RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: Current protocols aim to prevent some infant GBS infection through screening and peripartum antibiotics, however such strategies cannot be widely implemented in resource-limited settings. On the other hand, maternal vaccines in development against Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can provide a feasible universal approach. The success of any vaccine will depend on uptake in the population. Rates of maternal GBS colonization in the Dominican Republic (DR) and Caribbean region are among the highest in the world, but little is known about attitudes towards maternal vaccines in this region. METHODS: A cross-sectional, multicenter, mixed-methodology survey evaluated facilitators and barriers to maternal immunization and acceptability of a hypothetical Group B Streptococcus vaccine among pregnant women in three hospitals in the DR. RESULTS: Six-hundred and fifty women completed the survey of whom 85 % had never heard of GBS. Following receipt of information about GBS and a vaccine, 94 % of women stated that they would be likely or very likely to receive a vaccine. Being 18 years or younger was associated with a lower likelihood of GBS vaccine receipt (AOR 0.32, 95 % CI 0.14-0.69). Being born in the DR was associated with a higher likelihood of GBS vaccine receipt (AOR 2.73, 95 % CI 1.25-5.97). Among women who were unlikely to receive the vaccine, uncertainty about potential harm from a novel vaccine was the prominent theme elicited from free text responses. CONCLUSION: There was a high level of acceptance of a future GBS vaccine among this sample of pregnant women in the DR. However, knowledge of vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases was low, and most women had concerns about the safety of new vaccines. Interventions that strengthen existing maternal immunisation infrastructures, including increasing education of pregnant women about vaccines, will aid the successful implementation of a future GBS vaccine.

Asunto(s)

Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo , Mujeres Embarazadas , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Vacunas Estreptocócicas , Streptococcus agalactiae , Humanos , Femenino , Embarazo , República Dominicana , Adulto , Estudios Transversales , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/prevención & control , Vacunas Estreptocócicas/inmunología , Vacunas Estreptocócicas/administración & dosificación , Streptococcus agalactiae/inmunología , Adulto Joven , Mujeres Embarazadas/psicología , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/prevención & control , Adolescente , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Vacunación/psicología , Vacunación/estadística & datos numéricos , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Aceptación de la Atención de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus sequence type 103 is known primarily as a bovine mastitis pathogen. In Brazil, it has circulated in cattle and humans since the 1990s. It lacks scpB and, in humans, was found only among carriage isolates. Bovine-human interspecies transmission may have contributed to its evolution and spread.

Asunto(s)

Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Bovinos , Humanos , Brasil/epidemiología , Animales , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/microbiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/veterinaria , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/transmisión , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética , Streptococcus agalactiae/clasificación , Streptococcus agalactiae/aislamiento & purificación , Femenino , Mastitis Bovina/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/microbiología , Enfermedades de los Bovinos/epidemiología , Filogenia

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a major cause of contagious bovine mastitis (CBM) in Brazil. The GBS population is composed of host-generalist and host-specialist lineages, which may differ in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic potential, and the surveillance of bovine GBS is crucial to developing effective CBM control and prevention measures. Here, we investigated bovine GBS isolates (n = 156) collected in Brazil between 1987 and 2021 using phenotypic testing and whole-genome sequencing to uncover the molecular epidemiology of bovine GBS. Clonal complex (CC) 61/67 was the predominant clade in the 20th century; however, it was replaced by CC91, with which it shares a most common recent ancestor, in the 21st century, despite the higher prevalence of AMR in CC61/67 than in CC91, and high selection pressure for AMR from indiscriminate antimicrobial use in the Brazilian dairy industry. CC103 also emerged as a dominant CC in the 21st century, and a considerable proportion of herds had two or more GBS strains, suggesting poor biosecurity and within-herd evolution due to the chronic nature of CBM problems. The majority of bovine GBS belonged to serotype Ia or III, which was strongly correlated with CCs. Ninety-three isolates were resistant to tetracycline (≥8 µg/mL; tetO = 57, tetM = 34 or both = 2) and forty-four were resistant to erythromycin (2.0 to >4 µg/mL; ermA = 1, ermB = 38, mechanism unidentified n = 5). Only three isolates were non-susceptible to penicillin (≥8.0 µg/mL), providing opportunities for improved antimicrobial stewardship through the use of narrow-spectrum antimicrobials for the treatment of dairy cattle. The common bovine GBS clades detected in this study have rarely been reported in humans, suggesting limited risk of interspecies transmission of GBS in Brazil. This study provides new data to support improvements to CBM and AMR control, bovine GBS vaccine design, and the management of public health risks posed by bovine GBS in Brazil.

