Beta-Hemolytic Strep: Understanding Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Beta-hemolytic streptococci are a type of streptococci, a genus of spherical bacteria that is characterized as lactic acid bacteria. They are divided into several groups that cause different maladies and can be treated in different ways.

Creation

• Red blood cells rupture to create clear areas surrounding bacterial colonies to create Beta-hemolytic streptococci.

Characterization

• Lancefield serotyping, which is based on the existence of certain carbohydrates residing in the cell wall, denotes that streptococci are beta-hemolytic.

Groups

• The two most common groups of beta-hemolytic streptococci are A and B. Group A beta-hemolytic strep is responsible for strep throat, rheumatic fever, and scarlet fever, while Group B is associated with pneumonia and meningitis.

Contraction

• Beta-hemolytic streptococci are easily contracted by any physical contact with a personal who already has them. Skin-to skin contact such as handshakes, kissing, or high fives can pass the streptococci on.

Treatment

• Antibiotics are used to treat all types of beta-hemolytic streptococci. It is best to consult a doctor to acquire a prescription for the proper antibiotic.