can be used for the diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis. Objectives were to estimate the concentration of Procalcitonin for diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis and to compare the Procalcitonin levels amongst 3 categories of neonatal sepsis (definite, clinical and no sepsis). Methods: This is a hospital based analytical prospective study. Results: 104 babies with early onset sepsis were included in the study from the NICU in tertiary health care center. Procalcitonin is positive in 69 (66.35%) and negative in 35 (33.65%). Out of the total 69 neonates with Procalcitonin positive, 42 (60.8%) neonates are preterm and 27 (39.1%) are term neonates. Out of the total 35 neonates with Procalcitonin negative, 24 (68.5%) neonates are preterm and 11 (31.4%) are term neonates. There was no sepsis observed in 57 (54.8%) of cases, clinical sepsis was observed in 34 (32.6%) of cases and definite sepsis was observed in 13 (12.5%). The mean value of level of Procalcitonin in different categories of sepsis as determined from the data is 3.27 ng/ml in cases of No sepsis, 11.79 ng/ml in cases of clinical sepsis and 17.2 ng/ml in cases of definitive sepsis. Conclusions: Procalcitonin has good sensitivity and hence can detect most cases of neonatal sepsis and good negative predictive value. Procalcitonin contributes more significantly to the diagnosis of newborn septicemia when paired with additional testing and helps in identifying the categories of sepsis in neonates.

Cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory markers to differentiate between neonatal bacterial meningitis and sepsis: A prospective study of diagnostic accuracy

ObjectivesWe evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inflammatory markers for diagnosing bacterial meningitis in neonates with sepsis and/or meningitis. MethodsCases were identified from a prospective multicenter study including patients aged 0-3 months with Group B Streptococcal (GBS) or Escherichia coli culture positive sepsis/meningitis. CSF CXCL10, MDC, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF- α, MIF, IL-1RA, CXCL13, IL-1β, CRP and procalcitonin concentrations were measured with Luminex technology. ResultsIn 61/373 patients (17%) residual CSF from the lumbar puncture was available, of whom 16 (26%) had definitive meningitis, 15 (25%) probable meningitis and 30 (49%) had sepsis. All biomarkers were detectable in CSF and showed significantly higher concentrations in definitive meningitis versus sepsis patients and six biomarkers in probable meningitis versus sepsis patients. Discrimination between definitive meningitis and sepsis was excellent for IL-1RA (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.93), TNF-α (AUC 0.92), CXCL10 (AUC 0.90), IL-1β (AUC 0.92), IL-6 (AUC 0.94), IL-10 (AUC 0.93) and a combination of IL-1RA, TNF-α, CXCL-10 and CSF leukocyte count (AUC 0.95). CSF leukocyte count remained the predictor with the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.96). ConclusionCSF inflammatory markers can be used to differentiate between neonatal sepsis and meningitis.

Bacterial Microorganisms in Definitive Neonatal Sepsis

Background The proper diagnosis and treatment of neonatal sepsis is done depends on the understanding of its causative organisms. Objective The present study aimed to investigate the types of microorganisms in definitive neonatal sepsis. Methods Neonatal sepsis is a serious infectious disease with high mortality. And its diagnosed by blood culture. It includes early (appearance of clinical symptoms from birth to the third-seventh day) and late (from the third day to the twenty-eighth day) types with specific and sometimes common clinical symptoms. This cross-sectional study was performed on 266 neonates hospitalized with definitive sepsis in Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad from 2010 to 2020 using available sampling method. Infants suspected of bacterial infection who had positive blood cultures were included in the study. Type of bacterial organism, time of sepsis, main causes of death and need for mechanical ventilation were evaluated. Results Eighty eight neonates had early sepsis and 197 neonates had late sepsis. The bacterial organism of early sepsis was gram negative as 70.1% and in late sepsis was gram negative as 77.1%. The most common causes of early sepsis were Klebsiella pneumonia 21 cases (23.9%), Staphylococcus epidermis 16 cases (18.2%) and 10 cases (11.4%) E. coli . And the most common causes of late sepsis were K. pneumonia 35 cases (25.4%), Enterobacter aeroginosa 25(18.1%), S. epidermis 12(8.7%) and E. coli 11(8%). Conclusion K. pneumonia, S. epidermis and E. coli were three most common organisms in early neonatal sepsis and K. pneumonia, S. epidermis and Enterobacter were the most common organisms in late neonatal sepsis.

