Streptococcus agalactiae

Streptococcus mitis group including s mitis s oralis

Article information

INTERMICROBIAL INTERACTIONS OF STREPTOCOCCAS WITH ASSOCIANTS ON THE MUCOUS TRANSMISSION OF THE TONSILS

In addition to β-hemolytic streptococci of group A and Streptococcus pneumoniae, other streptococci are often found on the mucous membrane of the tonsils, both normally and in pathology, the role of which is also ambiguous.
A number of authors indicate that S. mutans, S. milleri, S. mitis, S. sanguis, S. salivarius, S. acidominimus are an integral part of the normal microflora [2]. However, other researchers have shown that Streptococcus mitis and Streptococcus oralis are found in chronic tonsillitis [10], and SY Hwang et al classify Streptococcus viridans as pathogenic microorganisms [9]. Although three decades ago it was suggested that S. viridans is considered a non-pathogenic group only because researchers do not biotype this microorganism and report non-hemolytic strains [7]. However, it is now known that the pathogenicity attributed to one pathogen depends not only on its biological properties in monoculture, but can also be an integrated result of the action of several symbionts of the host parasitocenosis. Based on this, the purpose of our study was to evaluate the interbacterial interactions of streptococci with associates in the conditions of microsymbiocenosis of the tonsils of healthy people and patients with chronic tonsillitis.

Materials and research methods

The isolated strains of microorganisms were studied for hemolytic, antilysozyme, lysozyme activities and the effect on growth using generally accepted methods [4]. To assess the modification of pathogenicity factors and persistence of microorganisms, the method of cross-culture of symbiont strains was used [6].

Results and discussion

Differences in the species composition of microorganisms of the genus Streptococcus were revealed in healthy and sick individuals. Patients with tonsillitis did not have: S. mutans, S. acidominimus, S. bovis and S. hyicus, and S. ferus and the pathogen S. pyogenes were not cultured from healthy people. In addition, in patients, compared with healthy ones, there was a decrease in the proportion of such species as: S. sanguis - 1.3 times (p 0.05), S. salivarius - 2 times (p 0.05) and S. vestbularis by 2.5 times (p 0.05).

Rice. 1. Taxonomic composition of microbiocenoses of the mucous membrane of the tonsils of healthy individuals (A) and patients with chronic tonsillitis (B).

Table 1 Number of streptococci isolated from the mucous membrane of the tonsils of healthy people and patients with chronic tonsillitis

*differences are significant at p 0.05

Analysis of the diversity of intermicrobial interactions made it possible to establish that on the mucous membrane of the tonsils of healthy individuals, streptococcal flora has a predominantly suppressive effect on the expression of pathogenicity factors and persistence of symbionts (Fig. 2).

Less commonly, streptococci affected the ALA of symbionts. The ALA of staphylococci was most often modified, and in 100% of cases streptococci inhibited it. This was done most actively by S. salivarius. Two cases of streptococcal ALA enhancement within the species were recorded, and two signals for streptococcal ALA enhancement from the symbiont microflora were identified.

Most often, streptococci isolated from healthy individuals affected the LA of symbionts, but streptococci themselves did not experience influence on the LA from other microorganisms. Most often, the LA of staphylococci was modified, and streptococci suppressed it in 100% of cases. The following species most actively influenced the symbionts: S. salivarius, S. acidominimus, and S. oralis. Increased LA was observed only during interstreptococcal interactions.

Rice. 2. The influence of streptococci isolated from the biotopes of healthy individuals on the hemolytic (A), lysozyme (B), antilysozyme (C) activities and growth (D) of symbionts.

In the microsymbiocenosis of the tonsils with chronic tonsillitis, streptococci most actively enhanced the GA of symbionts: staphylococci, enterobacteria, enterococci, isolated mainly from pathococci. In addition, a significant stimulating effect of symbiont microflora on the GA of streptococci and, above all, on the pathogenic species S. pyogenes was noted. Its GA was enhanced by: S. haemolyticus, S. aureus, S. warneri and Klebsiella spp.

Rice. 3. The influence of streptococci isolated from the biotopes of patients with chronic tonsillitis on hemolytic (A), lysozyme (B), antilysozyme (C) activity and growth (D) of symbionts.

The influence of streptococcal flora on the growth of symbionts in the biotopes of the mucous membrane of the tonsils of patients with chronic tonsillitis was not as significant as in healthy individuals. Interstreptococcal relationships were characterized by suppression of growth characteristics. In addition, streptococci experienced the inhibitory effect of symbiont microflora, namely pathogenic staphylococci.

The study showed that on the mucous membrane of the tonsils of healthy individuals, streptococcal flora (S. salivarius, S. miti, S. sanguis and S. oralis) has a predominantly suppressive effect on the expression of pathogenicity factors and persistence of symbionts, and also suppresses the growth of symbiont microflora , mainly staphylococci and aerococci. At the same time, streptococci themselves were exposed to symbionts in isolated cases.

Similar features were revealed in the analysis of intermicrobial interactions of bifidobacteria with associates in intestinal dysbiosis and in normal conditions [1].

Chainikova I.N., Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Acting head Department of Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Professional Education, Orenburg State Medical Academy, Orenburg.