RESUMEN

Streptococcus agalactiae [group B Streptococcus (GBS)] poses a major threat as the primary cause of early-onset neonatal invasive disease, particularly when mothers are colonized rectovaginally. Although culture remains the gold standard for antepartum GBS screening, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) offers advantages in terms of sensitivity and turnaround time. The aim of this study was to validate the clinical utility of an automated qPCR laboratory-developed test (LDT) for antepartum GBS screening using the Panther Fusion Open Access system (Hologic, California, USA). The LDT targeted a conserved region of the GBS surface immunogenic protein gene, demonstrating no cross-reactivity and high coverage (99.82%-99.99%). The limit of detection (LoD) was 118 CFU/mL. Comparison with commercial qPCR assays (Panther Fusion GBS and VIASURE Streptococcus B Real-Time) revealed an overall agreement of 99.7%, with a robust Cohen's kappa coefficient of 0.992. Testing of 285 rectovaginal swabs from pregnant women and 15 external quality assessment samples demonstrated exceptional diagnostic performance of the LDT, achieving a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100%, underscoring its accuracy. Prevalence and predictive values were also determined to reinforce test reliability. Our research highlights the limitations of culture-based screening and supports the suitability of our qPCR-based LDT for GBS detection in a clinical setting.IMPORTANCERectovaginal colonization by GBS is a major risk factor for early-onset invasive neonatal disease. The most effective approach to reducing the incidence of early-onset disease (EOD) has been described as universal screening, involving assessment of GBS colonization status in late pregnancy and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis. Despite its turnaround time and sensitivity limitations, culture remains the gold standard method for GBS screening. However, nucleic acid amplification-based tests, such as qPCR, have been utilized due to their speed and high sensitivity and specificity. This study validated the clinical usefulness of an automated qPCR-LDT for antepartum GBS screening through the Panther Fusion Open Access system (Hologic). Our study addresses the critical need for more robust, sensitive, and rapid strategies for GBS screening in pregnant women that could favorably impact the incidence of EOD.

Asunto(s)

Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo , Reacción en Cadena en Tiempo Real de la Polimerasa , Sensibilidad y Especificidad , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Streptococcus agalactiae , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética , Streptococcus agalactiae/aislamiento & purificación , Humanos , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/diagnóstico , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/microbiología , Femenino , Embarazo , Reacción en Cadena en Tiempo Real de la Polimerasa/métodos , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/diagnóstico , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/microbiología , Vagina/microbiología , Límite de Detección , Adulto

RESUMEN

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus; GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal invasive disease worldwide. GBS can colonize the human gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, and the anovaginal colonization of pregnant women is the main source for neonatal infection. Streptococcus anginosus, in turn, can colonize the human upper respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts but has rarely been observed causing disease. However, in the last years, S. anginosus has been increasingly associated with human infections, mainly in the bloodstream and gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. Although anovaginal screening for GBS is common during pregnancy, data regarding the anovaginal colonization of pregnant women by S. anginosus are still scarce. Here, we show that during the assessment of anovaginal GBS colonization rates among pregnant women living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, S. anginosus was also commonly detected, and S. anginosus isolates presented a similar colony morphology and color pattern to GBS in chromogenic media. GBS was detected in 48 (12%) while S. anginosus was detected in 17 (4.3%) of the 399 anovaginal samples analyzed. The use of antibiotics during pregnancy and history of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections were associated with the presence of S. anginosus. In turn, previous preterm birth was associated with the presence of GBS (p < 0.05). The correlation of GBS and S. anginosus with relevant clinical features of pregnant women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, highlights the need for the further investigation of these important bacteria in relation to this special population.

RESUMEN

Resumen: Streptococcus agalactiae o estreptococo del grupo B es un coco grampositivo, saprofito, colonizador del tracto gastrointestinal y genitourinario que causa infecciones fundamentalmente en recién nacidos, embarazadas y en raras ocasiones en adultos con enfermedades de base. La portación de este microorganismo puede ser causa importante de corioamnionitis y endometritis posparto. Se describirá la susceptibilidad de S. agalactiae en gestantes que asistieron al servicio de obstetricia en un hospital nivel II de Palmira entre el primero de enero de 2018 y el 31 de diciembre de 2019, mediante un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Se obtuvieron 58 cultivos rectovaginales positivos para S. agalactiae mediante hisopado vaginal y rectal, datos suministrados por el laboratorio del Hospital Raúl Orejuela Bueno. La prueba de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana se realizó utilizando el método automatizado VITEK-2. En los 58 cultivos rectovaginales positivos para Streptococcus agalactiae se observó una sensibilidad del 100 % a la ampicilina, levofloxacino y moxifloxacino; 98 % a la quinupristina, linezolid y vancomicina sensible.

---

Abstract: Streptococcus agalactiae, or Group B streptococcus, is a gram-positive coccus, saprophyte, and colonizer of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, causing infections primarily in newborns, pregnant women, and rarely in adults with underlying diseases. The carriage of this microorganism can be a significant cause of chorioamnionitis and postpartum endometritis. This study describes the susceptibility of S. agalactiae in pregnant women attending the obstetrics service at a level II hospital in Palmira between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019, through a retrospective descriptive study. A total of 58 rectovaginal cultures positive for S. agalactiae were obtained through vaginal and rectal swabs, data provided by the laboratory of the Raúl Orejuela Bueno Hospital. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the automated VITEK-2 method. In the 58 rectovaginal cultures positive for Streptococcus agalactiae, a sensitivity of 100% was observed for ampicillin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin; 98% for quinupristin, linezolid, and vancomycin.

---

Resumo: Streptococcus agalactiae, também conhecido como estreptococo do grupo B, é uma bactéria gram-positiva, saprófita, colonizadora do trato gastrointestinal e geniturinário, causando infecções principalmente em recém-nascidos, gestantes e, raramente, em adultos com doenças subjacentes. A presença desse microrganismo pode ser uma causa significativa de corioamnionite e endometrite pós-parto. Este estudo descreverá a susceptibilidade do S. agalactiae em gestantes que estiveram no serviço de obstetrícia em um hospital de nível II em Palmira, no período de 1 de janeiro de 2018 a 31 de dezembro de 2019, através de um estudo descritivo retrospectivo. Foram obtidos 58 cultivos retovaginais positivos para S. agalactiae por meio de amostras com cotonetes vaginal e retal, dados fornecidos pelo laboratório do Hospital Raúl Orejuela Bueno. O teste de susceptibilidade antimicrobiana foi realizado utilizando o método automatizado VITEK-2. Nos 58 cultivos retovaginais positivos para Streptococcus agalactiae, foi observada uma sensibilidade de 100% à ampicilina, levo- floxacino e moxifloxacino; 98% à quinupristina, linezolida e vancomicina sensível.

Asunto(s)

Mastitis Bovina , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Animales , Femenino , Embarazo , Humanos , Bovinos , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética , Mujeres Embarazadas , Brasil/epidemiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/veterinaria , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/microbiología , Mastitis Bovina/microbiología , Leche/microbiología

RESUMEN

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is the leading cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis but has been recently isolated from non-pregnant adults with underlying medical conditions like diabetes. Despite diabetes being a key risk factor for invasive disease, the pathological consequences during GBS infection remain poorly characterized. Here, we demonstrate the pathogenicity of the GBS90356-ST17 and COH1-ST17 strains in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. We show that GBS can spread through the bloodstream and colonize several tissues, presenting a higher bacterial count in diabetic-infected mice when compared to non-diabetic-infected mice. Histological sections of the lungs showed inflammatory cell infiltration, collapsed septa, and red blood cell extravasation in the diabetic-infected group. A significant increase in collagen deposition and elastic fibers were also observed in the lungs. Moreover, the diabetic group presented red blood cells that adhered to the valve wall and disorganized cardiac muscle fibers. An increased expression of KC protein, IL-1ß, genes encoding immune cell markers, and ROS (reactive oxygen species) production was observed in diabetic-infected mice, suggesting GBS promotes high levels of inflammation when compared to non-diabetic animals. Our data indicate that efforts to reverse the epidemic of diabetes could considerably reduce the incidence of invasive infection, morbidity and mortality due to GBS.

