Group B Streptococcus in surgical site and non-invasive bacterial infections worldwide: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objectives: The epidemiology of disease caused by group B Streptococcus (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae)outside pregnancy and the neonatal period is poorly characterized. The aim of this study was to quantify the role of GBS as a cause of surgical site and non-invasive infections at all ages. Methods: A systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42017068914)and meta-analysis of GBS as a proportion (%)of bacterial isolates from surgical site infection (SSI), skin/soft tissue infection (SSTI), urinary tract infection (UTI), and respiratory tract infection (RTI)was conducted. Results: Seventy-four studies and data sources were included, covering 67 countries. In orthopaedic surgery, GBS accounted for 0.37% ..