Streptococcus Flashcards
What is the morphology of Streptococcus?
Gram-positive cocci
round or oval
in pairs or chains
non-motile
non-spore-forming
facultative anaerobes.
What serious conditions can Group A Streptococcus cause beyond throat infections?
Septicaemia, pneumonia, arthritis, scarlet fever, glomerulonephritis, rheumatic fever.
What is the main cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis?
Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae).
How is Group A Streptococcus primarily transmitted?
Direct contact and respiratory droplets (e.g., saliva, nasal secretions).
What are three hallmark symptoms of strep throat?
Painful swallowing, red swollen tonsils (often with white patches), and fever.
What complications can arise from untreated strep throat?
Scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, glomerulonephritis.
What skin infections are caused by Group A Streptococcus?
Impetigo and cellulitis.
Describe two symptoms of scarlet fever:
Red rash and “strawberry” tongue.
What is necrotising fasciitis, and how does it start?
A severe connective tissue infection caused by toxin-producing S. pyogenes, entering through cuts or wounds.
Name three symptoms of necrotising fasciitis.
Intense pain, purple skin, blistering.
What is the mortality rate for untreated necrotising fasciitis?
30%
What is Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome?
A life-threatening illness from toxins causing low BP and multi-organ failure.
What are three lifestyle risk factors for Group A Strep infections?
Close contact, poor hygiene, and pollution/smoke exposure.
Why is frequent handwashing important in preventing Strep infections?
S. pyogenes can survive on hands for up to 3 hours.
What seasons see the highest rates of Group A Strep infections?
Late winter to early spring.
Name three symptoms of Group B Strep infection in newborns.
Floppiness, poor feeding, and grunting/difficulty breathing.
What is a fomite?
inanimate object such as a chair,fdoor handle, table
