Subgaleal abscess and E. coli septicemia following scalp electrode in a preterm newborn: a case report

Abstract

Escherichia coli as a causative agent for neonatal sepsis is well established. However, there is paucity of reports in the medical literature of E. coli sepsis following scalp electrode placement. We report a preterm infant who developed scalp abscess and E. coli sepsis following a scalp electrode. We recommend a careful examination of babies with a history of fetal electrode monitoring as this could be a nidus for local and generalised infection.