- Encapsulated, lancet-shaped diplococci
- Virulence factors and resistances
- Capsular polysaccharides
- IgA1 protease
- Treatment
- Penicillin and amoxicillin are traditionally used, but resistance is increasingly common due to altered penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
- For severe infections (like meningitis or inpatient pneumonia), ceftriaxone is often used.
- In cases of high resistance, vancomycin is an alternative.