Characterization of Streptococcus pyogenes Strains from Tonsillopharyngitis and Scarlet Fever Resurgence, 2023-FIRST Detection of M1_UK in Bulgaria.

ABSTRACT: Recently a resurgence of Streptococcus pyogenes infections has arisen, with concerns around the highly virulent M1_UK lineage. Our aim was to characterize S. pyogenes, the immune responses it causes, and to determine the presence of the M1_UK lineage in Sofia, Bulgaria. In our study, the infections were confirmed by culture testing or rapid antigen test. Identification was performed by MALDI-TOF and was followed up by antibiotic susceptibility testing (EUCAST). Virulence factors were identified using multiplex PCR and whole genome sequencing (WGS). Immune responses were measured through detection of serum complement levels, lymphocyte subsets, and cytokine profiling. Out of 82 children, 38 had scarlet fever and the rest had streptococcal pharyngitis. Strai

SUBMITTER: Keuleyan E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11767604 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature