Female Neonate Research Articles

Isolation and Identification of Bacterial Pathogens from Blood Cultures in a Tertiary Care Hospital and Their Clinical Correlation

Objective: This study aimed to isolate and identify bacterial pathogens from blood cultures of patients with suspected bloodstream infections (BSIs) in a tertiary care hospital, analyze their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and establish clinical correlations. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Microbiology Department of a tertiary care hospital. Blood samples from 60 patients were collected aseptically, processed using BACTEC, and cultured on blood and MacConkey agar. Bacterial isolates were identified based on colonial morphology, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: The overall culture positivity rate was 26%, with higher positivity among female patients (31.57%) and neonates or infants under six months (26%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most frequently isolated pathogen (53.33%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (20.00%), Escherichia coli (13.33%), and Citrobacter species (13.33%). Klebsiella pneumoniae showed high resistance to ceftazidime and piperacillin, while remaining sensitive to cefoperazone and tobramycin. Staphylococcus aureus isolates were resistant to penicillin and erythromycin but sensitive to vancomycin and cefazolin. The prevalence of multidrug resistance among isolates underscores the need for targeted empirical therapy. Conclusion: Klebsiella pneumoniae emerged as the primary pathogen in BSIs, with significant resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics. These findings highlight the necessity for enhanced infection control measures, especially in NICUs, and the implementation of local antibiograms to guide effective antibiotic therapy and mitigate resistance trends. Further research across multiple centers is recommended to validate these findings and inform broader clinical guidelines.

Creative music therapy in preterm infants effects cerebrovascular oxygenation and perfusion.

Creative music therapy (CMT) has been shown to promote the development of brain function and structure in preterm infants. We aimed to investigate the effect of CMT on cerebral oxygenation and perfusion to examine how the brain reacts to CMT. Absolute levels of cerebrovascular oxygen saturation (StO2) were measured in clinically stable preterm-born neonates (n = 20, gestational age: ≥30 weeks and < 37 weeks) using two near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)-based tissue oximeters over the right prefrontal cortex and left auditory cortex. We applied the systemic physiology augmented functional NIRS approach. Each CMT session lasted 55min and involved 9 intervals, including two 10-minute intervals during which the music therapist hummed and held the neonate. We found that CMT-induced changes in cerebrovascular StO2, perfusion and systemic physiology (i) could be classified into two groups (group 1: increase in StO2 during the first singing interval, group 2: decrease in StO2), (ii) differed in female neonates compared to male neonates, and (iii) correlated with individual blood haematocrit levels. Our exploratory study (i) demonstrates the impact of CMT on the neonate's physiology and (ii) highlights the need to analyze functional NIRS measurements in neonates separately according to their response pattern to avoid erroneous conclusions, e.g. when only the group average of the signal change is determined.

048. Roux-En-Y Duodenojejunostomy as Surgical Treatment for Congenital Duodenal Obstruction: A Case Report

Background: Congenital duodenal obstruction is an anatomical abnormality in newborn. Various intrinsic and extrinsic etiologies can cause duodenal obstruction. The surgical treatment that commonly performed on duodenal obstruction in neonates is duodenoduodenostomy. However, several etiologies conditions such as preduodenal portal vein (PDPV) and pancreatic annulare cause duodenoduodenostomy is nearly impossible to be performed, so an alternative treatment is necessary. Case: This case describes female neonate with congenital duodenal obstruction which had been suspected since in pregnancy due to polyhydramnios, an OGT was installed with greenish yellow residue after the baby was born. Based on abdominal x-ray examination, a double bubble appearance was seen. The patient then underwent surgery when he was 5 days old. Intraoperatively, there was PDPV and pancreas annulare covering the 3rd-4th part of duodenum, so it was decided to perform Roux-en-y duodenojejunostomy. Conclusion: In patients with congenital duodenal obstruction with special etiology and anatomy such as PDPV and pancreatic annulare, it is possible to perform a roux-en-y duodenojejunostomy. Even though this operation is rarely performed on neonate and more common in adult patients, it can be an alternative in cases of congenital duodenal obstruction.

