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Severe neonatal group A streptococcal disease

M A Verboon-Maciolek1, T G Krediet, I van Ertbruggen

  • 1Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands. m.verboon@wkz.azu.nl

European Journal of Pediatrics
|June 27, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Group A streptococcal infections are rising in adults and children, but remain rare in newborns. This study highlights the severe presentation and potential vertical transmission of group A strep in neonates.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Invasive disease caused by group A streptococci (GAS) has increased in adults and children since the mid-1980s.
  • Neonatal GAS disease, while rare, can be severe.
  • A rise in invasive group A streptococcal disease necessitates awareness of neonatal risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of severe group A streptococcal disease in neonates.
  • To document cases of vertical transmission in early-onset neonatal GAS disease.
  • To emphasize the importance of recognizing neonatal group A streptococcal disease.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of seven neonates with severe group A streptococcal disease admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit between 1979 and 1998.
  • Analysis of clinical data, including presentation, treatment, and outcomes.
  • Documentation of vertical transmission in cases of early-onset disease.

Main Results:

  • Seven neonates with severe group A streptococcal disease were identified over a 20-year period.
  • Clinical presentations, treatments, and outcomes were detailed for these cases.
  • Vertical transmission was confirmed in three cases of early-onset neonatal GAS disease.

Conclusions:

  • Increased incidence of group A streptococcal disease in the general population warrants heightened awareness of neonatal cases.
  • Neonatal group A streptococcal disease can be severe and requires prompt recognition and management.
  • Understanding transmission routes, including vertical transmission, is crucial for prevention and treatment strategies.
Abstract

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