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Group G streptococcal infections on a dermatological ward
C Nohlgård1, A Björklind, H Hammar
1Department of Dermatology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Group G streptococci are frequently found in patients with chronic leg ulcers and skin infections. These infections require the same clinical vigilance as Group A streptococcal infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Streptococcal species, including Groups A and G, are common causes of skin and soft tissue infections.
- The prevalence and clinical significance of Group G streptococci in hospitalized patients, particularly those with chronic leg ulcers, warrant further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and clinical manifestations of Group G streptococcal infections in hospitalized patients.
- To compare the clinical significance of Group G streptococci with Group A streptococci in skin infections.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 63 in-patients from November 1987 to July 1988.
- Bacterial cultures were performed, and patients were monitored for clinical signs of infection.
- Comparison of Group G and Group A streptococcal isolates and their associated clinical conditions.
Main Results:
- Group G streptococci were isolated from 34 patients, with 25 cases of pyoderma and 3 of sepsis.
- Recurrent infections (phlegmon or erysipelas) occurred in 2 of 28 patients with clinical Group G infections.
- Erysipelas developed in 3 of 6 untreated patients who initially showed no signs of infection.
- Group G streptococci were isolated 2.6 times more often than Group A streptococci in in-patients.
Conclusions:
- Group G streptococcal skin infections, including pyoderma and sepsis, are clinically significant.
- Patients with Group G streptococcal skin infections should be managed with the same vigilance as those with Group A streptococcal infections.
- The higher isolation rate of Group G streptococci in in-patients suggests a potential increase in its prevalence or a specific association with this patient population.