beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection appearing as persistent fetal circulation
S. Shankaran, Z. Q. Farooki and R. Desai
Sixty neonates who were transferred to a neonatal intensive care unit
during a four-year period had diagnoses of persistent fetal circulation
(PFC). Six of these 60 neonates had beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection.
The clinical appearance of these six neonates included respiratory
distress, cyanosis, and/or apnea. The chest roentgenograms showed mild to
moderate lung disease. All six neonates had progressive acidosis with
hypoxemia. The diagnosis of PFC was made by cardiac catheterization or
contrast echoangiography. The neonates were treated with mechanical
ventilation, antibodies, and supportive therapy, including tolazoline
hydrochloride. Mortality was high; only one of the six neonates survived.
Streptococcal infection should be added to the growing list of conditions
associated with PFC.
