Prostatic Abscess in a Neonate

Area of Science:

• Neonatal urology
• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Medical imaging in neonates

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common serious bacterial infections in young infants.
• Uncircumcised male infants have a higher incidence of UTIs compared to circumcised males and females.
• Prostatic abscess is an exceptionally rare complication of UTI in neonates.

Observation:

• A 15-day-old male neonate presented with urosepsis.
• Clinical evaluation revealed a prostatic abscess.
• Ultrasound and MRI findings demonstrated an enlarged prostate with characteristics indicative of an abscess, including peripheral rim enhancement on post-contrast MRI.

Findings:

• Urine culture identified methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as the causative agent.
• The neonate was treated with intravenous vancomycin and transurethral pus drainage.
• Phimosis was considered a potential contributing factor to prostatic purulence.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including surgical drainage and antibiotics, are crucial for managing neonatal prostatic abscess.
• The case underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing rare UTI complications in infants.
• Prompt management of prostatic abscess in neonates generally leads to favorable outcomes.