Bacteremia in Early Infancy: Etiology and Management

Abstract

We reviewed the literature regarding bacteremia in early infancy (age ≤ 90 days). Bacteremia remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in young infants. However, recent epidemiologic data suggest that the incidence of bacteremia is decreasing and the pathogens responsible for invasive disease are changing. These changes will impact the evaluation and management of young infants. We review the current epidemiology of community-acquired bacteremia in early infancy with particular emphasis on the causative agents, diagnostic evaluation, and empiric and definitive antimicrobial treatment.

Keywords: Antibiotics; Blood culture; Enterococcus; Escherichia coli; Extended-spectrum β-lactamase; Group B Streptococcus; Infant; Listeria; Neonate.