Managing multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in a premature neonate with sepsis: A case report

Background: Neonatal sepsis, which is a systemic response to infection, is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in newborns, with an incidence of 1 to 8 per 1,000 live births. Acinetobacter baumannii is a common nosocomial pathogen, often associated with antibiotic resistance, complicating treatment and worsening outcomes [1,2].
Case Description: A neonate born prematurely at 34 weeks due to eclampsia (Apgar score 5/7, birth weight 2100 grams), presented with signs of severe infection, including fever, abdominal distension, seizures, and hypotonia. Laboratory results indicated severe thrombocytopenia, and elevated CRP. Blood cultures identified Acinetobacter baumannii resistant to 10 antibiotics. The patient was treated with oxazolidinones and third-generation cephalosporins for 21 days, resulting in gradual clinical improvement.
Conclusion: Blood culture remains the gold standard for diagnosing neonatal sepsis. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive antibiotic sensitivity testing in managing multidrug-resistant infections, ensuring appropriate and effective therapy.