Umbilical Infection in the Neonate
Basic Information 
Definition
Umbilical infection encompasses infection of the umbilical arteries and veins, urachus, and umbilical stump.
Epidemiology
Species, Age, Sex
Most infections of the umbilical structures are apparent in the first 2 weeks of life, although infections occasionally become apparent later.
Clinical Presentation
Disease Forms/Subtypes
Infection of any single structure or combination of structures may occur. Most common is inflammation or infection of the umbilical stump followed by the urachus, the umbilical vein, and the umbilical arteries.
History, Chief Complaint
Usually the owner notices some size change to the umbilicus or fluid discharge (blood, urine, serum, pus). If umbilical infection is a part of septicemia, recumbency, anorexia and lethargy can also be seen. Pyrexia is also common.
Physical Exam Findings
Umbilical structures can be swollen, hot, or painful to pressure. If septicemia is associated with umbilical infection, foals can be depressed, have diarrhea, or exhibit joint swellings associated with infection of the joint or growth plate.
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