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal infections. The genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract of pregnant women are the main source of transmission to newborns. This work investigated the prevalence and characterized GBS from pregnant women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, comparing the periods before (January 2019 to March 2020; 521) and during (May 2020 to March 2021; 285) the COVID-19 pandemic. GBS was detected in 10.8% of anovaginal samples. Considering scenarios before and during the pandemic, GBS colonization rate significantly decreased (13.8% vs. 5.3%; p = 0.0001). No clinical and sociodemographic aspect was associated with GBS carriage (p > 0.05). A total of 80%, 13.8% and 4.6% GBS strains were non-susceptible to tetracycline, erythromycin and clindamycin, respectively. Serotype Ia was the most frequent (47.7%), followed by V (23.1%), II (18.4%), III (7.7%) and Ib (3.1%). An increasing trend of serotypes Ib and V, as well as of antimicrobial resistance rates, and a decreasing trend of serotypes II and III, were observed after the pandemic onset, albeit not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The reduction in GBS colonization rates and alterations in GBS serotypes and resistance profiles during the pandemic were not due to changes in the sociodemographic profile of the population. Considering that control and preventive measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic onset have impacted other infectious diseases, these results shed light on the need for the continuous surveillance of GBS among pregnant women in the post-pandemic era.

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) stands out as a major agent of pediatric disease in humans, being responsible for 392,000 invasive disease cases and 91,000 deaths in infants each year across the world. Moreover, GBS, also known as Streptococcus agalactiae, is an important agent of infections in animal hosts, notably cattle and fish. GBS population structure is composed of multiple clades that differ in virulence, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and niche adaptation; however, there is growing evidence of interspecies transmission, both from evolutionary analysis and from disease investigations. The prevention of GBS infections through vaccination is desirable in humans as well as animals because it reduces the burden of GBS disease and reduces our reliance on antimicrobials, and the risk of adverse reactions or selection for AMR. In this perspective article, we navigate through the landscape of AMR in the pediatric and multi-host pathogen GBS under the One Health perspective and discuss the use of antimicrobials to control GBS disease, the evolution of AMR in the GBS population, and the future perspectives of resistant GBS infections in the post-pandemic era.

RESUMEN

Introduction: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a human commensal bacterium that is also associated with infection in pregnant and non-pregnant adults, neonates and elderly people. Gap Statement: The authors hypothesize that knowledge of regional GBS genetic patterns may allow the use of prevention and treatment measures to reduce the burden of streptococcal disease. Aim: The aim was to report the genotypic diversity and antimicrobial sensitivity profiles of invasive, noninvasive urinary and colonizing GBS strains, and evaluate the relationships between these findings. Methodology: The study included consecutive and non-duplicated GBS isolates recovered in southern Brazil from 2015 to 2017. We performed multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) and PCR analyses to determine capsular serotypes and identify the presence of the resistance genes mefA/E, ermB and ermA/TR, and also antibiotic susceptibility testing. Results: The sample consisted of 348 GBS strains, 42 MLVA types were identified, and 4 of them represented 64 % of isolates. Serotype Ia was the most prevalent (42.2 %) and was found in a higher percentage associated with colonization, followed by serotypes V (24.4 %), II (17.8 %) and III (7.8 %). Serotype V was associated with invasive isolates and serotypes II and III with noninvasive isolates, without significant differences. All isolates were susceptible to penicillin. GBS 2018/ hvgA was observed in 17 isolates, with 11 belonging to serogroup III. The Hunter-Gaston diversity index was calculated as 0.879. The genes mefA/E, erm/B and erm/A/TR were found in 45, 19 and 46 isolates. Conclusion: This report suggests that the circulating GBS belong to a limited number of genetic lineages. The most common genotypes were Ia/MT12 and V/MT18, which are associated with high resistance to macrolides and the presence of the genes mefA/E and ermA/TR. Penicillin remains the antibiotic of choice. Implementation of continuous surveillance of GBS infections will be essential to assess GBS epidemiology and develop accurate GBS prevention, especially strategies associated with vaccination.

