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Distinguishing Intraventricular Hemorrhage From Infectious Etiologies in Febrile Late Preterm Neonates: Case Studies in Antibiotic Stewardship

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a well-recognized complication in preterm infants, but its presentation as fever can be easily overlooked, leading to extensive sepsis workups and delayed diagnosis. This case report presents two late preterm infants who developed fever as the primary presenting symptom of IVH. Distinguishing IVH-related fever from that due to infectious causes can be challenging in this vulnerable population, where overuse of antimicrobials carries significant risks, including altered microbiome development, necrotizing enterocolitis, and antimicrobial resistance. Incorporating early diagnostic evaluation for IVH through cranial ultrasound in late preterm infants presenting with unexplained fever may avoid unnecessary tests and promote judicious antimicrobial use while improving overall neonatal outcomes.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.96379

Authors: Ashley Kapinos, Sabrina Rhoads, Panitan Yossuck, Vignesh Gunasekaran

Institutions: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, West Virginia University

Language: English

Topic: Neonatal and fetal brain pathology

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4416046910