A time for change; causes for neonatal eye discharge at university postnatal and paediatric baby unit, Colombo North Teaching Hospital

Abstract

PURPOSE: Low prevalence of neonatal eye discharge is related to quality obstetric and early neonatal care and absence of maternal sexually transmitted infections. Corneal ulceration and staphyloma formation are already recognized complications of neonatal conjunctivitis and it can also lead to neonatal sepsis and subsequent severe complications. This study was aimed to identify the causes for neonatal eye discharge. METHODS: Retrospective study was carried out involving all the neonates who had eye discharge in the university post natal and pediatric baby unit, during past 2 years. Information was gathered from 138 cases with regard to onset of eye discharge, aetiology for eye discharge as confirmed by eye swab culture and, demographic factors. RESULTS: Majority had been acquired during the early neonatal period {1 st week=88%, 2nd week=8.7%). Common causes for eye discharge had been Staphylococcus aureus (48%), coagulase negative staphylococcus (33%). Methicillin resistant staphylococcal infection was present among 10%. Pseudomonas (1%) and Streptococcus (3%) were also reported in minority. CONCLUSIONS: Majority of the causes had been normal flora of the female genital tract. Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections was 0%. However, prevalence of MRSA was significantly high compared to other studies in literature. The fact that 12% had been occurred after 1 st week would suggest a nosocomial origin and needs revision of the hygienic practice in post natal care.