[Hyperglycemia revealing neonatal infection]

Abstract

Background: Hyperglycemia as the first manifestation of neonatal sepsis is rare.

Case report: A breast-fed neonate was admitted at the age of 6 days because of vomiting. Group B streptococci had been isolated in secretions of the ear at birth but the neonate had not been treated. At admission, physical examination was normal but glucosuria, without ketonuria, and hyperglycemia (9.7 mmol/l) were noted. Because hyperglycemia was not explained by usual causes, the baby was systemically given antibiotics. The next day, blood, spinal fluid and urine cultures taken on admission were positive for group B streptococci while blood fibrinogen and C-reactive protein were increased. Hyperglycemia and glycosuria were normal after 24 hours of antibiotic therapy and follow-up was uneventful. Subsequently, the same bacteria was isolated from the mother's milk.

Conclusion: Isolated hyperglycemia may reveal an infection; therefore its discovery might contribute to early diagnosis and treatment.