Chelpachenko O.E., Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Leading Researcher of the Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Molecular Genetic Research of the Institute of Water Resources, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Orenburg.

Bibliographic link

candidates and doctors of science

for articles, abstracts, dissertations, monographs, textbooks, teaching aids

Modern problems of science and education

Streptococcus mitis group including s mitis s oralis

Article information

INTERMICROBIAL INTERACTIONS OF STREPTOCOCCAS WITH ASSOCIANTS ON THE MUCOUS TRANSMISSION OF THE TONSILS

In addition to β-hemolytic streptococci of group A and Streptococcus pneumoniae, other streptococci are often found on the mucous membrane of the tonsils, both normally and in pathology, the role of which is also ambiguous. A number of authors indicate that S. mutans, S. milleri, S. mitis, S. sanguis, S. salivarius, S. acidominimus are an integral part of the normal microflora [2]. However, other researchers have shown that Streptococcus mitis and Streptococcus oralis are found in chronic tonsillitis [10], and SY Hwang et al classify Streptococcus viridans as pathogenic microorganisms [9]. Although three decades ago it was suggested that S. viridans is considered a non-pathogenic group only because researchers do not biotype this microorganism and report non-hemolytic strains [7]. However, it is now known that the pathogenicity attributed to one pathogen depends not only on its biological properties in monoculture, but can also be an integrated result of the action of several symbionts of the host parasitocenosis.

Based on this, the purpose of our study was to evaluate the interbacterial interactions of streptococci with associates in the conditions of microsymbiocenosis of the tonsils of healthy people and patients with chronic tonsillitis.

Materials and research methods

Results and discussion

Rice. 1. Taxonomic composition of microbiocenoses of the mucous membrane of the tonsils of healthy individuals (A) and patients with chronic tonsillitis (B).

The role of streptococcus salivarius in the microbiocenosis of the oral cavity and pharynx

The Streptococcus family has many species. They attack the human gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, live on the skin, and accumulate in the nose. But most often Streptococcus salivarius is found in the throat.

Features of streptococci

In this case, the occurrence of an infectious disease depends more on the immune system than on the number of bacteria in the throat. The norms of streptococcal microorganisms are a relative concept. Each person's immune system and ability to resist infection is individual.

Salivarius

Artificially, this strain was developed as a probiotic for oral use. It contains two proteins - salivaricin A and B. They are designed to suppress pathogenic microflora of the oral cavity. The streptococcus strain actively acts on both positive and negative pathogenic flora.

Streptococcus salivarius is a beneficial bacterium that acts as a toothpaste in the mouth. It produces enzymes that destroy plaque, prevent the appearance of tartar, and prevent the development of caries.

Enzymes regulate the number of pathogenic bacteria and prevent the formation of a film on the teeth. The effectiveness of enzymes is enhanced by the presence of sugar in the mouth.

Viridance

Viridans viridans streptococcus settles on tooth enamel and gums as normal microflora. It is safe in a certain amount. When immunity decreases, it begins to multiply quickly, has a detrimental effect on the body, and causes some infections.

These microbes are anaerobes, have a spherical or oval shape, and do not form spores. The bacteria form a chain in pairs, remaining motionless. They form a capsule, escaping phagocytosis, change their shape, and become immune to the body’s defense system.

They need carbohydrates and blood to survive. They are resistant to drying in the external environment and can last for several months on dry biomaterials. At 60° they die after 30 minutes, after treatment with disinfectants after 15 minutes.

Diagnosis of streptococcus

In addition to such common diseases of the pharynx as pharyngitis and tonsillitis, streptococcal bacteria can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

A throat swab for streptococcus is taken if inflammation of the pharynx and palatine tonsils is visually detected, and the patient voices corresponding complaints. The smear is cultured in the laboratory for about 5 days.

If the presence of colonies in the smear exceeds the number 10 to the 6th power, then this situation indicates an infectious process.

Pregnant women are a special risk group. Hemolytic streptococcus can cause illness in a woman and also penetrate the fetus, which sometimes provokes a miscarriage. In addition, treatment with antibiotics is undesirable for the expectant mother. The presence of streptococcus in the vagina of a pregnant woman requires sanitation. Otherwise, the child may become infected during childbirth when passing through the genital tract.

It is impossible to completely get rid of streptococcus; it is constantly present in the mouth and upper respiratory tract. In addition, some conditions will not require treatment. At the beginning of the disease, traditional medicine will be the most effective. Herbal medicine can be used as an independent method, as an additional means to medications, and also for prevention.

In addition, medicinal plants play the role of immunomodulators for a weakened body. These are such as Echinacea purpurea and Eleutherococcus root, rose hips. Treatment depends on the severity. If complex diseases develop, a course of antibiotics must be prescribed. Since streptococcus is sensitive to many drugs, broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed. In the future, treatment is continued taking into account sensitivity to pathogenic microorganisms.

By

Streptococcus agalactia

Streptococcus agalactia 10 to 6 degrees indicates the development of an acute inflammatory process in the genitourinary system. A representative of this bacterium belongs to group B, a beta-hemolytic species. Its name translates as “lack of milk.” The parasite was first discovered in cows suffering from mastitis.

