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J Pediatr Infect Dis 2010; 05(03): 277-280
DOI: 10.3233/JPI-2010-0251
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart – New York

Bacillus cereus cerebral abscesses in a term neonate with Rhesus hemolytic disease treated with exchange transfusion

Vivianne E.H.J. Smits-Wintjens
a   Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
,
Sylke J. Steggerda
a   Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
,
Dick Oepkes
b   Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
,
Inge L. van Kamp
b   Department of Obstetrics, Division of Fetal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
,
Christine M. Kramer
c   Sanquin Blood Supply Foundation, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
,
Frans J. Walther
a   Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
,
Enrico Lopriore
a   Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

24 June 2009

02 November 2009

Publication Date:
28 July 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Exchange transfusion (ET) is the most effective method for treatment of severe hyperbilirubinemia and is often required in Rhesus hemolytic disease of the newborn. The use of ET is also associated with adverse reactions, including severe catheter related infectious complications. We report a term neonate with Rhesus hemolytic disease of the newborn treated with an ET through an umbilical venous catheter who developed brain abscesses due to a Bacillus cereus sepsis. This severe complication has not previously been reported. We discuss possible causes for this severe infection and provide suggestions on prevention.

Keywords

Rh isoimmunization - exchange transfusion - brain abscess - Bacillus cereus