Morganella as a cause of ophthalmia neonatorum

Michael F Ward1, Daniel J Olson1, Michael Taggart1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Insights

A rare bacterial eye infection caused by Morganella morganii occurred in a newborn despite standard prophylaxis. Prompt topical tobramycin treatment successfully resolved the purulent bacterial conjunctivitis.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Microbiology
  • Neonatal Care

Background:

  • Neonatal conjunctivitis can occur despite standard prophylactic measures.
  • Complicated birth histories may increase a newborn's risk for infections.
  • Morganella morganii is a rare pathogen in ocular infections.

Observation:

  • A 2-day-old female infant presented with purulent bacterial conjunctivitis in the left eye.
  • The infant had a history of prolonged rupture of membranes and Cesarean section delivery.
  • Standard prophylaxis for neonatal conjunctivitis had been administered.

Findings:

  • Bacterial cultures identified Morganella morganii, a facultative anaerobe, as the causative agent.
  • The patient received topical tobramycin treatment four times daily.
  • Treatment lasted for a total of 7 days.

Implications:

  • This case highlights Morganella morganii as a potential cause of neonatal conjunctivitis.
  • Effective treatment with topical tobramycin can resolve such infections.
  • Further investigation into risk factors and prevention strategies for rare bacterial conjunctivitis in neonates may be warranted.

Related Concept Videos