RESUMEN

Background: Data are limited regarding long-term consequences of invasive GBS (iGBS) disease in early infancy, especially from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where most cases occur. We aimed to estimate risk of neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) in children with a history of iGBS disease. Methods: A multi-country matched cohort study was undertaken in South Africa, India, Mozambique, Kenya, and Argentina from October 2019 to April 2021. The exposure of interest was defined as a history of iGBS disease (sepsis or meningitis) before 90 days of age, amongst children now aged 1·5-18 years. Age and sex-matched, children without history of GBS were also recruited. Age-appropriate, culturally-adapted assessments were used to define NDI across multiple domains (cognitive, motor, hearing, vision, emotional-behaviour, growth). Pooled NDI risk was meta-analysed across sites. Association of iGBS exposure and NDI outcome was estimated using modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimator. Findings: Amongst 138 iGBS survivors and 390 non-iGBS children, 38·1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 30·0% - 46·6%) of iGBS children had any NDI, compared to 21·7% (95% CI: 17·7% - 26·0%) of non- iGBS children, with notable between-site heterogeneity. Risk of moderate/severe NDI was 15·0% (95% CI: 3·4% - 30·8%) among GBS-meningitis, 5·6% (95% CI: 1·5% - 13·7%) for GBS-sepsis survivors. The adjusted risk ratio (aRR) for moderate/severe NDI among iGBS survivors was 1.27 (95% CI: 0.65, 2.45), when compared to non-GBS children. Mild impairment was more frequent in iGBS (27.6% (95% CI: 20.3 - 35.5%)) compared to non-GBS children (12.9% (95% CI: 9.7% - 16.4%)). The risk of emotional-behavioural problems was similar irrespective of iGBS exposure (aRR=0.98 (95% CI: 0.55, 1.77)). Interpretation: Our findings suggest that iGBS disease is on average associated with a higher risk of moderate/severe NDI, however substantial variation in risk was observed between sites and data are consistent with a wide range of values. Our study underlines the importance of long-term follow-up for at-risk neonates and more feasible, standardised assessments to facilitate diagnosis in research and clinical practice. Funding: This work was supported by a grant (INV-009018) from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to the London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine.

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococci (GBS) are important causes of neonatal sepsis and meningitis globally. To elucidate the potential benefits of maternal GBS vaccines, data is needed on the epidemiology of maternal GBS rectovaginal colonization, distribution of serotypes, and resistance to intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP). We collected rectal and vaginal samples from 305 pregnant women in León, Nicaragua between 35 and 40 weeks gestation. Samples were cultured for GBS and confirmed using latex agglutination. GBS isolates underwent serotyping by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disk diffusion and microdilution following Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines. Sixty-three women (20.7%) were colonized with GBS in either the rectum or the vagina. Of 91 GBS isolates collected from positive cultures, most were serotypes II (28.6%), Ia (27.5%), and III (20.9%). Most GBS isolates (52.9%) were resistant to penicillin, the first-line prophylactic antibiotic. Penicillin resistance was highly correlated with resistance to vancomycin, ceftriaxone, and meropenem. The results of our study suggest that one-fifth of pregnant women in the urban area of León, Nicaragua are colonized with GBS and risk transmitting GBS to their offspring during labor. High resistance to commonly available antibiotics in the region suggests that prophylactic maternal GBS vaccination would be an effective alternative to IAP.

