In this Article

• Overview of streptococcal infections
• Strep throat
• Skin infections: Impetigo, Cellulitis, Erysipelas
• Impetigo
• Cellulitis and erysipelas
• Scarlet fever
• Severe strep infections
• Research
• Streptococcal Infections Glossary
• Streptococcal Infections Index

Research

Through research, health experts have learned that there are more than 120 different strains of group A streptococci, each producing its own unique proteins. Some of these proteins are responsible for specific group A streptococcal diseases.

With the support of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), scientists have determined the genetic sequence, or DNA code, for five different strains of the group A streptococcus organism.

By studying an organism's genes, scientists learn which proteins are responsible for virulence, crucial information that will lead to new and improved drugs and vaccines. NIAID funds are supporting research for developing a group A streptococcus vaccine and several candidate vaccines are in various phases of development.

As a result of NIAID-supported research, the first group A streptococci vaccine clinical trial in 30 years was conducted. The vaccine was well tolerated by patients and has led to further clinical evaluation of a similar vaccine candidate. An effective vaccine will prevent not only strep throat and impetigo but also more serious invasive disease and post-infectious complications like rheumatic fever. In addition, vaccine development efforts include NIAID support of epidemiological studies to determine the burden of group A streptococcal disease and characterize group A streptococcal strains causing illness in the United States and developing countries.

Source: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• amoxicillin, Amoxil, Dispermox, Trimox - Learn more about amoxicillin, including a description, generic and brand names, drug class and mechanism, preparations, storage, reasons for prescription, dosing, effect on pregnancy and nursing mothers, and common side effects.
• Rapid Strep Test - Learn about the rapid strep test used to quickly diagnose streptococcus infections. Symptoms of strep throat are similar to other conditions, and this quick test can easily rule out other causes of a sore throat.
• Rash - Learn about rash causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Common skin rashes include poison ivy, hives, shingles, eczema, contact dermatitis, ringworm, psoriasis and impetigo.

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