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

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

Author: Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists June 5, 2026 Duration: 1:25:11
Breakpoints
HealthEducationScience

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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Hosted by the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists, Breakpoints is a podcast dedicated to the intricate and ever-evolving world of antimicrobial therapy. Each episode delves into the practical challenges and scientific nuances faced by pharmacists on the front lines of patient care, from interpreting susceptibility data and optimizing dosing strategies to navigating the complexities of antimicrobial stewardship. The conversations in this podcast bridge the gap between groundbreaking infectious diseases research and its direct application in clinical settings, offering insights that are both academically rigorous and immediately useful. You’ll hear expert discussions on new resistance patterns, evolving treatment guidelines, and the real-world implementation of life-saving protocols. Designed for healthcare professionals committed to precision medicine, Breakpoints provides a deeper understanding of how to effectively manage infections and improve patient outcomes. Tune in for thoughtful analysis and forward-thinking dialogue that defines the critical role of specialized pharmacists in public health.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

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