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection during pregnancy is involved in maternal sepsis, chorioamnionitis, prematurity, fetal infection, neonatal sepsis, and neurodevelopmental alterations. The GBS-induced chorioamnionitis leads to a plethora of immune and trophoblast cells alterations that could influence endothelial cells to respond differently to angiogenic mediators and alter placental vascular structure and function in pregnant women. In this context, preventive measures are needed to reduce such dysfunctions. As such, we evaluated the effects of a non-lethal exposure to inactivated GBS on trophoblast cells and chorionic villi explants, and if the treatment with uvaol would mitigate these effects. The concentration of 106 CFU of GBS was chosen since it was unable to reduce the HTR-8/SVneo cell line nor term chorionic villi explant viability. Raman spectroscopy of trophoblast cells showed significant alterations in their biochemical signature, mostly reverted by uvaol. GBS exposure increased HTR-8/SVneo cells IL-1ß and IFN-γ production, phagocytosis, oxidative stress, and decreased trophoblast cell migration. The Ea.hy926 endothelial cell line produced angiopoietin-2, CXCL-8, EGF, FGF-b, IL-6, PlGF, sPECAM-1, and VEGF in culture. When co-cultured in invasion assay with HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells, the co-culture had increased production of angiopoietin-2, CXCL-8, FGF-b, and VEGF, while reduced sPECAM-1 and IL-6. GBS exposure led to increased CXCL-8 and IL-6 production, both prevented by uvaol. Chorionic villi explants followed the same patterns of production when exposed to GBS and response to uvaol treatment as well. These findings demonstrate that, even a non-lethal concentration of GBS causes placental inflammation and oxidative stress, reduces trophoblast invasion of endothelial cells, and increases CXCL-8 and IL-6, key factors that participate in vascular dysregulation observed in several diseases. Furthermore, uvaol treatment prevented most of the GBS-provoked changes. Hence, uvaol could prevent the harmful effects of GBS infection for both the mother and the fetus.

RESUMEN

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of human neonatal infections and bovine mastitis. We report here the unusual finding of the human-adapted hypervirulent serotype III/ST17 clone in a bovine GBS isolated in 1987 in Brazil. This isolate shared several phenotypic and genotypic characteristics with serotype III/ST17 strains obtained from human sources, including PFGE pattern, pilus genes, lactose fermentation, DNase activity, and antimicrobial susceptibility profile, highlighting the importance of continued tracking of GBS in the One Health scope. The study brings new evidence for the potential interspecies transmission and sheds new light into evolution aspects of the pathogen Group B Streptococcus (GBS) by reporting the occurrence of an ancient bovine GBS isolate belonging to a variant currently known to be exclusively found in human hosts.

Asunto(s)

Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Streptococcus agalactiae , Animales , Brasil , Bovinos/microbiología , Células Clonales , Femenino , Humanos , Serogrupo , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/veterinaria , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Vaccines in development against Group B Streptococcus (GBS) should contain the most prevalent capsular genotypes screened in the target population. In low- and middle-income countries epidemiological data on GBS carriage among pregnant women, a prerequisite condition for GBS neonatal sepsis, is needed to inform vaccine strategies. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of different GBS capsular genotypes that colonizes at-risk pregnant women in a private maternity hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: GBS strains isolated in routine maternity procedures from at-risk pregnant women from 2014 to 2018 were confirmed by mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) with subsequent DNA extraction for identification of capsular genotype through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Demographic and gestational data were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 820 Todd-Hewitt broths positive for GBS were selected for streptococcal growth. Recovery and confirmation of GBS by MALDI-TOF were possible in 352. Strains were processed for determination of capsular genotype by PCR. From the total of 352 GBS isolates, 125 strains (35.5%) were genotyped as Ia; 23 (6.5%) as Ib; 41 (11.6%) as II; 36 (10.2%) as III; 4 (1.1%) as IV; 120 (34.1%) as V and 1 strain (0.3%) as VIII. Two isolates (0.7%) were not genotyped by used methodology. No statistically significant correlation between gestational risk factors, demographic data and distribution of capsular genotypes were found. CONCLUSIONS: GBS capsular genotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, and V were the most prevalent isolates colonizing at risk pregnant women in the present study. The inclusion of capsular genotypes Ia and V in the composition of future vaccines would cover 69.6% of capsular genotypes in the studied population. No statistically significant differences were observed between capsular genotype and gestational and demographic data and risk factors.

