Beta-hemolytic
Beta-hemolytic (pronunciation: /ˈbeɪtə hɪˈmɒlɪtɪk/) is a term used in Microbiology to describe the complete lysis, or destruction, of red blood cells, resulting in a clear zone surrounding the colonies on blood agar.
Etymology
The term "Beta-hemolytic" is derived from the Greek words "beta", which is the second letter of the Greek alphabet, and "hemolytic", which comes from "hemo-" (blood) and "-lytic" (to break down).
Types
There are two types of beta-hemolytic bacteria: Group A and Group B.
- Group A streptococcus is a type of beta-hemolytic bacteria that includes Streptococcus pyogenes, which can cause diseases such as Strep throat, Scarlet fever, and Rheumatic fever.
- Group B streptococcus is another type of beta-hemolytic bacteria that includes Streptococcus agalactiae, which can cause infections in newborns, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Related Terms
- Alpha-hemolytic - This type of bacteria partially breaks down red blood cells, resulting in a greenish discoloration on blood agar.
- Gamma-hemolytic - This type of bacteria does not cause hemolysis and does not change the color of the blood agar.
- Hemolysis - The breakdown of red blood cells.
- Blood agar - A type of bacterial growth medium.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Beta-hemolytic
- Wikipedia's article - Beta-hemolytic
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