Streptococcus pneumoniae

Question 1

What type of pathogen is Streptococcus pneumoniae?

Answer 1

Gram positive coccus

Question 2

Where does Streptococcus pneumoniae reside?

Answer 2

Nasopharynx of 5-90% of healthy humans
Nosocomial: acquired in a healthcare setting

Question 3

What is the most common disease/infection of Streptococcus pneumoniae?

Answer 3

Pneumonia
Otitis media: infection of air-filled space behind the eardrum

Question 4

What is the portal of entry of Streptococcus pneumoniae?

Answer 4

Direct contact: coughing/sneezing brings bacteria to surface then transferred via contact with mucus and saliva

Question 5

What is the pathogenesis of Streptococcus pneumoniae?

Answer 5

Capsule (more than 90) prevents phagocytosis

Question 6

Can Streptococcus pneumoniae be treated with antibiotics?

Answer 6

Yes, but resistance is a problem
PCV13 vaccine protects against 13 capsule types

Question 7

Is Streptococcus pneumoniae a bad pathogen?

Answer 7

This organism is transient (not remain as permanent part of normal flora)
5-10% adults w/o children carrier
School-age children 20-60% carrier