Multiple neonatal staphylococcal cold abscesses of the large folds.

BACKGROUND

We describe three neonates who presented around the tenth day of life with multiple bilateral fluctuating cold abscesses situated in the lymph node areas, with secondary fistulation but without associated fever or general symptoms.

RESULTS

In all cases, Staphylococcus aureus was found in the abscesses and the umbilicus with similar antibiograms. The evolution was good and the children remained in good health afterwards.

CONCLUSION

Disseminated neonatal staphylococcal infections with a benign evolution are not commonly described in the medical literature. Clinically, cold inflammatory abscesses of the large folds associated with omphalitis may correspond to either transient bacteriemia well controlled in an immunocompetent host or more likely a local contamination process.