A Cardiac Tamponade Caused by Catheter-Related Sepsis in a Preterm Infant

Abstract

Cardiac tamponade due to catheter related sepsis in premature neonate is a rare and life-threatening complication; but prompt diagnosis and intervention can reverse this situation. We report a nine-day-old preterm infant who presented with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade secondary to catheter related sepsis. This report highlights two important aspects: occurrence of pericardial effusion in a neonate with peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC), with no evidence of composition of hyperosmolar parenteral solution, and awareness of sepsis as a cause for this critical condition.