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Updated: Jul 25, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Puerperal group A Streptococcus infection: a case report
Vivien H Lee1, Carol Sulis, Raja A Sayegh
1Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|October 14, 2005
Summary
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) sepsis in mothers is rare but dangerous. Promptly treat postpartum fevers with GAS bacteremia suspicion to improve maternal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) sepsis presents a rare but significant risk for maternal mortality.
- Puerperal infection due to GAS can occur despite an uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery.
Observation:
- A postpartum patient presented with high, spiking fevers and minimal symptoms shortly after delivery.
- Blood cultures confirmed GAS bacteremia, likely originating from a urinary tract infection.
- The patient responded to broad-spectrum antibiotics, with fever resolving by postpartum day 4.
Findings:
- Clinical presentation of puerperal GAS sepsis can be deceptive, with patients often appearing well.
- High, spiking fevers in the early postpartum period warrant suspicion and prompt evaluation for GAS bacteremia.
- Early antibiotic treatment led to successful patient recovery and discharge.
Implications:
- Guidelines are needed for managing GAS in pregnancy and preventing vertical transmission.
- Consideration for prophylactic penicillin in future labors for patients with a history of GAS infection.
- Emphasizes the importance of early recognition and aggressive management of postpartum GAS sepsis.
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