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Updated: May 24, 2026

A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
08:46

A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis

Published on: August 12, 2020

Risk factors for neonatal multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli infection in a neonatal intensive care unit in

Powei Tang1, Xiaohong Chen1, Fei Xiao1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen City, Guangdong, 518047, China.

BMC Pediatrics
|May 23, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (MDR-GNB) infections in neonates are a concern. Low birth weight and maternal fever are key risk factors for sepsis in these vulnerable infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) infections
  • Clinical microbiology
  • Public health microbiology

Background:

  • Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (MDR-GNB) infections pose a significant public health threat, particularly in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
  • Understanding the clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with MDR-GNB infections in neonates is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the clinical features of MDR-GNB infections in a Chinese NICU.
  • To identify significant risk factors contributing to MDR-GNB infections and sepsis in neonates.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of data from neonates with positive MDR-GNB cultures between January 2017 and May 2022.
  • Collection of detailed clinical information including birth characteristics, delivery factors, invasive procedures, and laboratory results.

Main Results:

  • Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most common MDR-GNB pathogens, accounting for over 90% of isolates.
  • Low birth weight (<1500g) was a significant risk factor for MDR-GNB infection (OR: 3.338) and sepsis (OR: 2.768).
  • Maternal fever before delivery was also identified as a risk factor for sepsis (OR: 2.679).

Conclusions:

  • E. coli and K. pneumoniae are the predominant MDR-GNB strains causing infections in this NICU population.
  • Low birth weight and maternal fever are critical risk factors for sepsis development in neonates with MDR-GNB infections.
Keywords:
Carbapenem-resistant EnterobacteralesChildrenGram-negative bacilliMultidrug-resistant organismsNeonatal intensive care unit

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