STREPTOCOCCIC BACTEREMIA CURED WITH SULFADIAZINE

Abstract

The classification of hemolytic streptococci proposed by Lancefield¹ in 1933 has proved an important advance in the study of streptococcic infections. Using the precipitin technic, based on the presence in hemolytic streptococci of a specific carbohydrate obtainable by acid hydrolysis, she divided these organisms into several groups, designated by the letters A to K, inclusive, and pointed out that most streptococcic infections in human beings were caused by members of her group A. Subsequent studies have confirmed this observation,² but a good many cases have been reported in which etiologic organisms were members of certain of the other groups. Group B strains have been isolated in cases of suppurative arthritis,³ puerperal sepsis⁴ and endocarditis.⁵ Severe cases of endocarditis⁶ and puerperal sepsis 4a have also been ascribed to members of group G. The status of group D organisms is beyond the scope of this paper and will be