Original article
English
Haifa Elkhoja, Asma Arebi, Sharada Hwewi, Nadia Saif Anser, Abdulaziz Zorgani, Abdulghani Elbadri.
1-Department of microbiology and immunology, Al-Fateh Medical University, Tripoli, Libya. 2-Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Al-Fateh Medical University, Tripoli, Libya. 3-Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tripoli, Medical Center, Tripoli, Libya.
Libyan J Infect Dis. 2010;4(1):35-40
Abstract
Background/objectives: Group B streptococcus colonization (GBS) also known as Streptococcus agalactia has been linked to some obstetric problems. It is recognized as the most frequent cause of severe early neonatal infection.
Aim of the study: To estimate the incidence of GBS and clinical resk factors associated with pregnancy among Libyan women.
Methods: The study was carried out in the period between the first of June 2006 until the end of February 2007 at the obstetrics and gynecology department, Tripoli Medical Center. 200 pregnant women at gestational age between 34 – 37 weeks were studied, a low vaginal swab was taken from each patient and all samples were immediately cultured and identified. A questionnaire was designed to elicit a history of the two statuses; the current and previous various risk factors associated with pregnancy.
Results: The presence of vaginal infection in pregnancy as well as positive history of vaginitis irrespective of pregnancy status were the only statistically significant risk factors associated with GBS colonization.
Conclusion: We recommend the introduction of risk-based screening of pregnant women with vaginitis if the resources are available.
Keywords: Group B streptococcus colonization, GBS, risk factors
Link/DOI: http://www.nidcc-jid.org.ly/pdf/v4no1/Group_B_Streptococcus_colonization_risk_factors_among_Libyan_pregnant_women.pdf