MedWorm: Group B Streptococcus

Group B streptococcal carriage, serotype distribution and antibiotic susceptibilities in pregnant women at the time of delivery in a refugee population on the Thai - Myanmar border

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: GBS carriage is not uncommon in pregnant women living on the Thai-Myanmar border with a large range of serotypes represented. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

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Antibiotic Therapy and Early Onset Sepsis

NeoReviews recent issues — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Early onset sepsis in the newborn infant continues to be an important clinical problem for neonatologists everywhere in the world. Different routes of transmission, changes in causative agents, and potential antibiotic resistance all influence the choice of antibiotic therapy. Group B Streptococcus and Escherichia coli continue to be the major pathogens dictating antibiotic therapy in the United States. Ampicillin and gentamicin are the antibiotics used by most for empirical therapy; cephalosporins are used in certain clinical situations. In this review, we address the reasons for these choices while highlighting clinically relevant aspects of the antibiotics commonly used in the treatment of early onset sepsis in the newborn. (Source: NeoReviews recent issues)

The Prevalence of Urogenital Infections in Pregnant Women Experiencing Preterm and Full-Term Labor

International Journal of Photoenergy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:10:23 +0100

Conclusions. Urogenital infections were prevalent in women in preterm labor and full-term labor; however, significant differences between the groups were not observed. (Source: International Journal of Photoenergy)

Early hospital discharge of infants born to group B streptococci-positive mothers: a decision analysis.

BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that with adequate IAP, discharging asymptomatic term neonates to home after 24 hours is the preferred approach compared with 48 hours inpatient observation. PMID: 22251453 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Early hospital discharge of infants born to group B streptococci‐positive mothers: a decision analysis

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Cost‐effectiveness analysis suggests that with adequate IAP, discharging asymptomatic term neonates to home after 24 hours is the preferred approach compared with 48 hours inpatient observation. (Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome by Group B Streptococci.

Journal of Immunology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Costa A, Gupta R, Signorino G, Malara A, Cardile F, Biondo C, Midiri A, Galbo R, Trieu-Cuot P, Papasergi S, Teti G, Henneke P, Mancuso G, Golenbock DT, Beninati C Abstract Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a frequent agent of life-threatening sepsis and meningitis in neonates and adults with predisposing conditions. We tested the hypothesis that activation of the inflammasome, an inflammatory signaling complex, is involved in host defenses against this pathogen. We show in this study that murine bone marrow-derived conventional dendritic cells responded to GBS by secreting IL-1β and IL-18. IL-1β release required both pro-IL-1β transcription and caspase-1-dependent proteolytic cleavage of intracellular pro-IL-1β. Dendritic cells lacking the TLR adaptor MyD88, but not those...

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Group B streptococcal disease in infants aged younger than 3 months: systematic review and meta-analysis

NeLM - News — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Lancet Area: News The authors of this research note that Group B streptococcus is the most common cause of neonatal sepsis in high-income countries, acquired either from the mother or from environmental sources. Case fatality is high, even with antibiotic therapy, and it is also an important cause of preterm delivery, antepartum and intrapartum stillbirth, and puerperal sepsis. Prophylaxis, with antibiotics given to pregnant women with risk factors or known carriage of the bacteria, has been implemented in most high-income countries since the late 1990s, but has been difficult to implement in many low- and middle-income countries. Despite widespread use of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis, group B streptococcus remains a leading cause of morbidity and mort...

Group B Strep in Babies Still a Problem (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:30:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- Group B streptococcal infection in infants remains an important -- and preventable -- cause of infant disease and mortality worldwide, a meta-analysis found. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

Clinical Inquiry: Does cervical membrane stripping in women with group B Streptococcus put the fetus at risk?

The Journal of Family Practice — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Crago MS, Gauer R, Frazier J Abstract No direct evidence points to fetal harm from cervical membrane stripping (CMS) to induce labor in term pregnancies complicated by group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization. PMID: 22220298 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Journal of Family Practice)

Group B Streptococcus surface proteins as major determinants for meningeal tropism.

Current Opinion in Microbiology — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tazi A, Bellais S, Tardieux I, Dramsi S, Trieu-Cuot P, Poyart C Abstract Streptococcus agalactiae (group B Streptococcus, GBS), a normal constituent of the intestinal microbiota is the major cause of human neonatal infections and a worldwide spread 'hypervirulent' clone, GBS ST-17, is strongly associated with neonatal meningitis. Adhesion to epithelial and endothelial cells constitutes a key step of the infectious process. Therefore GBS surface-anchored proteins are obvious potential adhesion mediators of barrier crossing and determinant of hypervirulence. This review addresses the most recent molecular insights gained from studies on GBS surface proteins proven to be involved in the crossing of the brain-blood barrier and emphasizes on the specificity of a hypervirulent c...

Recurrent Colonization by Group B Streptococcus Causing Vulvovaginitis: Short Communications

Journal of Gynecologic Surgery — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:17:12 +0100

Journal of Gynecologic Surgery Dec 2011, Vol. 27, No. 4: 241-243. (Source: Journal of Gynecologic Surgery)

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Prevention of neonatal group B streptococcus disease in the 21st century

Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThere have been significant reductions in early‐onset neonatal group B streptococcus (GBS) disease following implementation of maternal intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) policies. Nevertheless, GBS remains a leading cause of neonatal sepsis in Australia and New Zealand resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality, particularly among preterm infants. In the United States, the universal screening‐based approach for identifying women for IAP results in apparently lower rates of early‐onset neonatal GBS infection than risk‐based assessment. In addition, IAP has altered the profile of newborn infants who develop early‐onset disease. Many affected infants lack the typical intrapartum risk factors for GBS infection, are born to mothers with a negative GBS screen or r...

High rates of perinatal Group B Streptococcus clindamycin and erythromycin resistance in an Upstate NY hospital.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION:Rates of GBS resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin are much higher than reported in earlier US studies, suggesting both increasing resistance as well as regional variation in resistance. These findings lend strong support to the CDC and ACOG recommendations that clindamycin use for intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis be restricted to penicillin allergic women at high risk of anaphylaxis and that GBS isolates be tested for antibiotic resistance prior to the use of clindamycin in these women. PMID: 22143529 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy)

Late-onset neonatal infections: incidences and pathogens in the era of antenatal antibiotics

European Journal of Pediatrics — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:29:38 +0100

Conclusion Our findings confirm that despite the benefits of antenatal antibiotics, this treatment can increase the risk of antibiotic-resistant cases of LONI. National and international surveillance of LONI epidemiology is essential to assess benefits and potential negative consequences of perinatal antibiotic exposure. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00431-011-1639-7Authors Capucine Didier, Service de Pédiatrie 2, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, FranceMarie-Pierre Streicher, Service de Pédiatrie, Centre Hospitalier de Haguenau, Haguenau, FranceDidier Chognot, Service de Pédiatrie, Hôpital le Parc, Centre Hospitalier de Colmar, Colmar, FranceRaphaèle Campagni, Service de Pédiatri...

Streptococcus agalactiae, an Emerging Pathogen for Cultured Ya‐Fish, Schizothorax prenanti, in China

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, four strains of a Gram‐positive, chain‐forming coccus were isolated from moribund cultured ya‐fish (S. prenanti). The coccoid microorganism was identified as S. agalactiae using a commercial streptococcal grouping kit and 16S rDNA sequencing analysis. Susceptibility of the isolates to 22 antibiotics was tested using the disc diffusion method. All isolates showed a similar antibiotic susceptibility, which were sensitive to amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, chloramphenicol, rifampin, vancomycin, azithromycin, florfenicol, cefalexin, cefradine and deoxycycline and resistant to gentamicin, sinomin (SMZ/TMP), penicillin, tenemycin, fradiomycin and streptomycin. Furthermore, the virulence tests were conducted by intraperitoneal injection of the isolated strain GY10...

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Screening for group B Streptococcus in pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Taminato M, Fram D, Torloni MR, Belasco AG, Saconato H, Barbosa DA Abstract Infection with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is considered an important public health problem. It is associated with: Neonatal sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia, neonatal death, septic abortion, chorioamnionitis, endometritis and other perinatal infections. The aim of this study was to determine the best screening strategy for GBS in pregnant women. For this a systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out in the Nursing Department of the Federal University of São Paulo, Cochrane Center, Brazil. Sources used were, EMBASE, LILACS, Medline, list of references, personal communication and the Cochrane library. The criterion for the selection of the studies was; studies which analyze some type of scree...

