5330. Bacterial culture. Throat. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B Streptococcus). Antimicrobial resistance profile with MIC (if Streptococcus agalactiae is detected)

Throat culture for Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus) is a microbiological test that allows detection and quantification of the pathogen in the biological sample and assessment of its antibiotic susceptibility.

If the microorganism is detected, an antibiotic susceptibility test with MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) is performed, helping the physician select the most effective antibacterial drug for treatment or infection prevention.

Automated identification of microorganisms is performed using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry on the MALDI Biotyper sirius IVD System analyzer (Bruker, Germany).

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is a conditionally pathogenic microorganism that can colonize the mucous membranes of the oropharynx, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal tracts.

Normally, this streptococcus may be present in small quantities without clinical manifestations; however, under conditions of weakened immunity or microbial imbalance, it can cause infectious and inflammatory diseases.

In adults, S. agalactiae may cause pharyngitis, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and occasionally systemic infections.

It has particular clinical significance in pregnant women, as it is one of the main causative agents of neonatal sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia in newborns, who become infected during childbirth or through contact with infected birth canals.

Bacteriological examination of a throat specimen followed by antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Streptococcus agalactiae with MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) determination makes it possible to:

• Confirming bacterial infection or Group B Streptococcus carriage.
• Assessing the risk of infection transmission.
• Selecting appropriate antibacterial therapy for treatment or prevention.

Interpretation of results is carried out according to international EUCAST and CLSI standards.

In case of a positive result, the final decision on the necessity and duration of treatment should be made by the physician, taking into account the patient’s general condition and laboratory findings.

• In suspected bacterial tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, or pneumonia.
  
• In cases of frequent respiratory infections, persistent sore throat, or the presence of pus on the tonsils.
  
• For pregnant women – to timely detect streptococcal colonization that may pose a risk to the newborn.
  
• For newborns and infants with suspected Group B Streptococcus infection.
  
• As part of epidemiological monitoring or screening of contact persons in healthcare facilities.
  

• Various types of biological material depending on the test

• Take the material before the start of treatment with antibacterial/antimycotic drugs.
• In the case of treatment control – after the end of the course of antibacterial/antimycotic drugs after 14 days.
• Take the material on an empty stomach or 3-4 hours after consuming food and drinks.
• Do not smoke 4 hours...