Case report: Group B streptococcal bacteremia and sacroiliitis after mid-trimester dilation and evacuation

Abstract

Group B streptococcal bacteremia with septic arthritis is a rare complication of second trimester dilation and evacuation, and may cause substantial post-operative morbidity. A 37-year-old gravida 4 para 1-0-2-1 presented with fever and right hip pain on post-operative day 11 from a second trimester dilation and evacuation for fetal trisomy 21. She was initially found to have septic arthritis involving the right sacroiliac joint and group B streptococcal bacteremia. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed a tricuspid valve, vegetation consistent with endocarditis. After prolonged parenteral antibiotic therapy, she developed septic pulmonary emboli that were successfully treated with anticoagulation therapy. Group B streptococcal infection is a potentially serious post-abortion complication that can cause sacroiliitis, endocarditis and septic pulmonary emboli.