Papaverine for Ischemia Following Peripheral Arterial Catheterization in Neonates.

11 Extremely low birth weight neonates who developed skin discoloration after peripheral arterial catheterization were given intra-arterial papaverine before the removal of arterial line. The skin color turned normal in all these neonates and none developed residual damage. In 3 neonates who could not receive papaverine, one developed gangrene of fingers.

Safety and Efficacy of Intravenous Colistin in Children.

Objective: To observe the safety and efficacy of Colistimethate sodium in children infected with gram-negative bacteria, susceptible only to colistimethate sodium. Methods: This prospective observational study done over 2 years observed children who received colistin for >48 h, for renal failure as defined by p-RIFLE criteria. Results: Out of 68 children, 52 (76.5%) survived. There were three children with evidence of acute kidney injury and none had neurotoxicity. Serum creatinine significantly decreased at 48 h and at end of treatment, from that at beginning of therapy (P=0.007). Conclusion: Colistimethate sodium is effective against carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, and is safe in children.

ATP-binding Cassette Transporter A3 (ABCA3) Mutation in a Late Preterm with Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Background: Surfactant protein abnormalities are rare causes of respiratory distress syndrome. Case characteristics: A late preterm (36 wks) who presented with respiratory distress syndrome.Observation: He was found to be a homozygous for a G to T transversion at the first base in intron 24, of ABCA3 gene which is necessary for lamellar body formation and surfactant production. Outcome: He died of severe respiratory failure even after multiple doses of surfactants and ventilation. Message: Surfactant deficiency with ABCA3 gene mutation needs to be suspected in late preterms who present with respiratory distress syndrome.