Phenotypes, genotypes, serotypes and molecular epidemiology of erythromycin-resistant Streptococcus agalactiae in Italy

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:59:50 +0100

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to analyse Streptococcus agalactiae (group B Streptococcus, GBS) isolates collected in Italy from vaginal and urine samples in respect to their clonality, distribution of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance determinants. Three hundred and eighty-eight GBS were recovered from clinical samples. They were analysed for antibiotic resistance profiling. Erythromycin-resistant strains were further characterised by multilocus sequence typing (MLST), serotyping and the detection of alp genes of the alpha-like protein (Alp) family. GBS isolates represented 40 different sequence types (STs), grouped in five clonal complexes (CCs) and belonged to seven serotypes. Most serotype V strains (81%) possessed alp2-3; serotype Ia carried...

Infective endocarditis caused by Group B Streptococcus: The role of aminoglycoside-combination

Journal of Infection — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Invasive Group B Streptococcus (GBS, Streptococcus agalactiae) disease, traditionally considered to be a neonatal disease, represents a substantial and increasing burden in nonpregnant adults, particularly among older persons and adults with diabetes. Infective endocarditis (IE) occurs in 3–4% of all clinical syndromes. The percentage of patients with GBS IE undergoing cardiac surgery has significantly increased during the last decades, and the mortality of GBS IE is still high, as recently reported by Ivanova Georgieva R et al. in this journal. (Source: Journal of Infection)

Group B Streptococcus Colonization by HIV Status in Pregnant Women: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Journal of Women — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:02:32 +0100

Journal of Women's Health Nov 2011, Vol. 20, No. 11: 1737-1741. (Source: Journal of Women)

Estimating the Probability of Neonatal Early-Onset Infection on the Basis of Maternal Risk Factors

PEDIATRICS — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: A predictive model based on information available in the immediate perinatal period performs better than algorithms based on risk-factor threshold values. This model establishes a prior probability for newborn sepsis, which could be combined with neonatal physical examination and laboratory values to establish a posterior probability to guide treatment decisions. (Source: PEDIATRICS)

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Characterization of low molecular weight antimicrobial peptide from human female reproductive tract.

The Indian Journal of Medical Research — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This study was aimed to demonstrate the expression of 2 kDa antimicrobial peptide which was identified and purified from female genital tract tissues using chromatographic techniques. Methods: Low molecular weight proteins were isolated from human female reproductive tract tissues obtained from premenopausal women. Antimicrobial activity of these LMW proteins was assessed against different reproductive tract pathogens viz., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Group B streptococcus, Gardnerella vaginalis, Escherechia coli and Candida albicans. The expression of these peptides were also documented in reproductive tract tissues with the help of hyperimmune sera raised against the rabbits. The purified peptide was characterized by N-terminal sequencing. Results: Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence s...

Survival and biofilm formation by Group B streptococci in simulated vaginal fluid at different pHs.

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This study suggests that high vaginal pH may influence both GBS survival and biofilm production and thus could be a risk factor for GBS infection. PMID: 22038130 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antonie van Leeuwenhoek)

Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Group B Streptococcus Colonization in HIV-Infected and HIV-Uninfected Pregnant Women

Journal of Women — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:46:20 +0100

Journal of Women's Health , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Journal of Women)

Predominance of sequence type 1 group with serotype VI among group B streptococci with reduced penicillin susceptibility identified in Japan

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions PRGBS in Japan could be classified into at least two ST groups, ST1 and ST23, which are genetically different from the ST19 PRGBS isolated in the USA, though five allele variations were seen between ST1 and ST19, implying a slight genetic relatedness. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

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[Acute bacterial parotitis in infants under 3months of age: A retrospective study in a pediatric tertiary care center.]

Archives de Pediatrie — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Acute bacterial parotitis in infants under 3months of age might be associated with localized infections due to S. aureus, but also with a more severe clinical presentation due to group B streptococcus infection. Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy might prevent the progression to serious complications. PMID: 22000273 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Archives de Pediatrie)

Group B Streptococcus and HIV Infection in Pregnant Women, Malawi, 2008-2010.

Emerging Infectious Diseases — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Gray KJ, Kafulafula G, Matemba M, Kamdolozi M, Membe G, French N Abstract To determine whether an association exists between group B streptococcus carriage and HIV infection, we recruited 1,857 pregnant women (21.7% HIV positive) from Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi. Overall, group B streptococcus carriage was 21.2% and did not differ by HIV status. However, carriage was increased among HIV-positive women with higher CD4 counts. PMID: 22000375 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases)

Identification of hSiglec-5-binding Site in GBS {beta} Protein [Immunology]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (Siglecs) are receptors believed to be important for regulation of cellular activation and inflammation. Several pathogenic microbes bind specific Siglecs via sialic acid-containing structures at the microbial surface, interactions that may result in modulation of host responses. Recently, it was shown that the group B Streptococcus (GBS) binds to human Siglec-5 (hSiglec-5), an inhibitory receptor expressed on macrophages and neutrophils, via the IgA-binding surface β protein, providing the first example of a protein/protein interaction between a pathogenic microbe and a Siglec. Here we show that the hSiglec-5-binding part of β resides in the N-terminal half of the protein, which also harbors the previously determined IgA-binding region. We...

Travel time from home to hospital and adverse perinatal outcomes in women at term in The Netherlands

Evidence-Based Nursing — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This study provides some evidence that increased travel time to hospital may increase the incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes for high-risk women at term. Increased risk of adverse outcomes associated with travel time to hospital when in labour should be taken into account when considering centralising maternity services. Future research should separate low- and high-risk women with analyses conducted separately for each group. Future research should include data about mode of delivery and factors affecting neonatal mortality and morbidity postbirth such as pathological jaundice, Group B streptococcus infections, prolonged rupture of membranes and neonatal effects of analgesia and anaesthesia administered during labour. Context This study explored whether travel time to hospital exc...

Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of infections during pregnancy: implementation of recommended interventions, United States, 2003-2004

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Improved prenatal screening and administration of indicated treatments or interventions, particularly for syphilis, GBS, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, will further protect newborns from infection. (Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology)

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Serotypes and Antibiotic Resistance in Group B Streptococcus Isolated from Patients at the Maternity Hospital, Kuwait.

Journal of Medical Microbiology — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Boswihi SS, Udo EE, Al-Sweih N Abstract A total of 143 GBS isolates collected from mothers at the Maternity hospital in Kuwait were investigated for their serotypes and antibiotic resistance, and screened for the carriage of genes for tetracycline (tetk, tetM, tetL, tetO), erythromycin ( ermA, ermB, ermC, ermTR, ermM, mefA, mefE, msrA) and aminoglycosides (aph3, ant4, ant6) resistance by PCR. All isolates were serotyped using latex agglutination test. Most of the isolates belonged to serotypes V (38.5%), III (20.9%), Ia (7.7%), and II (11.2%). Sixteen isolates (11.2%) were nontypeable. All isolates were susceptible to penicillin, ampicillin and cefotaxime (MIC: 0.016- 0.094 microgram ml-1) but were resistant to trimethoprim (92.3%), tetracycline (89.5%), minocycline (89.5%...

Identification and characterization of plasmid-borne erm(T) macrolide resistance in group B and group A Streptococcus

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Abstract: One hundred and seven group B Streptococcus (GBS) isolates and 344 group A Streptococcus (GAS) isolates were collected between 2005 and 2009 from 2 area hospitals and studied for resistance to erythromycin (ERY) and clindamycin (CLI) and the presence of the erm(T) macrolide resistance gene. The erm(T) gene was found in 5 (8%) of 61 erythromycin nonsusceptible GBS isolates and in 22 (55%) of 40 erythromycin nonsusceptible GAS isolates. The erm(T) gene in all 27 GBS/GAS erm(T) gene–positive isolates was located on a plasmid. Three erm(T) gene–positive plasmids were DNA sequenced. Two plasmids (1 each from GBS and GAS isolates) were both 4967 bp in size, contained the erm(T) gene, and differed by only 2 base pairs, suggesting interspecies horizontal transfer of the erm(T) gene c...

