Omphalitis. Omphalitis in adults symptoms and treatment Omphalitis and vasculitis of the umbilical vessels

12.06.2020

Last updated article: 03.05.2018

Raising a child is a daily and rather hard work, for which the mother receives wonderful emotions from the baby every day as a reward. A newborn baby is very vulnerable to the effects of his environment, therefore special care and attention from the parents is required. The most unprotected and more vulnerable is the navel, more precisely, an unhealed umbilical wound after discharge from maternity ward... This is an open gateway for any infection that enters the body and causes omphalitis in newborns. Inflammation of the navel is quite common and requires proper and timely treatment to avoid the development of severe complications.

District pediatrician

Always keep the umbilical wound open until it heals. A wound wet and damp under clothing and a diaper is a favorable environment for bacteria to multiply and live.
Every day, until the navel heals, bathe the baby in boiled water, adding potassium permanganate to it to make a slightly pink solution.
Treat the navel at least and no more than 2 times a day. Three times are treated only if the wound is bleeding.
Before treating the navel, be sure to wash your hands with soap and wipe with an alcohol wipe or antiseptic. Anything you use to treat your belly button should be for your baby only.
Change your baby's diapers and clothes often. Even if they are dry and clean.

Use diapers with a special belly button cut.

How to properly handle the umbilical wound?

If the umbilical cord has not yet fallen off, the umbilical ring and umbilical cord should be treated with antiseptic solutions. It is better to use Chlorophyllipt at home. You can use ordinary greenery, but against its background it is difficult to see how the navel is healing. Never try to tear, unscrew or cut the umbilical cord yourself. You can cause bleeding and infection.
After the umbilical cord falls off, the wound is first treated with hydrogen peroxide, dripping 2 - 3 drops, then dried with a sterile napkin, removing those crusts that are soaked. At the end, the wound is treated with Chlorophyllipt, being careful not to touch the skin around.

What is omphalitis?

Omphalitis in newborns is inflammatory process the bottom of the umbilical wound, umbilical vessels, skin and subcutaneous tissue in the navel. Through the wound, the infection enters the tissues surrounding the navel, causing inflammation, then spreads to the umbilical vessels and is fixed in them.

The greatest likelihood of developing omphalitis in:

premature babies;
babies who were born prematurely;
children born at home;
babies with congenital malformations of the navel;
newborns with infectious skin diseases;
babies with diaper rash in the navel.

Why does omphalitis occur in children?

The cause of omphalitis is bacteria. Among the bacteria that cause inflammation of the umbilical wound, staphylococci and streptococci occupy the first place. Other bacteria can also cause inflammation, among them E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus. Improper care of the umbilical wound and neglect of hygiene rules contributes to the emergence and development of infection.

Normal healing of the umbilical wound is considered when the umbilical cord remains on the 3rd - 5th day of the baby's life, and the navel heals completely within 2 - 4 weeks.

After the umbilical cord falls off, the most dangerous period begins. The wound is open, and the infection easily gets inside. At this time, it is important to pay special attention to the processing of the navel, observing the rules of hygiene.

Several conditions can be attributed to the factors contributing to the development of inflammation:

Violation of the rules for caring for the baby's navel.
Disregard for personal hygiene rules.
Long-term wearing of diapers, rare change of diapers and baby clothes.
A baby can get an infection from sick family members.

If a family member is ill, try to limit contact between the sick relative and the newborn.

What can be omphalitis?

By the nature of the inflammation, the following forms of omphalitis are distinguished:

catarrhal;
purulent;
phlegmonous;
necrotic.

Catarrhal omphalitis

Catarrhal omphalitis is the most favorable form of the disease, the main symptom of which is a long-term non-healing wound at the bottom of the navel with scanty (in a small amount) watery discharge.

In this form, fluid is constantly released from the navel, which is why it is often called the "weeping navel". Periodically, the wound is covered with a crust. In some cases, slight redness and swelling may occur around the navel. When palpating the peri-umbilical region, the vessels are not palpable (not felt at hand).

Please note that in the catarrhal form general state the infant is not disturbed. The kid is active, eats well, his body temperature is normal.

Purulent omphalitis

Purulent omphalitis is characterized by the development of edema (swelling) and hyperemia (redness) of the umbilical ring. The skin around the navel is hot to the touch. In this case, purulent contents are released from the wound. From the navel may come bad smell... In some cases, when palpating, inflamed umbilical vessels are determined.

The disease may be accompanied by an increase in the baby's body temperature. If at this time you pass a blood test from a finger, inflammatory changes will be found in it.

If the child's health is not severely impaired, you can be treated at home under the constant supervision of your pediatrician. But if your doctor strongly recommends hospital treatment for you, do not refuse. It is better to be treated in the department under constant supervision than to earn serious complications.

Phlegmonous omphalitis

Phlegmonous omphalitis occurs when the inflammatory process spreads and captures the umbilical region.

With omphalitis of this form, the edema grows, the skin in the navel is hyperemic, the umbilical region protrudes, as if rising above the tummy. Vessels anterior abdominal wall expand, the venous pattern on the abdomen is clearly visible. In some cases (if the crust is not removed during processing), an ulcer with uneven edges and fibrin deposits (white, film-like structures) may form at the bottom of the wound in the navel.

There is a deterioration in the general condition. The child is lethargic, weakly suckles at the breast, often spits up. The baby's skin is pale, or even pale gray in color. Body temperature rises to high numbers (above 38 degrees). The crumb stops gaining body weight, maybe even its loss.

Necrotizing omphalitis

Necrotizing omphalitis is a complication of the phlegmonous form, which, fortunately, is extremely rare. But it is still found in severely weakened and premature babies.

The inflammation process goes deeper. The baby's skin becomes purple-cyanotic. Necrosis (death) of the skin sets in, and it exfoliates from the underlying tissues, forming a large wound. The inflammation can spread to the abdominal muscles and even the intestines. This form is very severe and dangerous in that it can lead to sepsis (penetration of infection into the bloodstream). The general condition of the child with this form is difficult.

How is omphalitis diagnosed?

The doctor can make a diagnosis by examining the baby's navel.

If necessary, he can prescribe a blood test, blood culture and discharge from the navel to determine the pathogen. Ultrasound and plain x-rays may also be prescribed. abdominal cavity.

A consultation with a pediatric surgeon is mandatory.

How is omphalitis treated?

Only the catarrhal form can be treated at home. All other forms are treated in the department of surgery.

The main task in the treatment of omphalitis is to cleanse the umbilical wound.

Treatment of the disease is divided into several directions (stages).

Local treatment - treatment of the umbilical wound:

wound treatment is carried out 4 times a day using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution;
after instilling hydrogen peroxide, clean the wound with a cotton swab;
the final stage is treatment with antiseptic solutions (Chlorophyllipt, propolis, Dioxidin);
UFO (physiotherapy using ultraviolet radiation) of the umbilical wound is carried out with the appointment of a doctor;
it is necessary to bathe the child.

Bathing is contraindicated in severe general condition. In this case, the skin is cleaned with wet wipes.

General treatment is aimed at improving the well-being of the baby.

General treatment includes:

antibiotic therapy, which is selected according to the results of bacterial culture;
detoxification (removal of inflammation products from the child's body);
vitamin therapy;
the appointment of drugs that enhance the protective functions of the immune system.

Surgical treatment is carried out in the department with the development of complications.

Conclusion

Newborn care, in particular the treatment of the umbilical wound, should be carried out daily in accordance with all the rules. In order to prevent the development of inflammation, parents need to take care of the baby seriously and follow all the care recommendations given in the maternity hospital and by the pediatrician during the first patronage of the newborn.

The prognosis with timely and adequate treatment of mild forms of omphalitis is favorable. Therefore, if your belly button does not heal two weeks after giving birth, or you see redness and pus from the belly button, consult your pediatrician right away.

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- infection of the umbilical cord and umbilical wound, leading to inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, disruption of epithelialization processes. Omphalitis is accompanied by serous or purulent exudation, hyperemia and infiltration of the umbilical ring, elevated temperature and signs of intoxication; in severe cases, omphalitis is complicated by phlegmon, peritonitis and umbilical sepsis. Diagnosis of omphalitis consists in examining the child by a pediatric specialist, performing ultrasound of soft tissues and abdominal organs, sowing discharge from the umbilical wound. Treatment of omphalitis includes local treatment of the navel with antiseptics, dressings, antibiotic therapy, physiotherapy (UFO, UHF), and, if indicated, surgical treatment.

General information

Omphalitis is a disease of newborns characterized by inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the umbilical wound. Purulent-septic skin diseases are predominant in the neonatal period. Among them there are streptoderma and staphyloderma (vesiculopustulosis, epidemic pemphigus of newborns, exfoliative dermatitis of newborns). In the structure of neonatal pathology, omphalitis occupies one of the leading places in terms of prevalence and practical significance. The danger of omphalitis in children lies in the possible spread and generalization of infection with the development of arteritis or phlebitis of the umbilical vessels, phlegmon, peritonitis, sepsis.

Causes of omphalitis

The development of omphalitis is associated with infection through an umbilical cord stump or an unhealed umbilical wound. This can happen in case of neglect of hygiene standards and rules for caring for a newborn and the treatment of an umbilical wound, the presence of diaper dermatitis or other infectious diseases skin in a newborn (pyoderma, folliculitis). In rare cases, infection is possible during the ligation of the umbilical cord, but more often infection occurs between the 2nd and 12th days of life.

The risk of developing omphalitis is increased in premature babies born from premature or pathologically proceeding childbirth, community-acquired (including home) birth, children with intrauterine infections, hypoxia, congenital anomalies (incomplete umbilical, yolk or urinary fistula).

The causative agents of omphalitis are most often staphylococci, streptococci, in about 30% of cases - gram-negative microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, etc.). The source of infection can be skin infant contaminated with urine, feces, pyogenic flora; care items, hands of caregivers (medical workers, parents), etc.

Classification of omphalitis

For reasons of occurrence, omphalitis can be primary (with infection of the umbilical wound) or secondary (in the case of infection with the background of existing congenital anomalies - fistula). Secondary omphalitis in a child develops at a later date and lasts longer.

By the nature and degree of inflammatory changes in the navel, catarrhal or simple omphalitis ("weeping navel"), phlegmonous and gangrenous (necrotic) omphalitis are distinguished.

In the spectrum of consideration clinical course omphalitis, the disease may be of practical interest for pediatrics, pediatric surgery, pediatric dermatology, pediatric urology.

Symptoms of omphalitis

The most common and prognostically favorable form of the disease is catarrhal omphalitis. Usually, the independent fall of the umbilical cord in a newborn occurs in the first or second week of life. A loose bloody crust forms in its place; the final epithelialization of the umbilical wound with proper care is noted by 10-15 days of life. In the case of the development of local inflammation, the umbilical wound does not heal, a meager secret of a serous, serous-hemorrhagic or serous-purulent nature begins to stand out from it. The wound is periodically tightened with crusts, however, after their rejection, the defect does not epithelize. The umbilical ring is hyperemic and edematous. With prolonged weeping (for 2 or more weeks), excessive growth of granulations can occur with the formation of a mushroom-shaped protrusion at the bottom of the umbilical wound - the umbilical fungus, which makes healing even more difficult. The general condition of the newborn (appetite, physiological functions, sleep, weight gain) with a simple form of omphalitis is usually not disturbed; subfebrile condition is sometimes noted.

Phlegmonous omphalitis is characterized by the spread of inflammation to the surrounding tissues and is usually a continuation of the "weeping navel". The skin around the navel is hyperemic, the subcutaneous tissue is swollen and rises above the surface of the abdomen. The pattern of the venous network on the anterior abdominal wall is enhanced, the presence of red stripes indicates the addition of lymphangitis.

In addition to the soaking of the umbilical wound, pyorrhea is noted - the outflow of purulent discharge and the release of pus when pressed on the umbilical region. Perhaps the formation at the bottom of the umbilical fossa of an ulcer covered with a purulent bloom. With phlegmonous omphalitis, the baby's condition worsens: the body temperature rises to 38 ° C, signs of intoxication are expressed (lethargy, poor appetite, regurgitation, dyspepsia), the increase in body weight slows down. In premature babies, local changes in omphalitis can be minimal, but general manifestations usually come to the fore, complications develop with lightning speed.

Necrotizing omphalitis is rare, usually in weakened children (with immunodeficiency, malnutrition, etc.). In this case, the melting of the fiber spreads in depth. In the navel, the skin takes on a dark purple, bluish tint. With necrotizing omphalitis, inflammation almost always goes to the umbilical vessels. In some cases, all layers of the anterior abdominal wall can become necrotic with the development of contact peritonitis. Gangrenous omphalitis has the most severe course: the body temperature can drop to 36 ° C, the child is emaciated, inhibited, does not respond to surrounding stimuli.

Omphalitis can be complicated by phlegmon of the anterior abdominal wall, arteritis or phlebitis of the umbilical vessels, liver abscesses, enterocolitis, abscess pneumonia, osteomyelitis, umbilical sepsis.

Diagnostics and treatment of omphalitis

Usually, an examination of the child by a neonatologist, pediatrician or pediatric surgeon is sufficient to recognize omphalitis. To determine the causative agent of bacterial infection and selection antibacterial therapy bacterial sowing of the detachable umbilical wound is carried out on flora with sensitivity.

To exclude complications of omphalitis (phlegmon of the abdominal wall, abscesses of the abdominal cavity, peritonitis), the child is shown a soft tissue ultrasound scan, an abdominal ultrasound scan, and a plain abdominal radiography. A child with omphalitis must be examined by a pediatric surgeon.

When prescribing the treatment of omphalitis, its form and the general condition of the newborn are taken into account. IN outpatient setting under the supervision of a pediatrician, only catarrhal omphalitis can be treated; in other cases, hospitalization of the newborn is indicated.

With simple omphalitis, a local treatment of a weeping umbilical wound 3-4 times a day is performed, first with hydrogen peroxide, then with aqueous or alcoholic solutions of antiseptics - furacilin, dioxidin, chlorophyllipt, brilliant green. All manipulations (processing, drying of the umbilical wound) are carried out with separate cotton swabs or tampons. Physiotherapy is used - UFO, microwave, UHF therapy, helium-neon laser. When the fungus grows, it is cauterized with silver nitrate. During the period of treatment for omphalitis, the child is bathed in a weak solution of potassium permanganate.

With the phlegmonous form of omphalitis, in addition to the above measures, dressings with antibacterial and antiseptic ointments (bacitracin / polymyxin B, Vishnevsky) are applied to the area of \u200b\u200binflammation, the focus is chipped with antibiotics, systemic antibacterial drugs and infusion therapy, an anti-staphylococcal immunoglobulin is introduced. When an abscess is formed, they resort to its surgical opening.

With the development of necrotizing omphalitis, necrotic tissues are excised, dressings are performed, active general treatment is carried out (antibiotics, vitamin therapy, plasma transfusions, physiotherapy, etc.).

Forecast and prevention of omphalitis

Catarrhal omphalitis is easy to treat and usually resolves. The prognosis of phlegmonous and necrotic omphalitis depends on the adequacy and timing of treatment initiation, the addition of secondary complications and the child's condition. With generalized septic complications, a lethal outcome is possible.

Prevention of omphalitis involves adherence to asepsis when processing the umbilical cord, daily care of the umbilical wound, hygiene by the caregivers. It is categorically unacceptable to forcibly tear off the crusts from the umbilical wound, close it with a bandage or diaper, or stick it with an adhesive plaster, as this provokes weeping and infection. In case of redness of the umbilical wound, the appearance of puffiness and discharge, you should immediately consult a pediatrician.

Omphalitis (lat. Omphalitis) is a bacterial inflammation of the bottom of the umbilical wound, umbilical ring and subcutaneous fat around the navel. Distinguish between simple, phlegmonous, necrotic forms of omphalitis.

Omphalitis - cause (etiology)

The inflammatory process is localized in the umbilical fossa or spreads to the skin and other tissues around the navel.

Infection from the umbilical wound often spreads to the umbilical vessels, is fixed in the umbilical arteries, vein.

Omphalitis - the mechanism of origin and development (pathogenesis)

Purulent-septic diseases of the navel in newborns in frequency and practical importance occupy one of the first places in the structure of morbidity in children of the 1st month of life. A purulent navel infection has a variety of clinical manifestations, among which you can find a rather pronounced local process without severe general septic manifestations, as well as a severe picture of sepsis with the most insignificant local inflammatory phenomena. A purulent navel infection is a common source of sepsis in young children and serious illnesses in older children.

Umbilical infection is quite often caused by staphylococci and streptococci, less often by other microbes (E. coli, pneumococci, diphtheria bacillus).

Infection in rare cases can occur before birth, during ligation and alloying of the umbilical cord. However, most often infection occurs between the 2nd and 12th day of life, when the stump can become contaminated with urine, feces of the child, or the infection will be carried from surrounding objects or the hands of personnel; infection can also occur through droplet transmission of infection from caregivers.

The development of the pathological process with a purulent infection of the navel can go in different ways, in connection with which there are various clinical forms... So most frequent form, which the pathological process accepts is Omphalitis.

The causative agent (mainly staphylococcus) of omphalitis penetrates into the tissues adjacent to the navel, through the stump of the umbilical cord or through the wound after it has fallen off. The infection can spread and fix in the umbilical vessels (more often in the arteries, less often in the veins), causing productive, purulent or necrotic inflammation. The spread of inflammation leads to the development of phlegmon in the navel. When the umbilical vein is involved in the process, phlebitis occurs (see the complete body of knowledge), which can spread through the portal vein into its intrahepatic branches. Often, along the course of the veins, purulent foci, sometimes after the healing of the umbilical wound.

Omphalitis - pathological anatomy

The remainder of the umbilical cord is not mummified, but becomes inflamed, moist, swollen, gets a dirty brown color, and emits an unpleasant odor. At first, the general condition of the child does not suffer, and then the body temperature rises, there is a loss of appetite, and lethargy appears. When the gangrenous umbilical cord falls off, a festering wound that does not heal for a long time remains, which can be a source of sepsis.

The most frequent and prognostically favorable form of the disease is simple Omphalitis (weeping navel), in which a granulating wound that does not heal for a long time with scanty serous purulent discharge appears on the navel. The child's condition is satisfactory. Periodically, the wound becomes crusty; granulations can grow excessively, forming a mushroom-shaped protrusion (fungus umbilici).

Phlegmonous Omphalitis is characterized by acute inflammation around the umbilical wound (edema, tissue infiltration, skin hyperemia, protrusion of the umbilical region). The edges of the wound are undermined, the probe is determined by the course, which is often associated with an abscess. The progression of the process can lead to phlegmon of the abdominal wall.

Necrotizing Omphalitis is extremely rare as a complication of phlegmon around the navel in sharply weakened areactive children. The skin in the navel area has a purple-cyanotic color, tissue necrosis quickly spreads to all layers, a deep wound is formed, which can lead to eventration of the intestine.

The most dangerous complications of tumors are septicemia and sepsis (see Sepsis). Local complications include phlegmon of the abdominal wall (see. Phlegmon of the abdominal wall), contact peritonitis (see. Peritonitis), pylephlebitis (see. Pylephlebitis), liver abscesses (see. Liver abscess), to distant - portal hypertension (see. Hypertension).

Omphalitis - symptoms (clinic)

Omphalitis - simple form

A simple form, known as the "weeping navel", is characterized by the fact that after the umbilical cord remains falling off, the infected umbilical wound does not heal well, becomes covered with granulations, on the surface of which droplets of serous or serous-purulent fluid appear. Dries up, the discharge forms crusts, which are gradually rejected. The healing of such an umbilical wound occurs within a few weeks. The general condition of the child remains satisfactory, all physiological functions (stool, sleep, appetite) are normal, the child's body weight increases.

With prolonged healing of the umbilical wound, an excessive proliferation of granulations is sometimes observed, forming a tumor-like mass with a wide base or a thin stalk in the umbilical fossa, which resembles a fungus in shape and therefore is called fungus. Fungus is quite dense to the touch, painless, has a pale pink color, when infected, it becomes covered with a fibrinous bloom, and then the child becomes restless, especially when swaddling and shifting.

Omphalitis - phlegmonous form

The phlegmonous form of omphalitis is characterized by the spread of the inflammatory process around the navel, into the tissues adjacent to it. The skin near the navel becomes hyperemic, edematous and infiltrated, and the umbilical region bulges above the surface of the abdomen. In some cases, an ulcer forms at the bottom of the umbilical fossa. The inflammatory process can spread to the anterior abdominal wall or remain local. Often, when pressing on the umbilical region, pus is released from the umbilical wound.

The general condition with phlegmonous omphalitis is disturbed, body temperature rises, appetite decreases, body weight decreases, and there may be dyspeptic disorders. The severity of the patient's general condition depends on the prevalence of the process: an increase in temperature to 37.5-38 ° C and moderate anxiety are characteristic of limited forms, and an increase in temperature to 39-40 ° C with symptoms of toxicosis is for extensive phlegmon.

Omphalitis - necrotic form

The necrotic form of omphalitis is very rare, usually in malnourished children. Flowing at first as phlegmonous omphalitis, the process spreads in depth. The skin in the navel area becomes dark red with a bluish tinge, its necrosis and detachment from the underlying tissues occurs with the formation of an extensive wound. This form of omphalitis is the most severe, accompanied by severe intoxication and ends in most cases with sepsis.

With any form of omphalitis, there is always a real danger of spreading the infection to the umbilical vessels, from where umbilical sepsis most often originates.

Omphalitis - treatment

The appointment of antibiotics is shown. Local treatment consists in the prompt removal of the remainder of the umbilical cord by cutting off the stump in compliance with all the rules of asepsis. The wound is cauterized with a 5% alcohol solution of iodine, and in the following days - with a 3% solution of silver nitrate. When puffiness and hyperemia of the skin around the navel appears, the appointment of physiotherapeutic procedures is indicated - ultraviolet radiation and UHF currents.

With a simple form of omphalitis, only local treatmentthat can be done on an outpatient basis. A weeping navel is cauterized 1-2 times a day with 5% silver nitrate solution or 5% potassium permanganate solution, or 1% alcoholic solution of iodine. If pus is released from the umbilical wound, then it is first washed with hydrogen peroxide, then cauterized with the indicated solutions and sprinkled with white streptocide, xeroform, dermatol, vioform powder. If after 5-7 days the umbilical cord remains oozing and granulations are formed, the baby is allowed to bathe with the addition of potassium permanganate to the water (the water should be light pink).

With the phlegmonous form of omphalitis, more vigorous treatment is carried out. Intramuscularly administered antibiotics wide range actions for 10-14 days. Breastfeeding is of great importance. It is necessary to prescribe vitamins (B) and (C), repeated intravenous blood transfusions at intervals of 5-6 days. Intravenous plasma infusions are advisable, intramuscular injections gamma globulin. According to indications, prescribe glucose, heart drugs.

Locally, if there is no suppuration, the affected area around the navel is injected with a solution of antibiotics. The daily dose of one or another antibiotic is dissolved in 20-25 ml of a 0.25% solution of novocaine and the tissues around the navel are infiltrated from two or three points.

UHF currents or irradiation with a mercury-quartz lamp are also used locally. A bandage is applied to the affected area with Vishnevsky's ointment, ethacridine lactate (rivanol), furacilin, etc. If an abscess is found, then they resort to surgical intervention.

In the necrotic form of omphalitis, in all cases, it is required surgical intervention along with vigorous general treatment (antibiotics, blood transfusions, plasma, vitamin therapy, gamma globulin administration, physiotherapy).

With omphalitis, severe complications are possible, which in themselves can serve as a source of septicemia and septicopyemia. The severe complications of omphalitis include peritonitis, liver abscess, hematogenous osteomyelitis, and suppuration of the lungs, which most often develop against the background of sepsis.

The prognosis for simple omphalitis is favorable. With phlegmonous and necrotic form, the prognosis is made with caution because of the possibility of developing umbilical sepsis.

Omphalitis - prevention

To avoid the development of omphalitis in a newborn, it is necessary to carefully care for the umbilical wound. To do this, you need to rinse the umbilical wound with antiseptic agents every day, twice a day, so that bacteria do not enter it, and also monitor the color of the umbilical ring.

Inflammation of the navel in an adult can be caused by infection of the body with a fungal or bacterial infection. In these cases, the patient has reddening of the skin and swelling in the navel, and bloody-purulent discharge is formed in the umbilical pit. In more severe types of the disease, the infection developing in the body captures the surrounding tissues, the walls of the arteries and the umbilical vessels. In this regard, arteritis or phlebitis of the vessels of the navel may appear.

At home, it is impossible to determine the cause of the navel inflammation, here you will need to conduct a medical examination: to do a bacterial inoculation of the departments and a laboratory study of the umbilical ring. Depending on the identified cause, the doctor also prescribes treatment methods. In the presence of a fistula, the intervention of a surgeon is necessary, and in case of omphalitis, a conservative method of treatment is carried out.

Inflammation of the navel: a simple form

The simple form of this disease (omphalitis) does not pose a particular threat to the general condition of the patient. It is characterized by the presence of a weeping navel, sometimes together with purulent discharge. Prolonged stay in this state threatens the patient's body with the formation and development of excessive granulations or, as another option, a mushroom tumor.

Inflammation of the navel: phlegmonous form

Phlegmonous form is a progressive inflammation that spreads to nearby tissues. When touched, the patient experiences severe pain and his condition changes dramatically for the worse. This is due to the fact that the infection has already invaded the anterior abdominal cavity and continues to develop there. In this case, the body temperature rises to 39 ° C, and sometimes even higher.

The phlegmonous form of inflammation of the navel can develop into a necrotic form if the process begins to grow not only on the sides, but also goes far into the depths. Necrosis of the skin and its tissue forms, which then gradually exfoliates from the tissue underneath. Thus, the disease flows into another - umbilical sepsis. It is very important to stop this dangerous process as soon as possible in order to prevent the formation of periarteritis of the vessels of the navel.

How to treat navel inflammation

Omphalitis is treated by treating the umbilical ring and navel area with antiseptic solutions and ointments. Physiotherapy is also used and drainage is performed if necessary.

The phlegmonous form and the necrotic form following it are treated only in a hospital setting under strict medical supervision until the patient is fully recovered.

Navel fistulas are the most common congenital pathology. They receive their development due to non-closure of the yolk-intestinal duct. As a result, an intestinal-umbilical fistula with mucous discharge appears in the navel area, and sometimes even through the fistulous opening, the omentum or intestinal mucosa falls out. Often, this disease can provoke a piercing done in this area.

If an adult has an unpleasant smelling discharge from the navel - what would it mean and what to do? Doctors note two main reasons why an adult's navel gets wet - omphalitis and an umbilical fistula. If you notice alarming symptoms, you should immediately contact a surgeon for timely treatment.

Necrotizing (gangrenous) omphalitis develops very rarely and is a complication of the phlegmonous form. With this form, the infection penetrates into the abdominal cavity, necrosis and detachment of dead tissue occurs. Necrotizing omphalitis is dangerous by the development of umbilical sepsis, peritonitis, hematogenous osteomyelitis.

With phlegmonous and gangrenous omphalitis, complex intensive treatment is carried out. As a rule, treatment of the affected area with antiseptic agents with antibacterial ointments, intramuscular antibiotics, physiotherapy is prescribed. Sometimes surgical intervention is required - opening the abscesses. With a necrotic form, gamma globulin injections, vitamin therapy,

Another reason why the navel becomes wet in an adult is the umbilical fistula. This pathology in most cases is congenital and is characterized by an incomplete urinary or yolk-intestinal duct. When the urinary duct is not overgrown, a vesicoumbilical fistula is formed, through which urine is excreted. If the vitelline duct is not overgrown, then an intestinal-umbilical fistula appears with discharge from the intestine. When inflammation occurs, the discharge becomes purulent.

Sometimes there are acquired fistulas, which are formed when the anterior wall of the peritoneum is inflamed and the abscesses are opened through the navel.

Most often, treatment consists of excision of the fistula and suturing holes in the wall of the intestine or bladder. Non-surgical treatment is possible only if there is no discharge from the navel.

If the navel gets wet in an adult, then in no case should one self-medicate, which can lead to only a slight temporary effect.

Inflammation of the navel is uncommon and can develop in both children and adults.

The medical name for this disease is omphalitis.
Omphalitis (Greek omphalos - navel) - inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the navel.
Many people know that newborns have problems with the navel. But not everyone is aware of the fact that inflammation of the navel also occurs in adults. Let's try to fill this gap and tell why the navel becomes inflamed in adults.
Indeed, most often omphalitis is a disease of newborns in the first weeks of life, which occurs when the umbilical wound is infected and manifests itself as reddening of the skin around the navel, edema, purulent discharge from the wound, abdominal pain, and fever.
And what about adults?

The cause of inflammation is most often a bacterial (streptococcus, staphylococcus, E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) or fungal infection.
But there are certain prerequisites for infection of the navel:

The presence of a fistula at the umbilical ring. Fistulas, as a rule, are a congenital pathology caused by non-closure of the yolk-intestinal or urinary duct.
In this case, an intestinal-umbilical fistula with intestinal discharge is formed in the navel. In case of non-closure of the urinary duct, a vesicoumbilical fistula is formed, and then the discharge, most often, is urine.
However, there are also acquired fistulas. This can occur after a prolonged inflammatory process of the anterior abdominal wall, when a purulent abscess is opened through the navel.
Inflammation of the navel can be associated with anatomical features. So if the cutaneous umbilical canal is very narrow and deeply retracted, dying skin cells and secretions of the sebaceous glands can accumulate in it. In this case, if the rules of hygiene are not followed, an infection can join and cause inflammation.
Navel wounds, into which, with improper care, painful microorganisms easily get into, which become the causative agents of the disease.
Nowadays, it is worth knowing that piercing in the navel area can also cause inflammation.

The main symptoms are redness, swelling of the skin in the navel and the appearance of serous discharge in the umbilical fossa. In more severe forms, the discharge becomes bloody and purulent, and as a result of intoxication of the body, the general condition suffers. The temperature can rise to 38-39 ° C. The navel changes its shape and becomes more protruding and hot to the touch. The area of \u200b\u200bthe epicenter of inflammation will be especially hot. The area of \u200b\u200bthe wound is covered with a thick crust, and pus collects under it.

The inflammatory process can also spread to the surrounding tissues and umbilical vessels, resulting in the development of arteritis or phlebitis of the umbilical vessels. This is the most dangerous option for the development of the disease.

