A 32-week preterm neonate develops poor feeding and temperature instability on day 10 of life. Blood culture grows Group B Streptococcus. The neonate is hemodynamically stable. What is the recommended duration of antibiotic therapy if CSF also shows organisms consistent with meningitis?

• A 7 days of IV antibiotics
• B 10 days of IV antibiotics
• C 14 to 21 days of IV antibiotics ✓
• D 28 days of IV antibiotics

Explanation

GBS meningitis in neonates requires 14 to 21 days of IV antibiotics. Uncomplicated bacteremia without meningitis is treated for 10 days. For meningitis, ampicillin plus gentamicin or cefotaxime is used, and therapy is extended to 14 to 21 days because neonates have impaired CSF killing. Repeat LP at 24 to 48 hours is recommended to document CSF sterilization.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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