A Case Report on Congenital Mesoblastic Nephroma

Aims: This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, genetic underpinnings, clinical presentation, and management strategies of congenital mesoblastic nephroma (CMN), with a focus on the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that distinguish it from other neonatal renal tumors such as Wilms’ tumor. By presenting a unique case of a neonate diagnosed with CMN and undergoing tumor resection, we seek to highlight the complexities of perinatal care in such cases and the potential for life-threatening complications despite early intervention. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of early and accurate differentiation between CMN subtypes, as well as the role of histopathology in guiding treatment approaches. Presentation of Case: A female neonate was born at 34+2 weeks gestation, presenting with a retroperitoneal mass on the left kidney, identified prenatally via ultrasound. Delivered by cesarean section due to polyhydramnios and anemia, a palpable intraabdominal mass was noted during examination. Imaging confirmed a heterogeneous solid lesion suggestive of nephroblastoma. The patient underwent nephroureterectomy, with histopathology confirming congenital mesoblastic nephroma. Despite successful resection, the patient died at 9 days of age from refractory catecholamine septic shock, with complications including neonatal sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and femoral artery thrombosis. Discussion: Congenital mesoblastic nephroma is the most common renal tumor in neonates, often misdiagnosed as Wilms’ tumor. It typically presents before 2 months of age and is associated with translocation (12;15)(p13;q25). The prognosis for classical CMN is excellent, while the cellular variant is more aggressive. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, but the neonate's age necessitates careful management to mitigate risks. In this case, multiple complications contributed to the poor outcome despite timely intervention. Conclusion: CMN is a rare renal tumor in neonates, requiring accurate diagnosis through histopathology. While prognosis is generally favorable, complications from prematurity can adversely affect survival.

Sex-specific phenotypical, functional and metabolic profiles of human term placenta macrophages

BackgroundPlacental macrophages, Hofbauer cells (HBC) are the only fetal immune cell population within the stroma of healthy placenta along pregnancy. They are central players in maintaining immune tolerance during pregnancy. Immunometabolism emerged a few years ago as a new field that integrates cellular metabolism with immune responses, however, the immunometabolism of HBC has not been explored yet. Here we studied the sex-specific differences in the phenotypic, functional and immunometabolic profile of HBC.MethodsHBC were isolated from human term placentas (N = 31, 16 from male and 15 female neonates). Ex vivo assays were carried out to assess active metabolic and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways by flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, gene expression and in silico approaches.ResultsHBC from female placentas displayed a stronger M2 phenotype accompanied by high rates of efferocytosis majorly sustained on lipid metabolism. On the other hand, male HBC expressed a weaker M2 phenotype with higher glycolytic metabolism. LPS stimulation reinforced the glycolytic metabolism in male but not in female HBC. Physiological endoplasmic reticulum stress activates IRE-1 differently, since its pharmacological inhibition increased lipid mobilization, accumulation and efferocytosis only in female HBC. Moreover, differential sex-associated pathways accompanying the phenotypic and functional profiles of HBC appeared related to the placental villi environment.ConclusionsThese results support sex-associated effects on the immunometabolism of the HBC and adds another layer of complexity to the intricate maternal-fetal immune interaction.Graphical abstract

Pneumococcal Septicemia: A Neonatal Case Report

Pneumococcus or Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare cause of neonatal sepsis, associated with significant morbidity and a very high mortality rate. The infection is generally acquired during pregnancy, from colonization of the maternal genital tract. Most affected newborns present with early symptoms, usually within 48 hours of birth, which is similar to other causes of neonatal sepsis. We report the case of a premature female neonate with fatal, early pneumococcal sepsis that appeared at D1 of life, with an unfavorable course that initially led to intubation and death after 24 hours of hospitalization.

