Bilateral neonatal suppurative sialadenitis progressing to abscess formation in a preterm neonate

Abstract

Aims: We report a case of bilateral neonatal suppurative sialadenitis (NSS) in an extremely low birth weight infant (ELBW). Methods: The infant developed bilateral sub-mandibular swelling at 3 weeks of age. NSS with abscess was confirmed with ultrasound. Despite intravenous antibiotic therapy the masses increased in size and developed abscesses. Results: Unilaterally the abscess discharged via Whartonâ s duct necessitating intubation to protect the airway. The abscess remnant was incised and drained. Culture grew a methicillin sensitive staphyloccocus aureus. The NSS resolved following two weeks of antibiotics. Conclusion: We wish to highlight the importance of early recognition of this rare condition in preterm neonates.