Detection of Group B Streptococcus in pregnancy by vaginal volatile organic compound analysis: a prospective exploratory study

Our objective was to assess whether volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis of vaginal swabs can detect maternal Group B Streptococcus during pregnancy in a prospective exploratory study. 243 women attending a high risk antenatal clinic at one university teaching hospital in the UK consented to take part and provide vaginal swabs throughout pregnancy. VOC analysis of vaginal swabs was undertaken and compared with the reference standard of GBS detected using enrichment culture method. The chemical components that emanated from the vaginal swabs were measured by gas chromatograph ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS).
Source: Translational Research - Category: Research Authors: Source Type: research