Complete Pentalogy Of Cantrell: Case Report And Review Of Literature

Introduction: Pentalogy of Cantrell (POC) is a rare congenital anomaly with two sub-categories: complete or partial. Complete has all five defects (anterior diaphragmatic defect, ventral abdominal wall defect, pericardial defect, intracardiac anomalies, and lower sternal defect). The first documented case was described by Cantrell et al. in 1958. Both sporadic and genetic causes have been proposed for POC, with a reported incidence of 5 - 10 cases per one million live births and various clinical presentations. The prognosis of POC depends on the severity of the defects and the associated cardiac anomalies. This case report seeks to increase awareness of this condition, emphasize the need for appropriate counselling in our environment, and review the literature on previous reported cases’ outcomes. Case Presentation: A 5-hour-old term female neonate was referred to our Children Emergency Center with multiple defects (ectopia cordis, sternal cleft, omphalocele, and limb abnormalities) with dysmorphic facies. A diagnosis of POC was made, and multidisciplinary management was instituted. The eviscerated heart and epigastric omphalocele were dressed and evaluated for palliative surgical care. However, she developed complications with sepsis and electrolyte derangements and died from multi-organ failure before any surgical intervention could be carried out. Conclusion: Though rare, the Pentalogy of Cantrell in its classical form does occur in our environment. The presence of extracardiac and limb deformities worsens the outcome. Based on poor outcomes, there is a need to emphasize appropriate antenatal and postnatal assessments to provide effective counselling on termination, neonatal palliative care, and surgical repairs as appropriate.

Spontaneous vaginal birth after multiple previous caesarean sections: A case report and literature review

Background: Vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC) is increasingly recognized as a safe and effective option for women with a history of Caesarean deliveries. However, limited attention has been given to feasibility and safety of VBAC after multiple caesarean sections. Case presentation: A 36-year-old woman with a history of four previous Caesarean sections presented in our centre in third stage of labour. Despite counseling for elective Caesarean section, she had a spontaneous vaginal delivery of a live 2.6 kg female neonate in a vehicle en route to the hospital. On arrival, she was stable but had lost about 500ml of blood. Immediate interventions included active management of third stage of labour and assessment for perineal injuries, with subsequent monitoring and blood transfusion. She had a normal postpartum recovery, was discharged after four days, and had a reassuring 6-week post-natal visit, with a referral to family planning. Conclusion: This case underscores the potential success and safety of vaginal birth after multiple (three or more) Caesarean sections, challenging the notion that a history of repeated C-sections precludes this option. Vaginal birth after CS (VBAC), initially restricted to one previous CS, is now considered in selected cases with two prior abdominal deliveries. However, the acceptance of VBAC after three or more CS remains limited despite available evidences indicating comparable success rates and maternal risks for VBAC after multiple CS when compared to VBAC after one prior CS or elective repeat CS.

Embolization of dissected and ruptured giant anterior cerebral artery aneurysm in a full-term neonate.

Intracranial aneurysms are rare in the pediatric age group, especially in neonates. This article presents a novel case of a neonate with a dissected and ruptured giant anterior cerebral artery aneurysm, focusing on diagnosis and endovascular treatment with a review of the literature. A full-term female neonate presented with projectile vomiting, fever, and hyperkinetic movements. Diagnostic workup revealed a giant dissecting and partially thrombosed aneurysm along the anterior cerebral artery. The neonate underwent successful endovascular coil embolization. The intervention led to the cessation of symptoms, and the patient was discharged and followed with mild hypotonia as the only neurological deficit at 9months. This case highlights the rarity and complexity of diagnosing and treating giant dissected anterior cerebral artery aneurysms in neonates. It underscores the importance of considering intracranial aneurysms in differential diagnosis for neonates with relevant symptoms and suggests endovascular embolization as an effective treatment option.

Role of sex as a biological variable in neonatal alveolar macrophages

The lung macrophages play a crucial role in health and disease. Sexual dimorphism significantly impacts the phenotype and function of tissue-resident macrophages. The primary mechanisms responsible for sexually dimorphic outcomes in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remain unidentified. We tested the hypothesis that biological sex plays a crucial role in the transcriptional state of alveolar macrophages, using neonatal murine hyperoxia-induced lung injury as a relevant model for human BPD. The effects of neonatal hyperoxia exposure (95 % FiO2, PND1-5: saccular stage) on the lung myeloid cells acutely after injury and during normoxic recovery were measured. Alveolar macrophages (AM) from room air- and hyperoxia exposed from male and female neonatal murine lungs were subjected to bulk-RNA Sequencing. AMs are significantly depleted in the hyperoxia-exposed lung acutely after injury, with subsequent recovery in both sexes. The transcriptome of the alveolar macrophages is impacted by neonatal hyperoxia exposure and by sex as a biological variable. Pathways related to DNA damage and interferon-signaling were positively enriched in female AMs. Metabolic pathways related to glucose and carbohydrate metabolism were positively enriched in the male AMs, while oxidative phosphorylation was negatively enriched. These pathways were shared with monocytes and airway macrophages from intubated male and female human premature neonates.

