Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2025

The HoneyComb Paradigm for Research on Collective Human Behavior
Published on: January 19, 2019
Navigating a stealthy invader: Insights from two different Streptococcus intermedius cases
Erica Casey Anders1, Stanley Miller1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Carolinas Campus, USA.
Abstract:
Streptococcus intermedius, a gram-positive, beta-hemolytic, catalase-negative member of the Streptococcus milleri group, is a commensal organism within the human body that is known for its propensity to cause severe bacterial infections. This case report presents two distinct cases involving culture-positive S. intermedius infections. The first case involves a 53-year-old man diagnosed with new liver, lung, and brain lesions in the setting of suspected renal cell carcinoma. In the second case, an 84-year-old woman was found to have S. intermedius bacteremia with concurrent culture-positive liver abscesses. These cases illustrate the intricate nature of S. intermedius infections, which may manifest with a diverse spectrum of clinically significant systemic symptoms. Presently, there are no standardized protocols for screening, and subsequently managing, S. intermedius infections. Since S. intermedius has the potential to mimic other infections or pathological conditions, it warrants space on a differential until a negative culture or PCR assay is obtained.
Insights
Severe bacterial infections caused by Streptococcus intermedius can present with varied systemic symptoms. Early consideration in differential diagnoses is crucial due to its potential to mimic other conditions.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Streptococcus intermedius, part of the Streptococcus milleri group, is a commensal bacterium.
- It is recognized for its potential to cause severe, systemic infections.
Observation:
- Two cases of Streptococcus intermedius infection are presented.
- Case 1: A 53-year-old male with liver, lung, and brain lesions.
- Case 2: An 84-year-old female with bacteremia and liver abscesses.
Findings:
- Streptococcus intermedius infections can manifest with a wide range of clinical symptoms.
- The bacterium can mimic other infections or pathological conditions.
Implications:
- There are currently no standardized protocols for screening or managing Streptococcus intermedius infections.
- Maintaining Streptococcus intermedius on the differential diagnosis list is essential until confirmed negative by culture or PCR.
Related Concept Videos
Predator-Prey Interactions
Defenses Against Pathogens and Herbivores
Leaky Scanning
Steps in Outbreak Investigation
Masking and Demasking Agents
There are many masking agents, such as cyanide, fluoride, triethanolamine, thiourea, and 2,3-bis(sulfanyl)propan-1-ol (formerly 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanol), with the masking agent chosen based on...
Blinding

