Group B Streptococcal Septicemia of the Newborn

Alternate Names : GBS Sepsis

How is the infection diagnosed?

The healthcare provider often suspects this infection when the infant is not doing well. The child often shows signs of being ill. The diagnosis is made by detecting GBS in the child's body. Samples of blood, urine, and even cerebrospinal fluid may be needed. This fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord. A sample of this fluid can be obtained by what is called a spinal tap. This involves inserting a needle through the skin of the back into the spinal column. A sample of the fluid can then be taken with the needle for examination.