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[Clostridium perfringens infection and necrotising enterocolitis]
Archives Francaises De Pediatrie
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) caused 21 infant deaths between 1974-1977. Clostridium perfringens was isolated in 9 cases, suggesting materno-fetal transmission and highlighting risks in neonates with prior gut colonization.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Gastroenterology
Context:
- Severe necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is a critical neonatal condition.
- A significant number of infant deaths were linked to NEC during 1974-1977.
- Clostridium perfringens emerged as a potential causative agent in fatal NEC cases.
Purpose:
- To investigate the role of Clostridium perfringens in infant deaths due to necrotising enterocolitis.
- To explore potential routes of materno-fetal transmission of Clostridium perfringens in neonates.
- To identify risk factors associated with Clostridium perfringens-related NEC.
Summary:
- During 1974-1977, 21 infants died from severe necrotising enterocolitis (NEC).
- Clostridium perfringens was isolated in 9 of these cases.
- Materno-fetal transmission was suspected when the organism was found in the placenta or meconium, or if symptoms appeared early. The infection was most common in neonates with pre-existing gut colonization by Clostridium.
Impact:
- Highlights Clostridium perfringens as a significant pathogen in fatal neonatal NEC.
- Suggests the importance of screening for Clostridium perfringens in high-risk neonates and pregnant individuals.
- Informs potential preventative strategies targeting materno-fetal transmission and gut colonization.