Viridans group streptococci: a reservoir of resistant bacteria in oral cavities

Clin Microbiol Infect. 2002 Feb;8(2):65-9. doi: 10.1046/j.1198-743x.2001.00398.x.

Abstract

The worldwide spread of erythromycin A-resistant streptococci, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, is of concern. Many studies have demonstrated that the viridans group streptococci can be a reservoir of erythromycin A resistance. Within oral streptoccoci, an important difference in the susceptibility pattern has been noted. The purpose of this short editorial is to highlight the importance of this group of bacteria as a reservoir of resistance to erythromycin A and the possible transfer of resistance to S. pneumoniae and S. pyogenes.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Disease Reservoirs
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial*
  • Erythromycin / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Mouth / microbiology*
  • Streptococcal Infections / microbiology
  • Streptococcus / classification
  • Streptococcus / drug effects*
  • Streptococcus / genetics
  • Streptococcus / isolation & purification*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Erythromycin