[Role of Staphylococcus epidermidis in the etiology of septicemia in newborn infants].

124 newborns admitted to the Department within the period of 3 years with suspected sepsis were analysed. In 55.6% of children, boys prevailing (62.3%), generalized infection was confirmed with positive bacterial cultures. Late-onset disease predominance was found (72.8%). The mortality rate in this group was 5.8% (11.3% boys and 1.9% girls). Analysis of the causative organisms revealed more frequently the Gram positive bacteria (81% of all positive cultures) with a predominant role of Staphylococcus epidermidis (43.5%). The pathogenic role of Staphylococcus epidermidis (regarded by some other authors as a contamination) was stressed. Its increasing clinical significance has been correlated with a deterioration of sanitary and hygienic conditions at the obstetric and neonatal wards, wider application of invasive procedures and antibiotics.