Study note
PediatricsNewborn Care

Neonatal pneumonia

THE CONTEXT
Pneumonia is a common cause of respiratory distress in both term and preterm neonates and is described as a form of sepsis.

Causes

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The pathogen profile includes E. coli, S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae.
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Pneumonia may also result from aspiration or viral or fungal infection.
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Group B Streptococcus is a rare cause of neonatal sepsis or pneumonia in India, although it is common in the Western world.

Clinical findings and investigations

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Affected neonates have features of sepsis in addition to respiratory distress.
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Chest X-ray shows asymmetric patchy parenchymal opacities.
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The sepsis screen and blood culture may be positive.

Treatment

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Treatment includes supportive care and specific antibiotic therapy for sepsis.
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