Screening for the presence of Streptococcus agalactiae is used for the laboratory diagnosis of colonization of pregnant women with the microbe and as a guide to antibiotic perinatal prophylactic treatment to reduce the risk of neonatal infection by Streptococcus agalactiae. Screening should be between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation.
Streptococcus agalactiae (beta-hemolytic Streptococcus Group B, GBS) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among infants. Infections that occur during the first week of life are considered to be early onset while those that occur in infants older than 1 week are considered to be late-onset. Colonization of the mother's vagina or rectum with Streptococcus agalactiae is a risk factor for the early onset of the disease in newborns. An estimated 10 to 30% of pregnant women with the colonization of the vagina or rectum with Streptococcus agalactiae can transmit the infection to the baby during pregnancy and childbirth.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
