Microbiology 20 - Neonatal and Childhood infection

Question 1

What infections are currently screened for in pregnancy in the UK?

Answer 1

Hep B
HIV
Syphilis

Question 2

What does TORCH stand for?

Answer 2

Toxoplasmosis
Other (syphilis, HIV, Hep B/C) 
Rubella
CMV
HSV

Question 3

What effect can toxoplasmosis have on the neonate?

Answer 3

Deafness, low IQ and microcephaly

Question 4

Recall the symptoms of congenital rubella syndrome

Answer 4

Cataracts
CV syndrome
Sensorineural deafness
Brain pathology
BLUEBERRY MUFFIN RASH

Question 5

What is the cause of a ‘blueberry muffin rash’ and in which infection is it seen?

Answer 5

Extramedullary haematopoiesis

Congenital rubella syndrome

Question 6

Recall the symptoms of congenital HSV infection

Answer 6

Nasty disseminated infection, causing:

• Meningoencephalitis
• Ulcers and skin problems
• High mortality

Question 7

What are the ‘big 3’ neonatal infections?

Answer 7

Listeria
E coli
Group B strep

Question 8

Which neonatal infection could be described as ‘catalase negative, beta haemolytic’?

Answer 8

GBS

Question 9

What is the most common cause of late-onset sepsis in neonates?

Answer 9

Coagulase negative staph

Question 10

What is the first line treatment for late-onset neonatal sepsis?

Answer 10

Cefotaxime (this is brain-penetrative) and vancomycin (this is good for staph)