Group B streptococcal infection early onset disease controversies in prevention guidelines, and management strategies for the neonate.

Abstract

Group B streptococcus (GBS) has been a major pathogen that is particularly devastating to the newborn for more than two decades. Initial guidelines were promoted by the AAP in 1992 to help deal with this organism, but these recommendations were poorly accepted and not widely used. In 1996-1997 the AAP, CDC, and ACOG created new guidelines for the management of the mother and infant at risk for GBS. Though usually in agreement, these three sets of recommendations still have some differences that may be confusing to the pediatrician. This paper looks at the acquisition, intrapartum treatment, and postnatal management of GBS, along with some of the controversies associated with the management of this disease.