GAS
Medical abbreviation · Infectious Disease
| Stands for | Group A Streptococcus |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
GAS stands for Group A Streptococcus, an infectious disease abbreviation.
Streptococcus pyogenes, the cause of strep throat, scarlet fever, impetigo and cellulitis, and of rare but life-threatening invasive infections such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock. Untreated throat infection can trigger rheumatic fever.
Example: Rapid strep antigen positive for GAS; amoxicillin 50 mg/kg once daily for 10 days.
Usage notes
"Group A" refers to Lancefield grouping by cell-wall carbohydrate. Penicillin resistance has never been documented in GAS. Several countries reported a surge of invasive GAS infections in children in late 2022. Also abbreviated GABHS (group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus). Group B strep is a separate species important in newborns.
Related abbreviations
More infectious disease abbreviations
- DOT – Directly observed therapy
- E. coli – Escherichia coli
- EBV – Epstein-Barr virus
- EPT – Expedited partner therapy
- ESBL – Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase
- FUO – Fever of unknown origin
- GC – Gonococcus (gonorrhea)
- GNR – Gram-negative rods
- GPC – Gram-positive cocci
- H1N1 – Influenza A virus subtype H1N1
- H5N1 – Influenza A virus subtype H5N1
- HAART – Highly active antiretroviral therapy
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.