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The Association between Invasive Group A Streptococcal Diseases and Viral Respiratory Tract Infections

Andrea L Herrera1, Victor C Huber1, Michael S Chaussee1

  • 1Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, The Sanford School of Medicine of the University of South Dakota Vermillion, SD, USA.

Frontiers in Microbiology
|April 6, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Viral infections can worsen Streptococcus pyogenes (group A strep) invasive diseases. Research explores how viruses impact immunity and bacterial interactions, focusing on influenza virus superinfections.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Upper respiratory tract viral infections can precede invasive diseases caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus).
  • These superinfections, involving multiple pathogens, present complex clinical challenges.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these polymicrobial infections is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize current knowledge on viral-Streptococcus pyogenes superinfections.
  • To highlight the role of influenza viruses in exacerbating group A strep invasive diseases.
  • To review key areas of research, including innate immunity and bacterial pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of viral-S. pyogenes superinfections.
  • Analysis of virus-induced changes in host innate immunity.
  • Investigation of bacterial adherence and internalization post-viral infection.
  • Evaluation of vaccine efficacy in mitigating superinfection outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Viral infections alter host defenses, creating opportunities for S. pyogenes invasion.
  • Specific viral pathogens, like influenza viruses, are frequently associated with severe superinfections.
  • Research is elucidating the molecular interactions between viruses and S. pyogenes.

Conclusions:

  • Viral infections significantly increase the risk and severity of invasive Streptococcus pyogenes diseases.
  • Further research into host-pathogen interactions is essential for therapeutic and preventative strategies.
  • Influenza virus-associated superinfections warrant particular attention due to their potential severity.
Keywords:
Streptococcus pyogenesgroup A streptococcusinfluenza

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