Universal antenatal screening for group B streptococcus in Emilia-Romagna

Journal of Medical Screening — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions GBS screening was performed in >85% of women and >90% of culture-positive women received prophylaxis. However, there is a need to educate clinicians about protocol adherence, as most cultures were suboptimal and cases of unnecessary IAP were administered. The screening was more effective in hospitals with fewer deliveries. (Source: Journal of Medical Screening)

Variability of neuD transcription levels and capsular sialic acid expression among serotype III Group B Streptococcus strains.

Microbiology — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lartigue MF, Fribourg Poulard A, Al Safadi R, Pailhories H, Valentin-Domelier AS, Van Der Mee-Marquet N, Rosenau A, Quentin R Abstract Serotype III Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the major cause of neonatal meningitis, but the risk of infection in the colonized neonates is variable. Capsular sialic acid (Sia), encoded by neu genes, appears to be a major virulence factor in several bacterial species able to reach the cerebrospinal fluid. Therefore, variations of Sia expression related to the genetic diversity of strains may have an impact on the risk of meningitis in colonized neonates. We characterized by MLST the phylogenetic diversity of 64 serotype III GBS strains isolated from vaginal flora and randomly selected. These strains belonged mostly to three major sequences t...

Rapid Diagnostic Test for Identifying Group B Streptococcus

American Journal of Perinatology — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1285099ABSTRACTNeonatal infection with Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus [GBS]) causes significant morbidity and mortality. A truly rapid diagnostic test for identifying GBS would allow for more timely initiation of antibiotic prophylaxis and also reduce the administration of antibiotics for the prevention of early onset neonatal GBS infection. A stock culture was formed from a laboratory reference strain of GBS and was diluted from 107 to 101 bacteria/mL. Specific concentrations were used to inoculate nitrocellulose membranes (NCMs) that had been coated previously with polyclonal rabbit antibody against GBS. After specific times, the NCMs were removed from the sheep blood agar medium, and horseradish-peroxidase conjugate polyclonal antibod...

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AAP Reviews CDC Guideline to Prevent Perinatal Group B StrepAAP Reviews CDC Guideline to Prevent Perinatal Group B Strep

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:10:52 +0100

An American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement reviews and discusses the differences between the 2002 and 2010 guidelines on preventing perinatal group B streptococcal disease. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

For preventing perinatal group B Strep, vancomycin a last resort

Modern Medicine — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Penicillin remains the agent of choice for preventing perinatal transmission of group B streptococcus (GBS). When the mother is at high risk for penicillin anaphylaxis, the next choice is clindamycin, as long as the GBS isolate is susceptible. If not, use vancomycin (Source: Modern Medicine)

Group B Streptococcus detection: comparison of PCR assay and culture as a screening method for pregnant women.

Braz J Infect Dis — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: de-Paris F, Machado AB, Gheno TC, Ascoli BM, Oliveira KR, Barth AL Abstract Streptococcus agalactiae or group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the most important causal agents of serious neonatal infections. Numerous assays have been evaluated for GBS screening in order to validate a fast and efficient method. The aim of this study was to compare the culture technique (established as the gold standard) with the molecular method of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specific primers (atr gene). Two hundred and sixty-three samples were analyzed. Vaginal samples were collected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations, from women over 35 weeks of pregnancy at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA). Two different extraction metho...

Cow's Milk and the Emergence of Group B Streptococcal Disease in Newborn Babies.

Neonatology — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: There is a temporal relationship between the emergence of neonatal GBS disease reports in the UK in the 1960s and a change in cow's milk collection. This finding may be a temporal coincidence or may add support to the notion that human GBS was historically derived from a bovine ancestor. PMID: 21791932 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Neonatology)

Group B Strep

MedicineNet Skin General — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Group B StrepCategory: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 12/31/1997Last Editorial Review: 6/30/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Skin General)

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Evaluation of a rapid, real-time intrapartum group B streptococcus assay

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This intrapartum NAAT has excellent characteristics. It may be superior to antepartum culture for detecting intrapartum GBS–allowing more accurate management of laboring mothers and reducing neonatal GBS sepsis. (Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology)

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Pattern and etiology of culture-proven early-onset neonatal sepsis: a five-year prospective study

International Journal of Infectious Diseases — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Although the incidence of GBS infections was relatively low, GBS accounted for most early-onset infections. Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis against GBS should be strengthened. There was no evidence to suggest that early-onset infection due to non-GBS organisms such E. coli has increased in the last 5 years. (Source: International Journal of Infectious Diseases)

Group B Streptococcal sepsis: An old or ongoing threat?

American Journal of Infection Control — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The implementation of additional infection control measures was able to stop the diffusion of infection; however, clusters like this should remind us the ongoing threat of GBS for the small NICU patients. (Source: American Journal of Infection Control)

Can We Prevent Neonatal Sepsis?Can We Prevent Neonatal Sepsis?

Medscape Today Headlines — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:00:00 +0100

Screening and prevention of group B strep infection remain less than ideal, and early onset E coli continues to cause disease in preterm infants. Medscape Pediatrics (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Structure-based approach to rationally design a chimeric protein for an effective vaccine against Group B Streptococcus infections [Microbiology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Structural vaccinology is an emerging strategy for the rational design of vaccine candidates. We successfully applied structural vaccinology to design a fully synthetic protein with multivalent protection activity. In Group B Streptococcus, cell-surface pili have aroused great interest because of their direct roles in virulence and importance as protective antigens. The backbone subunit of type 2a pilus (BP-2a) is present in six immunogenically different but structurally similar variants. We determined the 3D structure of one of the variants, and experimentally demonstrated that protective antibodies specifically recognize one of the four domains that comprise the protein. We therefore constructed a synthetic protein constituted by the protective domain of each one of the six variants and ...

Efficacy of polymeric encapsulated C5a peptidase–based group B streptococcus vaccines in a murine model

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Encapsulated C5a peptidase elicited significant immune responses and protection against a GBS challenge. C5a peptidase microsphere encapsulation has potential as a GBS vaccine. (Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology)

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NanoLogix Announces European Clinical Trial Of Its Rapid Detection Kits

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0100

NanoLogix (PINK SHEETS: NNLX), a biotechnology innovator in the rapid detection and identification of live-cell bacteria and microorganisms, announced today its BioNanoFilter (BNF) technology will undergo a clinical trial, led by Dr. Gian Carlo Di Renzo of the University of Perugia in Italy. The 300 patient trial will study the speed and accuracy of NanoLogix technology compared to current methods in the detection and identification of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in pregnant women... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Streptococcus agalactiae in Adults at Chiang Mai University Hospital: a Retrospective Study

BMC Infectious Diseases — Tue, 24 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: S. agalactiae infection is a growing problem in non-pregnant patients, particularly in those with underlying medical conditions. Physicians should add S. agalactiae infection in the list of differential diagnosis in patients with meningitis and/ or septicemia. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Screening and management of early onset group B streptococcus during labour.

BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 18 May 2011 04:00:42 +0100

Authors: Roberts T PMID: 21564483 [PubMed - in process] (Source: BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Transmission probabilities and durations of immunity for three pathogenic group B Streptococcus serotypes.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Fri, 13 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Percha B, Newman ME, Foxman B Group B Streptococcus (GBS) remains a major cause of neonatal sepsis and is an emerging cause of invasive bacterial infections. The 9 known serotypes vary in virulence, and there is little cross-immunity. Key parameters for planning an effective vaccination strategy, such as average length of immunity and transmission probabilities by serotype, are unknown. We simulated GBS spread in a population using a computational model with parameters derived from studies of GBS sexual transmission in a college dormitory. Here we provide estimates of the duration of immunity relative to the transmission probabilities for the 3 GBS serotypes most associated with invasive disease: Ia, III, and V. We also place upper limits on the durations of immunity for serot...

