Streptococcus bovis does not selectively colonize colorectal cancer and polyps

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Streptococcus bovis (S. bovis) has been associated with colorectal neoplasms.
• Understanding the colonization patterns of S. bovis is crucial for potential diagnostic or therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the selective colonization of colorectal cancer and polyps by Streptococcus bovis.
• To determine if S. bovis exhibits a preference for neoplastic colorectal tissues over normal tissues.

Main Methods:

• Stool samples were collected prior to colonoscopy.
• Fluid and tissue biopsies (adenomas, adenocarcinomas, non-neoplastic polyps, normal mucosa) were obtained during colonoscopy.
• Cultures were performed to detect the presence of S. bovis in all collected samples.

Main Results:

• S. bovis was detected in 1/35 stools (2.9%) before colonoscopy.
• S. bovis was cultured from 7.5% of fluid aspirations, 3% of adenomas, and 2.5% of normal mucosa adjacent to adenomas.
• S. bovis was not found in adenocarcinomas or non-neoplastic polyps.

Conclusions:

• The findings do not support the hypothesis that Streptococcus bovis selectively colonizes colorectal neoplasms.
• The presence of S. bovis in various colorectal sample types suggests a more complex interaction than simple selective colonization of tumors.