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Morganella as a cause of ophthalmia neonatorum
Michael F Ward1, Daniel J Olson1, Michael Taggart1
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.
Abstract:
A 2 day-old-girl with a complicated birth history, including prolonged rupture of membranes and Caesarian section delivery, presented with a purulent bacterial conjunctivitis of the left eye despite standard prophylaxis. Bacterial cultures yielded 1+ Morganella morganii, a facultative anaerobe and a rare cause of ocular pathology. The patient was treated with topical tobramycin four times daily for 7 days, resulting in resolution of her conjunctivitis.
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.
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