Streptococci Flashcards
What are key characteristics of Streptococci?
Gram Positive cocci arranged in pairs/chains, faculative anaerobic, lactic acid production/fermentation
Catalase Negative
What organism is Group A strep?
S. Pyogenes
What is organism Group B?
S. Agalactie
What are differences between the hemolytic patterns?
alpha - partial hemalysis - green colored
beta - complete clearing
gamma - no change/minimal
What are common infections for Group A strep?
soft tissue, skin, and pharyngitis
What does Strep Group B commonly cause?
Neonatal diseases
What is the structure of S. Pyogenes?
M surface Proteins, Hyaluronic Acid Capsule, C5a peptidase. Group A.
How does S. Pyogenes avoid the immune system?
Capsule preventing phagocytosis
M-like proteins block C3a and bind Fc regions of antibodies preventing opsonization
C5a peptidase preventing complement
What is key in S. Pyogenes ability to invade the cell and adhere?
Surface protein M
What are kinds of Toxins produced by S. Pyogenes?
Spe toxins - superantigens, which are key to rapidly spreading infection in necrotizing fascititis due to the amplified immune response.
Also streptolysin, strepokinase, and DNAse
~All help mediate the spread of the infection
What type of patients have highest incidence of S. Pyogenes?
Children between 5-15 year old. Once developed an antibody to surface protein M the individual is protected.
How is S. Pyogenes transmitted?
Typically by droplet. Can colonize the pharynx without any symptoms.
What are illnesses associated with S. Pyrogenes?
Strep Pharyngitis, Scarlet Fever, Impetigo, Erysipeles, Strep Toxic Shock, Endocarditis (MURMURS), and necrotizing fasciitis (due to immune response).
What are late/after effects of a Strep infection?
Rheumatic Fever - from strep antigens being cross reactive to heart tissue and joint tissue and immune system attacks them
Glomerulonephritis - follows pharyngitis and skin infection and antibodies attack basement membrane of kidney
What would cultures identify about S. Pyogenes?
Gram Positive cocci in chains, catalase negative, group specific carbohydrates, and susceptible to bacitracin