Prevalence of group β streptococcus in pregnant women's urogenital tract
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Prevalence and isolation of group β streptococcus from urogenital tract of pregnant women
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Mamatha C. and Dr. M. Thangavel
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Prevalence and isolation of group β streptococcus from urogenital tract of pregnant women
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20173-7933
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Group β Streptococcus (GBS) is a major causative agent of vaginal infections in pregnant women, which can have severe repercussions for newborns during childbirth. The infection can be transferred to the infant, leading to conditions like neonatal sepsis and can be fatal. This research investigates the prevalence of GBS in pregnant women, along with an evaluation of their antibiotic resistance patterns and the Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) Index.
Prevalence of GBS in Pregnant Women
GBS colonization is prevalent in 15-20% of pregnant women, serving as a reservoir for neonates during delivery. The study collected vaginal swabs from 100 pregnant women aged 19 to 34 seeking medical assistance in a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore. The findings reinforce the association between GBS colonization and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as premature rupture of membranes, stillbirths, and low birth weight, which can result in severe pathological conditions like purulent meningitis and neonatal sepsis.
Antibiotic Resistance of Isolated Strains
The investigation included a thorough examination of the antibiotic resistance patterns of the isolated GBS strains using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Results indicated that the isolates exhibited a complete resistance to Erythromycin and Gentamicin, with the highest sensitivity observed towards Levofloxacin, Piperacillin/Tazobactam, Linezolid, and Cefoxitin. Notably, only a few strains showed resistance to Amikacin and Imipenem, with the majority remaining sensitive to Vancomycin. These findings highlight the growing concern regarding antibiotic resistance in GBS, necessitating ongoing surveillance.
Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) Index Assessment
The MAR Index was calculated for all isolates, showing values greater than 0.2, which categorizes them within the low-risk range. This metric assesses the prevalence of antibiotic resistance among bacterial isolates, with a lower value indicating a lesser risk of resistance. The study's results suggest that, despite the significant resistance to some antibiotics, the isolates still belong to a low-risk category. The implications are crucial for future clinical practices and the management of GBS infections.
Conclusion
This research emphasizes the importance of screening for GBS in pregnant women given its association with serious neonatal complications. While there are notable challenges concerning antibiotic resistance, especially with specific drugs, the low MAR index suggests that overall, the isolates do not exhibit high-risk levels for antibiotic resistance. Continuous monitoring and assessment are essential to mitigate risks involved in GBS infections and improve health outcomes for both mothers and newborns.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Group β Streptococcus (GBS) and its significance?
Group β Streptococcus is a major cause of vaginal infections in pregnant women, which can lead to severe complications in newborns, including neonatal sepsis and meningitis.
What was the focus of the study on GBS?
The study aimed to determine the prevalence of GBS in pregnant women, evaluate their antibiogram, and assess the Multidrug Resistance (MAR) Index of the isolates.
How were the vaginal swabs collected for the study?
Vaginal swabs were collected from 100 pregnant women seeking medical assistance, aged between 19 to 34 years, and transported to the laboratory for analysis.
What methods were used to identify GBS and assess antibiotic resistance?
Isolates were confirmed through Gram staining and catalase tests. The antibiotic susceptibility was tested using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method.
What were the findings regarding antibiotic resistance in GBS isolates?
The isolates exhibited total resistance to Erythromycin and Gentamycin, while showing sensitivity to Levofloxacin, Piperacillin/Tazobactam, Linezolid, and Cefoxitin.
What does the MAR Index indicate about the isolates' risk?
All isolates had a MAR Index greater than 0.2, indicating they belonged to the low-risk category for multidrug resistance.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Prevalence of group β streptococcus in pregnant women's urogenital tract”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Pregnant:
The term 'Pregnant' refers to the state of carrying a developing fetus within the uterus. In the context of this study, it highlights a specific population that is at risk for infections caused by Group β Streptococcus (GBS). Understanding the prevalence of GBS in pregnant women is essential for preventing possible complications during childbirth and ensuring the health of both mothers and their babies.
2) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
An 'Antibiotic' is a type of medication used to treat bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria or destroying them. In this study, the antibiogram assesses the susceptibility of GBS isolates to various antibiotics to determine effective treatment options. It provides critical data for healthcare professionals to manage infections in pregnant women effectively.
3) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
'Narayana' in this context refers to Sree Narayana Guru College, where the study was conducted. Named after a prominent spiritual leader, the college is a significant institution in Coimbatore, India, contributing to microbiological research on important health issues like GBS in pregnant women, thereby impacting public health policies and practices.
4) Birth:
'Birth' signifies the process through which a baby is delivered from the mother's body. It is a critical focal point of this research as GBS infections in pregnant women can be transmitted to newborns during delivery. Investigating GBS prevalence in expectant mothers helps mitigate risks associated with childbirth and protects infant health.
5) Guru:
'Guru' translates to 'teacher' or 'mentor' in various South Asian languages. In this context, it is part of the institution's name, Sree Narayana Guru College. The title ties the research to educational and cultural roots, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in addressing health challenges, particularly in understanding GBS infections among pregnant women.
6) Table:
'Table' refers to a structured arrangement of data. In this study, it presents the antibiogram results of GBS isolates, illustrating their susceptibility or resistance to various antibiotics. Tables are critical in research for conveying complex information clearly and concisely, facilitating data comparison and aiding in drawing meaningful conclusions.
7) Blood:
'Blood' plays a vital role in the context of this study, particularly as it relates to the use of blood agar for culturing bacteria. Blood agar is a nutrient-rich medium that supports the growth of fastidious organisms like GBS. Analyzing the interaction between bacteria and blood components can yield insights into bacterial behavior and pathogenicity.
8) Discussion:
'Discussion' is a section in research where authors interpret their findings, contextualizing them within the broader scientific literature. In this article, the discussion likely addresses the implications of GBS prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns, and how this information can impact clinical practices regarding maternal and neonatal care.
9) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' represents the understanding and awareness gathered through research and study. The article emphasizes the importance of knowledge in managing GBS infections, which can lead to severe complications for both mothers and newborns. This understanding is crucial for developing preventive measures and educational programs for healthcare providers and expectant mothers.
10) Madhavi:
'Madhavi' references one of the authors linked to the methodology and results in the study. Author names are significant in academic writing as they attribute research contributions. The involvement of Madhavi and co-authors enhances credibility and demonstrates collaboration in uncovering essential data regarding GBS and its effects on pregnant women.
11) Medium:
'Medium' in this context pertains to the growth medium used in microbiological assays, such as transport medium that preserves sample viability and blood agar for culturing. Selecting the appropriate medium is crucial for accurate bacterial isolation and for studying antibiotic sensitivity, essential for managing infections in a clinical setting.
12) Glass:
'Glass' pertains to the glass microscope slides used for laboratory procedures like Gram staining. In microbiological research, using proper laboratory materials ensures the reliability of results. The glass slides allow for clear visual examination of bacterial samples, which is fundamental in confirming the presence of specific bacteria, such as GBS.
13) Beta:
'Beta' refers to Group β Streptococcus, the primary focus of this research. This bacterial group is significant for its role in neonatal and maternal infections. Understanding its prevalence and antibiotic resistance is critical for developing treatment protocols and preventing severe health outcomes for mothers and their newborns.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Prevalence of group β streptococcus in pregnant women's urogenital tract’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Antibiotic resistance, Antibiogram, Premature Rupture of Membrane, Gram staining, MAR index, Neonatal sepsis, Transport medium.