American journal of perinatology
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Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity, affecting ~0.5 to 1% of infants born each year. Primary maternal infection during early pregnancy is the greatest risk factor for severe neonatal morbidity/mortality. The current recommendation from national organizations advises against routine screening of pregnant women for primary infection. ⋯ This article reviews recent literature regarding available screening tests and potential interventions and whether criteria for a screening program are met in the current state of science. Although screening women using CMV immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM, and IgG avidity testing is reliable, effective intervention with hygiene modification or treatment with CMV-specific hyperimmune globulin is not as well established. More evidence from randomized controlled trials is needed prior to moving forward with a screening program for congenital CMV.
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Identifying neonates with sepsis is complicated by variability in clinical presentation. The incidence of early onset sepsis (EOS) resulting from invasive group B streptococcal (GBS) infections has been notably reduced by the widespread delivery of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis. Rates of EOS attributable to non-GBS etiologies have remained constant, and ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli has become more prevalent. ⋯ Targeted fluconazole prophylaxis may be beneficial in VLBW neonates who receive care in NICUs with lower rates of invasive fungal infections. Assessment of immune function, neutrophil markers, acute phase reactants, and utilization of sepsis screening scores may contribute to the management of sepsis. Maternal decolonization, antimicrobial stewardship, early enteral feeding, and optimal infection control practices are potential practical strategies for reducing the burden of neonatal sepsis.