Streptococci - causes, symptoms and treatment of the infection
Distinguishing Between Streptococcal Strains
Streptococci are spherical bacteria that can also reproduce without oxygen, but rather through fermentation. There are various strains of streptococci, and most strains are harmless. Streptococci are not normally considered dangerous as long as an individual’s immune system is intact and there are no specific health problems. However, if the immune system is weakened or certain individuals have a chronic illness, streptococci potentially dangerous . In these cases, there is a risk that an infection could lead to serious complications, including sepsis, a life-threatening conditionthat occurs when the bacteria spread throughout the body.
Streptococci are classified into different groups based on specific criteria. Streptococci produce bacterial toxins calledstreptolysins, which attack and destroy red blood cells. This process of red blood cell breakdown is alsocalledhemolysis. This results in the following types:
- Alpha-hemolyticstreptococci
- Beta-hemolytic(complete hemolysis) streptococci
- Gamma-hemolytic(no hemolysis) streptococci
Beta-hemolytic streptococciarefurthercategorizedinto the so-calledLancefield groups:
Group A (“Streptococcus pyogenes”)–typical infections: Scarlet fever, tonsillitis, erysipelas
Group B (“Streptococcus agalactiae”)–typical infections:Urinary tract infections, wound infections.
Group C, F, G – typical infections:purulentinfections
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mostly in the mouth and teethGroup D (“enterococci”)–typical infections:wound infections, intestinal infections.
If a streptococcal infection occurs
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it can lead to numerous diseases, some of which can be very dangerous. A streptococcal infection is one of themost commonbacterial infections in childhood. Currently, the number of child deaths due to Group A streptococci is rising dramatically again.
Symptoms of a streptococcal infection
Symptoms varydepending on the affected area of the body. The following symptoms may indicate a streptococcal infection:
- Fever
- Pus-like discharge
- Severe pain
- Swelling in the mouth and throat
Causes of streptococcal infection
Streptococcal bacteria can be transmitted bothdirectlyandindirectly. Direct transmission occurs throughdirect contact with an infected personor bysharing items such as food, drinks, utensils, or clothing.Indirect transmissioncan occur through contact with acontaminated surface such as doorknobs, handrails, keyboards, or telephone receivers. In most cases, streptococcal transmission occurs viadroplet infection. In a droplet infection, thepathogens aretransmitted through sneezing, coughing, or speaking. To prevent this, it is therefore always important to cover your mouth with your hand when sneezing or coughing and to disinfect your hands immediately afterward.
Group A streptococcioccur predominantly inchildren. Transmission of the pathogens is also highly likely in large groups, such as in daycare centers, schools, or residential homes.
To prevent streptococcal infections, children and adults shouldwash their hands thoroughlyandregularlyand maintain good hygiene. They should also cover their mouths with the crook of their arm when coughing or sneezing. If a child has a streptococcal infection, they should receive appropriate treatment with Treated with antibiotics. The child should also be kept home from preschool or school for a few days to prevent the infection from spreading to other children.
Rapid test for detecting a streptococcal infection
The fastest way to confirm a streptococcal infection is astreptococcal antigen test. This test can be performed at a clinic or laboratory. It involves taking a swab from thesurface of the throat or pharynx. The swab is thenplacedon aspecial culture plateand coated with a special liquid. If streptococci are present,a positive reaction appears on the culture plate. Aspecific antibody testcan then be performed to determinewhich type of streptococcus is present.
Treatment of a Streptococcal Infection
After seeing a doctor, you will be prescribedantibiotics. In most cases,penicillinis used to treat a streptococcal infection. Streptococcal infections respond well to antibiotic treatment.It is important to take the antibiotic exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Failure to follow the instructions may lead to serious complications. If you have an allergic reaction to penicillin, there arenumerous alternatives.
If you experience any adverse reactions after treatment with antibiotics, you shouldinform your doctor immediately. <
p class="p1">In cases ofGroup A streptococcalinfection, antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection. In some cases, treatment withcorticosteroidsmay also be necessary to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove the affected tissue. If a Group A streptococcal infection has occurred in the respiratory tract, treatment withcough suppressants and/or antihistaminesmay be necessary to relieve symptoms. It is also recommendedto drink plenty of fluidsandget adequate rest to speed up recovery.