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The isolation and characterization of milleri group streptococci from dental periapical abscesses
1Department of Oral Biology, Dental School, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Reports of the isolation of streptococci from dental abscesses have shown an association of the "S. milleri" group with such lesions. There has been considerable confusion regarding the taxonomy of these organisms, but the milleri group has recently been reclassified into three distinct species: Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus intermedius. In this study, 45 samples from dental periapical abscesses were examined. Milleri group streptococci were isolated from 16 patients (37%), 15 being identified as S. anginosus and one as S. intermedius. In one patient, S. anginosus was isolated in pure culture, and it would appear that this is the predominant species of milleri group streptococci associated with periapical abscesses.
Insights
Streptococcus anginosus is frequently found in dental periapical abscesses. This study identified Streptococcus milleri group bacteria in 37% of samples, with S. anginosus being the most common species.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oral Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The "S. milleri" group of streptococci has been linked to dental abscesses.
- Recent reclassification established three distinct species: Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus intermedius.
- Taxonomic confusion previously surrounded these organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and species distribution of Streptococcus milleri group in dental periapical abscesses.
- To clarify the role of specific S. milleri group species in these infections.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 45 samples from dental periapical abscesses.
- Isolation and identification of streptococci using standard microbiological techniques.
- Species-level identification of the Streptococcus milleri group.
Main Results:
- Streptococcus milleri group was isolated from 16 patients (37%) of the samples.
- Streptococcus anginosus was the predominant species, identified in 15 isolates.
- Streptococcus intermedius was identified in one isolate.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus anginosus appears to be the most prevalent species of the Streptococcus milleri group associated with dental periapical abscesses.
- The findings contribute to understanding the etiology of dental abscesses and the role of specific streptococcal species.