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Screening and management of early onset group B streptococcus during labour

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Fri, 13 May 2011 13:55:23 +0100

(Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Protect Your Baby from Group B Strep

CDC Flu updates — Thu, 12 May 2011 15:00:00 +0100

In this podcast, Tarayn Fairlie, a pediatrician and mom, talks about group B strep in pregnant women, the serious effects it can have on newborns, how you can find out if you have group B strep bacteria in your body and what to do to prevent spreading it to your infant. (Source: CDC Flu updates)

Neonatal Group B Streptococcal Disease: from Pathogenesis to Preventive Strategies

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Fri, 06 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

AbstractStreptococcus agalactiae, or group B streptococcus (GBS), remains the leading cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis, early onset and late onset diseases (EOD, LOD).Where consensus guidelines to detect and treat intrapartum women with GBS colonization have been widely adopted, incidence of neonatal EOD has dramatically declined. In response to both successful impacts on the incidence of GBS‐EOD and analyses of missed opportunities, the first American guidelines for prevention issued in the 90s have since been adapted in several stages to improve their efficacy. In some countries in Europe, nationwide guidelines, whether screening‐based or risk‐based, for the prevention of neonatal GBS diseases have also been issued and adopted, with the expected impact on incidence of GBS‐...

Rectovaginal Staphylococcus aureus Colonization: Is it a Neonatal Threat?

American Journal of Perinatology — Mon, 02 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1276732ABSTRACTWe sought to determine the rate of Staphylococcus aureus rectovaginal colonization and positive newborn blood cultures. Routinely obtained group B streptococcus (GBS) rectovaginal specimens were cultured for S. aureus using standard microbiology procedures. S. aureus– and GBS-positive blood cultures in infants less than 3 days old were determined from our microbiology database. Overall, 1488 rectovaginal cultures were obtained. Rates of positive GBS, S. aureus, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) cultures were 20.2%, 8.2%, and 1.7%, respectively. Cultures were positive for methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and GBS or MRSA and GBS in 1.6% and 0.3% of women, respectively. There was no association between GBS and MSSA or M...

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Early-onset neonatal sepsis: rate and organism pattern between 2003 and 2008

Journal of Perinatology — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: M Sgro, P S Shah, D Campbell, A Tenuta, S Shivananda & S K Lee (Source: Journal of Perinatology)

Comparative genomics and the role of lateral gene transfer in the evolution of bovine adapted Streptococcus agalactiae.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Richards VP, Lang P, Pavinski Bitar PD, Lefébure T, Schukken YH, Zadoks RN, Stanhope MJ In addition to causing severe invasive infections in humans, Streptococcus agalactiae, or group B Streptococcus (GBS), is also a major cause of bovine mastitis. Here we provide the first genome sequence for S. agalactiae isolated from a cow diagnosed with clinical mastitis (strain FSL S3-026). Comparison to eight S. agalactiae genomes obtained from human disease isolates revealed 183 genes specific to the bovine strain. Subsequent polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening for the presence/absence of a subset of these loci in additional bovine and human strains revealed strong differentiation between the two groups (Fisher exact test: p<0.0001). The majority of the bovine strain-specific...

[Determinants of group B streptococcus maternal colonization and factors related to its vertical perinatal transmission: Case-control studies.]

Gynecologie, Obstetrique et Fertilite — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: These findings strengthen the putative roles of corpulence and ethnicity in GBS acquisition previously found in the United States, while confirming an authentic role of obesity in its vertical transmission, independently of other classical cofactors lighted by our study. PMID: 21497540 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Gynecologie, Obstetrique et Fertilite)

Myth: Group B streptococcal infection in pregnancy: Comprehended and conquered

Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Summary: Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a common inhabitant of the bowel, and frequently colonises the vagina. It rarely causes disease, except in neonates, where it is the most common cause of serious neonatal infection. Although GBS can be transmitted sexually, it is common even in adults who have never been sexually active and is not a sexually transmitted disease. Currently, the most widely used effective method for detecting colonisation is taking a low vaginal and rectal swab and culturing GBS using enriched media culture. GBS cannot reliably be eradicated by antibiotic treatment but intravenous penicillin given to the mother during labour can prevent up to 90% of early onset GBS disease. Screening and antibiotic prophylaxis has resulted in an 80% fall in early onset disease in the U...

ACOG Endorses CDC Guidelines for Newborn Group B Strep Prevention

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 21:01:47 +0100

The 2010 guidelines endorsed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists address prevention of early-onset group B streptococcal disease in newborns. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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Group B Strep Still Main Cause of Neonatal Meningitis

Modern Medicine — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Group B streptococci is still the dominant cause of neonatal bacterial meningitis, whereas Escherichia coli is the most common cause among preterm infants, according to a study published in the March issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Improving perinatal Group B streptococcus screening with process indicators

Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Our mandatory database entailed guideline adherence over a short lapse of time and resulted in a significant increase of the screening rate at the correct term. However, circumstances where neonates are infected still remain. Screening test performance needs to be re‐evaluated. (Source: Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice)

Gen-Probe Inc., AccuProbe Group B Streptococcus Culture Identification Test, AccuProbe Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex Culture Identification Test and, AccuProbe Mycobacterium Avium Complex Culture Identification Test: Class I Recall

FDA MedWatch — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 19:55:00 +0100

Possible false-negative results may occur. This may cause serious adverse consequences and/or death. (Source: FDA MedWatch)

Class I Medical Device Recall: Gen-Probe Inc., AccuProbe Group B Streptococcus Culture Identification Test, AccuProbe Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex Culture Identification Test, and AccuProbe Mycobacterium Avium Complex Culture Identification Test

Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA): CDRHNew — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Reason for Recall: The affected kits may contain tube components that are partially empty or empty of solution. Possible false-negative results may occur. This may cause serious adverse consequences and/or death. (Source: Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA): CDRHNew)

Variation in erythromycin and clindamycin resistance patterns between New Zealand and Australian group B streptococcus isolates

The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Erythromycin and clindamycin resistance among invasive neonatal GBS isolates has emerged in both New Zealand and Australia over the past decade and is consistent with global trends in GBS resistance patterns. Although regional variations exist, these findings should be considered when implementing intrapartum GBS prevention strategies. (Source: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

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Evaluation of the Xpert® group B streptococcus real-time polymerase chain reaction assay compared to StrepB Carrot Broth™ for the rapid intrapartum detection of group B streptococcus colonization

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 22:47:13 +0100

Abstract: Xpert group B streptococcus (GBS) was compared to StrepB Carrot Broth™ (SCB) for the detection of intrapartum GBS colonization by dually collecting vaginal/rectal swabs from 231 women. Xpert GBS detected all of the cases (45, 19.5%), but 4 were missed by SCB. A rapid Xpert GBS service for women in labor would increase costs by ∼$55 000 per annum in our region. (Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease)

Stroke Patterns in Neonatal Group B Streptococcal Meningitis

Pediatric Neurology — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 15:57:11 +0100

Neonatal group B streptococcus meningitis causes neurologic morbidity and mortality. Cerebrovascular involvement is a common, poorly studied, and potentially modifiable pathologic process. We hypothesized that imaging patterns of focal brain infarction are recognizable in neonatal group B streptococcal meningitis. A consecutive case series included term neonates with the following: (1) bacterial meningitis, (2) acute group B streptococcal infection (positive cerebrospinal fluid/blood culture), (3) brain magnetic resonance imaging within 14 days, and (4) acute intraparenchymal focal infarctions (restricted diffusion). Lesions within known arterial territories were classified as arterial ischemic stroke. Clinical presentations, investigations, and neurologic outcomes were recorded. Eight new...

Systematic review: neonatal meningitis in the developing world

Tropical Medicine and International Health — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

SummaryMeningitis is more common in the neonatal period than any other time in life and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Despite the majority of the burden occurring in the developing world, the majority of the existing literature originates from wealthy countries. Mortality from neonatal meningitis in developing countries is estimated to be 40–58%, against 10% in developed countries. Important differences exist in the spectrum of pathogens isolated from cerebrospinal fluid cultures in developed versus developing countries. Briefly, while studies in developed countries have generally found Group B streptococcus (GBS), Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes as important organisms, we describe how in the developing world results have varied; particularly rega...

