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Hepatic abscesses associated with umbilical catheterisation in two neonates
Els Moens1, Jozef De Dooy, Hilde Jansens
1Department of Paediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antwerp, Wilrijkstraat 10, 2650 Edegem, Belgium.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|April 10, 2003
Summary
Neonatal liver abscesses can occur after umbilical venous catheterization. Consider this diagnosis in infants with sepsis and persistent inflammation despite treatment, especially with abdominal signs.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) are essential for neonatal care but carry risks.
- UVC-associated sepsis is a known complication in neonates.
- Liver abscesses are rare but serious complications in neonates.
Observation:
- Two cases of neonatal liver abscess following UVC placement are presented.
- Case 1: Female neonate (32 weeks gestation) developed a right lobe liver abscess with Staphylococcus epidermidis, treated with percutaneous drainage and antibiotics.
- Case 2: Male neonate (29 weeks gestation) had a sterile liver abscess, treated conservatively with antibiotics.
Findings:
- Both neonates recovered after appropriate antimicrobial therapy and intervention.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- The causative organism was identified in one case (Staphylococcus epidermidis).
Implications:
- Neonatal hepatic abscess should be suspected in infants with UVC-associated sepsis and persistent inflammation.
- Abdominal infection signs warrant heightened suspicion for liver abscess.
- Early consideration of liver abscess can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes.