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Published on: February 23, 2014
Puerperal infection due to group A beta hemolytic streptococcus
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|July 1, 1978
Summary
A cluster of puerperal infections caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) presented with early uterine tenderness and fever. Intravenous penicillin rapidly resolved these GABHS infections.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Puerperal infection, a serious postpartum complication, can be caused by various pathogens.
- Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) is a significant bacterial cause of maternal infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a cluster of puerperal infections attributed to GABHS.
- To highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic findings associated with GABHS puerperal infections.
Main Methods:
- Case series describing 5 patients with puerperal infection.
- Clinical sign documentation, including uterine tenderness and fever.
- Microscopic examination of gram-stained lochial smears.
- Epidemiological investigation to identify infection source.
Main Results:
- A cluster of 5 puerperal infection cases due to GABHS was identified.
- Key clinical signs included early postpartum uterine tenderness and fever (≥102°F).
- Gram stains of lochial smears revealed a predominance of gram-positive cocci in 4 out of 5 patients.
Conclusions:
- GABHS should be considered in postpartum patients presenting with specific clinical signs.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with intravenous penicillin are effective for GABHS puerperal infections.
- Despite extensive efforts, the source of this GABHS cluster remained unidentified.
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