Epidemiology of Serratia marcescens infections in NICU of a Teaching and Research Hospital in Northern Italy.

BACKGROUND

Serratia marcescens (Sm) is a known cause of infection and colonization in neonates receiving intensive care. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for colonization and infection with Sm in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of a tertiary care Hospital.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted from January to December 2011 in neonates admitted to the NICU. Cases are patients with a microbiologically confirmed infection or colonization, controls were randomly chosen among patients admitted to the same NICU.

RESULTS

Globally, 39 acquired infections or colonizations were identified. Among factors related to pregnancy, only premature delivery was independently associated to the risk of infection; as well as mechanical ventilation and catheterization for parenteral nutrition, considering indwelling devices. Prolonged administration with antibiotics were also related to the risk of infection. Among Sm strains which have been tested to antibiotics, all have been resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and to colistin.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the association between Sm infection or colonization and low gestational age. Invasive medical devices and medications, strictly necessary in care-support of preterm neonates, are likely related to Sm infection too. Preventive control strategies are expected to be effective in the control of Sm spread in NICUs.