Group B Streptococcal Infection

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection, also known as Streptococcus agalactiae infection, is an infection caused by the bacterium Group B Streptococcus. GBS is a gram-positive, beta-hemolytic bacterium that normally resides in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of healthy individuals, but can cause infections in certain circumstances, especially in vulnerable populations.

GBS is a common cause of infection in newborns, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems or other risk factors. In newborns, GBS infection can occur during childbirth when the baby comes into contact with the mother's vaginal and rectal areas. GBS infection in newborns can present as early-onset or late-onset disease. Early-onset GBS infection occurs within the first week of life and can present as sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. Late-onset GBS infection occurs after the first week of life up to several months of age and can present as bacteremia, meningitis, or other localized infections.

In pregnant women, GBS infection can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), chorioamnionitis (infection of the placental tissues), or postpartum infections. GBS infection during pregnancy can also increase the risk of preterm labor and delivery.

In adults with weakened immune systems or other risk factors, GBS can cause a wide range of infections, such as bloodstream infections (bacteremia), skin and soft tissue infections, bone and joint infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Diagnosis of GBS infection is typically based on clinical evaluation, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, such as blood cultures, urine cultures (for suspected UTIs), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis (for suspected meningitis), and other relevant tests based on the site of infection.