The Other Group G Streptococcus: Increased Detection ofStreptococcus canisUlcer Infections in Dog Owners

Abstract

Beta-Hemolytic Lancefield group G Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Streptococcus canis cannot be distinguished when only Lancefield typing is performed. Phenotypic testing and 16S rRNA gene sequencing identified S. canis associated with ulcer infections in dog owners. Because S. canis may be incorrectly identified (published biochemical descriptions are inconsistent), there may be an underestimation of the true number of infections. Identification of group G streptococci to the species level could have epidemiological and clinical implications.