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Updated: Apr 3, 2026

A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Two Case Reports of Group B Streptococcal Infective Endocarditis Complicated by Embolism
Rie Aoyama1, Ayumi Kobayashi, Yusuke Tubokou
1Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital, Japan.
Abstract:
Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B streptococcus, GBS) is the major pathogen encountered in the perinatal period, although the incidence of GBS infection has recently increased among non-pregnant adults. Nevertheless, GBS infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon and often accompanies aortic embolism. We experienced two cases of GBS IE. In Case 1, mobile vegetation of the aortic valve caused an infective cerebral aneurysm. In Case 2, the patient experienced an acute aortic embolic episode. Generally, early surgery for large mobile sites of vegetation is recommended as a class IIb therapy in the guidelines. GBS IE often exhibits a severe clinical course and specificity of vegetation. Therefore, early surgery should be considered in such cases.
Insights
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infective endocarditis (IE) is rare but serious, often causing aortic embolism. Early surgery for large, mobile vegetations is crucial for better outcomes in GBS IE cases.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is a significant perinatal pathogen.
- GBS infections are increasingly reported in non-pregnant adults.
- GBS infective endocarditis (IE) is an uncommon but severe manifestation.
Observation:
- Two cases of GBS IE are presented.
- Case 1: Mobile aortic valve vegetation led to an infective cerebral aneurysm.
- Case 2: Patient presented with an acute aortic embolic event.
Findings:
- GBS IE is characterized by a severe clinical course and specific vegetation properties.
- Large, mobile vegetations are a key indicator for intervention.
- Current guidelines suggest early surgery for large mobile vegetations (Class IIb).
Implications:
- Early surgical intervention should be strongly considered for GBS IE, especially with large mobile vegetations.
- This approach may improve patient outcomes in severe GBS IE.
- Further research into optimal management strategies for GBS IE is warranted.
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Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
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