Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus) meningitis
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus) is the most common cause of meningitis in neonates; it is less common in older children and occasionally causes meningitis in adults.
For meningitis caused by S. agalactiae in term neonates (gestational age 37 weeks or older), use:
benzylpenicillin 90 mg/kg intravenously, 8-hourly for at least 14 days; extend to 21 days for complicated infection. benzylpenicillin
For meningitis caused by S. agalactiae in adults and children, use:
benzylpenicillin 2.4 g (child: 60 mg/kg up to 2.4 g) intravenously, 4-hourly for at least 14 days; extend to 21 days for complicated infection. For dosage adjustment in adults with kidney impairment, see benzylpenicillin dosage adjustment. benzylpenicillin benzylpenicillin benzylpenicillin
For patients with penicillin hypersensitivity, seek expert advice.
When S. agalactiae infection is confirmed, stop dexamethasone therapy because it is of no benefit.