Delivery of maternal health care in Indigenous primary care services: baseline data for an ongoing quality improvement initiative

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth - Latest articles — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Participating services had both strengths and weaknesses in the delivery of maternal health care. Increasing access to evidence-based screening and health information (most notably around smoking cessation) were consistently identified as opportunities for improvement across services. (Source: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth - Latest articles)

Novel mutations in a patient isolate of Streptococcus agalactiae with reduced penicillin susceptibility emerging after long term oral suppressive therapy.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

We report a case of GBS with reduced susceptibility to penicillin emerging after long-term suppressive oral penicillin therapy for a prosthetic joint infection. Molecular characterization of the isolate pre- and post- long term penicillin therapy revealed 5 mutations in the ligand-binding regions of PBP1a, 2a and 2x not previously reported in GBS. PMID: 21383092 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy)

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Group B Strep Is Still Main Cause Of Bacterial Meningitis In Newborns

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:00:00 +0100

The Group B Streptococcus is still the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in newborns, concludes a seven-year French study in the March issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. The journal is published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health. Group B strep remains predominant despite the recent introduction of GBS screening for women near delivery, according to the new report, led by Dr. Jean Gaschignard HÃ´pital Antoine-BÃ©clÃ¨re, Clamart, France... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Group B Streptococcus serotypes III and V induce apoptosis and necrosis of human epithelial A549 cells.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, GBS serotypes III and V induce apoptosis of epithelial cells in the early stages of GBS infection, resulting in tissue destruction, bacterial spreading and, in consequence, invasive disease or systemic infection. PMID: 21369696 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: International Journal of Molecular Medicine)

[Chlamydia trachomatis infection in the first year of life.]

Anales de Pediatria — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: C. trachomatis should be considered as an aetiologic agent of conjunctivitis and respiratory infections in the first year of life. The prevalence of C. trachomatis infection in Portugal is unknown, and is probably an underdiagnosed disease. PMID: 21334272 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Anales de Pediatria)

Rapid GBS Test Recommended During Labor

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:00:00 +0100

In a study presented at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's (SMFM) annual meeting, The Pregnancy Meeting ™, in San Francisco, researchers presented findings that show that many women are having different test results for Group B streptococcus (GBS) between their routine third trimester screening and a rapid test performed at the time of labor. GBS early-onset sepsis is a leading cause of neonatal infection... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Third trimester group B streptococcus test doesn't accurately predict presence during labor

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine) In a study to be presented today at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's annual meeting, The Pregnancy Meeting, in San Francisco, researchers will present findings that show that many women are having different test results for Group B streptococcus between their routine third trimester screening and a rapid test performed at the time of labor. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Infection of Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells by Group B Streptococcus Contributes to Dysregulation of Apoptosis, Hemostasis, and Innate Immune Responses

Mediators of Inflammation — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 23:03:57 +0100

Early onset sepsis due to group B streptococcus leads to neonatal morbidity, increased mortality, and long-term neurological deficencies. Interaction between septicemic GBS and confluent monolayers of human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) was analyzed by genome wide expression profiling. In total, 124 genes were differentially expressed (89 upregulated, 35 downregulated) based on a more than 3-fold difference to control HCAEC. Regulated genes are involved in apoptosis, hemostasis, oxidative stress response, infection, and inflammation. Regulation of selected genes and proteins identified in the gene array analysis was confirmed by Real-time RT-PCR assay (granulocyte chemotactic protein 2), ELISA (urokinase, cyclooxygenase 2, granulocyte chemotactic protein 1), and western blotti...

Prevent Group B strep infections in newborns

Nursing in Practice — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:53:00 +0100

Research suggests that the NHS could make significant cost savings by introducing sensitive testing for all pregnant women at 35-37 weeks (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Group b streptococcus (gbs) disrupts by calpain activation the actin and microtubule cytoskeleton of macrophages

Cellular Microbiology — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

This study suggests a new GBS strategy to evade macrophage antimicrobial responses based on cytoskeleton disruption by an unusual mechanism mediated by calcium influx and calpain activation. (Source: Cellular Microbiology)

Invasive neonatal GBS infections from an area‐based surveillance study in Italy

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Clin Microbiol InfectAbstractDuring an area‐based study, 75 group B streptococcus (GBS) strains isolated both from early‐onset disease (EOD, 37 strains) and from late‐onset disease (LOD, 38 strains) were analysed for serotype, pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing profiles, protein markers and antibiotic resistance. Serotype III, possessing the rib gene, was the most frequent (54 strains, 72%) and responsible for 89.5% and 54% of LOD and EOD, respectively. Forty‐six serotype III strains belonged to the same PFGE type and clonal complex 17, already described as an over‐represented clone in neonatal invasive GBS infections. Other serotypes were Ia (9.3%), II (6.7%), Ib (5.3%), V (5.3%) and IV (1.3%). Seventeen PFGE groups were identified comprising ...

Empirical treatment of neonatal sepsis: are the current guidelines adequate?

Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Current guidelines for empirical therapy in neonates with sepsis are appropriate. However, gentamicin-based regimens should be used in preference to cefotaxime-based treatments, because of lower levels of susceptibility to cefotaxime and the need to avoid exerting selective pressure for resistance. Surveillance data linked to clinical data should further inform rational antibiotic prescribing in neonatal units. (Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition)

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Neonatal infections in England: the NeonIN surveillance network

Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The authors have established NeonIN in England and defined the current epidemiology of neonatal infections. These data can be used for benchmarking among units, international comparisons and as a platform for interventional studies. (Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition)

Group B Streptococcus prophylaxis in patients who report a penicillin allergy: a follow-up study

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: With directed intervention, adherence to the 2002 CDC guidelines for GBS prophylaxis in women who are allergic to penicillin improved dramatically. (Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Uncharacteristic Bullous Lesions on a Newborn: What’s Your Diagnosis?

Journal of Pediatric Health Care — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

A healthy 39-week gestational age girl was born to a 26-year-old gravida-3, para-2-0-1-2 mother. Two hours after birth a 2-cm open circular macular lesion was observed on the newborn’s right ankle. Prenatal laboratory studies revealed that the mother’s blood type was O Rh positive, hepatitis B surface antigen was negative, rapid plasma regain was negative for syphilis, she was rubella immune, human immunodeficiency virus was negative, and group B streptococcus (GBS) was positive. One dose of penicillin was administered intravenously to the mother 1 hour prior to delivery for GBS prophylaxis. The mother had no history of sexually transmitted infections. Apgar scores were 9 and 9 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. The newborn’s measurements at birth were: weight, 3295 g (7 lb 4 oz, 25t...

Updated Guidelines for Prevention of Perinatal Group B Strep Disease

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 20:41:49 +0100

This video commentary from the CDC highlights the key changes to the new 2010 guidelines for preventing group B strep disease in the neonate. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Charity urges Group B strep testing for all women

Nursing in Practice — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 20:25:34 +0100

The government should make sensitive testing for group B Streptococcus available for all pregnant women to reduce costs and save lives, says charity (Source: Nursing in Practice)

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Group B strep disease

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Group B strep — Comprehensive overview covers causes, risk factors, complications. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

Charity urges Group B strep testing for all women

Nursing in Practice — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:24:21 +0100

The government should make sensitive testing for group B Streptococcus available for all pregnant women to reduce costs and save lives, says charity (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Researchers Study New Test To Prevent Overuse Of Antibiotics In Pregnant Women

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 10:00:00 +0100

A more rapid laboratory test for pregnant women to detect Group B strep (GBS), the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborns, is being studied by researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth). "Typically, if a patient comes into the emergency room in labor and you don't know if she carries GBS, you have to treat her with antibiotics," said Jonathan Faro, M.D., PhD., chief resident in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, part of UTHealth... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Purification, crystallization and halide phasing of a Streptococcus agalactiae backbone pilin GBS80 fragment

Acta Crystallographica Section F — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Gram-positive pathogen Streptococcus agalactiae or group B streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of bacterial septicemia, pneumonia and meningitis among neonates around the world. The pathogen assembles two types of pili on its surface, named PI-1 and PI-2, that mediate bacterial adherence to host cells. The GBS PI-1 pilus is formed by the major pilin GBS80, which forms the pilus shaft, and two minor pilins GBS104 and GBS52, which are incorporated into the pilus structure. While considerable structural information exists on Gram-negative pili, the structural study of Gram-positive pili is an emerging area of research. Here, the purification, crystallization and initial phasing of the 35 kDa major fragment of the backbone pilin GBS80 are reported. Crystals were obtained in two dif...

