Streptococcus agalactiae

Streptococcus agalactiae is more commonly known as group B Strep, or GBS.

 

 

Epidemiology

Healthy women have a 15-40% vaginal carrier rate.

 

 

Classification and Characteristics

Gram positive cocci forming chains.

 

 

Virulence Factors

 

Transmission and Infection

 

 

 

Clinical Manifesations

GBS is not harmful to adults but can be devestating for neonates, leading to neonatal sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia, or UTI.

Risk factors for neonatal disease include:

 

Diagnosis

 

Two approaches:

 

Treatment

Risk of sepsis is 1:200 in GBS+ mothers without prophylaxis.

Penicillin G 5 million U IV then 2.5 million U IV q4h until delivery