How Do You Spell STREPTOCOCCUS HAEMOLYTICUS?

1. Streptococcus haemolyticus is a species of Gram-positive, non-motile, and facultatively anaerobic bacteria that belongs to the genus Streptococcus. It is characterized by its ability to cause the breakdown of red blood cells, known as hemolysis. Streptococcus haemolyticus is often found as a part of the normal flora in the human respiratory tract and on the skin. However, under certain circumstances, it can become pathogenic and cause infections.

   This bacterium is typically grouped into the Lancefield Group C streptococci, which are classified based on their cell wall carbohydrates. The Lancefield grouping helps in differentiating between different streptococcal species, as well as determining their pathogenic potentials.

   In terms of clinical significance, Streptococcus haemolyticus is known to be a cause of various infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, as well as wound infections. However, it is considered less pathogenic compared to other streptococcal species, such as Streptococcus pyogenes or Streptococcus pneumoniae.

   To identify Streptococcus haemolyticus, microbiological techniques such as culture and biochemical tests are typically employed. It is also possible to use molecular methods, like polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for accurate species identification.

   In conclusion, Streptococcus haemolyticus is a Gram-positive bacterium that belongs to the genus Streptococcus. It exhibits the ability to cause the breakdown of red blood cells and is commonly found as part of the normal human flora. While it can cause infections, it is generally considered less pathogenic than other streptococcal species.

2. A species causing destruction of red blood cells.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for STREPTOCOCCUS HAEMOLYTICUS

The word "Streptococcus" is derived from two Greek words: "strepto" meaning twisted or bent, and "kokkos" meaning berry or seed. This reflects the characteristic chain-like arrangement of these bacteria under a microscope.

"Hemolyticus" is derived from the Greek word "haima" meaning blood and "lysis" meaning destruction or dissolution. It refers to the ability of this particular species of Streptococcus to cause the destruction of red blood cells.

Therefore, "Streptococcus haemolyticus" literally means "twisted or bent berry (bacteria) causing the destruction of red blood cells".