Early- and Late-Onset Group B Streptococcal Infections: Overview and Case Studies

Newborn and Infant Nursing Reviews — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:59:47 +0100

Infants that are admitted and cared for in the neonatal intensive care unit are at risk for sepsis. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the most common cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis. Group B Streptococcus is classified into early- and late-onset sepsis. With early onset, infants develop symptoms within 7 days of birth. With late onset, they develop symptoms between 7 days and 3 months of life. Prompt identification and treatment of suspected septic infants are crucial. Infants who develop early- or late-onset GBS sepsis are at risk for sequelae ranging from normal physiologic outcome to devastating long-term conditions and even death. Despite advances in medical management of pregnant women being screened for GBS, infants are still becoming infected with GBS and suffering those conseq...

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Group B Streptococcus Serotype Prevalence in Reproductive-Age Women at a Tertiary Care Military Medical Center Relative to Global Serotype Distribution

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) serotype (Ia, Ib, II-IX) correlates with pathogen virulence and clinical prognosis. Epidemiological studies of seroprevalence are an important metric for determining the proportion of serotypes in a given population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of individual GBS serotypes at Madigan Healthcare System (Madigan), the largest military tertiary healthcare facility in the Pacific Northwestern United States, and to compare seroprevalences with international locations. Methods: To determine serotype distribution at Madigan, we obtained GBS isolates from standard-of-care anogenital swabs from 207 women of indeterminate gravidity between ages 18-40 during a five month interval. Serotype was determined using a recently described mo...

CDC Issues Updated Guidelines on Preventing Perinatal Group B Strep Transmission

Physician's First Watch current issue — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

(No abstract is available for this citation) (Source: Physician's First Watch current issue)

Cost-effectiveness of rapid tests and other existing strategies for screening and management of early-onset group B streptococcus during labour.

BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 02:01:14 +0100

Conclusions The most cost-effective strategy was shown to be the provision of routine intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis to all women without prior screening but, given broader concerns relating to antibiotic use, this is unlikely to be acceptable. In its absence, intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis directed by screening with enriched culture becomes cost-effective. The current strategy of risk-factor-based screening is not cost-effective compared with screening based on culture. PMID: 21078057 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Prevalence rate of group B streptococcal colonization among women in labor at King Abdul-Aziz University Hospital

Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 18:14:17 +0100

Conclusion The prevalence of intrapartum GBS colonization increase as women approach term. Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00404-010-1752-2Authors Tarik Y. Zamzami, Jeddah, Saudi ArabiaAnas M. Marzouki, Jeddah, Saudi ArabiaHassan A. Nasrat, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Journal Archives of Gynecology and ObstetricsOnline ISSN 1432-0711Print ISSN 0932-0067 (Source: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics)

Cost‐effectiveness of rapid tests and other existing strategies for screening and management of early‐onset group B streptococcus during labour

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:18:24 +0100

Conclusions The most cost‐effective strategy was shown to be the provision of routine intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis to all women without prior screening but, given broader concerns relating to antibiotic use, this is unlikely to be acceptable. In its absence, intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis directed by screening with enriched culture becomes cost‐effective. The current strategy of risk‐factor‐based screening is not cost‐effective compared with screening based on culture. (Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

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Erratum to: Equality in Obstetrical Care: Racial/Ethnic Variation in Group B Streptococcus Screening

Maternal and Child Health Journal — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 06:56:02 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s10995-010-0700-xAuthors Allison S. Bryant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USAYvonne W. Cheng, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USAAaron B. Caughey, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR USA Journal Maternal and Child Health JournalOnline ISSN 1573-6628Print ISSN 1092-7875 (Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal)

Group B Strep Meningitis Still Has Poor Outcomes In Infants

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Although now less frequent because of preventive antibiotics, meningitis caused by group B streptococcal (GBS) bacteria is still a serious illness causing a high rate of death and severe complications in infants, reports a study in the November issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. The journal is published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a part of Wolters Kluwer Health, a leading provider of information and business intelligence for students, professionals, and institutions in medicine, nursing, allied health, and pharmacy... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

The surface protein HvgA mediates group B streptococcus hypervirulence and meningeal tropism in neonates

The Journal of Experimental Medicine — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, HvgA is a critical virulence trait of GBS in the neonatal context and stands as a promising target for the development of novel diagnostic and antibacterial strategies. (Source: The Journal of Experimental Medicine)

Comparison of scpB gene and cfb gene polymerase chain reaction assays with culture on Islam medium to detect Group B Streptococcus in pregnancy

Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 21:40:39 +0100

Conclusion: older pregnant women (≥30 years) and multigravida (>3 pregnancies) are at higher risk of GBS colonization. Both scpB-gene and cfb-gene-based PCR methods are highly sensitive techniques (100% sensitivity) compared to culture method. However, the specificities of the scpB and cfb PCR assays were 93.75 and 92.85%, respectively. (Source: Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology)

Development of a Rapid PCR Assay for Screening of Maternal Colonization by Group B Streptococcus and Neonatal Invasive Escherichia coli during Labor

Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Gynecol Obstet Invest 2010;70:250–255 (DOI:10.1159/000314014) (Source: Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation)

Intrapartum tests for group B streptococcus: accuracy and acceptability of screening

BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Please cite this paper as: (Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Comparison of different sampling techniques and of different culture methods for detection of group B Streptococcus carriage in pregnant women

BMC Infectious Diseases — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: In conclusion, vaginorectal sampling increased the number GBS positive women detected, compared to vaginal and/or rectal sampling. Direct plating on CA and/or GBSDA provided rapid detection of GBS that was at least as sensitive and specific as the CDC recommended method of Lim broth subcultured onto non chromogenic agar. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Neonatal infections: group B streptococcus

Clinical Evidence — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

New search performed and critically appraised; no new evidence selected for inclusion. (Source: Clinical Evidence)

Group B Strep guide iPhone app and supporting educational materials (Joshua Steinberg MD)

Family Medicine Digital Resources Library (FMDRL) Recently Uploaded — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Hi folks, These are materials to support education and clinical care on the topic of prevention of invasive GBS disease of the newborn. The first item is the new iPhone app, available for free at iTunes. Next are powerpoint presentations. First is a pretest which I use to offer clinical scenarios which gets the students and residents thinking, "gosh, I don't know this stuff." Then I give the large attached presentation which is a subset of the excellent presentation made and offered free by the CDC from their GBS website. Then I give the pretest again as a posttest and everyone gets all the answers right. For detailed info on the iPhone app (which runs on iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad), go to iTunes or to the app's webpage: http://www.cs.binghamton.edu/~jsteinberg/iphoneMedApps/GBSguide/inde...

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[Prevention of early-onset Group B Streptococcus infections. Application of the Anaes guidelines.]

Journal de Gynecologie, Obstetrique et Biologie de la Reproduction — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Concordance with the national guidelines is feasible in a department with a high obstetrical activity. PMID: 20864275 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal de Gynecologie, Obstetrique et Biologie de la Reproduction)

Equality in Obstetrical Care: Racial/Ethnic Variation in Group B Streptococcus Screening

Maternal and Child Health Journal — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 05:57:33 +0100

The objective of this article is to determine whether racial/ethnic disparities exist in screening for group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization among pregnant women. A retrospective cohort study of deliveries at a single institution was conducted. The primary outcome was the availability of GBS culture data at the time of delivery; the primary predictor was maternal race/ethnicity. Analyses were stratified by the time periods before and after the CDC recommendations for universal screening for GBS. Among 16,333 deliveries, 60.4% of the population was screened for GBS but screening rates varied markedly by year of delivery. Black women had a lower odds of having available GBS data (AOR 0.81 [0.69, 0.95]) but this disparity was limited to the period of time before universal screening w...

Native Aortic Valve Infective Endocarditis Caused by Streptococcus agalactiae in a Renal Transplant Recipient.