Research has confirmed the danger of the bacterium for the human body . So in newborns, agalactia leads to the development of sepsis and infectious lesions of the heart muscle.

In half of the cases, infection in newborns is fatal.

Reasons for appearance

Streptococcus agalactia in a smear - the causes in women and men are associated with infection through sexual contact . Unprotected relationships lead to the penetration of many pathogenic microorganisms into the genitourinary system.

Men are mainly infected through sexual intercourse. In women, the penetration of bacteria is often caused by improper hygienic procedures of the anus and vagina. As a result, contamination occurs - bacteria easily penetrate from the anus into the genitourinary system.

Clinical manifestations

There are no symptoms of streptococcus agalactia in men and women. In most cases, the presence of a pathogenic microorganism is not accompanied by a specific clinical picture.

The bacterium is detected during a routine examination by a doctor. Streptococcus agalactia in a smear from the cervical canal indicates cystitis, vulvovaginitis or urethritis . Accompanied by characteristic symptoms. There are no specific clinical manifestations.

Often the bacterium is discovered during pregnancy. This requires immediate treatment . Otherwise, there remains a high risk of infection of the newborn. Treatment without antibiotics for streptococcus agalactia in a smear is impossible. However, due to the woman’s situation, gentle therapy is prescribed.

During a standard examination, a pathogenic microorganism is detected in 28% of cases. The main reservoir for its storage is the rectum.

Among lovers of non-traditional sexual relations, carriage of the bacterium is much more common.

A sharp increase in the number of microorganisms occurs for no apparent reason.

Diagnostic measures

How to treat streptococcus agalactia in an adult is determined by the doctor, based on the diagnostic measures performed. To confirm the diagnosis, material from the genital organs and a detailed study of urine are examined.

Pathogenic microorganisms are found in smears and urine in whole colonies. In pregnant women, standard diagnostics is supplemented by determining the amount of antibodies. Additionally, a search for “markers” from the DNA chain is carried out.

Types of research

Since staphylococcus lives everywhere, there are a number of tests that can detect it. For each species there are certain rules for collecting material and preparing. One of the general rules is that you should not take antibiotics for two weeks before the test.

Blood analysis . Venous blood is required and is donated at a medical facility. Indications: sepsis, suspicion of it, the presence of a large focus of infection in the body.
Examination of discharge from a wound . A smear is taken for analysis at a medical facility. Indications: the presence of a purulent wound.
Examination of urine and feces . The patient collects the material independently; a sterile laboratory container is required. Sterility is an important condition so that foreign microorganisms do not distort the result. Indications: genitourinary tract diseases and intestinal infections.
A smear from the mucous membranes, most often the nose or vagina . The material is collected by the doctor during the examination; this is a quick and painless procedure. Indications: infectious diseases of the ENT organs or genital tract in women.

Each of these tests confirms or denies the presence of bacterial overgrowth. An antibiotic sensitivity test can also be performed on the same material. In the presence of infectious diseases, it is done immediately, during a preventive examination - at the discretion of the doctor.

Diagnosis and treatment

Most common opportunistic pathogens appear pink under the microscope after Gram staining. They are called gram-negative and are often rod-shaped. Streptococci, on the other hand, appear blue/purple and are gram-positive. Their shape is usually round or oval (cocci).

A preliminary diagnosis of streptococcosis is made on the basis of history, symptoms, autopsy findings, and the detection of gram-positive bacteria on microscopic preparations of intravital sections of the brain, spleen, kidneys, or liver. Streptococci can be expected with a high probability if unbalanced swimming, bulging eyes, hemorrhages, rapid and massive death and, finally, the presence of gram-positive cocci in the brain, kidneys and other organs are observed.

Confirmation of the diagnosis requires culturing the microflora of tissues of internal organs, in particular the brain and kidneys, followed by studying the composition of bacteria. Blood agar medium is used for the development of streptococci. Accurate identification of cocci is necessary for proper treatment. There is a wide range of common antibiotics that work against gram-negative or gram-positive bacteria, including streptococci.

Ideally, once bacteria are detected, a sensitivity test should be performed to determine the most effective antibiotic. Generally, bacteria, including streptococci, are susceptible to erythromycin. In practice, the success of using one dose of this drug orally, 3.3 g per 1 kg of feed, for 10-14 days has been proven. Amoxillin (oral, 80 mg/kg body weight = 7.9 g/kg feed for 8-12 days) has been successfully used against streptococci in experimentally infected tilapia and sunfish (Darwish and Ismaiel, 2003; Darwish and Hobbs, 2005) . However, a sensitivity test is needed to help determine the suitability of a given antibiotic in an outbreak setting. Hence the importance of obtaining the help of a qualified ichthyologist or laboratory diagnostics.

What should the norm be?

The normal result depends on the medium from which the smear is taken. Basically the rule is, the less the better.

The blood and urine of a healthy person are sterile and do not contain bacteria.
The stool of a healthy patient contains a small amount of microorganisms - staphylococci are not the basis of the intestinal microflora. A positive result indicates bacterial carriage or a purulent disease.
The presence of infection in the wound indicates a purulent infection or a high risk of its development.
On mucous membranes, the upper limit of normal is considered to be 10*6 degrees - if there are more bacteria, this indicates the presence of a disease.

