Enteropathogenic E. coli gastroenterocolitis in neonates treated with fosfomycin

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Neonatal acute gastroenterocolitis is a significant health concern.
• Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common cause of neonatal infections.
• Effective and safe antibiotic treatments are crucial for neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of calcium salt of fosfomycin in treating neonatal acute gastroenterocolitis.
• To determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of enteropathogenic E. coli against fosfomycin.
• To assess clinical and bacteriological outcomes and potential toxicity.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 43 neonates with acute gastroenterocolitis caused by enteropathogenic E. coli.
• Oral administration of calcium fosfomycin at dosages of 150-200 mg/kg/day every 8 hours for 4 days.
• Evaluation of clinical and bacteriological responses, and monitoring for adverse effects.

Main Results:

• Favorable clinical evolution observed in 38 out of 43 neonates (88%).
• Successful bacteriological eradication achieved in 30 out of 43 neonates (70%).
• No toxic alterations attributed to fosfomycin were observed in any treated neonates.

Conclusions:

• Calcium fosfomycin is an effective and safe treatment option for neonatal acute gastroenterocolitis caused by enteropathogenic E. coli.
• The antibiotic demonstrated good clinical and bacteriological efficacy with a favorable safety profile.
• Further research may explore the impact on gut flora and long-term outcomes.