What causes omphalitis in newborns?
The main cause of omphalitis is exposure to any bacteria during delivery, when the umbilical cord is cut after birth or a few days later at home.
What method of treatment is used for local infection of the umbilicus in newborns?
The WHO recommends topical application of chlorhexidine to the umbilical cord stump during the first week of life for neonates born at home where hygienic conditions are poor or neonatal mortality is high (>30 deaths per live births).
Can omphalitis cause sepsis?
Omphalitis can quickly progress to sepsis and presents a potentially life-threatening infection. In fact, even in cases of omphalitis without evidence of more serious infection such as necrotizing fasciitis, mortality is high (in the 10% range).
What is the treatment of omphalitis?
Broad-spectrum parenteral antibiotics are required to treat omphalitis. Antibiotic coverage should be directed against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Initial empiric treatment with antistaphylococcal penicillin and aminoglycoside is recommended.
How can you prevent omphalitis?
How is omphalitis treated?
Medication Summary A combination of parenterally administered antistaphylococcal penicillin and an aminoglycoside antibiotic is recommended for uncomplicated omphalitis. Intravenous antimicrobial therapy with clindamycin or metronidazole may be indicated in some cases.
What should I do if my baby’s umbilical cord is infected?
Antibiotic Ointment for Pus:
- If any pus is present, use an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin).
- No prescription is needed.
- Put a tiny amount on the belly button.
- Do this 2 times per day after the area has been cleaned.
- Do this for 2 days. After that, use the antibiotic ointment only if you see more pus.
How is omphalitis diagnosed?
In most cases, the clinical picture of omphalitis is sufficient to make the diagnosis. A patent urachus, which results in direct communication between the bladder and umbilicus can be mistaken for infection due to the persistent drainage from the umbilicus.
What causes omphalitis?
Omphalitis is a bacterial infection of the umbilical stump that presents around day 3 of life. It is commonly caused by S. aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus species (spp)., Escherichia coli, Clostridium difficile, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas.