Non-pyogenic streptococci represent a diverse group of streptococci that are normal inhabitants of the mouth, throat and occasionally the gastrointestinal tract.
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'Silent bacteraemia' caused by these organisms can occur especially in individuals with poor dental hygiene or gum disease. This can result in endocarditis amongst vulnerable individuals, especially those with underlying conditions such as malignancies, diabetes or chronic heart disease.
Image: Streptococcus mitis.
November 2011: Pyogenic and non-pyogenic streptococcal bacteraemia, England, Wales and Northern Ireland: 2010