Severe neonatal group A streptococcal disease

Abstract

Since the mid-1980s, an increase in incidence of invasive disease caused by group A streptococci has been noted amongst adults and children; however, neonatal disease is still rare. Between 1979 and 1998, seven neonates with severe group A streptococcal disease were admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit. The clinical presentation, treatment and outcome are described. In three cases of early-onset disease vertical transmission was documented.

Conclusion: Because the incidence of group A streptococcal disease in the general population seems to have increased over the last two decades, we should be aware of the possibility and particularly the severity of group A streptococcal disease in the neonatal period.