Group G streptococcal endocarditis and bacteremia.

This report describes fifteen recent cases of group G streptococcal bacteremia in patients with acute illnesses. Seven patients had acute endocarditis (47 percent). Four deaths occurred, and four patients had significant clinical complications during prolonged stormy courses. This series indicates a relatively high incidence of infective endocarditis in patients with group G streptococcal bacteremia, which is at variance with recent reports. Group G streptococcal bacteremia (with or without endocarditis) is a serious infection that often follows a hectic course with significant morbidity and mortality. The need for prompt recognition and aggressive treatment of this infection is underscored.