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Meningitis caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae in a preterm infant
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|December 1, 1978
Abstract:
This report describes a case of meningitis caused by a Lancefield group C streptococcus (Streptococcus dysgalactiae) in a 9-week-old infant. Bacteria of this group rarely cause serious infections in man. The organism was identified as a member of Lancefield group C by the acid extraction method and as S. dysgalactiae by biochemical tests. The patient's condition responded well to penicillin and tobramycin therapy, with no obvious neurologic sequelae.
Insights
A rare case of meningitis in an infant was caused by Lancefield group C Streptococcus (Streptococcus dysgalactiae). The infant recovered fully with antibiotic treatment, showing no lasting neurological effects.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Bacteriology
- Microbial pathogenesis
Background:
- Lancefield group C streptococci, including Streptococcus dysgalactiae, are uncommon causes of severe human infections.
- Meningitis in infants is a serious condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- A 9-week-old infant presented with meningitis.
- The causative agent was identified as Streptococcus dysgalactiae, a Lancefield group C streptococcus.
Findings:
- The identification involved acid extraction for Lancefield grouping and biochemical tests for species confirmation.
- The infant's meningitis responded effectively to a combination therapy of penicillin and tobramycin.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for Streptococcus dysgalactiae to cause severe infections like meningitis in infants.
- Successful treatment with standard antibiotics suggests a favorable prognosis for similar cases, with no observed neurological sequelae.