Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: Neonatal septicemia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. A wide variety of bacteria may be responsible for early onset septicaemia in neonates. Prompt identification of bacteria and instillation of appropriate antibiotic therapy can result in good prognosis. The objective of this study was to identify the clinical and bacteriological profile in early onset septicaemia in neonates. Materials and Methods: This study included 300 neonates delivered in hospital set up. Their clinical profile was assessed, blood cultures were taken and antibiotic sensitivity was done. CSF samples were taken and radiological examination was done and various features were recorded. Results: Amongst the clinical features, skin lesions, hemorrhagic tendency, hepatosplenomegaly, abdominal distension, convulsions and sclerema were found only in infected newborns. Overall gram positivecocci were in 25% and gram negative bacilli in 75% cases. Mortality from early onset septicemia is 60.4% and death was mostly due to Kleibsella sepsis (94.4%). Conclusion: Bacteriological profile in early onset septicaemia in neonates is imperative for institution of right antibiotic therapy. Early onset hospital – acquired sepsis in neonates due to Klebsiella should be an area of concern and further study on larger sample size can validate the results. Keywords: Antibiotic sensitivity, Bacteria, Infection, Neonate