Neonatal infective endarteritis complicating patent ductus arteriosus

Infective endarteritis complicating patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a rare occurrence. Most cases are reported in older children and adults, and there are little published data describing this condition in the preterm neonate. We outline the presentation, clinical course, management and outcome of two affected infants born at less than 27 weeks of gestation.

This report highlights the importance of a detailed cardiac evaluation in a neonate with persisting bacteraemia. An increasing awareness of neonatal ductal endarteritis combined with the wider availability of more sensitive echocardiography has implications for local neonatal service delivery.