Group B beta-hemolytic streptococcal sepsis in the neonate.

In the past 40 years, the predominant organisms responsible for neonatal sepsis have changed. Whereas Group A betahemolytic streptococci were originally most common and staphylococci later became the major pathogens, Group B beta-hemolytic streptococci have become increasingly important in recent years. Predisposing factors include premature rupture of membranes, prolonged difficult labor, prematurity and congenital anomalies. The causes and clinical features of early-onset infection (in the first week of life) and late-onset infection are different.