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Updated: Sep 2, 2025
A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
Published on: August 12, 2020
Early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis Caused by Vertical Transmission of Pasteurella multocida
Johannah M Scheurer1, Meghan L Fanta1, Gretchen A Colbenson2
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Abstract:
Early-onset neonatal sepsis contributes substantially to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Presenting signs and symptoms vary, and most causes are due to a limited number of common microbes. However, providers must be cognizant of unusual pathogens when treating early-onset sepsis (EOS). We report a case of a term neonate who presented with respiratory distress, lethargy, and hypoglycemia 5 hours after birth. He was treated for presumed EOS with blood culture, revealing an unusual pathogen, Pasteurella multocida . Sepsis from this pathogen is a rarely reported cause of early onset neonatal sepsis. Our report is one of few that implicate vertical transmission with molecular diagnostic confirmation of P . multocida , subspecies septica. The neonate was treated with antibiotics and supportive care and recovered without ongoing complications. Providers should maintain an index of suspicion for rare causes of neonatal EOS. For these unusual cases, precise microbial identification enables understanding to provide best clinical care and anticipation of complications.
Insights
Early-onset neonatal sepsis can stem from rare pathogens. This case highlights *Pasteurella multocida* as a cause, emphasizing the need for broad diagnostic consideration in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS) is a significant cause of infant morbidity and mortality.
- Common microbial culprits are frequent, but unusual pathogens can also cause severe neonatal infections.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in neonatal sepsis.
Observation:
- A term neonate presented with respiratory distress, lethargy, and hypoglycemia within hours of birth.
- Initial treatment for presumed EOS was initiated.
- Blood cultures identified *Pasteurella multocida*, subspecies septica, as the causative agent.
Findings:
- This case represents a rare instance of neonatal sepsis caused by *Pasteurella multocida*.
- Molecular diagnostics confirmed vertical transmission of the pathogen.
- The neonate received appropriate antibiotic therapy and supportive care.
Implications:
- Clinicians must consider rare pathogens in the differential diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.
- Accurate identification of unusual microbes is vital for targeted treatment and predicting complications.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance for non-typical causes of early-onset neonatal infections.
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