Recognizing and Treating Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus in Neonates Presenting to a Pediatric Emergency Department: Predictors of Acyclovir Use

O'Keefe, Michelle A. and Porter, Robert Neil (2019) Recognizing and Treating Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus in Neonates Presenting to a Pediatric Emergency Department: Predictors of Acyclovir Use. Research Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. (Submitted)

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial. Download (243kB)

Abstract

Background The risk of transmission of Herpes Simplex Virus from infected mothers to newborns is highest in mothers with active, symptomatic lesions. With the proper primary care, this population can be treated prophylactically to greatly reduce the risk of transmission. These babies can then be monitored closely for any sequalae indicating the disease. However, if neonates do not have the known risk factor of a mother carrying HSV, certain signs and symptoms in the neonatal period can alert physicians to the possibility of a neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus infection and prompt empirical treatment. Methods A retrospective chart review was done using data from the electronic medical records of Eastern Health. Eligible subjects who met inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified, and data from eligible charts was extracted and analyzed to form a picture of which infants were being treated for NHSV infection. Results Due to the small number of eligible subjects available from the time frame of the study, statistical analysis was limited. The mean age of the eligible population (neonates aged 0 to 28 days) was 14 days old. The majority of these presented with fever. Three out of 17 patients were treated presumptively with acyclovir, 2 of whom had presented with fever and 1 with suspected seizure.

Actions (login required)

View Item