Neonatology - GBS In Neonates

Question 1

Defintion

Answer 1

Also known as Streptococcus agalactiae = gram-positive bacteria that normally colonises the GI tract, perineum, and vagina
They can cause invasive infectious at any angle, but infections are most common in the neonatal period

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

• Maternal colonisation
• Preterm birth
• Prolonged rupture of membranes
• Previous infant with GBS disease
• Prematurity

Question 3

Pathophysiology

Answer 3

Mother to infant transmission during childbirth:
1. Vertical transmission: mc route
2. Rupture of membranes: the mothers amniotic membranes rupture (water breaks) before or during labour, increased risk of GBS because the protective barrier in compromised
3. Invasive infection

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Early-Onset Disease: Symptoms typically appear within the first 7 days of life and may include:
- fever,
- respiratory distress,
- poor feeding, lethargy,
- signs of sepsis.

Late-Onset Disease: Symptoms may appear after the first week of life and can include
- meningitis symptoms, such as irritability, fever, vomiting, and seizures.

Question 5

Diagnosis

Answer 5

FIRST LINE: To reduce risk of neonatal GBS infection. Women are screened for GBS colonisation late in pregnancy (usually 35-37 weeks)
- If colonisation detected give intrapartum antibiotics prophylaxis (BENZYLPENICILLIN)

Question 6

Treatment

Answer 6

● Abx therapy- Benzylpenicillin
● Supportive therapy
● Manage complications

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

• Shock,
• Elevated intracranial pressure,
• Neurodevelopment impairment