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[Group B streptococcal infections in adults, excluding genital infections]
M G Peirotti1, S E Gonzalez, A M Littvik
1Hospital Rawson, Bajada Pucará S/N, Córdoba, Argentina.
Abstract:
Group B streptococcus (GBS) or Streptococcus agalactiae is recognized as a mayor cause of neonatal meningitis, sepsis and infections during pregnancy. However, in recent years there have been several reports concerning GBS infections in non pregnant adult population, specially in immunocompromised hosts and in patients with severe underlying diseases such as diabetes mellitus and cancer. We report a series of 45 cases which occurred in nonpregnant adult population during a period of two years. The average age was 50.8 years and most patients (38/44) had one or more risk factors: diabetes mellitus was the most significant underlying disease. The most frequent infection localization was skin and soft tissues followed by urinary tract infection. Several isolated cases of pneumonia, bacteremia, endocarditis, endometritis and peritonitis were observed. GBS infections should no longer be exclusively considered as perinatal and peripartum events. New clinical presentations are arising in non pregnant adult population with special incidence in immunocompromised hosts. We are obliged to keep this in mind and remember that SGB may be a possible etiologic agent for infections, particularly in skin and soft tissues of diabetic patients.
Insights
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infections are increasingly seen in non-pregnant adults, particularly those with diabetes. This study highlights new GBS clinical presentations in this population, emphasizing the need for broader awareness.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Context:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS), or Streptococcus agalactiae, is a significant cause of neonatal infections.
- Recent reports indicate a rise in GBS infections among non-pregnant adults, especially immunocompromised individuals and those with comorbidities like diabetes and cancer.
Purpose:
- To analyze a series of 45 GBS infections in non-pregnant adults over two years.
- To identify common risk factors, clinical presentations, and infection sites in this demographic.
Summary:
- The study reviewed 45 GBS cases in adults (average age 50.8 years), with 38 patients having risk factors, most notably diabetes mellitus.
- The most common infection sites were skin and soft tissues, followed by urinary tract infections. Other observed infections included pneumonia, bacteremia, endocarditis, endometritis, and peritonitis.
Impact:
- GBS should be considered beyond perinatal and peripartum contexts, as new clinical patterns emerge in non-pregnant adults.
- Clinicians should be aware of GBS as a potential pathogen, especially in skin and soft tissue infections affecting diabetic patients.