Frequency of Meningitis in Newborns Presenting with Sepsis to Nishtar Hospital, Multan

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of meningitis in newborns presenting with neonatal sepsis to Nishtar Hospital, Multan. 

Study Design: Descriptive study

Place and Duration of Study: This was carried out in the Department of Paediatric Medicine, Nishtar Hospital, Multan from January 2012 to December 2012.

Materials and Methods: A total of 73 newborns were included in the study conducted at Nishtar Hospital, Multan.

Results: Out of 73 newborns with sepsis, 20 (27.4%) were diagnosed to have meningitis. Majority of the neonates with sepsis (52.1%) were between 1-7 days of their life, however, mean age of all  cases was 10.49 + 7.79 days (range 2-25 days). There were 39 (53%) male, 34 (47%) female babies. 36 (39.3%) neonates having low birth weight (1.5-2.5 kg) however  mean weight was 2.55 + 0.39 kg (range 1.8-3.6 kg). 

Conclusion: Higher rate of meningitis (27.4%) diagnosed in present study shows better diagnostic facilities and on the other hand alarm us to take prompt measures to prevent it.