Incidence of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Neonates with Neonatal Sepsis.

One of the most important complications of premature birth is retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Sepsis may increase the incidence of this complication. The aim of this study is to compare the incidence of ROP in neonates with and without sepsis. In a retrospective case-control study, preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Ghaem hospital from 2014 to 2022 were examined. The case group consisted of 155 preterm infants with definite sepsis (positive blood culture and clinical signs of sepsis) and the control group included 145 preterm infants without sepsis whose maternal and neonatal characteristics were collected; they were examined by a retinologist and evaluated for ROP at 32 weeks or four weeks after birth. Finally, we used the chi-square and the t test to compare the two groups. Out of 155 preterm infants with sepsis, 70% and out of 145 preterm infants without sepsis, 58% had ROP (P=0.023). Also, low birth weight, low initial Apgar score and low 5-minute Apgar score were significantly associated with ROP (P<0.05). Based on the results of this study, sepsis is a serious risk factor for ROP. We can reduce its incidence and complication by preventing sepsis in premature infants.

Hemovigilance data: An effective approach for evaluating bacterial protection systems for platelet transfusions.

Septic transfusion reactions due to bacterial contamination in platelet concentrates (PCs) are continually reported to hemovigilance (HV) programs. Worldwide, blood centers use different systems to avoid transfusion-associated bacterial sepsis in PCs. Herein, national HV data were gathered to compare bacterial protection systems and to assess the risk of bacterial contamination. HV data with definite transfusion-associated bacterial sepsis in PCs were obtained from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom (U. K.), and Switzerland between 2006 and 2016. These data were reviewed to evaluate bacterial protection systems including early small-volume (ESV), early large-volume (ELV), and delayed large-volume (DLV) bacterial culture screening and pathogen inactivation (PI) treatment. Implementation of DLV bacterial culture screening in the U. K. and PI treatment in Switzerland resulted in significant reductions (P < 0.05) in transfusion-associated bacterial sepsis for the period of 2011-2016 compared to the prior 4 years (2006-2010). Approximately 1.86 million DLV bacterial culture-screened PCs and 0.21 million PI-treated PCs were issued with no reported septic fatalities nor cases of life-threatening sepsis. In Australia, two life-threatening septic transfusion reactions (1.923 per million) were reported out of almost 1.04 million ELV bacterial culture-screened PCs, and no septic fatalities were reported. Meanwhile, in Canada, four life-threatening septic transfusion reactions (3.6/million) and one fatality (0.9/million) were observed in about 1.11 million ESV bacterial culture-screened PCs. DLV bacterial culture and PI treatment significantly reduced the incidence of septic reactions. The advantages and disadvantages of both systems merit further investigation before implementation.

Nontargeted lipidomic analysis of sera from sepsis patients based on ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry

To analyze the changes of serum lipidomics in patients with sepsis and healthy controls, search for the differences of lipid metabolites, and reveal the changes of lipidomics in the process of sepsis. A prospective observational study was conducted. From September 2019 to April 2020, morning blood samples of upper extremity superficial veins were collected from 30 patients with definite sepsis diagnosed in intensive care unit (ICU) of Shanxi Bethune Hospital and 30 age-matched healthy subjects during the same period. Serum lipid metabolites were analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), and the quality control samples were analyzed by base peak spectroscopy (BPC) and verified experimental repetition. Student t-test and fold change (FC) were used for screening significant differences in lipid metabolites and determining their expression changes. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projectionto latent structure discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were used to determine the entire allocation of experimental groups apiece, access the quality of being near to the true value of model, and screen the differential lipid metabolites with variable importance of projection (VIP). Finally, Metabo Analyst platform database was used to analyze lipid molecular metabolic pathways. BPC results showed that the experimental repeatability was good and the experimental data was reliable. The main parameter model interpretation rate of PCA model R2X = 0.511, indicating that the model was reliable. The main parameter model interpretation rate of OPLS-DA model R2Y = 0.954, Q2 = 0.913, indicating that the model was stable and reliable. With FC > 2.0 or FC < 0.5, P < 0.05, a total of 72 differential lipid metabolites were obtained based on VIP > 1. Based on Metabo Analyst 5.0, 24 distinguishable lipid metabolites were identified including 8 phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), 7 lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), 6 phosphatidylcholine (PC), 2 lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) and 1 phosphatidylserine (PS). Compared with healthy volunteers, the lipid molecules expression proved down-regulated in most sepsis patients, including PC, LPC, LPE, and some PE, while some PE and PS were up-regulated, which was mainly related to the PE (18:0p/20:4), PC (16:0/16:0) and LPC (18:1) metabolic pathways in glycerophospholipids. There are significant differences in lipid metabolites between the sera of sepsis patients and healthy volunteers. PE (18:0p/20:4), PC (16:0/16:0) and LPC (18:1) may be new targets for sepsis prediction and intervention.

