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Updated: May 17, 2026

A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
[Group A streptococcal meningitis]
Z Jouhadi1, H Sadiki, M Lehlimi
1Service de Maladies Infectieuses Pédiatriques, Hôpital d'Enfants, Casablanca, Maroc.
Abstract:
An increased incidence and severity of invasive group A streptococcus (GAS) infections over the past decade have been reported by several authors, but GAS remains an uncommon cause of bacterial meningitis. The aim of this study was to describe and analyze the clinical and biological data of GAS meningitis by reporting 10 new cases of pediatric GAS meningitis and making a literature review. The mean age of patients, seven girls and three boys, was 3 years. There was a history of preexisting or concomitant community-acquired infection in five patients over 10. The outcome was fatal in two cases. All patients received an initial empirical antimicrobial therapy with a third generation cephalosporin switched in six cases to amoxicillin. The prognosis for this type of streptococcal meningitis is usually good, but death may occur even in children without any identified risk factor for severe infection.
Insights
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) meningitis is rare but serious in children. While often treatable, this invasive bacterial infection can be fatal, even in those without prior health issues.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
- Microbiology
Context:
- Invasive group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections show increasing incidence and severity.
- GAS meningitis is an uncommon but significant pediatric infection.
- Understanding GAS meningitis is crucial for effective treatment and prognosis.
Purpose:
- To analyze clinical and biological data of pediatric GAS meningitis.
- To report 10 new cases and review existing literature on GAS meningitis.
- To identify risk factors and outcomes associated with GAS meningitis.
Summary:
- The study analyzed 10 pediatric GAS meningitis cases (mean age 3 years; 70% female).
- Five patients had pre-existing or concurrent community-acquired infections.
- Two fatalities occurred; treatment involved cephalosporins and amoxicillin.
Impact:
- Highlights the potential severity of GAS meningitis, including fatal outcomes.
- Emphasizes that even children without risk factors can experience severe infection.
- Informs clinical management and prognosis for pediatric GAS meningitis.
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