Infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C
Infection Caused by Streptococcus Pneumoniae Serotype 18C
Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) is a Gram-positive, oxidative-fermentative, aerobic, and coccal bacteria. It is an important human pathogen that is an etiologic agent of many infections, such as bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis, otitis media, and bacteremia. Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C is an epidemiologically important variant of the organism that can cause a wide variety of illnesses.
Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C has been responsible for outbreaks of meningitis, pneumonia, otitis media, endocarditis, abscesses, and sepsis in hospitalized or outpatient children, adult, and elderly patients. It has recently been reported to be the most frequent etiologic agent in life-threatening infections developed by immunosuppressed individuals and in elderly patients. It has also been detected in patients with underlying malignancies, cystic fibrosis, and splenectomy.
The most common symptoms of infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Pain or a burning sensation in the chest
- Chills
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
It is important to seek medical attention right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, as they can be very serious and even life-threatening if left untreated. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if you have an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C and provide the appropriate treatment.
Treatment for an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C is typically a course of antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe a combination of antibiotics, depending on the severity of your infection and other factors. It is important to take all of the medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms start to improve, in order to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated from your body.
If you think you may have an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 18C, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help ensure a better outcome and a reduced risk of serious complications from this type of infection.