The danger of streptococcus

During pregnancy, Streptococcus agalactia can be suspected due to frequent urethritis and cystitis, but even healthy women are recommended to get tested. The fact is that agalactia is detected in 20% of pregnant women. If the patient has given birth to an infected child, examination in subsequent births is mandatory. In a woman, the infection spreads latently, but in a baby, streptococcus can cause complications.

Complications of streptococcus in mother and child:

urinary tract infections;
postpartum endometritis (inflammation in the surface layer of the endometrium of the uterus);
chorioamnionitis (inflammation of the membranes of the fetus);
spontaneous abortion;
infant pneumonia;
sepsis of the neonatal period;
endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart);
meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the brain).

When treating streptococcus agalactia, preference is given to complex therapy with penicillins or cephalosporins. Individual drugs are chosen depending on the specific situation. A timely visit to a doctor will help avoid complications not only for the woman herself, but also for her child.

[art_yt id=»zgoQmpKs2ak» wvideo=»680" hvideo=»360" position=»left» urlvideo=»undefined» namevideo='Streptococcus in a smear' desc='Everyone has heard about diseases such as tonsillitis and scarlet fever, but few know that these diseases are associated with one microbe called streptococcus.' durationmin=»03" durationsec=»37" related=»true» upld=»2017-06-07"]

Source: BornInVitro.ru

Streptococcus agalactiae

(Streptococcus agalactia) is a species of gram-positive, facultative anaerobic β-hemolytic bacteria.
According to the classification of R. Lancefield, it is a streptococcus of serogroup B
, a common abbreviation
GBS
, etc. The cells of
Streptococcus agalactiae
, like other streptococci, have a spherical shape.
Most often found in pairs. Does not form a dispute. All strains of Streptococcus agalactiae
have a group-specific polysaccharide, which consists of glucose, galactose, N-acetylglucosamine and rhamnose.

Streptococcus agalactiae

- the causative agent of mastitis in large and small livestock, which is why its name is connected: “agalactia” - lack of milk.

Streptococcus agalactiae infections

most dangerous for newborns.
However, in recent years there has been a relative increase in the number of diseases caused by Streptococcus agalactiae
in elderly people, in whom they most often cause infection of the skin and bones, sepsis without an obvious source of origin, urosepsis, pneumonia and peritonitis.

Streptococcus agalactiae infection in newborns

Streptococcus agalactiae

- streptococcus, found in some people as part of the normal intestinal microflora, in 20-30% of healthy women - in the urogenital tract.
Transmission of the infection from an infected mother usually occurs shortly before childbirth or immediately during childbirth. In the first hours and days after birth, a child can also become infected, but this happens much less frequently compared to pre- and intranatal infection. Streptococcus agalactiae
of newborns does not always lead to the development of an infectious process in newborns.
Risk factors for the disease of a child born to a woman infected with Streptococcus agalactiae
are: age of the pregnant woman (<20 years), a history of miscarriages or medical abortions, amnionitis, premature birth (<37 weeks), fever during childbirth (more than 37.5 ° C), long anhydrous period (>12 hours), intrauterine growth retardation and the presence of
Streptococcus agalactiae
in previously born children.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, USA, in its Recommendations* provide for mandatory testing for carriage of Streptococcus agalactiae

all pregnant women at 35–37 weeks.
In accordance with these recommendations, the detection of Streptococcus agalactiae
on the mucous membranes of the vagina and/or anal canal serves as the basis for antibiotic prophylaxis during childbirth in cases where a woman has risk factors such as: a) a newborn from a previous pregnancy suffered an infection caused by
Streptococcus agalactiae
;
b) bacteriuria caused by Streptococcus agalactiae in this pregnancy: c) unknown Streptococcus agalactiae
status and the presence of one of the factors: c1) childbirth before 37 weeks of gestation, c2) anhydrous period of more than 12 hours, c3) fever during childbirth.**

Standard antibiotic prophylaxis is carried out with benzylpenicillin (at a dose of 5 million units IV from the moment of the onset of labor, subsequently moving to a dose of 2.5 million units every 4 hours until the end of labor) or ampicillin (IV, initially at a dose of 2 g per injection , and then 1 g every 4 hours). If you are allergic to penicillins, they are replaced with clindamycin or erythromycin, but more often in these cases, cefazolin is recommended (iv, starting with 2 g per injection, then 1 g every 8 hours until the end of labor). If there is a high risk of developing anaphylaxis due to beta-lactam antibiotics, vancomycin IV 1 g every 12 hours until the end of labor can be used.**

* Prevention of perinatal group In streptococcal disease: Revised Guidelines from CDC // Morb. Mortal. Wkly Rep. 2002. Vol. 51. R. 10–22. ** Sadova N.V., Zaplatnikov A.L., Shipulina O.Yu., Podkopaev V.N., Shargorodskaya A.V., Karaseva L.N., Skachkova T.S., Smirnova V.S., Fomina S.G. Modern possibilities of etiotropic treatment and prevention of congenital infections // Breast Cancer. 2020. No. 6. pp. 348-350.

