Study of Blood Glucose Levels in Neonatal Sepsis and Its Outcome-A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Sepsis significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality in neonates, affecting glucose levels and causing both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. This study aimed to examine the clinical profile of neonatal sepsis patients and correlate blood sugar levels with outcomes. Ninety neonates under 28 days old with probable and culture-proven sepsis admitted to the NICU were included. Analyses covered glucose levels, complete blood count, CRP levels, sepsis screening, lumbar puncture, neurosonogram, urine culture, and blood culture and sensitivity. Results showed GRBS scores of <40 for 24 subjects, 41-100 for 39, 101-200 for 22, and >200 for 5. Among clinically diagnosed cases, 57 (63.3%) were male and 33 (36.7%) female. Clinical presentations included poor feeding in 82 (91.1%), convulsions in 19 (21.1%), rapid breathing in 51 (56.7%), severe chest indrawing in 39 (43.3%), temperature in 25 (27.8%), fever in 43 (47.8%), and decreased activity in 88 (97.8%). In conclusion, glycaemic status alteration in septic neonates correlated with higher mortality.