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Hyaluronidase production in Streptococcus milleri in relation to infection
1Department of Microbiology, Tameside General Hospital, Ashton-under-Lyne.
Abstract:
One hundred and seven (41%) of 262 isolates of Streptococcus milleri, from human sources, produced hyaluronidase. Hyaluronidase production was commoner in beta haemolytic isolates 32 of 39 (82%), many of which were of Lancefield group F. But hyaluronidase was also found in alpha and non-haemolytic isolates, and in groups A, C, G, and non-groupable isolates. There was a strong association between hyaluronidase production and isolation from known internal abscesses (48/58, 83%) compared with isolates from the normal flora of uninfected sites (24/97, 25%). Isolates from 15 patients with endocarditis were uniformly negative, although 13 of 25 (52%) isolates from dental plaque produced the enzyme. Production of hyaluronidase may therefore be an important determinant in the pathogenicity of infection by S milleri and could be helpful in predicting the likelihood of deep purulent lesions in isolates from blood culture.
Insights
Hyaluronidase production by Streptococcus milleri is linked to internal abscesses. This enzyme may predict deep purulent lesions in S. milleri infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
- Enzymology
Background:
- Streptococcus milleri group (SMG) are commensal bacteria.
- SMG can cause various infections, including abscesses and endocarditis.
- Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid, a component of connective tissue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of hyaluronidase production in Streptococcus milleri isolates.
- To determine the association between hyaluronidase production and the source of isolation.
- To evaluate the potential role of hyaluronidase in the pathogenicity of S. milleri infections.
Main Methods:
- 262 human isolates of Streptococcus milleri were collected.
- Hyaluronidase production was assessed in vitro.
- Isolates were characterized by hemolytic activity and Lancefield grouping.
- Source of isolation was recorded and correlated with hyaluronidase production.
Main Results:
- 41% (107/262) of S. milleri isolates produced hyaluronidase.
- Hyaluronidase production was significantly higher in beta-hemolytic isolates (82%) and those from internal abscesses (83%).
- Isolates from endocarditis patients were negative for hyaluronidase, while 52% from dental plaque produced it.
- Hyaluronidase was detected in various hemolytic and Lancefield groups.
Conclusions:
- Hyaluronidase production is a common trait in S. milleri, particularly in beta-hemolytic strains.
- Hyaluronidase production is strongly associated with internal abscess formation.
- Hyaluronidase may be a virulence factor for S. milleri and a predictor of deep-seated infections.