No sex difference in maturation of brain morphology during the perinatal period.

Accumulating evidence have documented sex differences in brain anatomy from early childhood to late adulthood. However, whether sex difference of brain structure emerges in the neonatal brain and how sex modulates the development of cortical morphology during the perinatal stage remains unclear. Here, we utilized T2-weighted MRI from the Developing Human Connectome Project (dHCP) database, consisting of 41 male and 40 female neonates born between 35 and 43 postmenstrual weeks (PMW). Neonates of each sex were arranged in a continuous ascending order of age to capture the progressive changes in cortical thickness and curvature throughout the developmental continuum. The maturational covariance network (MCN) was defined as the coupled developmental fluctuations of morphology measures between cortical regions. We constructed MCNs based on the two features, respectively, to illustrate their developmental interdependencies, and then compared the network topology between sexes. Our results showed that cortical structural development exhibited a localized pattern in both males and females, with no significant sex differences in the developmental trajectory of cortical morphology, overall organization, nodal importance, and modular structure of the MCN. Furthermore, by merging male and female neonates into a unified cohort, we identified evident dependencies influences in structural development between different brain modules using the Granger causality analysis (GCA), emanating from high-order regions toward primary cortices. Our findings demonstrate that the maturational pattern of cortical morphology may not differ between sexes during the perinatal period, and provide evidence for the developmental causality among cortical structures in perinatal brains.

Edward’s syndrome neonate, a management conundrum of an anaesthesiologist

Chromosomal disorders manifest with multiple congenital anomalies, which is associated with high morbidity as well as mortality. Trisomy 18 also known as Edward’s syndrome is a rare chromosomal disorder. We report a case of Edwards’ syndrome in a 15-day-old female neonate, with typical syndromic features. Infant’s clinical condition was superimposed by respiratory distress, necessitating a comprehensive, multidisciplinary management involving neonatologist, anesthesiologists, and orthopedic specialists. Considering the intricacies of Edwards’ syndrome and hence contributing to refining protocol for enhanced care and meticulous support. Furthermore, emphasizes the requirement for further research to advance understanding of the clinical condition and propagate future management.

Congenital Myopathy Due to RyR1 Gene Mutation in a Newborn Masquerading as a Consequence of Hypoxic-ischemic Encephalopathy

Background: Congenital myopathies may be a cause of prolonged and persistent hypotonia and weakness in a newborn, which may be overlooked as a neurological consequence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. We report such a neonate which turned out to be a case of central core myopathy. Clinical Description: A female neonate born at 38 weeks of gestation suffered birth asphyxia and was referred at 25 days of life due to a persistent need for respiratory support. A review of history revealed that the mother had decreased fetal movements during the third trimester and polyhydramnios. On examination, the baby had a frog-like posture with a paucity of proximal movements with preserved distal movements. Considering the possibility of a congenital myopathy, investigations were carried out. The whole-exome sequencing revealed heterozygous nonsense variation in exon 20 of the RyR1 gene, thus diagnosing the infant as a case of congenital core myopathy. Management and Outcome: The baby was managed with supportive care including ventilatory and nutritional support. Baby remained ventilator dependent, but ultimately succumbed to complications by 2 months of age. Conclusions: A high index of suspicion is required in a newborn with birth asphyxia having unusually persistent hypotonia, thorough clinical examination and appropriate genetic testing can help in identifying an underlying congenital myopathy.

