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The contribution of group A streptococcal virulence determinants to the pathogenesis of sepsis

Mark Reglinski1, Shiranee Sriskandan1

  • 1Department of Infectious Disease and Immunity; Imperial College London; London, UK.

Virulence
|October 26, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes various infections. This review explores GAS virulence factors, focusing on coagulation and superantigens, to understand the rise in invasive GAS disease and toxic shock syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus, GAS) causes diverse illnesses, from mild pharyngitis to severe invasive infections.
  • Invasive GAS infections have resurged over 30 years despite antibiotic susceptibility.
  • GAS-associated sepsis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) etiology remain poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review virulence factors contributing to GAS-associated sepsis.
  • To focus on coagulation system interactions in GAS pathogenesis.
  • To elucidate the role of superantigens in STSS development.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Streptococcus pyogenes virulence factors.
  • Analysis of studies on GAS interaction with the coagulation system.
  • Examination of superantigen roles in streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Main Results:

  • GAS possesses multiple virulence factors contributing to invasive disease.
  • Coagulation system interactions are critical in GAS pathogenesis.
  • Superantigens play a significant role in the development of STSS.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding GAS virulence factors, particularly coagulation interactions and superantigens, is crucial for addressing invasive GAS disease and STSS.
  • Further research into these factors may reveal novel therapeutic targets.
Keywords:
STSSgroup A streptococcussepsissuperantigentoxic shock syndrome

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