Streptococcus viridans
Streptococcus viridans
Streptococcus viridans (pronunciation: strep-toe-COCK-us veer-ih-danz) is a group of Gram-positive bacteria that are part of the normal flora of the human mouth, skin, and intestines. They are known for their role in dental plaque formation and endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart valves.
Etymology
The name Streptococcus viridans comes from the Latin words streptos, meaning chain, and coccus, meaning spherical bacterium. Viridans is derived from the Latin viridis, meaning green, referring to the greenish hue that these bacteria produce when grown on blood agar.
Characteristics
Streptococcus viridans are non-motile, non-spore-forming, and facultatively anaerobic. They are catalase-negative and oxidase-negative. They are known for their ability to form biofilms, particularly on the surfaces of teeth and heart valves.
Pathogenesis
While Streptococcus viridans are typically harmless as part of the normal flora, they can cause disease if they enter the bloodstream, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or pre-existing heart conditions. The most serious infection associated with these bacteria is endocarditis, which can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Streptococcus viridans
- Wikipedia's article - Streptococcus viridans
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