Clinical and Seroprevalence of Beta Haemolytic Streptococci in South India

Abstract

Beta Hemolytic Streptococci are the most causative agents of pharyngitis, tonsillitis and pyogenic skin infections, to severe invasive conditions like necrotizing fasciitis and meningitis. Though Group A is more predominant streptococci causing disease, Group B, Group C Streptococcus (GCS) and group G Streptococcus (GGS) Group F Streptococci are emerging pathogens. Development of antibiotic resistance among them is a major concern now. This study aimed to know serogroup of beta hemolytic Streptococci causing infection and to know antibiotic resistance pattern. Based on standard biochemical tests, beta hemolytic Streptococci were identified and serogrouping was done using commercial latex test kit. Antibiotic susceptibility was performed as per CLSI guidelines. Among 120 beta hemolytic Streptococci isolated, 63 consecutive Beta hemolytic Streptococci were subjected for serogrouping. Group A were 35(55.6%), 4 Group B, 9 Group C and F, 5 group G Streptococci. Among the 63 isolates majority of isolates were from throat swab 21(33.3%) followed by pus 18 (28.5%). BHS from sputum were 8 and 7 from endotracheal aspirates. All the isolates were sensitive to penicillin, 27% of the BHS were resistance to erythromycin. Information regarding the prevalent Streptococci in local geographical area is of great importance as non GAS groups are associated with severe skin and soft tissue infections. Another major concern is antimicrobial resistance among these serogroups. Knowing antibiotic susceptibility patterns helps in selecting appropriate antibiotic for effective management of these clinical conditions.

Keywords

• beta haemolytic
• serogroup
• streptococci
• resistance.