UMBILICAL INFECTION

UMBILICAL INFECTION

 Umbilical infections, which can progress to systemic infections and may lead to spesis, occur primarily in the newborn because of the following predisposing factors:
 

1. Immediately following birth, the umbilicus becomes colonized with a diverse flora of microorganisms. Staphylococcal species and other Gram-positive cocci are present within hours, and enteric organisms follow shortly thereafter.
2. Devitalized tissues of the umbilical cord stump provide an excellent growth medium for bacteria.
3. The thrombosed blood vessels within the umbilical cord stump provide an entry for microorganisms into the bloodstream of the neonates, potentially leading to sepsis.

References

1. Rotimi VO, Duerden BI. The development of the bacterial flora in normal neonates. J Med Microbiol 1981; 14:51.
2. Harnden A, Lennon D. Serious suppurative group A streptococcal infections in previously well children. Pediatr Infect Dis J 1988; 7:714.