Abstract

Six cases of neonatal primary peritonitis admitted to Ahmadu Bello Hospital, Zaria, between January 1972 and July 1973 are reported, of whom 4 survived. All patients had evidence of umbilical sepsis, while 2 had erythema marginatum, which has not previously been reported in this condition. The importance of peritoneal aspiration and x-ray of the abdomen in establishing the dignosis is stressed, as is prevention of umbilical sepsis by increased health education.