There are 3 forms of omphalitis. each of which is a consequence of the previous one, if appropriate treatment is not carried out.

Simple shape (weeping navel)... With this form, the general condition does not suffer, and oozing with serous or purulent discharge is observed in the navel area, which, drying out, become covered with a thin crust.
With a long-term process at the bottom of the umbilical wound, pink granulations in an excessive amount can form and form mushroom tumors.
Phlegmonous form... This is a dangerous form of omphalitis, because with it, the inflammatory process already spreads to the surrounding tissues. There is a gradual deterioration in the general condition. If phlegmon of the anterior abdominal wall develops, the temperature may rise to 39 ° C and above. In this case, the umbilical fossa is an ulcer surrounded by a compacted skin fold. If you press on the umbilical area, pus may come out from the umbilical wound. The tissues around the navel are noticeably inflamed and swollen, and feeling is painful.
Necrotic (gangrenous) form... This is the next very dangerous stage of omphalitis. It is very rare in weakened individuals with impaired immunity. With it, the inflammation spreads deep into the internal organs. If the process affects all layers of the abdominal wall, peritonitis may develop. Dying off of the skin and subcutaneous tissue near the navel occurs, and subsequently their detachment from the underlying tissues. The skin becomes dark, like a bruise after a strong blow. Ulcers of various sizes can form. The infection can spread to the umbilical vessels and lead to the development of umbilical sepsis.

It is difficult to independently determine the cause of the navel inflammation. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a surgeon, and, if necessary, bacteriological culture of the discharge.
Treatment will depend on the cause of the inflammation.
As a rule, omphalitis is treated conservatively, but in the presence of a fistula, surgical intervention is indispensable.
With timely treatment started, omphalitis passes quickly enough and the risk of complications of the disease disappears.

A simple form of omphalitis.
1. Daily washing of the navel area with antiseptic agents - furacilin solution or hydrogen peroxide, as well as lubricating it with 5% potassium permanganate solution, 1% brilliant green solution or 70% alcohol. Ointments are also applied - 1% synthomycin emulsion or tetracycline ointment.
With the formation of navel granulations, the wound is washed with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, and the granulations are cauterized with a 10% silver nitrate solution (lapis).
2. From physiotherapeutic procedures, ultraviolet irradiation is used topically.

Phlegmonous and necrotic form of omphalitis.
Treatment of these two forms of omphalitis requires inpatient treatment.
In severe cases and general intoxication, along with local treatment, general treatment is carried out using antibiotics of a wide spectrum of action and taking into account the sensitivity to these drugs of microflora sown from the umbilical discharge.

So, don't forget about the belly button in adulthood. This part of the body must be carefully looked after, observing hygiene standards. If the navel becomes wet and other alarming symptoms appear, it is worth seeking medical help.

If an adult has an unpleasant smelling discharge from the navel - what would it mean and what to do? Doctors note two main prerequisites for which the navel becomes wet in an adult - this is omphalitis and an umbilical fistula. Noticing alarming symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for timely healing.

Omphalitis is an inflammatory lesion of the subcutaneous tissue and skin around the navel, characterized by edema, reddening of the skin of the umbilical zone and discharge from the navel of varying intensity. Often, the infection grasps the umbilical vessels, which leads to phlebitis or arteritis of these vessels. The disease can be of fungal or bacterial nature. In most cases, the causative agent of omphalitis is Staphylococcus aureus. There is a common, phlegmonous and necrotic form of the disease, in which the navel becomes wet in an adult.

In most cases, the usual omphalitis is observed in adults. With all this, the unhealthy person feels great on the whole, noting only a wet navel and the associated inconveniences. Usually, the discharge is a serous or purulent-serous fluid that dries up with a crust near the navel. The prerequisites for such secretions are bacterial or fungal infectionsassociated with the structural features of the navel. So, with a retracted and narrow umbilical canal, the separation of dead cells of the epithelium and goods of the sebaceous glands is difficult, which can lead to infections with poor personal hygiene. Some medical experts consider piercing as one of the reasons for the development of omphalitis. If the navel is leaking, then you need to see a doctor. With ordinary omphalitis, outpatient treatment is carried out, which consists in treating a weeping navel with disinfecting or cauterizing mixtures, using antifungal or antimicrobial ointments, depending on the nature of inflammation, the purpose of physiotherapy. With the usual form of the disease, the prognosis is usually good.

Even less often in adults, phlegmonous and necrotic omphalitis occurs.

With a phlegmonous form, the tissues around the navel become inflamed, redness, induration, soreness, purulent discharge from the navel, and an increase in body temperature are observed. Phlegmon of the abdominal wall may develop.

Necrotizing (gangrenous) omphalitis develops very rarely and is a complication of the phlegmonous form. With this form, the infection seeps into the abdominal cavity, necrosis and detachment of dead tissue occurs. Necrotizing omphalitis is unsafe for the development of umbilical sepsis, peritonitis, hematogenous osteomyelitis.

With phlegmonous and gangrenous omphalitis, an all-encompassing saturated healing is carried out. Usually, the treatment of the affected area with disinfectants, dressings with wound healing and bactericidal ointments, intramuscular drugs, physiotherapy are prescribed. From time to time, surgical intervention is required - opening the abscesses. In the necrotic form, gamma globulin injections, vitamin therapy, and blood transfusion are performed.

