Microbiology

There has been much speculation on the pathogenesis of group B streptococcal disease in the neonate. One of the most likely pathogenic mechanisms is

Complement C5a, a potent chemoattractant, activates PMNs

The streptococci are resistant to penicillin

The alternative complement pathway is activated

In the absence of specific antibody, opsonization, phagocyte recognition, and killing do not proceed normally