Word parts
What it means
A genus of bacteriumbak-TEER-ee-umA tiny one-celled living thing, seen only under a microscope, of which some kinds cause disease; the plural is bacteria.Full entry that look like chains of beads under the microscope. Group A strep (Streptococcus pyogenes) causes strep throat, scarlet fever and skin infections. Group B strep can pass from a mother to her baby during birth. Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common cause of pneumonianoo-MOHN-yuhAn infection of one or both lungs in which the air sacs fill with fluid or pus.pneum/o lung, air-ia conditionFull entry , ear infections and meningitis. Some strep infections can be followed by rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.
For the nurse
Pregnant clients are screened for group B strep late in pregnancy and given antibiotics in labor if positive. Teach a client with strep throat to finish the whole antibiotic course.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | strep; GBS (group B streptococcus) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | estreptococo |
| Also written | streptococci, streptococcal |
Related terms
bacterium
A tiny one-celled living thing, seen only under a microscope, of which some kinds cause disease; the plural is bacteria.
pathogen
A germ, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite, that can cause disease.
pneumonia
An infection of one or both lungs in which the air sacs fill with fluid or pus.
pharyngitis
Inflammation of the pharynx, the throat behind the mouth and nose.