Neonatal Purulent Meningitis

Neonatal purulent meningitis is bacterial meningitis in the neonatal period, most often due to group B streptococcus, E. coli, or Listeria, acquired perinatally. Clinical: fever or hypothermia, poor feeding, irritability or lethargy, full/bulging fontanelle, seizures, and respiratory distress. It has high mortality and neurologic sequelae. Diagnosis by lumbar puncture. Treatment: IV antibiotics (ampicillin + cephalosporin/aminoglycoside) for 2-3 weeks, supportive ICU care.

Common Symptoms

Fever/hypothermia; poor feeding; irritability/lethargy; bulging fontanelle; seizures; respiratory distress in neonate

Causes and Pathogenesis

Perinatal acquisition of GBS/E. coli/Listeria causes leptomeningeal purulent infection in the immunologically immature neonate.

Treatment

IV antibiotics (ampicillin + cephalosporin/aminoglycoside) for 2-3 weeks; ICU supportive care; manage seizures/hydrocephalus

Preventive Measures

Intrapartum GBS prophylaxis; prompt neonatal evaluation; treat maternal infection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Pediatrics 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.