Early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis: Changing Organism Patterns Between 2003 and 2014

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) is largely caused by vertical transmission of infectious organisms. The predominant pathogens causing EONS appear to be changing over time, however current prevention efforts focus on group B Streptococcus (GBS). Current and accurate characterization of the organism distribution in EONS is imperative to ensure effective antibiotic prophylaxis during labour and appropriate empiric treatment in neonates with suspected EONS. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate trends in causative organisms of EONS. Congruent with recent reports, we hypothesized there would be an increase in EONS caused by Escherichia Coli. DESIGN/METHODS: Data was collected for infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) participating in the Canadian Neonatal Network (CNN) from 2009 to 2014 with a positive blood or cerebrospinal fluid culture (CSF) within 72 hours of birth. Collected data was compared to previously published data on a cohort from 2003-2008 with the same case definition. The distribution of causative organisms over time was analyzed, as well as differences in causative organisms by gestational age grouping.