Procalcitonin and C-reactive protein for diagnosing post-operative sepsis in neonates.

To determine whether serum procalcitonin (PCT) or C-reactive protein (CRP) can diagnose post-operative sepsis among neonates undergoing major non-cardiac surgery. In this diagnostic study, we included neonates who underwent major non-cardiac surgery and were monitored for post-operative sepsis. We excluded pre-existing septic, inflammatory or life-threatening conditions. Subjects either had 'definite' (culture-positive, n=14), 'probable' (clinical sepsis, culture-negative, n=25) or no sepsis (n=31). We measured serum CRP and PCT at 48 ± 6h, 72 ± 6h and 96 ± 6h post-operatively and compared 'definite or probable sepsis' with 'no sepsis'. Median (Q1, Q3) CRP (mg/L) in 'definite or probable' sepsis group was higher than 'no sepsis' at 72 h (91.48 (57.87, 143.50) vs. 51.32 (33.0, 80.1); P=0.009) and 96 h (87.51 (45.19, 128.22) vs. 31.00 (25.3, 45.2); P < 0.001). Median (Q1, Q3) PCT (ng/mL) in 'definite or probable' sepsis was higher than 'no sepsis' at 72 h (4.22 (2.04, 12.73) vs. 1.78 (0.9, 6.4); P=0.01) and 96 h (3.54 (1.96, 9.65) vs. 0.97 (0.4, 3.0); P < 0.001). Ninety-six-hour CRP and PCT cut-offs (based on Youden's index) were 74.16 mg/L and 1.65 ng/mL, respectively. If both CRP and PCT were positive, specificity was 100% (95% confidence interval: 88.78-100). If either one was positive, sensitivity was 88.89% (95% confidence interval: 73.94-96.89). Septic neonates have significantly higher serum CRP and PCT compared to non-septic neonates at 72 and 96 h post-operatively. If both CRP and PCT are positive at 96 h after surgery, it has 100% specificity, and if either one is positive, 89% sensitivity.

Clinical symptoms, maternal and neonatal risk factors of 285 neonates with definitive sepsis

Clinical symptoms, maternal and neonatal risk factors of 285 neonates with definitive sepsis

Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns in the NICU of Ghaem Hospital of Mashhad

Background and Aims: Neonatal sepsis is considered a clinical syndrome characterized by signs and symptoms of infection associated with positive blood culture. The present study investigates the rate of sensitivity and resistance to antibiotics in neonates with definite sepsis. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 268 neonates with definitive sepsis (positive blood culture with clinical signs of infection) hospitalized in the NICU of Ghaem Hospital of Mashhad, from 2008 to 2018. To investigate the antibiotic susceptibility pattern, identifying microorganism and antibiogram tests was performed according to the standard microbiological method. The data were collected through a questionnaire designed by the researchers. It included neonates’ characteristics, types of microorganisms in neonatal unite, and sensitivity and resistance to neonatal sepsis’s common microorganism. Results: Based on the results, Klebsiella showed sensitivity to norfloxacin (100%), ciprofloxacin (100%), meropenem (100%), imipenem (94%), cotrimoxazole (73%), and vancomycin (67%). Similarly, Enterobacter showed 100% sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, meropenem, norfloxacin, and high sensitivity to imipenem (94%) and co-trimoxazole (83%). Acinetobacter turned out to be sensitive to co-trimoxazole and norfloxacin (both of them were 67%) and to amikacin in 33% of the cases. E. coli was sensitive to imipenem (83.33%), ciprofloxacin (80%), and ceftazidime (71.43%). Finally, staphylococcus coagulase negative was sensitive to piperacillin in 100%, vancomycin in 96.67%, and imipenem in 71.43% of the cases. Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that high-sensitivity drugs for the treatment of definite neonatal sepsis are Meropenem(Klebsiella and E. coli), Enterobacter(Ampicilin), Acinetobacter(Imipenem) and Staphylococcus coagulase negative (vancomycin).

