Group A Streptococcus (S. pyogenes)

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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic distinguishes Streptococcus pyogenes from other streptococcal bacteria?

  • Its beta-hemolytic activity, indicating complete lysis of red blood cells. (correct)
  • Its ability to produce spores under adverse conditions.
  • Its motility due to the presence of flagella.
  • Its classification as a Gram-positive bacterium.

A patient presents with symptoms of pharyngitis, followed by a red, sandpaper-like rash. Which complication of the initial infection is most likely indicated by the rash?

  • Rheumatic heart disease.
  • Scarlet fever. (correct)
  • Acute glomerulonephritis.
  • Necrotizing fasciitis.

What immunological process is most closely associated with the development of acute rheumatic fever following a Streptococcus pyogenes infection?

  • Exotoxin-mediated damage to the heart valves.
  • Type II hypersensitivity reaction involving molecular mimicry. (correct)
  • Deposition of immune complexes in the kidneys.
  • Direct bacterial invasion of the heart tissue.

In a patient diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, what virulence factor is primarily responsible for the rapid tissue destruction?

<p>Exotoxin SpeA, acting as a superantigen. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following a bout of streptococcal pharyngitis, a child develops edema, hematuria, and hypertension. Which of the following pathological processes is most likely responsible for these clinical signs?

<p>Glomerular deposition of immune complexes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Streptococci

Non-motile, non-spore-forming, spherical bacteria.

Beta-hemolytic streptococci

Destroys red blood cells completely around colonies in culture.

S. pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus)

A beta-hemolytic streptococcus; leading cause of strep throat.

Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)

Inflammation of the throat caused by Group A Streptococcus.

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Necrotizing Fasciitis

A severe infection of the deeper layers of skin and subcutaneous tissues, easily spreading across the fascia plane.

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Study Notes

  • Streptococci are non-motile, non-spore-producing, spherical bacteria.
  • They cause scarlet fever, rheumatic heart disease, glomerulonephritis, and pneumococcal pneumonia.

Group A Streptococcus

  • Includes S. pyogenes, a beta-hemolytic streptococci, which completely destroys blood cells.
  • It is a leading cause of:
    • Streptococcal pharyngitis ("strep throat")
    • Acute rheumatic fever
    • Scarlet fever
    • Acute glomerulonephritis
    • Necrotizing fasciitis
  • Can also cause:
    • Sinusitis
    • Otitis
    • Joint or bone infections
    • Meningitis

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