The radiographic features of early onset Group B streptococcal neonatal sepsis

The clinical and radiographic features of 27 newborn infants with early onset Group B streptococcal infection as documented by blood culture have been reviewed. Initial chest radiographs revealed a wide spectrum of patterns. These included changes usually associated with the respiratory distress syndrome, extensive pneumonia, and small infiltrates as well as a normal appearance. Premature birth and a fatal outcome were associated with extensive radiographic changes. At autopsy some of the infants with a radiographic appearance of respiratory distress syndrome had pathologic features of Group B streptococcal infection with no apparent evidence of coexisting respiratory distress syndrome.