Streptococcus agalactiae infection in infants

Streptococcus agalactiae infections

in infants between one week and three months of age are called late. Infection occurs either during childbirth, or later through contact with the mother, other relatives, and medical workers. It most often manifests itself as meningitis. Mortality is up to 50%. Those who recover remain with neurological defects, such as delayed speech development, hearing loss, mental retardation, blindness, and epileptic seizures.

Selected indicators

The result is given as a number - this is the number of bacterial cells that have become the basis of the colony (CFU) per 1 ml of medium. The test is carried out on a nutrient medium for bacteria - the material being tested is placed in a special closed container, and if pathogens are present, they will begin to actively multiply.

10 to the 2nd power

If such an indicator is found on the skin, nose or throat, this is a variant of the norm . In this case, no action needs to be taken. If there are any skin problems, they are caused by other microorganisms.
If such a concentration is found in feces, then if you feel well, it is considered normal. Your doctor may be able to give you dietary recommendations. If there are symptoms of indigestion, the patient must begin treatment for dysbiosis.
In the vagina, this result is typical for a smear with purity level 3 or 4. This does not mean disease, but predisposes to it. It is advisable to undergo vaginal sanitation, but this is not urgent. This result becomes dangerous only during pregnancy.
A small amount of staphylococcus in the urine may indicate an inflammatory process or short-term bacteriuria. Repeated urine sampling is required after 2-3 days.
Any number of microorganisms in the blood is a dangerous sign. If there are no symptoms of sepsis, a repeat test is required 2-3 days after receiving the results.
The appearance of such a number of microorganisms in a wound is not an important diagnostic sign. Re-analysis required.

10 to 3

This value is quite normal for the skin. The mucous membrane of the mouth and nose shows this result both normally and in cases of incipient diseases.
Detection in feces is a possible carrier of the bacteria; repeated analysis is required.
In the vagina the situation is similar to the previous point.
In urine - most likely there is an inflammatory process in the urinary tract (urolithiasis, less commonly cystitis).
In the wound - a sign of a high risk of developing a purulent infection.

10 at 4

It is fixed on the skin with mild acne, but can be observed normally.
The mucous membrane of the nose and pharynx is a sign of chronic respiratory infections.
In the stool - bacterial carriage or dysbacteriosis; the patient is not recommended to work with food or contact with children (sanitation is required), in other cases it is not necessary.
In the vagina - an indicator of the active growth of pathogenic microflora.
In urine it is characteristic of urolithiasis and cystitis in remission.
In a wound - indicates that an infectious process has begun.

10 at 5

On the skin - acne, furunculosis, can be observed in healthy people.
Nasopharynx – chronic respiratory pathologies, colds with a risk of complications.
Feces are carriers or an active infection.
In the vagina - bacterial vaginitis.
Urine – acute cystitis.

10 at 6

On the skin – the upper limit of normal values, can occur with acne of varying severity.
In the nasopharynx - for infectious diseases.
Other environments – acute inflammatory process.

general information

Women most often find out about the existence of streptococcus agalactiae after a doctor takes a swab from their vagina. This microorganism usually settles in the intestines or genitourinary system, leading to the development of infections. Group B streptococcus looks like a chain of ellipsoidal or spherical structures. Although the organism is anaerobic, it can also exist in the presence of oxygen.

Streptococci may be present in healthy female microflora. If the indicators do not exceed 10 to 4 degrees CFU/ml, then they are considered normal. However, if something provokes increased cell development, then an area of complete hemolysis of red blood cells will appear around the growing colony.

As it develops, agalactia produces a number of toxins. Firstly, it is streptolysin, which destroys tissue around the pathogen. Secondly, leukocidin appears, influencing immune cells in such a way that microbes calmly avoid them. A necrotoxin is synthesized, which provokes tissue necrosis, as well as substances such as streptokinase, amylase and proteinase, which help agalactia to spread further.

Epidemiology

Streptococcus mitis enters the body orally. Bacteria normally live in the oral cavity of healthy people without causing the development of pathologies. Carriers of the infection, without having any clinical symptoms, can infect others. When bacteria get out of control of the immune system, an inflammatory process develops.

Long and high-dose chemotherapy for cancer pathology,
Active antibiotic therapy
Frequent inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs,
Regular use of antacids,
Deep neutropenia,
Bone marrow transplant,
Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules,
Hypothermia of the body,
Smoking,
Traumatic damage to the oral mucosa,
Herpes viruses,
Hormone therapy,
Immunodeficiency.

Streptococcus mitis is more often activated after hypothermia in the fall or spring.

The spread of infection occurs by an aerogenic mechanism, which is realized by airborne droplets, and by a contact-household mechanism, which is realized by contact and sexual tracts. Self-infection is possible - migration of the pathogen into the throat from inflamed sinuses in the presence of sinusitis.

Transmission routes

Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) is transmitted in a variety of ways. The most common infection occurs externally from a sick carrier. Ways of transmission of infection:

Airborne. The spread of infection occurs through coughing, talking, and sneezing. The bacteria first spread through the air and are then ingested by a healthy person.
Contact and household. Infection through the patient's personal belongings or dirty hands.
Nutritional. Infection occurs through food products that have not been cooked.
Sexual. The infection is transmitted during unprotected sexual intercourse.
Intrauterine. Infection occurs from a pregnant mother to a child.

