Microbial causes of neonatal conjunctivitis

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1984

Abstract

We assessed the microbial causes of neonatal conjunctivitis by comparing 55 infants with purulent conjunctivitis and 60 healthy control infants. A mean of >5 leukocytes per 1000× microscopic field was seen in Gram-stained smears obtained from the more inflamed eye in 77% of 30 untreated patients but none of 57 controls. Pathogens isolated more often from untreated patients than from controls included Haemophilus spp. (17% vs 2%, P=0.01). Staphylococcus aureus (17% vs 2%, P=0.01). Chlamydia trachomatis (14% vs 0%, P=0.01), enterococci (8% vs 0%, P=0.05), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (11% vs 2%, P=0.06). One or more of these pathogens were isolated from the conjunctivae in 58% of patients and 5% of controls (P<0.001). Bacterial morphology seen on smear correlated with the pathogens cultured. Isolation of Haemophilus spp. or S. pneumoniae was associated with dacryostenosis. We conclude that several microbial pathogens are implicated in neonatal conjunctivitis. These organisms have differing susceptibilities to antimicrobial agents, so culture and sensitivity testing are required as a guide to therapy. © 1984 The C. V. Mosby Company.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

The Journal of Pediatrics

First Page

706

Last Page

711

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS