Chapter 18, Problem 65TQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

The ways in which a viral infection can cause a permanent change in the pathogenicity of a group A streptococcus bacterium, and the method, if available, for determining whether the same strain of group A streptococcus is responsible for both sets of cases (cases reported at present and in the 1920s) or not.

Introduction:

The virulent strain of group A streptococcus infection results in necrotizing fascitis, a rapidly spreading destruction of the flesh, often accompanied by hypotension (low blood pressure), organ failure, and toxic shock. This group A streptococcus converts into the pathogenic form by becoming infected with a certain virus. This virus’s genome contains a gene thatcodes for a tissue-destroying toxin.