Immunology_chapter_14

Streptococcus pyogenes

The most common cause of bacterial pharyngitis, known for causing strep throat.

Scarlet fever

A disease caused by Streptococcus pyogenes associated with pharyngitis and a characteristic rash due to pyrogenic exotoxin.

Necrotizing fasciitis

An invasive infection where the bacteria destroy tissue, sometimes requiring surgical removal.

Post streptococcal sequelae

Diseases that occur following an untreated Streptococcus pyogenes infection, such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis.

Anti streptolysin O (ASO)

An antibody test used to detect previous Streptococcus pyogenes infections.

M protein

A virulence factor of Streptococcus pyogenes that inhibits phagocytosis and is critical for the bacteria's ability to cause infection.

Impetigo

A common skin infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes characterized by red, itchy pustules that can crust over.

Streptolysin O

An oxygen-labile toxin produced by Streptococcus pyogenes that lyses red blood cells, often used as an indicator of recent infection.

Streptococcus agalactiae

Group B streptococcus, a leading cause of early onset neonatal sepsis.

Cytokine storm

An overactive immune response to infection that can lead to severe inflammatory symptoms, often seen in streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Beta hemolytic

A classification of bacteria, including Streptococcus pyogenes, that lyse red blood cells, causing clear zones around colonies on blood agar.

URIs (Upper Respiratory Infections)

Infections affecting the upper respiratory tract, which can be caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

Hyaluronidase

An enzyme produced by Streptococcus pyogenes that breaks down hyaluronic acid, aiding in the spread of infection.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Infections that can be caused by Group B Streptococcus, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Neonatal septicemia

A severe infection in newborns that can be caused by Group B Streptococcus.

Toxic shock syndrome

A severe condition resulting from an immune response to streptococcal exotoxin, leading to shock and organ damage.

Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the pharynx, commonly caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

Culture testing

A method used to grow bacteria from a sample, commonly performed on blood agar to detect Streptococcus pyogenes.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system in response to pathogens, which can be formed following an infection.

Gram positive cocci

Bacteria that retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure, appearing purple under a microscope.