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Early-onset group B streptococcal sepsis: a current assessment
L E Weisman1, B J Stoll, D F Cruess
1Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Group B streptococcus (GBS) early-onset sepsis affects 0.32% of neonates. Despite similar incidence, improved survival rates suggest better intrapartum and neonatal care are enhancing outcomes for GBS-infected infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a significant cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis.
- Previous GBS reviews analyzed data from the early 1980s, necessitating updated information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the current incidence, clinical presentation, and outcomes of GBS early-onset sepsis in neonates.
- To evaluate changes in GBS sepsis management and survival rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of neonates with GBS early-onset sepsis from January 1, 1987, to December 31, 1989.
- Data collected from nine hospitals across the United States.
Main Results:
- An incidence of 0.32% (245/61,809 live births) was observed.
- Thirty-nine percent of affected infants were preterm; maternal risk factors were similar for preterm and term infants.
- While 86% of infants survived, GBS sepsis significantly increased birth weight-specific mortality rates, especially in term infants.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of GBS early-onset sepsis has remained stable.
- Improved birth weight-specific survival rates and altered clinical presentations suggest advancements in intrapartum and neonatal management.