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Rheumatic disorders associated with streptococcal infections
1Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong.
Abstract:
The proteins in the cell wall of Streptococcus have many functions, with some proteins being regarded as a marker of their rheumatological potential. High levels of antibodies directed against some proteins are seen in patients with acute rheumatic fever. The theory of molecular mimicry forms the basis of the relationship between the bacteria and the disease acute rheumatic fever. A distinct entity which does not fulfil Jones' criteria, and which is known as post-streptococcal reactive arthritis following infection with beta-haemolytic streptococci, is being encountered more frequently. A pyogenic form of arthritis due to Streptococcus is one of the most common and serious joint infections and requires prompt recognition and treatment.
Insights
Streptococcus cell wall proteins are linked to rheumatic diseases. Antibodies against these proteins and molecular mimicry explain acute rheumatic fever and related post-streptococcal reactive arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Streptococcus cell wall proteins play diverse roles, with some indicating rheumatological potential.
- Elevated antibodies against specific Streptococcus proteins are observed in acute rheumatic fever patients.
- The molecular mimicry theory explains the link between Streptococcus bacteria and acute rheumatic fever.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of Streptococcus proteins in rheumatological conditions.
- To understand the connection between Streptococcus infection and reactive arthritis.
- To highlight the significance of pyogenic arthritis caused by Streptococcus.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Streptococcus cell wall proteins.
- Immunological assays to detect antibodies.
- Clinical case reviews for post-streptococcal reactive arthritis and pyogenic arthritis.
Main Results:
- Certain Streptococcus proteins are identified as markers for rheumatological potential.
- High antibody levels against these proteins correlate with acute rheumatic fever.
- Post-streptococcal reactive arthritis is increasingly recognized, distinct from Jones' criteria.
- Pyogenic arthritis due to Streptococcus is a common and severe joint infection.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus proteins are crucial in the pathogenesis of rheumatic fever and related arthritic conditions.
- Molecular mimicry is a key mechanism linking Streptococcus infection to these diseases.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of Streptococcus-induced pyogenic arthritis are essential.