Asunto(s)

Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Brasil , Femenino , Genotipo , Humanos , Recién Nacido , Embarazo , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/epidemiología , Mujeres Embarazadas , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología , Streptococcus , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: A pregnant woman rectally or vaginally colonized by group B Streptococcus can infect her newborn. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective, cross-sectional, analytical 24-month study in pregnant women. Women in labor with ≥ 36 weeks of gestation were included. Pregnancy was classified as normal or high-risk. Main risk factors of the pregnant women were analyzed. Rectal and vaginal samples were obtained, placed in Todd-Hewitt broth and subsequently inoculated in 5% sheep blood agar. Identification was carried out by biochemical tests and latex agglutination. RESULTS: 3,347 pregnant women were included. Mean age was 25.6 ± 5.3 years, 95.5% received antenatal care; 2,213 (66%) had normal-risk pregnancies, and in 1,370 (41%), delivery was by cesarean section. Overall colonization was 4.3% (145/3,347), and it was higher in the 30-34 years age group (6.8%). Serotype I (58%) was the most common. CONCLUSION: The percentage of colonization in this population was low. A routine cervicovaginal and rectal culture program in pregnant women and the intrapartum antimicrobial prophylaxis program are controversial in our region.

---

ANTECEDENTES: Una mujer embarazada colonizada por estreptococo del grupo B por vía rectal o vaginal puede infectar a su recién nacido. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo, transversal y analítico, durante 24 meses, en embarazadas. Se incluyeron aquellas en trabajo de parto con ≥ 36 semanas de gestación. El embarazo se clasificó como normal o de alto riesgo. Se analizaron los principales factores de riesgo de las embarazadas. Se tomaron muestras rectales y vaginales, se colocaron en caldo Todd-Hewitt y posteriormente se inocularon en agar sangre de carnero al 5%. La identificación se realizó mediante pruebas bioquímicas y aglutinación con látex. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 3,347 embarazadas, edad media 25.6 ± 5.3 años, 95.5% con control prenatal; 2,213 (66%) embarazo de riesgo normal y 1,370 (41%) obtenidas por cesárea. La colonización global fue del 4.3% (145/3,347), siendo mayor en el grupo de edad de 30 a 34 años (6.8%). El serotipo I (58%) fue el más frecuente. CONCLUSIÓN: El porcentaje de colonización en esta población fue bajo. Un programa sistemático de cultivo cervicovaginal y rectal en mujeres embarazadas y el programa de profilaxis antimicrobiana intraparto son controvertidos en nuestra región.

Asunto(s)

Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Portador Sano , Cesárea , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Humanos , Embarazo , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/epidemiología , Estudios Prospectivos , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Maternal colonization with group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a predictor of neonatal sepsis. In Nicaragua, neonatal sepsis is a major cause of hospitalization, but it can be prevented with intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis. We undertook this study to estimate the pooled prevalence of rectovaginal GBS colonization among pregnant women 35-40-week gestation in Nicaragua, and sensitivity of GBS isolates to various antibiotics. METHODS: We systematically searched electronic databases of peer-reviewed and unpublished literature using prespecified search terms. We included English- and Spanish-language studies of rectovaginal GBS colonization and/or antibiotic sensitivity of GBS isolates that followed internationally-recognized diagnostic standards, from various sites and years. Two reviewers independently abstracted data and assessed risk of study bias. We then meta-analyzed the pooled prevalence of rectovaginal GBS colonization and antibiotic sensitivity of GBS isolates. We performed subgroup analyses by geographic location, urbanicity, and study risk of bias. MAIN RESULTS: Prevalence of rectovaginal GBS colonization from 13 samples in 11 studies was 0.14 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.21). Effect size heterogeneity was identified between coastal (0.12 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.19]) and central study sites (0.23 [95% CI: 0.18, 0.28]), and between predominantly rural (0.06 [95% CI: 0.02, 0.10]) and urban (0.28 [95% CI: 0.19, 0.37]) samples of pregnant women. GBS sensitivity to penicillin, the first-line antibiotic for intrapartum prophylaxis, was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.71, 1.00) based on seven studies. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal GBS colonization was substantial in some study sites. Most GBS isolates are sensitive to recommended antibiotics, and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis may effectively prevent neonatal sepsis in Nicaragua.

