Houston
Medical
Case
Summary
Infection in the Premature Infant
E. coli infections
in newborns can be very serious and frequently are deadly. Complications
include serious inflammation of the intestinal tract called necrotizing
enterocolitis, internal bleeding and shock. Other complications can
include meningitis and associated urinary infections. Any newborn with
a fever, seizures or decreased activity in the first 30 days of life
should be evaluated for blood, urine and spinal fluid infections.
The major risks
associated with an intracranial hemorrhage include hydrocephaly (abnormal
accumulation of fluid inside the brain) and developmental delays.
Treatment/outcome:
Treatment includes antibiotics, respiratory assistance with a mechanical
ventilator (breathing machine), administration of intravenous fluids
and pressors (medications to help the function of the heart).
Physicians
Dr.
Fernando Moya is the Richard W. Mithoff Professor of Pediatrics
and Director, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at The University
of Texas Medical School at Houston. He is board-certified in general
pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine. His practice is in neonatology,
which involves caring for sick newborns, particularly premature infants.
Dr.
Terri L. Major-Kincade is a neonatologist and an assistant professor
of pediatrics at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.
For more information
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