The American Journal of the Medical Sciences — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Patil N, Martin RE Infections with Streptococcus agalactiae or group B Streptococcus (GBS) are usually seen during pregnancy or in the neonatal period. The authors report a case of GBS aortic valve endocarditis in a renal transplant patient. GBS endocarditis is often aggressive despite appropriate therapy. The reported patient required prolonged antibiotics and valve replacement. To the authors' knowledge, this is the only reported case of GBS endocarditis in a renal transplant patient. PMID: 20856102 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of the Medical Sciences)

Intrapartum Group B Streptococcus Detection by Rapid Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for the Prevention of Neonatal Sepsis

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Abstract (Source: Clinical Microbiology and Infection)

More HIV-Exposed Uninfected Infants Have Group B Strep

Modern Medicine — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100

HIV-exposed uninfected infants may be more susceptible to invasive group B streptococcal infections in terms of incidence and severity than babies born to HIV-uninfected mothers, according to research published online Aug. 23 in Pediatrics. (Source: Modern Medicine)

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Unnecessary Workup of Asymptomatic Neonates in the Era of Group B Streptococcus Prophylaxis

Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 07:05:30 +0100

Asymptomatic term neonates born to mothers who are Group B Streptococcus (GBS) unknown or GBS positive but “inadequately” treated prior to delivery do not require invasive laboratory evaluation. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of mother/baby dyads born from January 1, 2005 until September 30, 2007 at the Medical College of Georgia. Their current protocol is to obtain a Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBC with D), Blood Culture (BC), and C-reactive protein (CRP) after birth. Mother/baby dyads (n=242) that met inclusion criteria were reviewed. Of these 242 babies 25 (10%) were started on antibiotics after the initial lab values were known. None of the blood cultures were positive and the CRP's were normal. The 2002 GBS guidelines call for laboratory eval...

Immunological fingerprinting of group B streptococci: From circulating human antibodies to protective antigens.

Vaccine — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Meinke AL, Senn BM, Visram Z, Henics TZ, Minh DB, SchÃ¼ler W, Neubauer C, Gelbmann D, Noiges B, Sinzinger J, Hanner M, Dewasthaly S, Lundberg U, Hordnes K, Masoud H, Sevelda P, von Gabain A, Nagy E Group B streptococcus is one of the most important pathogens in neonates, and causes invasive infections in non-pregnant adults with underlying diseases. Applying a genomic approach that relies on human antibodies we identified antigenic GBS proteins, among them most of the previously published protective antigens. In vitro analyses allowed the selection of conserved candidate antigens that were further evaluated in murine lethal sepsis models using several GBS strains. In active and passive immunization models, we identified four protective GBS antigens, FbsA and BibA, as well as...

Population structure, virulence factors and resistance determinants of invasive, non-invasive and colonizing Streptococcus agalactiae in Poland

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:57 +0100

Conclusions Analysis of bacterial serotypes, alp genes and antimicrobial resistance determinants in the background of MLST-based population structure strengthened evidence of the importance of horizontal gene transfer in GBS evolution. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

BD Receives CLIA 'Moderate Complexity' Status For The BD MAX™ GBS Assay

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:00:00 +0100

BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), announced that it has received "Moderate Complexity" status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), for the BD MAX™ GBS Assay for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) on the BD MAX™ System. With the "Moderate Complexity" categorization, the BD MAX GBS Assay will increase access to cost effective molecular testing for a broad range of laboratories performing GBS screening... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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BD Receives CLIA "Moderate Complexity" Status For The BD MAX™ GBS Assay

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:00:00 +0100

BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), announced today that it has received "Moderate Complexity" status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), for the BD MAXTM GBS Assay for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) on the BD MAX™ System. With the "Moderate Complexity" categorization, the BD MAX GBS Assay will increase access to cost effective molecular testing for a broad range of laboratories performing GBS screening... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

BD Receives CLIA 'Moderate Complexity' Status For The BD MAX™ GBS Assay

Pharmaceutical Online News — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 15:06:53 +0100

BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), announced today that it has received "Moderate Complexity" status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), for the BD MAXT GBS Assay for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) on the BD MAXT System. With the "Moderate Complexity" categorization, the BD MAX GBS Assay will increase access to cost effective molecular testing for a broad range of laboratories performing GBS screening. (Source: Pharmaceutical Online News)

Immunization Strategies to Protect Preterm Infants

NeoReviews recent issues — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:00:41 +0100

The development of a safe and effective childhood immunization schedule has effectively reduced morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). VPDs are particularly severe in young infants, especially preterm (gestational age <37 weeks) or low birthweight (<2,500 g) infants. Despite established recommendations that preterm infants be immunized on the same schedule as term infants, with a few exceptions for specific vaccines, considerable immunization delays are reported. Studies demonstrate that vaccines are safe and immunogenic in preterm infants. Although the magnitude of immune responses sometimes may be lower for specific vaccines in preterm infants, protective and durable responses are achieved in most cases. For other VPDs that either selectively target (eg, ...

Jarisch-herxheimer reaction triggered by group B streptococcus intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis.

Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:45:16 +0100

CONCLUSION:: Beta-lactam antibiotics for group B Streptococcus intrapartum prophylaxis can trigger the Jarisch-Herxhemer reaction in patients with undiagnosed syphilis resulting in unanticipated changes in maternal and fetal well-being. PMID: 20664452 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Isolated group B streptococcal endogenous endophthalmitis simulating retinoblastoma or persistent fetal vasculature in a healthy full-term infant

Journal of AAPOS — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100

We present the second case of endogenous endophthalmitis caused by GBS in a healthy newborn and the first case of endogenous endophthalmitis by GBS in a newborn mimicking retinoblastoma and resulting in enucleation. (Source: Journal of AAPOS)

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Beta-hemolytic streptococcus in pregnant women and their newborn infants: a critical analysis of the protocol used at Fernandes Figueira Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, in Brazil

Revista Paulista de Pediatria — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 06:29:55 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Although the guidelines to prevent perinatal GBS disease are in place, there are flaws in the intrapartum prophylaxis and in infants' evaluation. These flaws represent missed opportunities to prevent early onset GBS sepsis. (Source: Revista Paulista de Pediatria)

Interpretation of 2002 Centers for Disease Control Guidelines for Group B Streptococcus and Evolving Provider Practice Patterns

American Journal of Perinatology — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 01:16:25 +0100

Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1262907ABSTRACTWe investigated if clinicians were altering their care of group B streptococcus (GBS)-positive women in labor to achieve 4 hours of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis based on their interpretation of the 2002 Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on prevention of perinatal GBS disease. We surveyed all clinicians with privileges on the labor floor at our institution about their interpretation and clinical application of the 2002 CDC guidelines. Seventy of 96 eligible clinicians (72.9%) completed our survey. In our survey, only 22.9% of clinicians reported not altering their management of labor in GBS-positive pregnancies that achieved less than 4 hours of prophylaxis. These alterations included “laboring down” or delaying...

Effects of Intermittent Nebulization of NONOate, DPTA/NO, on Group B Streptococcus-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Newborn Piglets

Karger Publishers — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Neonatology 2011;99:57â64 (DOI:10.1159/000298286) (Source: Karger Publishers)

Effects of Intermittent Nebulization of NONOate, DPTA/NO, on Group B Streptococcus-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Newborn Piglets.

Neonatology — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These data demonstrated that GBS-induced PH is attenuated with two doses of DPTA/NO without significant systemic effect. The vasodilatory effect is more pronounced in the pulmonary than in the systemic vasculature, as suggested by lower PVR/SVR in the DPTA/NO group. We speculate that NONOates may have a clinical application in the management of PH in neonates. PMID: 20639678 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Neonatology)

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Genital group B streptococcus carrier rate and serotype distribution in Korean pregnant women: implications for group B streptococcal disease in Korean neonates

Journal of Perinatal Medicine — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 07:28:57 +0100

Conclusions: Increased maternal genital GBS carrier rate and difference in serotype distribution pattern of GBS may be related to the recent increase of late-onset GBS disease in Korea. (Source: Journal of Perinatal Medicine)

Newborn group B strep infection. Top 10 reasons not to culture at 36 weeks.

Midwifery Today with Internationalm Midwife — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 17:06:03 +0100

Authors: Cohain JS PMID: 20572610 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Midwifery Today with Internationalm Midwife)

Screening for Group B Streptococcus: A Private Hospital's Experience

Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 06:15:58 +0100

Conclusion. High rates of screening of pregnant women for GBS colonization and use of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis for GBS carriers can be achieved in a private tertiary care hospital setting. “Synopsis: High screening rates for group B streptococcus in a private tertiary care hospital reduce the incidence of maternal and early onset neonatal GBS infection.” (Source: Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology)

BD Announces First FDA-Cleared Assay On The BD MAX™ System To Detect Group B Streptococcus

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 09:00:00 +0100

BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), announced that it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to market the BD MAX™ GBS Assay for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) on the BD MAX™ System. The BD MAX System is a next-generation automated workstation for molecular testing designed to streamline workflow and offer full walkaway automation to accommodate varying workloads for maximum lab efficiency and flexibility... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Changing molecular epidemiology of group B streptococcus in Korea.

