Group A and Group B Streptococcus
Streptococcus is a bacteria commonly found on the skin and the throat. They occur in strips, pairs or chains of cells and have the ability to destroy red blood cells. They are a group of related bacteria that are a genus of spherical gram-positive bacteria, which means they react positively to gram tests. Newborn babies are usually prone to streptococcus, they also cause various diseases in humans, such as scarlet fever, pharyngitis and strep throat.
Streptococcus is classified as below -
1. Alpha hemolytic: Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus Viridans
2. Beta hemolytic: Streptococcus pyogenes, and Streptococcus agalactiae
3. Gamma Hemolytic: Enterococcus fecalis and Enterococcus faceium
They are usually distinguished by their cell arrangement or structure. But there are other ways to distinguish them as well. Based on the gram reactive tests the nature of the bacteria is classified as gram positive or negative. The streptococcus bacteria are grouped under the gram positive category.
Other ways of classifying streptococcus bacteria are on the basis of their ability to carry out hemolysis, which means to split blood. These bacteria cause hemolysis of blood by oxidation of iron in hemoglobin.
Group A Streptococcus -
They cause numerous infections, mainly -
1. Tonsils
2. Meningitis
3. Arthritis
4. Rheumatic fever
5. Sepsis
6. Pneumonia
7. Strep throat
8. Scarlet Fever
Certain group A streptococci (GAS) cause severe infection to certain class of people. For example those who take steroids or have cancer need to be extra careful as there is a high risk of infection, that can even be life threatening. These bacteria usually spread through those who have wounds on the skin. They need to be treated within 24 hours and the wounds should be washed and treated regularly.
Group B Streptococcus -
Group B streptococcus also known as streptococcus agalactiae, causes infections in newborns, which if not treated in time will lead to death. It happens to be one of the most common causes of sepsis in children. Sepsis is a serious condition where the toxins in the blood create an adverse response. The immune system starts to attack the body’s own tissues and organs. If it is present in the mother there are high chances of it being passed on to the baby, and sometimes result in the mother’s death. Usually in adults this bacteria does not cause any infection or sickness, and does not pose a threat. But the bacteria can become lethal if it comes in contact with a person having a weak immune system. People having chronic diseases have a weak immune system, and are prone to group B streptococcus. It can be diagnosed by performing a laboratory test of blood or spinal fluid. Treatments usually include antibiotics for a mother in labor which can be given through the vein.
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