Sepsis in the newborn: urgency and uncertainty in neonatal sepsis

Abhay Kumar Yadav

doi:10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20262947

Authors

Abhay Kumar Yadav Department of Pediatrics, Rapti Academy of Health Sciences, Dang, Nepal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20262947

Keywords:

Neonatal sepsis, Newborn, C-reactive protein, Blood culture, Prematurity, Neonatal infection

Abstract

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a syndrome characterized by systemic signs and symptoms of infection along with bacteremia in the first month of life. It remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Early diagnosis is challenging because of non-specific clinical manifestations.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2026 to April 2026 at Rapti Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal. Medical records of 125 neonates aged 0-28 days who underwent sepsis screening were analyzed. Clinical, demographic, and laboratory parameters were evaluated to identify predictors of culture-confirmed neonatal sepsis.

Results: Among 125 neonates, 62 (50%) had culture-confirmed sepsis. Gestational age below 30 weeks, CRP ≥12 mg/L, increased monocyte percentage, and low Apgar score (<7 at 5 minutes) were significant predictors of neonatal sepsis. Hypoglycemia, elevated micro-ESR, and abnormal gastric aspirate smear findings were commonly associated with sepsis.

Conclusions: Neonatal sepsis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Early recognition of clinical and laboratory predictors may facilitate prompt diagnosis and timely management, thereby improving neonatal outcomes.

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