J Korean Med Sci — Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Seo YS, Srinivasan U, Oh KY, Shin JH, Chae JD, Kim MY, Yang JH, Yoon HR, Miller B, Debusscher J, Foxman B, Ki M The prevalence of group B streptococcus (GBS) among pregnant women and disease burdens in neonates and adults are increasing in Korea. Colonizing isolates, collected by screening pregnant women (n=196), and clinical isolates collected from clinical patients throughout Korea (n=234), were serotyped and screened for antibiotic resistance. Serotype III (29.8%) and V (27.7%) predominated, followed by Ia (17.0%). Antibiotic resistance was higher among clinical than colonizing isolates for erythromycin (35.1% and 26.9%; P=0.10) and for clindamycin (49.4% and 42.1%; P=0.17). erm(B) occurred in 91.9% of erythromycin resistant isolates, and 84.0% of isolates resistant to clin...

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Group B Streptococcal Disease in Infants: Progress in Prevention and Continued Challenges

Clinics in Perinatology — Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

This article discusses implementation challenges for clinicians caring for pregnant women and newborns and presents an updated algorithm for neonatal management. (Source: Clinics in Perinatology)

Structure determination of Streptococcus suis serotype 2 capsular polysaccharide.

Biochemistry and Cell Biology — Mon, 31 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Van Calsteren MR, Gagnon F, Lacouture S, Fittipaldi N, Gottschalk M The capsular polysaccharide (CPS) of Streptococcus suis serotype 2 was isolated, purified, chemically modified, and characterized. Sugar and absolute configuration analyses of the CPS gave the following composition: d-Gal, 3; d-Glc, 1; d-GlcNAc, 1; d-Neu5Ac, 1; l-Rha, 1. Sialic acid was found to be terminal, and the CPS was quantitatively desialylated by mild acid hydrolysis. The CPS was also submitted to periodate oxidation followed by borohydride reduction and Smith degradation. Sugar and methylation a...

Incidence and distribution of pathogens in early-onset neonatal sepsis in the era of antenatal antibiotics

Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology — Thu, 27 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

This study aims to determine the effects of AA, recommended by national guidelines, on the incidence and distribution of pathogens in early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS). We performed a population-based, prospective, observational study of level II and III perinatal centres throughout the region of Alsace, a northeastern area of France, between March 2004 and February 2005. The study population included all neonates with confirmed or probable EONS, who were treated with antibiotics for at least 5 days. We analysed exposure to AA, as well as clinical and microbiological data obtained from medical records. A total of 20 131 neonates were born during the study period, and 217 were included in the study. Of these, 24 subjects had confirmed sepsis, 140 had probable sepsis and 53 had possible EON...

Real-time PCR assays compared to culture-based approaches for identification of aerobic bacteria in chronic wounds

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Wed, 26 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

We report the development of a suite of real-time PCR assays for rapid identification of bacteria directly from tissue samples. The panel of assays targets 14 common, clinically relevant, aerobic pathogens and demonstrates a high degree of sensitivity and specificity using a panel of organisms commonly associated with chronic wound infection. Thirty-nine tissue samples from 29 chronic wounds were evaluated and the results compared with those obtained by culture. As revealed by culture and PCR, the most common organisms were methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) followed by Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B streptococcus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The sensitivities of the PCR assays were 100% and 90% when quantitative and qualitative culture results were used as the reference...

Regulation of CovR expression in Group B Streptococcus impacts blood–brain barrier penetration

Molecular Microbiology — Tue, 18 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

In this study, we show that infection with CovR-deficient GBS strains resulted in increased sepsis. Although CovR-deficient GBS showed decreased ability to invade the brain endothelium in vitro, they were more proficient in induction of permeability and pro-inflammatory signalling pathways in brain endothelium and penetration of the blood[ndash]brain barrier (BBB) in vivo. Microarray analysis revealed that CovR positively regulates its own expression and regulates the expression of 153 genes. Collectively, our results suggest that the positive feedback loop which regulates CovR transcription modulates host cell interaction and immune defence and may facilitate the transition of GBS from a commensal organism to a virulent meningeal pathogen. (Source: Molecular Microbiology)

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The 2-Cys Peroxiredoxin Alkyl Hydroperoxide Reductase C Binds Heme and Participates in Its Intracellular Availability in Streptococcus agalactiae [Microbiology]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 14 May 2010 13:37:58 +0100

Heme is a redox-reactive molecule with vital and complex roles in bacterial metabolism, survival, and virulence. However, few intracellular heme partners were identified to date and are not well conserved in bacteria. The opportunistic pathogen Streptococcus agalactiae (group B Streptococcus) is a heme auxotroph, which acquires exogenous heme to activate an aerobic respiratory chain. We identified the alkyl hydroperoxide reductase AhpC, a member of the highly conserved thiol-dependent 2-Cys peroxiredoxins, as a heme-binding protein. AhpC binds hemin with a Kd of 0.5 µm and a 1:1 stoichiometry. Mutagenesis of cysteines revealed that hemin binding is dissociable from catalytic activity and multimerization. AhpC reductase activity was unchanged upon interaction with heme in vitro and in...

The Accuracy of Late Third-Trimester Antenatal Screening for Group B Streptococcus in Predicting Colonization at Delivery

American Journal of Perinatology — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:29:25 +0100

Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1254237ABSTRACTWe reevaluated the accuracy of antenatal group B streptococcal (GBS) culture results in predicting colonization at the time of delivery in a general practice setting. Patients who had late third-trimester antenatal GBS cultures were prospectively identified. A repeat GBS culture was performed when admitted in labor using a strict protocol and laboratory analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predicative values were calculated. In comparing the office culture results to the intrapartum cultures in 1472 patients, the sensitivity was 51%, specificity 94%, positive predictive value 67%, and negative predictive value 88%. The antenatal positive culture rate of 15.4% was significantly lower than the 20.1% intrapartum posit...

No Change in the Incidence of Ampicillin-Resistant, Neonatal, Early-Onset Sepsis Over 18 Years

PEDIATRICS — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:17:21 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Predominant use of penicillin G for GBS prophylaxis resulted in decreased incidence of EOS. No change in the incidence of ampicillin-resistant EOS was observed, but resistant cases were associated with peripartum ampicillin exposure. These findings suggest that obstetricians should consider preferential use of penicillin G for GBS prophylaxis. (Source: PEDIATRICS)

Changing etiology of community-acquired bacterial meningitis in adults: a nationwide multicenter study in Korea

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 05:56:15 +0100

Abstract Epidemiologic data on the etiologic organisms is important for appropriate empirical antibiotic treatment of bacterial meningitis. We identified the etiologies of community-acquired bacterial meningitis in Korean adults and the associated epidemiological factors. A retrospective, multicenter nationwide study was carried out. Patients 18 years of age or older with community-acquired bacterial meningitis with a confirmed pathogen were enrolled. Demographic, clinical, and microbiological data were collected. One hundred and ninety-five cases were collected. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most common pathogen (50.8%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (10.3%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (7.7%), Listeria monocytogenes (6.7%), and group B Streptococcus (3.1%). The penic...

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Strep Implicated In Many Urinary Tract Infections

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Research suggests pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) are an under-recognised cause of urinary tract infections. The bacteria are better known as a cause of infection in pregnant women with subsequent risks of preterm delivery and transmission to newborn infants often with devastating consequences. Microbiologist Dr Glen Ulett, from the Griffith Institute for Health and Medical Research, said pathogenic strains of GBS have been shown to bind to the surface of human bladder cells as the initial step in the development of urinary tract infections... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Strep steps up in urinary tract infections

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Research suggests pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus are an under-recognized cause of urinary tract infections. The bacteria are better known as a cause of infection in pregnant women with subsequent risks of preterm delivery and transmission to newborn infants often with devastating consequences. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)