We retrospectively studied the bacteriology and clinical features of empyema thoracis and
lung abscess caused by viridans streptococci in 72 patients seen from January 1984 to
September 1996. A total of 76 strains of viridans streptococci were isolated, of which the
most common isolates were Streptococcus constellatus (21 strains), S. intermedius, and S.
sanguis. Species belonging to the S. milleri group accounted for the majority (68%) of
isolates. In 38 (53%) patients these organisms were recognized as the sole pathogens. Of …

The bacteriology and clinical features of empyema thoracis and lung abscess caused by
viridans streptococci were retrospectively studied in 72 patients seen at the National Taiwan
University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, from January 1984 to September 1996. A total of 76
strains of viridans streptococci were isolated, of which the most common isolates were
Streptococcus constellatus (21 strains), S. intermedius (17), and S. sanguis (10). Species
belonging to the S. milleri group accounted for the majority (68%) of isolates. In 38 (53%) …