Streptococcus viridans

Streptococcus viridans is a pseudo-taxonomic term for a large group of generally non-pathogenic, commensal streptococcal bacteria that are either α-hemolytic and produce a green (hence the name viridans) coloration on blood agar plates, or non-hemolytic.

Identification
Viridans streptococci can be differentiated from Streptococcus pneumoniae using an optochin test, as Viridans streptococci are optochin resistant; they also lack either the polysaccharide-based capsule typical of S. pneumoniae or the Lancefield antigens of the pyogenic members of the genus.

Pathology
The organisms are most abundant in the mouth and one member of the group, S. mutans, is the etiologic agent of dental caries. Others may be involved in other mouth or gingival infections.

If they are introduced into the bloodstream they have the potential of causing endocarditis, particularly in individuals with damaged heart valves.