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[Pleural empyema due to Streptococcus milleri]
Abstract:
Thus far little attention has been focused on the precise identification of Streptococcus viridans to species level and the clinical relevance of Streptococcus milleri, yet there is growing evidence that closer identification would be of significant clinical value. Streptococcus milleri was identified in 142 isolates from approximately 120 patients over a period of 12 months (June 1984-May 1985) at the Institute of Medical Microbiology, Zurich University Hospital. Pleural empyema was the source in eleven patients (10%). The presentation of six cases of pleural empyema in which Streptococcus milleri played a role, together with a review of the literature, may serve to emphasize the importance of an organism whose taxonomic status is still unclear.
Insights
Precise identification of Streptococcus milleri is clinically valuable, especially in pleural empyema cases. This study highlights the importance of this bacterium, despite its unclear taxonomic status.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Context:
- Limited focus on Streptococcus viridans speciation.
- Growing evidence for clinical significance of Streptococcus milleri identification.
Purpose:
- To investigate the clinical relevance of Streptococcus milleri.
- To emphasize the importance of precise bacterial identification.
Summary:
- Streptococcus milleri was identified in 142 isolates from 120 patients over 12 months.
- Eleven patients (10%) presented with pleural empyema caused by this bacterium.
- Six cases of pleural empyema involving Streptococcus milleri are presented.
Impact:
- Highlights the clinical value of identifying Streptococcus milleri to the species level.
- Underscores the importance of an organism with an unclear taxonomic status in clinical settings.