Review of group B Streptococci and their infections

Abstract

This review article discusses the stages in the development of research on group B streptococcus (GBS). otherwise called Streptococcus agalactiac. Emphasis was placed on the bacteriology, clinical spectrum of disease, immunity to GBS infections and susceptibility of the causative organism. The organism, first recognized by Billroth in 1873, is classified into order liubacteriales, family Lactobacillccae, class Schizomycetes and genus Streptococcus on the basis of its biochemical and physiological characteristics. It is subdivided into types la, lb, Ic, II. Ill, X and R on the basis of carbohydrate and protein antigens present on its cell wall. Bovine strains of GBS are found in the bovine teat while human strains are present in the female vagina, the oro-pharynx, anorectum and the external auditory canal of newborns. It could be transmitted vertically from mother to child in-utcro and during parturition. Cross infection by the nursery staff could also occur during the immediate postpartum period.