Cell-Surface Biomarkers, C-Reactive Protein and Haematological Parameters for Diagnosing Late Onset Sepsis in Pre-term Neonates.

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of white blood cell-surface biomarkers (CD64, CD11b and HLA-DR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and hematological parameters to diagnose definite sepsis among pre-term neonates presenting with suspected late-onset neonatal sepsis (LONS). This was a prospective, single-gate, diagnostic study in a Level III neonatal unit. Fifty-three neonates (gestation, <34 weeks) with LONS (onset, >72 age), were enrolled. Cell-surface biomarkers, CRP and haematological parameters were assayed at 0 and 48 h after onset. The reference standard was definite sepsis, defined as a positive blood culture with a non-contaminant organism. The index tests (cell-surface biomarkers, CRP and haematological parameters) were compared between subjects with or without 'definite sepsis'. The area under the receiver operator characteristics curves (AUC) generated for each index test at 0 and 48 h was compared. Level III neonatal unit in a tertiary care institute. Of 53 enrolled pre-term infants, 24 had definite sepsis. Among all the index tests evaluated, CRP at 48 h had the highest AUC [0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.69, 0.92)]. The expression of CD11b and HLA-DR was significantly reduced among the septic neonates. Among the cell-surface biomarkers, the maximum AUC was recorded for HLA-DR at 48 [0.68 (95% CI, 0.54, 0.81)]. Comparisons between index tests were not statistically significant. C-reactive protein is superior to other sepsis screen biomarkers and white blood cell-surface biomarkers in diagnosing culture-positive LONS among pre-term infants. CD64, CD11b and HLA DR as diagnostic tests in this group have limited discriminatory value. The diagnosis of neonatal blood stream infections is a challenge. In response to bacterial blood stream infections, white blood cells are known to produce an excess of certain types of specialized proteins on their surface, including CD64, CD11b and HLA-DR. In this study we evaluated the concentration of these cell-surface proteins for diagnosing blood stream infections in pre-mature newborn babies, whose onset of infection was beyond 72 h of life. We compared these tests against standard tests that are currently in clinical use, such as C-reactive protein and blood white cell counts. All tests were performed at the time of initially suspecting the infection and 48 h later. The gold standard against which all these tests were evaluated was blood culture, in which the offending bacteria are grown in specialized laboratory media. Of 53 pre-mature babies with suspected infection, 24 had blood culture-proven infection. Among all tests, C-reactive protein at 48 h had the best ability to distinguish definite infection from no infection. The expression of CD11b and HLA-DR was significantly reduced among infected neonates. We conclude that C-reactive protein is superior to white blood cell-surface proteins and white cell count in diagnosing definite late-onset infections among pre-term infants.

Sensitivity and Resistance of the Microorganisms Responsible for Neonatal Sepsis to Antibiotics

