Diseases
streptococcal group a infections
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection is caused by bacteria known as Group A (beta-haemolytic) Streptococcus, the most common type of which is Streptococcus pyogenes. GAS is a common infection that can cause sore throats (pharyngitis), scarlet fever or impetigo (school sores).
Symptoms
- a sore, red throat with thick pus-like fluid around the tonsils
- fever and chills
- blisters, typically around the nose and mouth and the legs
- fever and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases.
- paleness around the mouth.
Causes
- group a streptococcus bacteria causes group a streptococcal infections.
Risk factors
- breathing in droplets of the bacteria released into the air after a cough
- drinking from the same glass or sharing utensils with someone who is sick.
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- physical exam.
- a tissue sample to look for an infection in a biopsy.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is streptococcal group a infections?
Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection is caused by bacteria known as Group A (beta-haemolytic) Streptococcus, the most common type of which is Streptococcus pyogenes. GAS is a common infection that can cause sore throats (pharyngitis), scarlet fever or impetigo (school sores).
What are the symptoms of streptococcal group a infections?
a sore, red throat with thick pus-like fluid around the tonsils, fever and chills, blisters, typically around the nose and mouth and the legs, fever and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases., paleness around the mouth.
What causes streptococcal group a infections?
group a streptococcus bacteria causes group a streptococcal infections.
Which medicines are used for streptococcal group a infections?
penicillin g procaine, penicillin g procaine-penicillin g
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