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Group B beta-hemolytic streptococci analysis of 242 isolations
Journal of the National Medical Association
|July 1, 1977
Summary
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization is more frequent in the genital tracts of Black females than previously reported. This study also suggests a link between maternal GBS colonization and newborn infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a significant cause of neonatal infections.
- Previous research has indicated varying colonization rates across different demographics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of GBS in pregnant women and neonates at Howard University Hospital.
- To compare GBS colonization rates in Black females with existing data for white women.
- To explore the association between maternal and neonatal GBS colonization.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of GBS cultures from 242 patients over seven months.
- Identification of GBS from genital tracts of women and various sites in neonates.
- Data collection focused on patient demographics and culture sources.
Main Results:
- GBS was isolated from 242 patients, predominantly from the genital tract of 236 women.
- Six neonates born to mothers with GBS were also found to be colonized.
- All patients in the study were Black.
- The study observed a higher GBS genital tract colonization rate in Black females compared to reported rates in white women.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of genital tract colonization by GBS appears higher in Black females.
- A potential correlation exists between maternal GBS colonization and neonatal colonization.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings.