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Updated: May 4, 2026
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A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
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Neonatal Group B Streptococcus sepsis with negative maternal screening: a case report
Yaping Liu1, Lu Chang1, Gui Chuan Chen2
1Department of Neonatology, Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
BMC Pediatrics
|May 2, 2026
Summary
False-negative Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening can lead to early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS). Clinical vigilance and empirical antibiotics are crucial for suspected neonatal infections, even with negative maternal GBS tests.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a primary cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS).
- Intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) guided by maternal GBS screening effectively reduces neonatal GBS disease incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of early-onset GBS sepsis and meningitis in a neonate with a negative maternal GBS screening result.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical suspicion in neonatal sepsis management.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a term neonate presenting with symptoms of sepsis and meningitis shortly after birth.
- Diagnostic workup included blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis.
- Treatment involved a 17-day course of intravenous antibiotics, with adjustments based on clinical response and diagnosis.
Main Results:
- The neonate developed GBS sepsis and meningitis despite a negative maternal GBS screening at 39 weeks gestation.
- Blood cultures confirmed GBS bacteremia, and CSF analysis indicated meningitis.
- Cranial imaging showed transient hemorrhagic foci, which resolved on follow-up MRI.
Conclusions:
- This case illustrates the possibility of false-negative maternal GBS screening results.
- Clinical vigilance and empirical antibiotic treatment are essential for suspected neonatal sepsis, irrespective of maternal screening status.
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