Background: Sepsis is a major neonatal disease that requires appropriate early treatment. Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the resistance and sensitivity to antibiotics in neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) due to sepsis. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 268 neonates with definitive sepsis (positive blood culture with clinical signs of infection) hospitalized during 2009 - 2019 are investigated. Identification of microorganism and antibiogram test were performed according to the standard microbiological method. Antibiotics susceptibility testing was performed by disk diffusion and microdilution method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) (2013). A researcher-made questionnaire, including characteristics of neonates and types of microorganisms (Gram-positive or negative) in the neonatal ward, as well as sensitivity and resistance to common microorganisms in neonatal sepsis, was used to collect data. Results: According to the antibiogram results, the microorganism found in NICU showed sensitivity to vancomycin (97%), imipenem (71%), and co-trimoxazole (56%), as well as norfloxacin, cephalotin, and cefazolin (50%). Gram-negative bacteria showed complete sensitivity (100%) to piperacillin, clavulanic acid, colistin, tazobactam, and meropenem and high sensitivity (&gt; 86%) to imipenem, norfloxacin, and ciprofloxacin. There was high resistance to amoxicillin, ampicillin, amikacin, gentamicin, cephalotin, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ceftizoxime, cephalexin, and clindamycin. Gram-positive bacteria showed full sensitivity (100%) to doxycycline, piperacillin, and tobramycin and reasonable sensitivity (&gt; 75%) to vancomycin, imipenem, and tetracycline. Azithromycin, ampicillin, gentamicin, cefepime, meropenem, penicillin, erythromycin, oxacillin, and amoxicillin showed resistance in 100% of cases. Conclusions: This study demonstrated high-sensitivity drugs for definitive treatment of neonatal sepsis (i.e., piperacillin, tazobactam, and meropenem for Gram-negatives, and piperacillin, and tobramycin for Gram-positive microorganisms).

Role of procalcitonin in diagnosis of neonatal sepsis and procalcitonin guided duration of antibiotic therapy

Background: Neonatal sepsis is one of the important causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality particularly in the developing countries. Accurate and quick diagnosis is difficult because clinical presentation is non-specific, bacterial cultures are time-consuming and other laboratory tests lack sensitivity and specificity. Procalcitonin (PCT) is often reported to be more superior to C-reactive protein (CRP), being more sensitive and specific, starts to rise earlier and returns to normal concentration more rapidly than CRP.Methods: It is a hospital based prospective observational study. Blood samples were obtained and analyzed for blood culture, septic screen including serum CRP and PCT. Neonates were categorized into proven sepsis (n=39), probable sepsis (n=21) and clinical sepsis (n=40) groups on the basis of laboratory findings and risk factors. Data was analyzed by using standard statistical tests using SPSS 16.Results: Out of 100 cases, elevated PCT level &gt;0.5 ng/dl was detected in 75 and &gt;2 ng/dl was detected in 51 whereas CRP was positive only in 61 cases. Among the 39 culture positive cases, elevated serum PCT level was noticed in 39 (100%) cases whereas CRP level was noticed in 30 (76.9%) cases. Mean PCT levels were significantly high according to infection severity (P&lt;0.01). Procalcitonin (sensitivity 87.2%, specificity 72.13%, positive predictive value 66.7% and negative predictive value 89.8% and with p value of &lt;0.001) is more superior than CRP to predict sepsis in neonate. The mean duration of antibiotic therapy was 12.46±4.62 days in definite sepsis, 4.53±1.78 days in probable sepsis group and in clinical sepsis group 3.75±1.33 days by serial PCT measurement.Conclusions: Serum PCT levels &gt;2 ng/dl has got a better sensitivity and NPV, which help us not only in the early diagnosis but also in the prognosis and duration of antibiotic therapy.

A Study of Clinico-pathological Profile of Suspected and Confirmed Neonatal Sepsis at Kathmandu Medical College

Neonatal sepsis is a common reason for neonatal morbidity and mortality. Only clinical manifestations are inadequate to diagnose neonatal sepsis. In context of Nepal, there has been few studies correlating bacterial and clinical profile but none till now has managed to define the most adequate parameters to diagnose neonatal sepsis with certainty. Hence, this study is conducted to describe and compare clinical and laboratory characteristics of culture positive and clinically suspected sepsis (blood culture negative) and then assess whether differences exist between them. A descriptive prospective study was carried out for a period of one year starting from April 2017 to March 2018 at the NICU of Kathmandu Medical College. A total of 129 culture proven and suspected septic neonates were included. Clinical features, septic screening including blood culture, biochemical tests and radiological findings were taken into consideration. The incidence of definite neonatal sepsis was 22.4%. The most common bacterial isolates were gram negative bacteria. Klebsiella spp (48%) followed by CoNS (17%), Acinetobacter spp (14%), Enterobacter spp (7%), Pseudomonas (7%) and Staphylococcus aureus (7%) were isolated. Different non specific clinical features like respiratory and gastro-intestinal symptoms were seen. The neonates with clinical features had positive correlation with abnormal laboratory parameters with statistically significant p value, suggesting that septic neonates showed abnormal laboratory parameters. This data emphasizes the role of laboratory parameters other than blood culture for the diagnosis and empirical treatment of neonatal sepsis.

Clinical Profile of Neonatal Early Onset Sepsis: A Study on the Current Scenario

Background: Neonatal early onset sepsis remains to be a challenge in India, owing to its variable presentation, diagnostic difficulty and high fatality. An attempt needs to be made to study its clinical profile for easy identification of such babies, with new antibiotic guidelines formulated based on current microorganisms isolated. The aim of the study is to study the clinical profile of early onset sepsis in neonates in terms of the risk factors, clinical factors and etiology, and ascertain factors associated with definite sepsis. Subjects and Methods: This hospital based cross-sectional study enrolled neonates with suspected early onset sepsis. Those with congenital anomalies, surgical conditions, gestation &lt;28 weeks and birth weight &lt;1kg excluded. Subjects were subjected to sepsis screen and blood culture, and their perinatal history recorded. Blood culture positive babies were considered to have definite sepsis. Data was analysed using Chi square with SPSS 18. Results: Among 300 babies enrolled, 70 babies had definite sepsis. The most common organism isolated was Klebsiella (27.1%) and Staphylococcus hemolyticus (21.4%), most showing sensitivity to Ampicillin and Gentamicin. Respiratory distress was the commonest presentation (71.3%). A significant association with definite sepsis was seen with prematurity (p =0.0026) and low birth weight (p =0.0052), perinatal risk factors namely premature rupture of membranes (p =0.004), foul smelling liquor (p=0.016) and birth asphyxia (p-value=0.02). 28.3% had positive sepsis screen, which was significant (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Early onset sepsis needs prompt identification and treatment initiation, possible with aid of sepsis screen and high index of suspicion with certain perinatal risk factors and gestational age and birth weight.

Serum Pancreatic Stone Protein as a New Protein Biomarker for Late-onset Neonatal Sepsis

Background: Neonatal sepsis is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis is the cornerstone of management and favorable outcome. The wide variations of presenting signs of neonatal sepsis make reaching a diagnosis very challenging.Objectives: Our aim was to study serum pancreatic stone protein (PSP) in late-onset neonatal sepsis and its relation to the clinical score and C-reactive protein (CRP).Results: We found that the definite sepsis group had significantly higher PSP and CRP levels than the other two groups (p < 0.001). Moreover, the probable sepsis group had significantly higher PSP and CRP levels than controls (p < 0.001). The PSP had significant positive correlations with the clinical score (r=0.32, P =0.01) and CRP level (r=0.47, P =0.001). The PSP was more sensitive than both clinical score and CRP in detecting neonatal sepsis, as its sensitivity was 98.3% and a specificity of 100%.Conclusion: PSP is a valuable biomarker to detect late-onset neonatal sepsis. It is more sensitive than traditionally used acute phase reactant as CRP.

Forecasting the possibility of neonatal early onset sepsis based on perinatal risk factors

Background: Neonatal sepsis remains a leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity, diagnosis of which remains difficult due to variable presentations. With the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance, it is important to identify perinatal risk factors which are associated with higher incidence of definite sepsis, to initiate empirical antibiotics, while awaiting blood culture reports.Methods: This was hospital based cross-sectional study done in SVPPGIP, Cuttack, Odisha during January 2019 to April 2019, enrolling all neonates ≥37 weeks gestation and aged less than 72 hours, with suspected early onset sepsis. Neonates with TORCH infections, congenital anomalies, syndromic baby or with surgical conditions were excluded. After obtaining informed consent, blood culture was sent for all and their perinatal risk factors noted. Blood culture positive newborns were considered to have definite sepsis. Data was analysed with Chi-square test and percentages, using SPSS 18.Results: Among the 200 cases, incidence of definite sepsis was 26%. The most common risk factor was low birth weight and birth asphyxia. Majority (67%) had single or lesser risk factor and number of risk factors was significantly associated with definite sepsis. A significant association was seen between blood culture positivity with low birth weight (p=0.003), foul smelling liquor (p= 0.025), birth asphyxia (p 0.018) and premature rupture of membranes (p= 0.016). The combination of maternal fever and unclean vaginal examination was also significantly associated with the same.Conclusions: Protocols for initiating empiric antibiotics need to be formulated, taking into account the significant risk factors, in resource limited settings, to avoid resource and time wastage.

