Microbiology
gram-positive rod, A. haemolyticum (used to be Corynebacterium). Also Arcanobacterium (Actinomyces) bernardiae, Arcanobacterium (Actinomyces) pyogenes and a variety of others.
Epidemiologic Risks
Humans are the source.
Syndromes
Pharyngitis that looks like group A streptococcus, perhaps 1% of sore throats, with a scarlatiniform rash (a rash with a sandpaper feel). Occasionally will infect chronic skin ulcers and cellulitis (PubMed).
Sepsis with Arcanobacterium hemolyticum.
Treatment
Anything: penicillin, cephalosporins, macrolides, vancomycin, and doxycycline are all effective.
Notes
Last update: 05/05/18