Neonatal sepsis and the skin microbiome

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Neonatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Neonatal sepsis significantly impacts preterm infant morbidity and mortality.
• Preterm infants possess immature skin barriers, immune systems, and undergo medical interventions, increasing sepsis susceptibility.
• While intestinal dysbiosis is implicated, the role of the cutaneous microbiome in neonatal sepsis is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the infant skin microbiome.
• To identify common neonatal sepsis pathogens.
• To explore the relationship between the infant skin microbiome and neonatal sepsis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on infant skin microbiome.
• Analysis of common neonatal sepsis pathogens.
• Synthesis of research linking skin microbiome to sepsis pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Common sepsis pathogens are frequently found in the skin flora of infants.
• The infant skin microbiome composition may influence sepsis risk.
• A complex interplay exists between the skin microbiome and the host immune system in neonates.

Conclusions:

• The infant skin microbiome is a critical factor in neonatal sepsis development.
• Further research into the skin microbiome's role can inform novel prophylactic and therapeutic approaches.
• Targeting the skin microbiome may offer new avenues for preventing and treating neonatal sepsis.