Estimating the burden of antimicrobial resistance in Malawi: protocol for a prospective observational study of the morbidity, mortality and economic cost of third-generation cephalosporin resistant bloodstream infection.

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health concern, but the problems are context specific, with each county or setting facing differing challenges. In sub-Saharan Africa, third-generation cephalosporin resistant Enterobacterales (3GCR-E) are of particular concern, given the widespread reliance on ceftriaxone for treatment of severe infection in this setting. In Malawi, despite rising prevalence of 3GCR-E, the health-impact of these infections has not been described. This study is designed to estimate attributable mortality, morbidity and economic cost of 3GCR-E bloodstream infection (BSI) in a large, urban hospital. Methods: This study will investigate the burden of AMR by recruiting a a prospective longitudinal cohort of patients who have bloodstream infection with 3GCR-E, at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi. Patients whose blood culture is positive for either third-generation cephalosporin susceptible (3GC-S) or third-generation resistant (3GC-R) Enterobacterales will be enrolled and provide clinical and healthcare economic data. Patients will be followed throughout their hospital stay and to 6-months post discharge. The primary outcomes for the study are mortality and morbidity from 3GCR-E. Healthcare economic outcomes will be assessed by comparing healthcare provider costs, indirect patient costs and health-related quality of life outcomes in patients with 3GC-S and 3GC-R BSI. Based on our observation that some patients with clinical suspicion of sepsis and 3GC-R BSI are surviving without an effective antibiotic, we review each patient prospectively and classify what role the isolated bacteria is playing in the patient's clinical presentation. Each BSI episode will be classified into the following categories: definite Gram-negative sepsis, probable Gram-negative sepsis, transient or occult bacteraemia, or contaminated blood culture. These classifications will be incorporated into our analysis. Ethics and dissemination: The study protocol has been approved by the Malawi College of Medicine Research Ethics Committee and by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine Research Ethics committee.

Estimating the burden of antimicrobial resistance in Malawi: protocol for a prospective observational study of the morbidity, mortality and economic cost of third-generation cephalosporin resistant bloodstream infection

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health concern, but the problems are context specific, with each county or setting facing differing challenges. In sub-Saharan Africa, third-generation cephalosporin resistant Enterobacterales (3GCR-E) are of particular concern, given the widespread reliance on ceftriaxone for treatment of severe infection in this setting. In Malawi, despite rising prevalence of 3GCR-E, the health-impact of these infections has not been described. This study is designed to estimate attributable mortality, morbidity and economic cost of 3GCR-E bloodstream infection (BSI) in a large, urban hospital. Methods: This study will investigate the burden of AMR by recruiting a a prospective longitudinal cohort of patients who have bloodstream infection with 3GCR-E, at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi. Patients whose blood culture is positive for either third-generation cephalosporin susceptible (3GC-S) or third-generation resistant (3GC-R) Enterobacterales will be enrolled and provide clinical and healthcare economic data. Patients will be followed throughout their hospital stay and to 6-months post discharge. The primary outcomes for the study are mortality and morbidity from 3GCR-E. Healthcare economic outcomes will be assessed by comparing healthcare provider costs, indirect patient costs and health-related quality of life outcomes in patients with 3GC-S and 3GC-R BSI. Based on our observation that some patients with clinical suspicion of sepsis and 3GC-R BSI are surviving without an effective antibiotic, we review each patient prospectively and classify what role the isolated bacteria is playing in the patient’s clinical presentation. Each BSI episode will be classified into the following categories: definite Gram-negative sepsis, probable Gram-negative sepsis, transient or occult bacteraemia, or contaminated blood culture. These classifications will be incorporated into our analysis. Ethics and dissemination: The study protocol has been approved by the Malawi College of Medicine Research Ethics Committee and by the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine Research Ethics committee.