Another reason why the navel becomes wet in an adult is the umbilical fistula. This pathology is almost always congenital and is characterized by an incomplete urinary or yolk-intestinal duct. When the urinary duct is not overgrown, a vesicoumbilical fistula appears, through which urine is excreted. If the vitelline duct is not overgrown, then an intestinal-umbilical fistula occurs with secretions from the intestinal tract. When inflammation occurs, the discharge becomes purulent.

From time to time, there are acquired fistulas, which are formed when the frontal wall of the peritoneum is inflamed and the abscesses are opened through the navel.

In most cases, healing consists in excision of the fistula and suturing holes in the wall of the intestine or bladder. Non-surgical healing can only be in the absence of discharge from the navel.

If the navel becomes wet in an adult, then under no circumstances should one engage in self-medication, which can only lead to an insignificant temporary effect.

The first weeks of a newborn's life require increased attention and dedication from a young mother. There is a lot to learn, including - proper care for the baby. The umbilical wound area should be treated with particular care. The baby's skin is sensitive, and his body is not yet able to resist bacteria and microbes that can enter the body if the navel is not properly treated.

In the first weeks of a child's life, the umbilical wound must be carefully treated

Improper baby care provokes omphalitis - inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the area of \u200b\u200bthe umbilical wound. In 80%, suppuration is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which in a short time can reach the peritoneum, internal organs... Streptococci and Escherichia coli are no less dangerous. Treatment of the wound by doctors in the first minutes after birth is very important, but hygiene is no less important until it is completely healed.

How does omphalitis manifest?

After birth, the baby's umbilical cord is clamped with a clamp and cut. After 2-4 days, the umbilical cord residue falls off, leaving a crusted wound. Normally, the healing of the navel lasts no more than 2 weeks. If this process is accompanied by the formation of a yellowish crust, this is considered normal. However, the mother must be alerted to the discharge from the umbilical wound, as this indicates an inflammatory process.

Omphalitis in newborns is dangerous with complications, therefore, if you suspect inflammation of the umbilical ring, consult a pediatrician or pediatric surgeon follows immediately. For correct treatment the specialist determines what causes and provoking factors led to omphalitis:

poor care by nursing staff or young parents;
abnormalities in the development of the abdominal wall;
intrauterine infection;
folliculitis, pyoderma in a newborn;
poor genetic predisposition;
infection during a medical examination.

Unfortunately, sometimes even doctors can infect a child.

The main symptoms

Omphalitis is more often observed in premature babies and babies born after prolonged or "home" birth. It manifests itself with general and local symptoms. There is tearfulness, fever, lack of appetite. They are joined by:

rash, redness near the umbilical ring;
any discharge from the umbilical wound - light, transparent, brown;
swelling of tissues in the navel area;
poor healing of the navel;
blue skin (in complicated form).

If the appearance of the umbilical wound worsens, it is important to consult a pediatrician. When he reassures that the navel will heal over time, but mom still has doubts, you should talk to other specialists. If omphalitis is recognized in time, its treatment will not last long. Launched forms require antibiotics and are fraught with complications.

Forms of omphalitis

Distinguish between primary and secondary omphalitis. The primary develops as a result of infection of the umbilical wound. Secondary occurs against the background of existing anomalies. By the nature of the course, the disease is catarrhal, phlegmonous, purulent and necrotic. The simple form is treated in a day hospital setting. Launched omphalitis requires hospitalization.

A simple form of omphalitis can be cured at home

With omphalitis, the bill goes on hours. If you do not take urgent action (call ambulance or drive up to the hospital yourself), within 2 hours a phlegmous form develops from a simple serous form, sepsis may occur. To understand what the affected area looks like at different stages of omphalitis, photos on medical portals will allow.

Catarrhal omphalitis (weeping navel)

Catarrhal (serous) form of the disease is considered the mildest. Normally, until the moment of healing (2-3 weeks of a newborn's life), the wound after falling off the umbilical cord remains covered with a scab, there are no branches from it. When a catarrhal form occurs, epithelialization is delayed. A cloudy grayish liquid oozes from the navel. In this case, there is hyperemia and swelling in the region of the umbilical ring.

If wetness persists for more than 2 weeks, fungus develops (excessive overgrowth epithelial tissue), further complicating healing (we recommend reading :). It does not cause discomfort to the baby, but it is easy to infect it during dressing and medical examination.

Serous omphalitis is characterized by a slight increase in temperature (37-37.4 ºС). The mother should not be "relaxed" by the fact that the baby normally eats and behaves actively. Treatment of this stage should be started immediately to prevent the transition to a more severe form.

Reviews of parents whose babies have suffered from omphalitis indicate the imminent progression of the disease, so if the navel gets wet, it is important to urgently consult a doctor.

Parents' mistakes

A number of manipulations, due to the good intentions of the parents, only delay the healing of the umbilical wound. With a weeping navel, you should refrain from daily bathing in baths. It is enough to wipe the baby's body with a damp towel. Also, you do not need to treat the wound more often than the doctor prescribes, cover the area of \u200b\u200bthe healing wound with clothes, a diaper, and forcefully tear off the crusts.