Streptococcus pyogenes and frequency therapy

**Encyclopaedia entry: Streptococcus pyogenes** **Definition:** *Streptococcus pyogenes* is a Gram-positive, spherical bacterium belonging to the A Streptococcus group. It is known for its ability to cause a variety of infections in humans, ranging from mild throat infections to severe, life-threatening illnesses. **Properties:** - **Appearance:** *Streptococcus pyogenes* appears under the microscope as chains of cocci. - **Hemolysis:** It is beta-hemolytic, which means that it completely lyses red blood cells and forms clear zones on blood agar plates. - **Toxin production:** The bacterium produces various toxins and enzymes that increase its virulence, including streptolysins and pyrogenic exotoxins. **Infections:** *Streptococcus pyogenes* can cause a variety of infections, including: - **Pharyngitis (streptococcal angina):** A common sore throat characterised by sore throat, fever and swollen lymph nodes. - **Scarlet fever:** A disease characterised by a distinctive red rash and fever. - **Skin infections:** Impetigo, erysipelas and cellulitis. - **Invasive diseases:** Necrotising fasciitis (tissue destruction) and toxic shock syndrome. - **Post-infectious complications:** Rheumatic fever and acute glomerulonephritis, which can occur after a streptococcal infection. **Transmission:** - **Droplet infection:** Through coughing, sneezing or direct contact with an infected person. - **Contact infection:** By touching contaminated objects or surfaces. **Diagnosis:** Diagnosis is made by throat swab or other specimens cultured microbiologically to detect the presence of *Streptococcus pyogenes*. Rapid tests can also be used to diagnose streptococcal pharyngitis. **Treatment:** - **Antibiotics:** Penicillin is the drug of choice for treating infections caused by *Streptococcus pyogenes*. Alternative antibiotics such as erythromycin can be used if you are allergic to penicillin. - **Symptomatic treatment:** Painkillers and antipyretics to relieve symptoms. **Prevention:** - Good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with infected people. - Infected people should stay at home Infected persons should stay at home until they have been treated with antibiotics for at least 24 hours and no longer show symptoms. **What you need to know:** - *Streptococcus pyogenes* is a common cause of strep throat in children and adolescents. - The bacterium's ability to cause severe invasive disease makes it an important target for public health surveillance. **Research:** Research on *Streptococcus pyogenes* is focused on developing vaccines, improving diagnostic methods and understanding the mechanisms that can lead to severe infections and complications.