There is also an artificial mechanism of pathogen transmission. Artificial infection occurs in medical institutions during invasive procedures (in dental practice, when removing tonsils or adenoids). Streptococcus pyogenes, like other types of streptococci, manifests itself quickly. The average incubation period is from 1 to 5 days.

We suggest that you familiarize yourself with Treatment of tapeworms in humans - drugs

Clinical picture

An infection of the throat is manifested by local and general symptoms.

redness and swelling of the throat mucosa

The first group includes redness and swelling of the mucous membrane, hypertrophy of the tonsils covered with pus, sore and sore throat, change in voice, enlargement of regional lymph nodes. A dry, painful cough is one of the main clinical signs with which patients usually consult a doctor.

Manifestations of intoxication syndrome are: fever, general malaise, rapid fatigue, chills, cephalgia, myalgia and arthralgia, loss of appetite. Common symptoms of infection in sick children are whims, crying, irritability, poor sleep, restlessness, and refusal to eat.

Symptoms of the pathology are the same in adults and children. If there are no clinical signs and viridans streptococcus is detected in a throat swab, no treatment is required. Bacteria that coexist peacefully do not pose a threat and should not cause panic. To avoid further troubles, it is necessary to constantly strengthen your immune system and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Diagnostics

The most informative method for diagnosing diseases caused by Streptococcus mitis is bacteriological. The throat discharge, blood, sputum and other secretions from the lesions are examined in a microbiological laboratory. Diagnosis also includes identifying the main symptoms and performing a complete blood count. All results obtained must be confirmed by the cultural method.

Using a sterile cotton swab, material is taken from the patient’s tonsils and arches. Within two hours, it is necessary to inoculate on standard nutrient media with serum or blood. After daily incubation of the crops, they are examined and the growth pattern is studied. Streptococci of this group are characterized by small round gray colonies surrounded by a zone of greenish hemolysis. Suspicious colonies are removed, microscoped, and their morphological and tinctorial properties are determined. Then a more detailed identification is carried out. Having determined the biochemical and serological properties of microbes, a conclusion is made about the species of this microorganism. Finally, an antibiotic sensitivity test is performed.

Express diagnostics is carried out using PCR - genetic material of Streptococcus mitis is detected in the saliva of patients.

Treatment process

Treatment of diseases caused by Streptococcus mitis is aimed at preventing complications that can develop on days 5-6. In the absence of adequate therapy, bacteria penetrate the blood, spread throughout the body and cause the development of serious complications - meningitis, pneumonia, middle ear. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the time of infection.

Viridans streptococci are sensitive to penicillins. Before determining the sensitivity of the pathogen, patients are prescribed Amoxiclav, Amoxicillin, as well as a drug from the group of glycopeptides - Vancomycin. The duration of their use is usually 7-10 days.
In addition to oral administration of antibiotics, local procedures are also prescribed - sucking lozenges and lozenges, rinsing the mouth with antiseptics and infusions of medicinal herbs, irrigating the mucous membrane of the pharynx with throat sprays.
Immunomodulatory therapy - Imudon and Lizobact are used to strengthen local immunity.
To restore the intestinal microflora, synbiotics are used - “Linex”, “Hilak Forte”.
During the febrile period, patients are recommended to take semi-bed rest, gentle nutrition, drink a sufficient amount of fluid, and strengthen the immune system.
If necessary, detoxification and antihistamines are prescribed - Enterosgel, Cetrin.
NSAIDs - Nurofen, Ibuklin - have an antipyretic effect.
To relieve signs of poisoning in the body, it is recommended to drink at least three liters of liquid per day and rinse your nose and mouth with saline solution.
For nasal congestion, vasoconstrictor drops are used - “Xylometazoline”, “Otrivin”.

If the symptoms of the pathology are ignored and an infectious sore throat is not treated, severe complications may develop in the heart, kidneys and other organs.

As the acute signs of inflammation subside, physiotherapeutic procedures are added. Patients are shown ultraviolet irradiation, electrophoresis with calcium chloride, and inhalation. Physiotherapy improves blood flow to organs and stimulates recovery.

Traditional medicine that relieves the symptoms of streptococcal infection:

Citrus fruits, rose hips, cranberries, kiwi, parsley, currants have an immunostimulating effect;

Apricot pulp relieves inflammation and restores the throat mucosa;

Onions and garlic are natural antibiotics and antiseptics;

Gargling with an infusion of string, chamomile, and calendula will help cope with the symptoms of pharyngitis;

Gargling with beetroot juice and apple cider vinegar;

Infusion of hops and decoction of burdock for oral administration;

Onions, raspberries, garlic, carrots, herbal decoctions are natural sources of vitamins and microelements.

Folk remedies cannot replace taking antibiotics. Before using them, you should consult your doctor. These additional treatments for streptococcal infections should be considered.