Novel TRPV6 variant linked with transient neonatal hyperparathyroidism

BackgroundHereditary transient neonatal hyperparathyroidism (TNHP) is a rare autosomal-recessive condition caused by variants in TRPV6 gene which encodes for a transient maternal–fetal calcium transport channel. This is characterized by interference with placental maternal–fetal calcium transport causing fetal calcium deficiency. It primarily manifests as defective bone mineralization, narrow and bell-shaped thorax, bone fractures and short bones at birth. The current study aimed to describe a novel TRPV6 variant linked with TNHP in an Indian family and the review of literature.Case presentationThe proband is a term female neonate with fetal growth restriction born to a third-degree consanguineous couple. She was noted to have diffuse defective bone mineralization, narrow and bell-shaped thoracic cavity, short bones and curved ribs without any bone fractures. The first pregnancy was affected with similar features in the fetus and had been terminated. Parental whole-exome sequencing suggested heterozygous missense variant in exon 12 of the TRPV6 gene (c.1585G > A, p.Asp529Asn) in both the parents. The proband required non-invasive respiratory support for ten days in neonatal intensive care unit. She had low calcium and high parathyroid hormone (PTH) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. She received calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D supplements for three months leading to normalization of serum PTH and ALP levels. Whole-exome sequencing of the proband suggested a homozygous missense variant in exon 12 of the TRPV6 gene (p.Asp529Asn; ENST00000359396.9) that results in the amino acid substitution of asparagine for aspartic acid at codon 529. To the best of author’s knowledge, this is the twelfth case of TNHP reported in literature. The novel variant of TRPV6 gene present in this family has not been reported earlier.ConclusionOur finding broadens the genotypic spectrum of TNHP.

A term infant with severe hypereosinophilia secondary to CMV infection and the STAT1 gene mutation: a case report

Hypereosinophilia is a rare presentation in all age groups, particularly when it is severe, persistent, and progressive. We describe the clinical characteristics and course of severe hypereosinophilia in a full-term Saudi female neonate. A febrile respiratory illness evolved with a progressive increase in peripheral blood leukocyte and eosinophil counts, reaching 44.9% of leukocytes and an absolute value of 57,000 cells/µl. Different etiological examinations (for viral, bacterial, immunodeficiency, hyper IgE syndrome, gene mutations) revealed extremely high CMV antigenemia and a homozygous mutation in the STAT1 gene. Anhelation was relieved by oxygen and anti-viral treatment. Steroids brought a dramatic response in peripheral blood counts within 24 h. After a 6-week course of antiviral and steroid treatment at home, she had an excellent general condition. Conclusion: Although a rare pathology, it is important to consider genetic disorders when there is an atypical immune response to viral infections.

Whole-Genome Sequencing of Invasive Neonatal Escherichia coli From Uppsala County, Sweden.

This study sought to investigate associations between virulence factors and phylogeny in all neonatal Escherichia coli bloodstream infections from patients admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Uppsala University Hospital between 2005 and 2020. A total of 37 E. coli isolates from 32 neonates were whole-genome sequenced and analyzed for virulence factors related to extraintestinal E. coli; patient-related data were collected retrospectively from the medical records. E. coli isolates that belong to phylogroup B2 were associated with mortality (odds ratio [OR], 26; P < .001), extreme prematurity with delivery before gestational week 28 (OR, 9; P < .05), and shock (OR, 9; P < .05) compared with isolates of non-B2 group. Female neonates were more often infected with isolates of phylogroup B2 E. coli compared with male neonates (OR, 7; P = .05). The identification of the genotoxin determinant clb coding for colibactin exhibited strong associations with mortality (OR, 67; P < .005), gestational age (OR, 18; P < .005), and shock (OR, 26; P < .005). The study highlighted the correlation between neonatal E. coli bacteremia caused by phylogroup B2 and the role of colibactin. Results emphasize difference between male and female neonates in E. coli populations in bloodstream infections.

Neonatal Amino Acids and Acylcarnitines Associated With Maternal Blood Glucose Levels Throughout Pregnancy: Insights From the Beijing Birth Cohort Study.

