Beta-haemolytic streptococci and frequency therapy

Definition:

Beta-haemolytic streptococci are a group of belonging to the genus Streptococcus and are characterised by their ability to completely lyse (dissolve) red blood cells. These are identified on blood agar plates where they form clear zones around their colonies.

Groups:

Beta-haemolytic streptococci are further subdivided into different groups based on the Lancefield classification.

The most important groups are:

Group A (Streptococcus pyogenes): Causes a variety of infections, including strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis), scarlet fever, skin infections (such as impetigo) and invasive diseases such as toxic shock syndrome and necrotising fasciitis.
Group B (Streptococcus agalactiae): Common in newborns and can lead to serious infections such as septicaemia, pneumonia and meningitis. In adults it can cause urinary tract infections and other illnesses.

transmission:

Direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces.
Droplet infection through coughing or sneezing.
In newborns, transmission can occur from the mother during birth.

Symptoms:

Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection and may include

Sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes (in streptococcal pharyngitis).
Skin rashes and redness (in scarlet fever). -
Pain, swelling and redness of the skin (for skin infections).

Diagnosis:

throat swab or other samples for bacteriological culture.
Rapid tests to identify group A streptococci.
Blood tests for suspected invasive infections.

Treatment:

Antibiotics, usually penicillin or amoxicillin, are the standard treatment for infections caused by beta-hemolytic streptococci.
Alternative antibiotics can be used in case of allergies to penicillin.

Prevention:

Good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing.
Avoid close contact with infected persons.
Pregnant women are screened for group B streptococci to reduce the risk of transmission to the newborn.

Worth knowing:

Group A streptococci are also responsible for post-infectious complications such as rheumatic fever and acute glomerulonephritis.
Group B streptococci are the most common cause of severe bacterial infections in newborns.

Research:

Research is focussed on developing vaccines against streptococcal infections, improving diagnostic methods and understanding the mechanisms that lead to severe disease.