Intrauterinely Acquired Pseudomonas Infection in the Neonate

Abstract

The case is presented of a premature infant with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, apparently acquired in utero. After a complicated postnatal course, the child was noted to have a profound hearing loss. The infection itself, was rapid and progressive, with the infant showing signs and symptoms characteristic of Pseudomonas infection, such as necrotizing skin vasculitis and "green" purulent discharge. Pseudomonas infection poses a virulent and life-threatening chal lenge to the immunologically immature infant. Infection with this organism, uncommon in the neonate, results in significant morbidity and mortality.