To determine the association between maternal blood glucose patterns throughout pregnancy and neonatal amino acids and acylcarnitines. We conducted a prospective cohort study involving 11,457 singleton pregnant women without preexisting diabetes from the Beijing Birth Cohort Study, along with their neonates born between July 2021 and October 2022 in Beijing, China. Distinct maternal glucose trajectories were identified using a latent class model based on blood glucose levels across the three trimesters, and their association with neonatal circulating metabolites, including 11 amino acids and 33 acylcarnitines, was examined, adjusting for potential confounding factors. Three distinct groups of maternal glucose trajectories were identified: consistent normoglycemia (n = 8,648), mid-to-late gestational hyperglycemia (n = 2,540), and early-onset hyperglycemia (n = 269). Mid-to-late gestational hyperglycemia was associated with decreased levels of amino acids (alanine, arginine, ornithine, and proline) involved in the arginine and proline metabolism and urea cycle pathway, as well as increased levels of C4DC+C5-OH and decreased level of C6DC and C10:1. Early-onset hyperglycemia was associated with elevated levels of free acylcarnitine and C4DC+C5-OH and a decreased level of C10:1, involved in the fatty acid oxidation pathway. However, these associations were primarily observed in male neonates rather than in female neonates. Our findings revealed a significant link between maternal glucose trajectories throughout pregnancy and neonatal arginine and proline metabolism, urea cycle pathway, and fatty acid oxidation pathway. These results highlight the importance of maintaining optimal blood glucose levels throughout pregnancy to promote healthy neonatal metabolic outcomes.

Lethal Complications and Complex Genotypes in Shwachman Diamond Syndrome: Report of a Family with Recurrent Neonatal Deaths and a Case-Based Brief Review of the Literature.

Shwachman Diamond Syndrome (SDS) is a multi-system disease characterized by exocrine pancreatic insufficiency with malabsorption, infantile neutropenia and aplastic anemia. Life-threatening complications include progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), critical deep-tissue infections and asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy. In most patients, SDS results from biallelic pathogenic variants in the SBDS gene, different combinations of which contribute to heterogenous clinical presentations. Null variants are not well tolerated, supporting the theory that the loss of SBDS expression is likely lethal in both mice and humans. A novel complex genotype (SBDS:c.[242C>G;258+2T>C];[460-1G>A]/WFS1:c.[2327A>T];[1371G>T]) was detected in a family with recurrent neonatal deaths. A female neonate died three hours after birth with hemolytic anemia, and a male neonate with severe anemia, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia succumbed on day 40 after Staphylococcus epidermidis infection. A subsequent review of the literature focused on fatal complications, complex SBDS genotypes and/or unusual clinical presentations and disclosed rare cases, of which some had unexpected combinations of genetic and clinical findings. The impact of pathogenic variants and associated phenotypes is discussed in the context of data sharing towards expanding scientific expert networks, consolidating knowledge and advancing an understanding of novel underlying genotypes and complex phenotypes, facilitating informed clinical decisions and disease management.

Determinants of neural tube defect among newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units of teaching hospitals in Gedeo Zone and Sidama Region, Southern Ethiopia: a case–control study

BackgroundNeural tube defects are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality that can occur in the early pregnancy periods. Though the burden is high, it gains only limited attention. In...

Neonatal morbidity in the 2011 JAKIDS Jamaican birth cohort

ABSTRACT This study reports the spectrum of discharge diagnoses in a national cohort of newborns admitted during a 3-month period to hospitals across Jamaica. The data were analyzed using measures of central tendency and risk assessed using odds ratio. Data on 1607 admissions were used to describe the spectrum of morbidity in hospitalized infants. Eight hundred and seven (50%) male and 754 (48%) female neonates were admitted. There was a 15% (240) readmission rate during the neonatal period. Infants of diabetic mothers were almost three times as likely to be admitted as infants whose mothers were not diabetic OR 2.89 (CI 1.96 − 4.13). Infants of women who were hypertensive were 1.5 times more likely to be admitted than infants of non-hypertensive women OR 1.56 (CI 1.56–1.9). The odds ratio for admission of an infant born to a woman delivered by caesarean section was 2.1 (CI: 1.67–2.38). Premature infants constituted 50% of admissions. The most prevalent discharge diagnosis included presumed sepsis, respiratory distress and neonatal jaundice in both preterm and term neonates. In the extreme preterm infant respiratory distress syndrome was the most predominant discharge diagnosis. Multiple gestation was a significant risk for admission OR 2.7 (CI 1.8 to 3.9). Prematurity, multiple gestation, macrosomia, maternal diabetes, maternal hypertension and low 5 minute Apgar score < 7 were all found to be independent predictors of neonatal admission in a logistic regression model (p < 0.001). The recognition of the discharge morbidity is useful for future health planning for the most vulnerable in our population.