Chemoprophylaxis of early-onset group B streptococcal disease in 1999

The evolution of the guidelines for selective intrapartum chemoprophylaxis (SIC) of group B streptococcal early-onset disease is reviewed here. To assess the benefits of the risk-based and culture-based strategies for prevention, observational studies since 1996 are summarized. The effect of chorioamnionitis on group B streptococcal early-onset disease, despite SIC, is emphasized. Optimal management remains controversial, and alternative strategies for the selection of women for chemoprophylaxis and for the management of infants are discussed.