Natural Science Forum / Biology / Microbiology / November 2004

Strep pyogenes ( Gp. A) and not just "infection" - usually severe infection suh
as manifested as scarlett fever.

There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy

Yes, Group A beta strep infections (Streptococcus pyogenes), if
untreated can lead to rheumatic fever. Yes, Group A also causes Scarlet
fever (but one doesn't see that much any more).

Group A beta strep infections are also seen in throat swabs ("strep"
throat), wound and skin infections (some manifesting as "flesh-eating"
strep, but not all strains), and occasionally causes septicemia (i.e.
"blood poisoning") in which bacteria gets into the bloodstream and can
cause death if untreated.

There are other beta hemolytic streptococci besides Group A, but this is
the one the docs worry about. This organism automatically goes on our
"call" list for critical findings if reported out on any type of
specimen.

Judy Dilworth, M.T. (ASCP)
Microbiology