Systemic Complications of Streptococci in Chronic Tonsillitis: Case Series

Streptolysin O is one of the toxins produced from Group A Beta Hemolytic Streptococcal
(GABHS) infection. In the human body infected with GABHS will produce a natural
antigen, namely anti-Streptolysin titer O (ASTO). [1] Throat culture is performed to
determine the presence of group A Streptococci in the upper respiratory tract. Throat
cultures have a sensitivity of about 90% - 95% in detecting the presence of GABHS. The
purpose of writing this case report is to provide knowledge to peers about systemic
complications resulting from Streptococcal infection in tonsillitis. It has been reported in
all five cases mentioned above with an increase in ASTO titer >200 IU/ml. Of the five
patients experienced complications due to Streptolysin toxin, endophtalmitis, rheumatoid
arthritis and endocarditis. While from the examination of tonsil culture found Candida sp.,
Enterococcus faecalis, Enterobacter aerogenes.