Definition

1. Noun (plural)
   • Spherical Gram-positive bacteria occurring in pairs or chains: Streptococci are a type of bacteria characterized by their round shape and tendency to form pairs or long chains. They are classified as Gram-positive, meaning they retain a specific violet stain in a laboratory test, indicating a particular cell wall structure.
   • Cause of various diseases: These bacteria are pathogenic agents responsible for several human infections, such as scarlet fever and tonsillitis.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The laboratory test confirmed the presence of streptococci in the throat culture.
  • Scarlet fever is caused by certain strains of streptococci.
  • Antibiotics are effective against many streptococci infections.

Advanced Usage

• "Beta-hemolytic streptococci": A classification based on the bacteria's ability to completely break down red blood cells on a culture plate, often associated with more severe infections like strep throat.
  • Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci are the most common cause of bacterial pharyngitis.
• "Viridans streptococci": A large group of streptococcal bacteria that are typically part of the normal flora but can cause disease under certain conditions, such as endocarditis.
  • Viridans streptococci are a leading cause of subacute bacterial endocarditis.

Variants and Related Words

• Streptococcus (n, singular): The singular form referring to one bacterium or the genus name.
  • Streptococcus pyogenes is a common pathogenic species.
• Streptococcal (adj): Pertaining to or caused by streptococci.
  • She was diagnosed with a streptococcal infection.
• Streptococcemia (n): The presence of streptococci in the bloodstream.
  • Streptococcemia is a serious condition requiring immediate treatment.

Synonyms

• Streptococcus bacteria: A more formal or genus-specific term.
• Strep (informal, often in medical contexts): A common shortening, especially in terms like "strep throat."
  • The doctor said it's just a strep infection.

Related Phrases and Terms

• "Group A streptococcus (GAS)": A specific classification of streptococci known for causing diseases like strep throat, impetigo, and necrotizing fasciitis.
  • Invasive Group A streptococcus infections can be life-threatening.
• "Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer": A blood test that measures antibodies against a toxin produced by streptococci, used to diagnose past infections like rheumatic fever.
  • An elevated ASO titer suggests a recent streptococcal infection.

Noun

1. spherical Gram-positive bacteria occurring in pairs or chains; cause e.g. scarlet fever and tonsillitis