Before talking about such a concept as “streptococcal infection”, it should be clarified that streptococci is a whole family of pathogenic microorganisms. If we examine this microbe under a microscope, then outwardly it resembles quite harmless chains of balls of various lengths - beads, so to speak. However, it should be noted that not all streptococci are the strongest pathogenic bacteria. Some of them are quite harmless in the human body, but, unfortunately, not all. Several species of this family still cause a huge number of serious pathologies, ranging from trivial food poisoning to dangerous purulent processes in almost any organ of the body.
Thus, streptococcal infection is a collective concept that implies a group of diseases directly caused by group A streptococci, which combine pathogenetic, morphological and immunological characteristics.
Streptococcal infection in children is represented by common diseases, in particular, erysipelas and scarlet fever, as well as local inflammatory processes with reflection on certain vital organs, as an option, on the skin, respiratory and urinary systems, as well as on the heart and joints. In the latter case, the following, mainly adults, pathologies are meant: abscesses, osteomyelitis, phlegmon, wound infection, boils, endocarditis and streptococcal sepsis.
Streptococcal infection has its own specific distribution, therefore, it is necessary to clearly know the dynamics of this inflammatory process. First of all, it is important to clarify that this kind of microorganism is capable of producing toxins and toxic substances. For example, if streptolysin destroys blood cells and heart tissue, then erythrogenin dilates the small vessels and causes skin allergies, and leukocidin destroys the immune system, in particular, white blood cells.
The carrier of streptococcal infection is a person, even if abnormal processes in his body are asymptomatic. The disease is transmitted by air, as well as by "unwashed hands" and direct care of a sick patient. The infection penetrates through the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, however, infection is also possible through the skin. What is the danger of this microbe?
Streptococcus secretes special enzymes that can be absorbed into the blood and lymphatic system, as a result of which streptococcal infection affects individual organs, such as the heart, bones, and also causes inflammation of the lymph nodes. It follows that this is a very dangerous disease - streptococcal infection, the symptoms of which are similar to many viral lesions. The patient may experience a rapid increase in temperature, migraine attacks, vomiting and digestive disorders, as well as complete or partial loss of consciousness. Such symptoms are characteristic of many diseases.
In addition, a characteristic difference between streptococcus and other pathologies is a pronounced allergic sign: an allergic reaction to the components of the structure of streptococcus is rapidly progressing in the body, and, as a result, weakening of the immune system, impaired functioning of the heart, kidneys and joints. It is important to know that the body, once affected by a streptococcal infection, is prone to re-infection, however, resistance to streptococcal toxins remains for life, that is, it is impossible to get scarlet fever again.
Streptococcal infection is diagnosed through detailed clinical studies and an examination by a qualified specialist who should clearly distinguish this pathology from measles, rubella, diphtheria and all forms of dermatitis. Treatment is recommended mainly antibacterial, but it is necessary to take into account the resistance of the microbe to a number of medications. One way or another, streptococcal infection requires timely medical attention.