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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
10:19
A Murine Model of Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Colonization
Published on: November 16, 2016
Acute bacterial arthritis caused by group C streptococci
B González Terán1, M P Roiz, T Ruiz Jimeno
1Rheumatology Division and Microbiology Section, Hospital Sierrallana, Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain.
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
|August 15, 2001
Summary
Group C streptococcus can cause serious joint infections, even in those without risk factors. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of this uncommon condition are crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Group C streptococcus is an uncommon cause of bacterial arthritis.
- This study aims to characterize joint infections caused by this pathogen.
Observation:
- A review of 24 cases of group C streptococcal arthritis was conducted.
- The most common species identified was Streptococcus equisimilis.
- Patients were predominantly male, with a mean age of 46 years.
Findings:
- Thirty-three percent of patients had pre-existing risk factors like general health issues or arthropathy.
- The knee was the most frequently affected joint, and infections were polyarticular in one-third of cases.
- Intravenous penicillin was generally effective, but some patients experienced sequelae or mortality.
Implications:
- Acute bacterial arthritis due to group C streptococci is a severe, albeit rare, condition.
- It can occur in individuals without apparent risk factors.
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to improve prognosis and reduce complications.
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