What is the primary criterion that defines a streptococcus as belonging to the Viridans Group?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to identify the primary characteristic that distinguishes the Viridans Group Streptococci from other streptococcal groups, focusing on their classification based on hemolytic activity on blood agar and their role in the human microbiota.
Answer
Facultatively anaerobic, catalase-negative, Gram-positive cocci.
The primary criterion that defines a streptococcus as belonging to the Viridans Group is that they are facultatively anaerobic, catalase-negative, Gram-positive cocci.
Answer for screen readers
The primary criterion that defines a streptococcus as belonging to the Viridans Group is that they are facultatively anaerobic, catalase-negative, Gram-positive cocci.
More Information
Viridans Group Streptococci are typically found as commensals in the oral cavity and can play a role in oral infections and, occasionally, more severe infections such as infective endocarditis.
Sources
- Viridans streptococci - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
