Streptococcus longus is a type of bacteria that can cause infections in humans. The word "Streptococcus" is spelled /strɛptəˈkɒkəs/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced like "step" with an "r" sound, and the final syllable sounds like "kus." "Longus" is spelled /ˈlɒŋɡəs/, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" sound is long, like "lawn," and the final syllable is pronounced as "gus." Proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terms are crucial for clear communication and accurate diagnosis.
Streptococcus longus is a Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic bacterium that belongs to the Streptococcus genus. It is a spherical or oval-shaped bacterium arranged in chains or pairs, typically found in pairs in clinical samples. The species name "longus" in Latin means "long," referring to the elongated shape of these bacteria.
Streptococcus longus is commonly isolated from clinical specimens, such as respiratory tract secretions, blood, wounds, and abscesses. It is a part of the normal human oral and respiratory flora. Although it is generally considered of low pathogenicity, S. longus has been associated with various infections, including pneumonia, endocarditis, septicemia, and pleural empyema.
This bacterium exhibits beta-hemolysis when cultured on blood agar plates, which means it can lyse red blood cells, resulting in a clear zone around the colonies. It is catalase-negative, meaning it does not produce the enzyme catalase. Biochemical tests such as the production of acid from carbohydrates and sensitivity to different antibiotics can be used to further identify and distinguish Streptococcus longus from other streptococcal species.
Overall, Streptococcus longus is a bacterial species that can be found as a commensal in various human body sites, but it can also cause opportunistic infections under certain circumstances.
S. pyogenes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Streptococcus" is derived from the Greek words "streptos" meaning twisted and "kokkos" meaning grain or berry. The name refers to the characteristic chain-like arrangement of these bacteria when observed under a microscope. "Longus" is a Latin word meaning long or extended, which likely refers to the appearance or characteristic of this specific strain of Streptococcus bacteria.