Viridans Streptococcal Infections.pdf

Viridans group streptococci (VGS) are Gram-positive bacteria that are commonly found in the oral cavity, gut, vagina, and upper respiratory tract. Although VGS are not typically pathogenic, they can cause bacteremia, infective endocarditis, meningitis, and pneumonia, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with hematological malignancies. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and microbiological characteristics of VGS bacteremia in pediatric patients with hematological malignancies. The study found that VGS bacteremia was associated with a high risk of complications, including sepsis and shock, and that the use of vancomycin in combination with other antibiotics may be effective in treating VGS bacteremia. The study also found that VGS exhibited resistance to penicillin and cefepime, highlighting the need for careful selection of antibiotics in the treatment of VGS bacteremia. Overall, the study highlights the importance of VGS as a cause of bacteremia in pediatric patients with hematological malignancies and the need for prompt and effective treatment to prevent complications.