Omphalitis

Omphalitis is infection of umbilical stump (neonatal) or umbilicus (adult), presenting with periumbilical erythema, swelling, purulent discharge, fever; neonatal may progress to necrotizing fasciitis/sepsis. Treatment: IV anti-staph/strep antibiotics (ampicillin/gentamicin/anti-staph penicillin; add vancomycin if MRSA); cord care (chlorhexidine); incision/drainage if abscess; monitor for necrotizing fasciitis/sepsis/portal thrombophlebitis; follow-up.

Common Symptoms

Periumbilical erythema; swelling; purulent discharge; fever; neonatal

Causes and Pathogenesis

Bacterial colonization of umbilical stump causes local infection; may spread.

Treatment

IV antibiotics; cord care; drainage if abscess; monitor NF/sepsis

Preventive Measures

Umbilical cord care (chlorhexidine); hand hygiene.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pediatrics/Neonatology/Surgery/Emergency/Infectious-disease department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.