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Staphylococcal and enterococcal infections in the neonatal intensive care unit

Philip L Graham1

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA. pg143@columbia.edu

Seminars in Perinatology
|November 28, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Healthcare-associated infections in preterm neonates are shifting towards gram-positive bacteria. Emerging resistance patterns complicate treatment strategies for these evolving pathogens.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Improving survival rates for preterm neonates has altered the landscape of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
  • Historically, gram-negative bacilli and group B streptococci were primary pathogens causing HAIs in neonates.
  • Recent trends show a significant increase in the prevalence of gram-positive organisms, including staphylococci and enterococci.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the changing epidemiology of pathogens responsible for HAIs in preterm neonates.
  • To highlight the challenges posed by emerging antimicrobial resistance patterns in these pathogens.

Main Methods:

  • Epidemiological analysis of pathogen prevalence in neonatal intensive care units.
  • Review of historical and current data on microbial isolates from HAIs in preterm infants.
  • Assessment of antimicrobial susceptibility data.

Main Results:

  • A documented shift in the predominant pathogens causing HAIs in preterm neonates.
  • Gram-positive organisms like staphylococci and enterococci are now more frequently implicated compared to previous decades.
  • Increasing antimicrobial resistance among these gram-positive pathogens has been observed.

Conclusions:

  • The epidemiology of HAIs in preterm neonates has evolved, with gram-positive bacteria becoming more prominent.
  • Emerging resistance patterns in staphylococci and enterococci present significant challenges for effective treatment regimens.
  • Further research and updated treatment guidelines are necessary to address these changing infectious threats.

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