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Group B streptococcal septicemia of the newborn

Alternative Names:

Streptococcus agalactiae ; Sepsis of the newborn; Lancefield group B streptococcus; Group B streptococcus

Treatment:

Treatment may involve one or more of the following:

Antibiotics given by IV (intravenously)
Fluids (given by IV)
Medicines to reverse shock
Medicines or procedures to correct blood clotting problems
Oxygen therapy
Breathing help
ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenator) in very severe cases

Expectations (prognosis):

This disease can be deadly without early treatment.

Complications:

Possible complications include:

Calling your health care provider:

This disease is usually diagnosed shortly after birth, often while the baby is still in the hospital. However, if you have a newborn at home who shows signs of this condition, seek immediate emergency medical help or call the local emergency number (such as 911).

Review Date: 8/18/2006
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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