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Characteristics of Streptococcus species isolated from infectious skin diseases
S Higaki1, T Kitagawa, M Morohashi
1Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Japan.
Abstract:
During the period from January of 1995 to June of 1998, 27 beta-hemolytic streptococci were isolated from 25 cases of infectious skin diseases including secondary infections, impetigo, phlegmone, and paronychia. The rate of beta-hemolytic streptococci among all kinds of the isolates was found to be similar during those 4 years, ranging from 3.5% to 5.6%. Staphylococcus aureus were found to coexist with beta-hemolytic streptococci in 20 (80%) out of 25 cases. beta-hemolytic streptococci were also often associated with coagulase-negative staphylococci, gram-positive rods, or other species. Twelve cases (48%) carried beta-hemolytic streptococci predominantly. Most beta-hemolytic streptococci showed high susceptibilities to all antimicrobials tested; however S. agalactiae showed no susceptibility to gentamicin. The evaluation of characteristics of Streptococcus species is very important for selecting the right antimicrobial agents and the proper term of chemotherapy.
Insights
Beta-hemolytic streptococci were frequently isolated from skin infections between 1995-1998, often alongside Staphylococcus aureus. Most strains were susceptible to antimicrobials, except Streptococcus agalactiae to gentamicin.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Beta-hemolytic streptococci are significant pathogens in infectious skin diseases.
- Understanding their prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of beta-hemolytic streptococci isolated from skin infections.
- To determine the co-occurrence of other microorganisms and assess antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of bacterial isolates from skin infections between January 1995 and June 1998.
- Identification of beta-hemolytic streptococci and associated bacteria.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for isolated strains.
Main Results:
- Twenty-seven beta-hemolytic streptococci were isolated from 25 cases of infectious skin diseases.
- Co-infection with Staphylococcus aureus was observed in 80% of cases.
- Most isolates showed high susceptibility to tested antimicrobials, with notable resistance of Streptococcus agalactiae to gentamicin.
Conclusions:
- Beta-hemolytic streptococci are consistently found in skin infections, frequently with Staphylococcus aureus.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility varies, highlighting the importance of species-specific evaluation for guiding chemotherapy, particularly for Streptococcus agalactiae.