Sensory processing and motor development in term infants following late-onset neonatal sepsis-a cross-sectional study

Neonatal late-onset sepsis (LOS), defined as sepsis occurring after 72 h of life, is typically caused by pathogens acquired postnatally, either from the hospital environment or the community. This study investigates whether term infants with culture-confirmed LOS show differences in sensory processing and motor skills at 12-18 months compared to healthy peers. Participants were infants diagnosed with LOS, aged 12-18 months, and their healthy term peers. Motor development was evaluated using the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-Second Edition, and sensory processing skills were assessed with the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants. A total of 57 infants were included in the study: 27 infants with LOS and 30 healthy term peers (without LOS). The demographic characteristics of the infants were similar between the groups. Gross motor, fine motor, and total motor scores of the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-Second Edition were significantly higher in favor of the control group (p < 0.05). Among the subtests of the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants, response to tactile deep pressure, visual-tactile integration, and total score were higher in favor of the control group (p < 0.05).

Compared to their healthy term peers, term infants with LOS experience greater challenges in sensory processing and motor development. These findings provide the first evidence that LOS in term-born infants is associated with early developmental impairments in sensory and motor domains. They should undergo comprehensive evaluations at key developmental stages to support optimal outcomes and be referred to intervention programs when needed.

The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov with the number: NCT06884969-Registration Date: 03/13/2025.

• Sepsis may contribute to white matter damage and widespread damage to premyelinating oligodendrocytes, increasing the likelihood of cognitive dysfunction later in life. • Premature infants are vulnerable to neonatal sepsis; however, it can also been seen in term newborns.

• This is the first study to concurrently evaluate sensory processing and motor development at 12-18 months in term-born infants with culture-confirmed late-onset sepsis. • Term infants with late-onset sepsis show developmental delays in both sensory processing skills and motor development compared to their peers.