#136 – GAS, Streptococcus pyogenes: Call It What You Want, It’s Got a Big Reputation

Group A Streptococcal infections remain a global challenge, spanning common conditions like pharyngitis to severe invasive disease. Dr. Shiranee Sriskandan, Dr. Josh Osowicki, and Dr. Tom Parks join host Dr. Erin McCreary to explore the evolving landscape of Group A Strep. From unpacking vaccine development challenges and the ongoing burden of rheumatic fever, to rethinking durations of therapy for strep throat and the role of adjunctive treatments, we have you covered! Join us as we break down key controversies, share expert insights, and highlight practical pearls you can apply in your own practice.

References:

1. https://www.lancefieldsociety.org/

2. Osowicki J, Lamagni TL. Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease in the US. JAMA. 2025;333(17):1493-1494. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.3257

3. Davis K, Abo YN, Steer AC, Osowicki J. Chains of misery: surging invasive group A streptococcal disease. Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2024;37(6):485-493. doi:10.1097/QCO.0000000000001064

4. Osowicki J, Azzopardi KI, Fabri L, et al. A controlled human infection model of Streptococcus pyogenes pharyngitis (CHIVAS-M75): an observational, dose-finding study. Lancet Microbe. 2021;2(7):e291-e299. doi:10.1016/S2666-5247(20)30240-8

5. Hla TK, Osowicki J, Marsh JA, et al. Establishing the lowest penicillin concentration to prevent pharyngitis due to Streptococcus pyogenes using a human challenge model (CHIPS): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet Microbe. 2025;6(5):101038. doi:10.1016/j.lanmic.2024.101038

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