[Group B streptococcal infection with 2 recurrences in a newborn]

M Lalande1, H Marchandin, L Enaud

  • 1Service de pédiatrie III, centre hospitalier universitaire de Montpellier, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 34295 Montpellier, France.

Abstract

Insights

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infections in neonates are common in France. This case report details an exceptional infant experiencing three GBS relapses, highlighting rare occurrences and potential treatment challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal infectious diseases
  • Bacterial pathogenesis
  • Streptococcal infections

Background:

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a significant cause of neonatal infections in France.
  • Relapse of GBS infection is uncommon, with multiple successive relapses being exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A newborn presented with invasive GBS infection (meningitis, ventriculitis) at 18 days old.
  • A second GBS episode (bacteremia, parotitis) occurred at 53 days, followed by a third meningitis episode at 63 days.
  • Genomic analysis confirmed the same clonal origin for all three GBS strains.

Findings:

  • The study documents an exceptional case of three GBS relapses in a single neonate.
  • Identical clonal origin of GBS strains suggests pathogen persistence or re-emergence rather than new infection.

Implications:

  • Discusses treatment efficacy and the potential for penicillin-tolerant GBS strains.
  • Explores factors contributing to relapse, including pathogen recurrence and infant immunodeficiency.
  • Underscores the rarity of such events and the need for further investigation into GBS persistence mechanisms.

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