Question
When a newborn shows symptoms of common cold and fever, diagnosed by the hospital as empyema of the brain, parents are worried. How is empyema of the brain formed? How should it be effectively treated?
Answer
Empyema of the brain is a manifestation of systemic infection in newborns, often associated with abnormal delivery history such as premature rupture of membranes, prolonged labor, and difficult childbirth. Pathogens like Escherichia coli and Group B Streptococcus may contaminate the amniotic fluid in the mother’s rectum or vagina, or be inhaled or swallowed by the fetus during passage through the birth canal. Most infants develop sepsis within three days after birth, with about 30% of cases progressing to empyema of the brain. Treatment typically includes hospitalization for antibiotic therapy, along with supportive treatment based on the severity of the condition.