Purpura Fulminans and Late Onset Group B Streptococcal Sepsis in a Premature Twin

Abstract

Introduction: Purpura fulminans (PF) is a skin manifestation due to hemorrhagic infarction caused by intravascular thrombosis secondary to bacterial infections or deficiency of anticoagulants such as protein C and protein S. Neonatal PF is a rare but potentially disabling disorder associated with a high mortality and severe long term morbidity in those who survive.

Case description: We report a case of a premature infant who developed extensive PF due to late onset group B streptococcus sepsis. Despite early identification and initiation of antibiotic therapy in our patient, PF progressed rapidly, leading to autoamputation of fingers and toes and severe brain injury.

Conclusion: In conclusion, our case highlights the severe sequelae of PF due to late onset GBS sepsis in a premature infant.

Keywords

purpura fulminans - GBS - neonate - meningitis - coagulation - serotype Ia

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