Asunto(s)

Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo , Infecciones Estreptocócicas , Profilaxis Antibiótica , Femenino , Humanos , Recién Nacido , Nicaragua/epidemiología , Penicilinas , Embarazo , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/tratamiento farmacológico , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/epidemiología , Mujeres Embarazadas , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/tratamiento farmacológico , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/prevención & control , Streptococcus agalactiae , Vagina

RESUMEN

Abstract Background: Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS), a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, is transmitted from mother to neonate via placenta or during birth. Biofilm formation is an important factor in GBS pathogenesis. This study aimed to determine effects of pH, different culture media and nutritional composition on in vitro biofilm forming ability of GBS isolated from pregnant women. Methods: A total of 30 confirmed isolates of GBS from pregnant women were tested for biofilm formation in Todd Hewitt Broth (THB) at pH 4.5,6 and 7. Ten of these isolates were tested for biofilm formation in growth media THB, brain heart infusion broth, tryptic soy broth, Mueller Hinton broth and nutrient broth. Further they were tested for influence of glucose on biofilm formation using crystal violet and MTT assay. Results: Of 30 GBS isolates strong biofilm formation (SBF) was observed at pH 7 in 56.6 %(n=17) while 36.6%(n=11) isolates showed weak biofilm formation (WBF). At pH 4.5, 43.3% (n=13) were non biofilm formers. In THB without glucose, all 10 isolates were SBF while THB with 1% glucose, 3(30%) isolates were SBF, 5(50%) isolates were moderate biofilm producers and 2(20%) isolates were WBF. Ten isolates tested in 5 types of growth media did not show statistically significant difference in biofilm forming ability. Conclusion: All tested vaginal GBS isolates were able to produce biofilms, maximum biofilm formation of GBS was at pH 7.0. and pH 4.5 is not favorable, thus in normal vaginal pH (3.5 - 4.5), GBS finds it difficult to grow biofilms.

RESUMEN

ABSTRACT Background: Vaccines in development against Group B Streptococcus (GBS) should contain the most prevalent capsular genotypes screened in the target population. In low- and middle-income countries epidemiological data on GBS carriage among pregnant women, a prerequisite condition for GBS neonatal sepsis, is needed to inform vaccine strategies. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of different GBS capsular genotypes that colonizes at-risk pregnant women in a private maternity hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: GBS strains isolated in routine maternity procedures from at-risk pregnant women from 2014 to 2018 were confirmed by mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) with subsequent DNA extraction for identification of capsular genotype through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Demographic and gestational data were analyzed. Results: A total of 820 Todd-Hewitt broths positive for GBS were selected for streptococcal growth. Recovery and confirmation of GBS by MALDI-TOF were possible in 352. Strains were processed for determination of capsular genotype by PCR. From the total of 352 GBS isolates, 125 strains (35.5%) were genotyped as Ia; 23 (6.5%) as Ib; 41 (11.6%) as II; 36 (10.2%) as III; 4 (1.1%) as IV; 120 (34.1%) as V and 1 strain (0.3%) as VIII. Two isolates (0.7%) were not genotyped by used methodology. No statistically significant correlation between gestational risk factors, demographic data and distribution of capsular genotypes were found. Conclusions: GBS capsular genotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, and V were the most prevalent isolates colonizing at risk pregnant women in the present study. The inclusion of capsular genotypes Ia and V in the composition of future vaccines would cover 69.6% of capsular genotypes in the studied population. No statistically significant differences were observed between capsular genotype and gestational and demographic data and risk factors.

Asunto(s)

Humanos , Femenino , Embarazo , Recién Nacido , Complicaciones Infecciosas del Embarazo/epidemiología , Infecciones Estreptocócicas/epidemiología , Streptococcus , Streptococcus agalactiae/genética , Brasil , Mujeres Embarazadas , Genotipo