Early-onset neonatal sepsis: It is not only group B streptococcus

Investigating the Association between Serum and Hematological Biomarkers and Neonatal Sepsis in Newborns with Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Retrospective Study

(1) Background: Neonatal early-onset sepsis (EOS) is associated with important mortality and morbidity. The aims of this study were to evaluate the association between serum and hematological biomarkers with early onset neonatal sepsis in a cohort of patients with prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM) and to calculate their diagnostic accuracy. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 1355 newborns with PROM admitted between January 2017 and March 2020, who were divided into two groups: group A, with PROM ≥ 18 h, and group B, with ROM < 18 h. Both groups were further split into subgroups: proven sepsis, presumed sepsis, and no sepsis. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a Random Effects Generalized Least Squares (GLS) regression were used to evaluate the data. (3) Results: The statistically significant predictors of neonatal sepsis were the high white blood cell count from the first (p = 0.005) and third day (p = 0.028), and high C-reactive protein (CRP) values from the first day (p = 0.004). Procalcitonin (area under the curve-AUC = 0.78) and CRP (AUC = 0.76) measured on the first day had the best predictive performance for early-onset neonatal sepsis. (4) Conclusions: Our results outline the feasibility of using procalcitonin and CRP measured on the first day taken individually in order to increase the detection rate of early-onset neonatal sepsis, in the absence of positive blood culture.

Clinical Prediction Model Development and Validation for the Detection of Newborn Sepsis, Diagnostic Research Protocol

BACKGROUND

Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of sickness and death in the entire world. Diagnosis is usually difficult because of the nonspecific clinical symptoms and the paucity of laboratory diagnostics in many low- and middle-income nations (LMICs). Clinical prediction models may increase diagnostic precision and rationalize the use of antibiotics in neonatal facilities, which could lead to a decrease in antimicrobial resistance and better neonatal outcomes. Early detection of newborn sepsis is critical to prevent serious consequences and reduce the need for unneeded drugs.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to develop and validate a clinical prediction model for the detection of newborn sepsis.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study based on an institution will be carried out. The sample size was determined by assuming 10 events per predictor, based on this assumption, the total sample sizes were 467. Data will be collected using a structured checklist through chart review. Data will be coded, inputted, and analyzed using R statistical programming language version 4.0.4 after being entered into Epidata version 3.02 and further processed and analyzed. Bivariable logistic regression will be done to identify the relationship between each predictor and neonatal sepsis. In a multivariable logistic regression model, significant factors (P< 0.05) will be kept, while variables with (P< 0.25) from the bivariable analysis will be added. By calculating the area under the ROC curve (discrimination) and the calibration plot (calibration), respectively, the model's accuracy and goodness of fit will be evaluated.

Relevance of Biomarkers Currently in Use or Research for Practical Diagnosis Approach of Neonatal Early-Onset Sepsis

Neonatal early-onset sepsis (EOS) is defined as an invasive infection that occurs in the first 72 h of life. The incidence of EOS varies from 0.5–2% live births in developed countries, up to 9.8% live births in low resource settings, generating a high mortality rate, especially in extremely low birth weight neonates. Clinical signs are nonspecific, leading to a late diagnosis and high mortality. Currently, there are several markers used for sepsis evaluation, such as hematological indices, acute phase reactants, cytokines, which by themselves do not show acceptable sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of EOS in neonates. Newer and more selective markers have surfaced recently, such as presepsin and endocan, but they are currently only in the experimental research stages. This comprehensive review article is based on the role of biomarkers currently in use or in the research phase from a basic, translational, and clinical viewpoint that helps us to improve the quality of neonatal early-onset sepsis diagnosis and management.

Neonatal Sepsis

Purpose of Review

Neonatal sepsis is a diagnosis made in infants less than 28 days of life and consists of a clinical syndrome that may include systemic signs of infection, circulatory shock, and multisystem organ failure.

Recent Findings

Commonly involved bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Risk factors include central venous catheter use and prolonged hospitalization. Neonates are at significant risk of delayed recognition of sepsis until more ominous clinical findings and vital sign abnormalities develop. Blood culture remains the gold standard for diagnosis.

Summary

Neonatal sepsis remains an important diagnosis requiring a high index of suspicion. Immediate treatment with antibiotics is imperative.