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Neonatal infection with Streptococcus milleri
J Raymond1, M Bergeret, C Francoual
1Department of Microbiology, Hôpital Saint Vincent de Paul, Paris, France.
Abstract:
Streptococcus milleri is a known commensal of the female genitourinary tract, but its pathogenicity in neonates has been reported in only a few cases. During a period of one year in an obstetrical unit, Streptococcus milleri was isolated from nine neonates and from one foetus after a spontaneous abortion. In seven of the nine newborns, neonatal infection was assessed and Streptococcus milleri was the lone pathogen involved, associated with positive blood or vaginal cultures in four mothers. Because Streptococcus milleri requires special conditions for identification, it is probably underestimated as a cause of neonatal infection and septic abortion.
Insights
Streptococcus milleri, a common bacteria, is an underestimated cause of serious neonatal infections and septic abortions. This study highlights its role in infections among newborns and foetuses, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Streptococcus milleri is a commensal bacterium of the female genitourinary tract.
- Its role as a pathogen in neonates is infrequently reported.
- Specialized identification methods are required for Streptococcus milleri.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and significance of Streptococcus milleri as a cause of neonatal infections.
- To assess the association between maternal and neonatal infections by Streptococcus milleri.
- To highlight the potential underestimation of Streptococcus milleri in neonatal sepsis and septic abortion.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of bacterial isolates from neonates and foetuses over a one-year period in an obstetrical unit.
- Clinical assessment of neonatal infections.
- Correlation with maternal cultures (blood and vaginal).
Main Results:
- Streptococcus milleri was isolated from nine neonates and one foetus.
- In seven neonates, Streptococcus milleri was the sole identified pathogen causing infection.
- Maternal infections (positive blood or vaginal cultures) were noted in four mothers of affected newborns.
- The bacterium was implicated in cases of neonatal infection and septic abortion.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus milleri may be an underrecognized cause of neonatal infections and pregnancy complications like septic abortion.
- Increased awareness and appropriate diagnostic methods are crucial for identifying Streptococcus milleri infections in neonates.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenicity and transmission of Streptococcus milleri in the perinatal period.