a) Group B Streptococci
b) E-coli
c) Klebsiella
d) Enterococci
e) H-influenzae
f) ListeriaSome also include the TORCH infections when discussing early neonatal
infections, although these rarely present with a septic picture. When they do
become symptomatic (in 5-10% of those infected), TORCH infections generally
result in chronic co-morbidities, rather than acute, life threatening, organ
dysfunction. For purposes of this chapter, common bacterial organisms
resulting in early onset neonatal sepsis are discussed, as those are more
commonly seen in the surgical neonate.
Late-Onset Neonatal Sepsis:
If an infection occurs beyond 5 days of age, late-onset sepsis needs to be
considered. The principles of diagnosis and treatment remain the same. The
organisms involved and the mechanisms by which they are contracted differ
compared to the newborn patient. In additions to the organisms previously
discussed, hospital acquired infections are more common in this group. These
include organisms introduced by instrumentation, catheterization, mechanical
ventilation, surgical incisions, and presence of congenital defects (i.e.
myelomenigocele or ruptured omphalocele), all of breach natural skin and