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Enteroviral infections in neonates can cause severe illness, including meningitis and myocarditis. Low birth weight and gestational age are linked to higher mortality rates in these infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Enteroviral infections are a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding the clinical spectrum and risk factors is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A retrospective chart review analyzed 24 neonates with culture-proven enteroviral infection.
- Seasonal patterns indicated infections predominantly occurred in summer and fall.
- Antecedent maternal or family member illness was frequently reported.
Findings:
- Severe disease presentations included meningitis (50%), myocarditis (25%), and sepsis-like illness.
- Mortality rates were significantly associated with low birth weight and low gestational age.
Implications:
- Early recognition of enteroviral infection symptoms in neonates is critical.
- Risk stratification based on birth weight and gestational age can guide clinical management.
- Further research into preventative strategies and targeted therapies is warranted.
Abstract:
A chart review was made of 24 neonates less than one month of age with culture-proven enteroviral infection. The seasonal distribution was summer and fall. An antecedent illness was common in the mother or other family members. One patient had a mild gastroenteritis. Three categories of severe disease were noted: (a) meningitis accounted for 50 per cent of the illnesses; (b) myocarditis for 25 per cent of the illnesses; and (c) the remainder presented with a severe sepsis-like illness. High mortality rate was associated with low birth weight and low gestational age.