Neonatal scalp abscess: is it a benign disease?

Abstract

Background: Neonatal scalp abscesses are a rare but potentially very serious condition.

Objectives: This report serves to demonstrate meningitis as a potential complication of neonatal scalp abscess. In addition, we review the current literature on the subject and comment on the most appropriate evaluation and treatment.

Case report: We describe six cases of neonatal scalp abscesses with one complication of enterococcal meningitis.

Conclusion: The emergency practitioner should recognize that a neonate with a scalp abscess needs to be evaluated for potential serious complications and treated empirically to cover for organisms of vaginal origin.