Group B streptococcal infection

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Group B streptococcal infection

Group B streptococcal infection (pronounced: groop bee strep-toe-cock-al in-fek-shun) is a type of bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Streptococcus agalactiae.

Etymology

The term "streptococcal" is derived from the Greek words "streptos" meaning twisted and "kokkos" meaning berry. This is in reference to the bacterium's appearance under a microscope. The term "Group B" is a classification based on the Lancefield grouping, a system of classification for beta-hemolytic Streptococcus species based on their cell wall polysaccharide antigens.

Definition

Group B streptococcal infection is a serious bacterial infection that is most commonly associated with infections in newborns, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The bacterium Streptococcus agalactiae is commonly found in the digestive tract and lower genital tract of healthy individuals, but can cause serious illness when it spreads to other parts of the body.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Group B streptococcal infection can vary widely, but may include fever, difficulty feeding, irritability, and lethargy in newborns. In adults, symptoms may include fever, chills, pain or discomfort, and redness at the site of infection.

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