Ascertaining the Prevalence of Group B Streptococcal Infection in Patients with Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis from Pakistan.

Abstract

IntroductionLiterature has shown varying results regarding the presence of group B Streptococcal (GBS) infection in pregnant females with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). The infection can be detrimental to maternal and neonatal well-being. There is a lack of studies that showed the extent of this problem in the local population of Pakistan. Our study aims to determine the frequency of GBS infection in females with PPROM.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Lahore General Hospital, Pakistan for six months. Informed consent was obtained from each patient. Demographic data were also recorded. Then the amniotic fluid sample was taken during a vaginal examination and was sent to the laboratory of the hospital for assessment of the presence or absence of GBS. Reports were assessed for GBS infection. Baseline demographics including age, body mass index (BMI), parity, and gestational age were presented as mean and standard deviation. Categorical data like parity and GBS infection were presented as frequency and percentage.ResultsThe mean age of women was 30.04 ± 6.75 years. The mean gestational age of patients was 34.51 ± 1.75 weeks. Among 150 women, GBS infection was diagnosed in 24 (16%) patients. The occurrence of GBS infection was significantly associated with the age and parity status of women (p < 0.05). However, it was not significantly associated with gestational age and BMI of women (p > 0.05).ConclusionOur study showed a low prevalence of GBS infection in females presenting with PPROM. Nonetheless, the presence of infection can lead to detrimental outcomes including neonatal and maternal sepsis. The rate and risk factors of maternal and neonatal GBS colonization may vary in different communities. These rates, as well as the incidence of neonatal disease, need to be thoroughly evaluated to develop appropriate strategies for prevention.