What is group A streptococcus

According to the hemolysis of erythrocytes - red blood cells, streptococci are divided into:

Non-hemolytic - Streptococcus anhaemolyticus;
Beta-hemolytic - Streptococcus pyogenes (pyogenic streptococcus);
Alpha hemolytic or greening - Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus viridans.

Streptococci with beta-hemolysis are considered clinically significant:

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a pneumococcus that causes sinusitis or pneumonia.
Streptococcus pyogenes (pyogenic streptococcus) are group A microorganisms that cause glomerulonephritis in children, as well as rheumatism and infectious tonsillitis.
Viridans or non-hemolytic streptococci are saprophytic bacteria that very rarely cause disease in humans.
Streptococcus agalactiae is a group B bacteria that causes diseases of the genitourinary system.
Streptococcus faecies and Streptococcus faecalis are enterococci that cause purulent inflammation of the peritoneum and endocarditis.

Streptococcal infection is a group of diseases: erysipelas, scarlet fever, local and generalized inflammatory and purulent processes (furuncle, abscess, wound infection, cellulitis, streptococcal sepsis, endocarditis and osteomyelitis). Streptococci can cause inflammation in the kidney area and rheumatism.

The pathogenic effect of streptococcus is the possibility of producing toxins and poisons. The pathogenic bacterium negatively affects blood cells and heart tissue, creating an enlargement of small vessels.

Streptococcus, entering the body, synthesizes enzymes that promote the spread of this bacterium in tissues. That is, streptococcus makes its own way for reproduction.

Classification of streptococcal diseases:

Primary - skin diseases (streptoderma, impetigo, ecthyma), respiratory diseases (sore throat, pharyngitis, otitis, acute respiratory infections), scarlet fever, erysipelas.
Secondary - toxic-septic, which do not have an autoimmune component (septic complications, necrotic tissue damage, metatonsillar and peritonsillar abscess), non-purulent, which have an autoimmune mechanism (glomerulonephritis, vasculitis, rheumatism).
Rare - necrotizing fasciitis, myositis, toxic shock syndrome, enteritis, sepsis, focal infection of internal organs, primary peritonitis.

Routes of infection

The reasons for the appearance of streptococci in the body are contact with a carrier or an infected person. The main methods of transmission of infection are as follows:

through a damaged area of the skin;
contact and household;
airborne.

The toxins released by these pathogenic microorganisms cause vomiting, fever, impaired consciousness and headache.

Streptococcal infection is expressed in the form of different symptoms. This depends on the location of the pathology process.

Scarlet fever

This disease is characterized by the appearance of a small, profuse rash on the skin. The symptoms of this disease are as follows:

inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis, sore throat);
severe intoxication;
a sharp increase in body temperature.

The primary symptoms of scarlet fever include the appearance of a pronounced headache, general weakness and chills. After infection, a rash appears on the skin of the hands and upper torso after approximately 5–10 hours. The peak of skin infection occurs on the 3rd day after infection. After an exacerbation, the symptoms of the disease decrease only after 3–4 days.

Angina

An infectious disease that appears as a result of the action of streptococci on the body only when a person has immunity against scarlet fever. Sore throat is a process of inflammation that affects the tonsils. It is as a result of improper treatment of this disease that the heart and kidneys are affected.

The causes of sore throat are the presence of favorable factors in the human body for the development of streptococci. These conditions include a sharp decrease in immunity, which usually occurs during cooling. Streptococcus penetrates the mucous membranes of the larynx and develops at tremendous speed. According to the nature of the pathological process of inflammation, it is divided into:

lacunar;
necrotic;
catarrhal;
follicular.

When there is a clear deficiency of barrier functions in the human body, there is a possibility of infection entering the tonsil tissue. This leads to the appearance of tonsillitis or peritonsillar abscess. Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, they lead to sepsis.

The incubation period for sore throat is 1–2 days. Initially, the disease is acute:

loss of appetite, feeling weak.
chills appear that last for more than an hour.
there is aching of the lower back and joints, which persists for several days after infection.
a dull headache appears that has no specific localization.

The most pronounced symptom is severe pain when swallowing in the larynx. At the beginning of the development of the disease, discomfort in the larynx is slightly disturbing. This symptom gradually intensifies, reaching its peak only on day 2. With sore throat, there is no skin rash. Follicles (white blisters) form on the tonsils or a whitish-yellow purulent coating appears.

This disease appears as a result of the development of pathogenic organisms on the skin - streptococci. Symptoms of the disease are similar to common infectious symptoms:

the appearance of characteristic muscle pain;
the appearance of general weakness and severe chills;
temperature increase to 38–39 degrees.

Specific symptoms of erysipelas include inflammatory infection of the skin at the site of infection, which has clear boundaries and bright coloring. Depending on the severity of the disease, only slight redness or blisters and hemorrhages may appear on the skin.

Osteomyelitis

The pathological process manifests itself in the form of purulent infection of the bone marrow. The inert substance dies, as a result of which an abscess appears, which breaks out as the disease progresses.

Sepsis

Streptococcus can provoke sepsis for years or give an immediate reaction, as a result of which a person dies within 2-3 days. Gradually occurring blood poisoning can be stopped or completely cured, the most important thing is to approach the treatment correctly.

Streptococcus is diagnosed using urine and blood tests.

