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Review
. 2021 Oct 1;34(5):533-537.
doi: 10.1097/QCO.0000000000000764.

Neonatal bloodstream infections

Brandon R Hadfield  1 , Joseph B Cantey  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Neonatal bloodstream infections

Brandon R Hadfield et al. Curr Opin Infect Dis. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Neonatal bloodstream infections (BSI) are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality within neonatal intensive care units. BSI, including central line-associated BSI, have decreased over the past 15 years but remain common in extremely preterm infants. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances in the causes, diagnosis, management, and prevention of neonatal BSI.

Recent findings: Continued quality improvement efforts and bundles have reduced BSI incidence, and novel approaches are highlighted. An update of emerging pathogens as well as traditional pathogens with novel antimicrobial resistance, which are an increasingly common cause of neonatal BSI, is included. Finally, current and future investigations into serum or noninvasive biomarkers for neonatal BSI are reviewed.

Summary: Neonatal BSIs continue to decrease due to enhanced infection control and prevention techniques. However, many challenges remain, including emerging bacterial and fungal resistance and the continued need for novel diagnostics that hasten time to pathogen identification and effective treatment. This review of the past 18 months highlights the rapid changes in this area. Ongoing efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by neonatal BSI must remain a priority.

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