Omphalitis (Paediatrics)

Medium urgency
-Moderately severe

Infection which occurs in the remaining part of the umbilical cord, which remains when cutting it at birth.

It is related to poor hygiene in the umbilical region.

Signs and symptoms are reddening of the navel, swelling or sensitivity of the skin and a yellow, smelly discharge.

The diagnosis is reached through clinical examination, without the need for tests.

Treatment includes proper hygiene of the navel, together with topical and/or oral antibiotics.

Bibliographic references
  1. Ameh EA, Nmadu PT. Major complications of omphalitis in neonates and infants. Pediatr Surg Int 2002; 18:413.
  2. Stewart D, Benitz W. Umbilical Cord Care in the Newborn Infant. Pediatrics 2016; 138.
  3. World Health Organization. WHO Recommendations on Postnatal Care of the Mother and Newborn. WHO Press; Geneva, 2014.
  4. Imdad A, Bautista RM, Senen KA, et al. Umbilical cord antiseptics for preventing sepsis and death among newborns. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; :CD008635.
  5. ezzati M, Biagioli EC, Martelli E, et al. Umbilical cord care: the effect of eight different cord-care regimens on cord separation time and other outcomes. Biol Neonate 2002; 81:38.
  6. M.Miguel Ferrero, C.A. de la Torre Ramos y F. Hernández Oliveros. Patología del Ombligo. Onfalitis. Manual de diagnóstico y tratamiento en Pediatría. J. Guerrero Fernández; J.A.Ruíz Dominguez; J.J.Méndez Suso; A. Barrios Tascón. 5ª Edición. Hospital Infantil La Paz. Pág: 403. 
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Symptoms

    Foul-smelling belly button or umbilical cord


    Wet umbilical cord with a cloudy discharge


    Reddening and/or swelling of the belly button


    Fever / Feel very hot


    Nausea

Pre-hospital care recommendations

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
Remain calm.