Group A streptococcal infection

Description

Sickness caused by certain species of streptococci bacteria, also called group A strep.

Overview

Group A streptococcal infections are caused by bacteria with a common protein on the cell surface. The infections result in a range of diseases, including strep throat, scarlet fever, skin infections and toxic shock syndrome. If not treated, group A strep infections can lead to other health problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms of group A strep infections depend on the site of infection. In general, group A strep symptoms may include pain, fever, aches and swollen lymph nodes.

Treatments

Group A strep infections are treated with medicine that targets bacteria, called antibiotics. These medicines may be taken by mouth or used on the skin. Medicines put on the skin also are called topical agents. Antibiotics for group A strep also may be given as a shot or put into a vein.