Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026
08:46
A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
Published on: August 12, 2020
Periumbilical necrotizing fasciitis in the newborn
D M Weber1, N V Freeman, K M Elhag
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
Summary
Periumbilical necrotizing fasciitis (PNF) in newborns is a severe infection. Early aggressive treatment improved survival rates to 56%, though more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infectious diseases
- Surgical pathology
Background:
- Periumbilical necrotizing fasciitis (PNF) is a rare, severe neonatal abdominal wall infection with high mortality.
- Etiology, risk factors, and microbiology of PNF remain poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics, microbiology, and outcomes of neonatal PNF.
- To compare PNF with omphalitis to understand disease distinctions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 18 neonates with PNF compared to 50 neonates with omphalitis (1992-1998).
- Analysis of clinical presentation, microbial cultures, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- PNF patients presented younger (8.4 days) with shorter history (1.9 days) than omphalitis patients.
- Microbiology revealed mixed anaerobes and aerobes (55%) or mixed aerobes (36%).
- Aggressive therapy (intubation, debridement, antibiotics, support) yielded a 56% survival rate.
Conclusions:
- PNF has distinct underlying causes, not merely a sequela of omphalitis.
- Early, aggressive multimodal treatment is crucial for improving PNF survival rates.
- The 56% survival rate, while suboptimal, exceeds previously reported figures.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Fetal Circulation
Fetal circulation is a unique system that facilitates the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the developing fetus and the mother. This intricate process takes place through a special organ called the placenta.
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:28Development of the Oral Microbiota
The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...