To determine the degree of reaction of the human body to pathogens, an examination such as electrocardiography is performed.

To diagnose the type to which streptococcus belongs, a bacteriological examination is carried out, which involves taking biological material from infectious foci:

analysis of lesions on the skin;
analysis of sputum from the lungs;
tonsil smear analysis.

When examining the medical history, the doctor must distinguish streptococcal infection from measles, diphtheria, infectious mononucleosis, rubella, dermatitis and eczema. Analysis of the causative agent of the disease and the patient’s condition make it possible to establish the correct diagnosis.

The correct approach to diagnosis is the appointment of safe and effective treatment.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with Furunculosis on the body: photos, causes, treatment of furunculosis

Treatment of streptococci should be performed only after diagnostic measures have been taken. Only an examination for the causative agent of the disease gives the specialist the right to prescribe antibacterial agents. Treatment of an infectious disease is carried out using antibiotics that belong to the penicillin group:

bicillin-3 or bicillin-5 (treatment is carried out only two days after completion of penicillin therapy);
benzylpenicillin;
ampicillin.

Treatment with penicillin antibiotics is quite effective, since streptococci do not develop resistance to these drugs. When a patient is allergic to this group of antibacterial drugs, it is advisable to use antibiotics of the erythromycin group (Erythromycin, Oleandomycin).

Treatment of streptococcus with drugs of a number of sulfonamides (Sulfadimethoxine, Co-trimoxazole) is not carried out, since these drugs lead to asymptomatic carriage. It is also not recommended to take tetracyclines (Tetracycline, Doxycycline), since this treatment relieves the symptoms of the disease, but despite this the patient remains dangerous to other people, spreading bacteria.

Treatment with antibiotics must end with the mandatory prescription of drugs that normalize the microflora in the intestines. For these purposes, drugs such as Linex or Baktisubtil are suitable. This approach makes it possible to increase human immunity and remove toxins from the body.

Treatment of diseases must be carried out comprehensively. It is necessary to observe preventive general strengthening measures:

short-term use of combination products such as Coldrex or Theraflu, which contain paracetamol. This allows you to reduce the symptoms of the disease. Long-term use of these drugs is not recommended;
take ascorbic acid, which is involved in the removal of toxins and strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
drink at least 3 liters of liquid per day (fruit juice, tea, water, fruit drink). This will speed up treatment and can help remove toxins from the body.

Conservative treatment also includes the use of local medications. For example, during a sore throat, gargling is used only as a preventive measure. Treatment using this approach will not show the desired result, but will only slightly reduce the severity of symptoms.

The patient's diet must consist of foods rich in minerals and vitamins, all dishes are prepared in a gentle manner. It is necessary to include only easily digestible food in the diet so that the body’s energy is not wasted on digesting it.

Summarizing

Streptococcus can coexist quite peacefully with humans most of the time. Infection occurs after contact with a streptococcal patient or when immunity is reduced. Treatment of streptococcus is a rather difficult task, despite the fact that many bacteria are not dangerous to people; they can cause serious illnesses.

These are microscopic bacteria that look like balls. The diameter of streptococcal cells is 0.5-1 microns. They are motionless, as they have no tails, flagella, or cilia. Many strains of bacteria form a capsule where they grow as slimy colonies. Streptococcus (Streptococcus) is a gram-positive microbe with biochemical activity. It produces streptolysin, deoxyribonuclease, streptokinase, hyaluronidase and other enzymes that are factors of bacterial aggression.

Prevention

Temper yourself
Exercise,
Do not smoke or drink,
Keep your body and home clean,
Avoid hypothermia and drafts,
Get enough sleep
Maintain an optimal work and rest schedule.

Streptococcus mitis is an opportunistic microorganism that lives in the oral cavity and coexists peacefully with a huge number of other bacteria that actively populate this locus. With a decrease in the body's defenses, streptococcus mitis becomes a pathogen that causes acute infectious diseases of the throat - pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Patients with a sore and sore throat, intoxication and dry cough should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Factors

Most fish infections are caused by opportunistic microorganisms. This means that their mere presence is not enough to cause an outbreak. Other factors are also important, including weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infection. This condition is often observed during times of stress, which plays a significant role in the outbreak of infection. Stressing factors are increased temperature (in summer), high stocking density, transportation and rough handling of fish, poor water quality (high ammonium and nitrite content).

Bacteria that cause disease in fish are often classified based on their susceptibility or virulence (ability to cause disease). However, this is an inaccurate characterization. In fact, individual strains of bacteria differ in their virulence. Opportunistic pathogens are the least dangerous, and primary pathogens are the most virulent. For example, the most common bacterial pathogen of freshwater fish, Aeromonas hydrophila, is considered a true opportunistic pathogen because it is common in aquaculture and does not typically cause disease in healthy, well-maintained fish.

On the other hand, streptococci are not considered opportunistic because they can be more aggressive than many other bacteria. In an experimental study (Ferguson et al., 1994), populations of zebrafish and cardinalfish (Tanichthys albonubes) exposed to water with a high concentration of streptococci completely died within 2-4 days (100% mortality). Therefore, it is important to quickly identify the infection and take measures against large losses.