Bacterial Meningitis in Infants Under 90 Days of Age
Author Information
Author(s): Buttera Martina, Mazzotti Sofia, Zini Tommaso, Corso Lucia, Dallai Valeria, Miselli Francesca, Bedetti Luca, Rossi Katia, Spaggiari Eugenio, Iughetti Lorenzo, Lugli Licia, Berardi Alberto
Primary Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
Hypothesis
What are the epidemiology, clinical presentations, antibiotic treatments, and short-term outcomes of bacterial meningitis in infants under 90 days of age?
Conclusion
Preterm infants have higher rates of bacterial meningitis, brain lesions, or case fatalities, and early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment are critical to improve outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- 44 episodes of meningitis were confirmed in 40 infants.
- 70% of episodes occurred in preterm infants.
- Two preterm infants died from meningitis-related complications.
- Brain lesions were detected in 21% of episodes.
Takeaway
This study looked at babies with a serious infection called bacterial meningitis. It found that babies born early are more likely to get sick and have problems, so it's really important to find and treat this illness quickly.
Methodology
A retrospective analysis of infants with bacterial meningitis admitted to the NICU from January 2011 to December 2023.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of coagulase-negative staphylococci meningitis due to contamination.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was retrospective, which limited detailed analyses and may have led to underestimating the incidence of meningitis.
Participant Demographics
Among the 40 infants, 21 were males and 19 were females; 13 were full-term and 27 were preterm.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website