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Three fatal cases of invasive serotype VI group B streptococcal infection

Kousaku Matsubara1, Hiroshige Mikamo, Makiko Numa

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Nishi-Kobe Medical Center, 5-7-1 Kojidai, Nishi-ku, Kobe 651-2273, Japan. kskmatsu@s4.dion.ne.jp

The Journal of Infection
|January 13, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) serotype VI is a significant cause of invasive infections in both adults and infants. This study highlights fatal outcomes in adults with underlying conditions and premature infants.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) serotype VI is prevalent in pregnant women in Japan.
  • The clinical presentation and outcomes of invasive serotype VI GBS infections are not well-documented.

Observation:

  • Three cases of fatal infections caused by serotype VI GBS are presented.
  • Two cases involved middle-aged men with severe conditions like necrotizing fasciitis, sepsis, and toxic shock syndrome, complicated by diabetes.
  • One case involved a premature infant with intrauterine infection.

Findings:

  • Serotype VI GBS demonstrates pathogenicity in both adult and fetal populations.
  • The bacterium can cause fatal outcomes, particularly in vulnerable individuals with pre-existing health issues.

Implications:

  • This study expands the understanding of serotype VI GBS as a human pathogen beyond neonatal infections.
  • It underscores the need for clinical vigilance and potentially tailored treatment strategies for severe serotype VI GBS infections in adults and neonates.

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