Pantoea species causing early onset neonatal sepsis: a case report

INTRODUCTION Pantoea agglomerans is a plant pathogen which very rarely causes an opportunistic infection. Human beings are usually infected by thorn prick injuries or by contaminated parenteral fluids. Pantoea agglomerans has been reported as a cause of neonatal sepsis very rarely and to the best of our knowledge this is the first reported case from India. CASE PRESENTATION A 4-day-old Asian baby boy from the rural area of Odisha, India, was admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit when he presented with fever, tachypnea and chest retraction. Pantoea species were isolated from his blood culture. CONCLUSIONS He was treated successfully with meropenem administered intravenously and other supportive measures. Early detection and proper management may cause a favorable outcome.