Clinical Profile and Outcome of Neonates with Early Neonatal Sepsis at Benghazi Medical Center

Abstract

Neonatal sepsis (NS) is defined by the 2001 international pediatric consensus conference as a systemic inflammatory response syndrome resulting from suspected or proven infection in a neonate. Neonatal infections remain a major cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for nearly 4 million deaths annually, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile and risk factors of early neonatal sepsis and its outcomes among newborns admitted to the neonatology department at Benghazi Medical Center (BMC), Libya, from March to August 2018. A descriptive cross-sectional study included 58 newborns selected by convenience sampling. Data were obtained from medical records and included demographic characteristics, maternal history, neonatal clinical parameters (gestational age, birth weight, Apgar score), invasive procedures, laboratory investigations, treatment, and outcomes. Data were analyzed using SPSS with descriptive statistics. The male-to-female ratio was 1.5:1. Low birth weight (<2000 g) was observed in 45% of cases, and 36.2% were preterm (<34 weeks) with a mean gestational age of 34.5 weeks. Respiratory conditions, including hyaline membrane disease (29.3%) and respiratory distress syndrome (22.4%), were common. Maternal risk factors included premature rupture of membranes (40%) and urinary tract infection (15.5%). Abnormal complete blood count was found in 65.5% of cases, and blood cultures predominantly showed Gram-negative organisms. Most neonates received ampicillin and gentamicin. Survival rate was 65.5%. Maternal infections, prematurity, low birth weight, and invasive procedures were key risk factors. Improved maternal and neonatal care is recommended to reduce neonatal sepsis.