Bacterium
Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis)
Group D strep linked to colon cancer
strep-tuh-KOK-us gal-oh-LIT-ih-kus
High-yield clue
Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis) bacteremia and endocarditis carry a strong study association with colorectal adenomas and carcinoma.
Overview
A group D, non-enterococcal streptococcus (formerly Streptococcus bovis) whose bacteremia and endocarditis carry a strong study association with colorectal neoplasia. It is a classic 'bug and body-site link' teaching point.
Classification
- Gram-positive
- Cocci in chains
- Group D streptococcus
- Non-enterococcal
- Bile-esculin positive
Lab & identification clues
- Bile-esculin positive
- Group D antigen
- Grows in bile
- Does not grow in 6.5% NaCl (contrast with Enterococcus)
Associations
- Colorectal adenoma / carcinoma association
- Infective endocarditis in older adults
- Gastrointestinal colonization
Commonly confused with
- Enterococcus (also group D)
- Viridans streptococci
Frequently asked questions
What is Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis)?
A group D, non-enterococcal streptococcus (formerly Streptococcus bovis) whose bacteremia and endocarditis carry a strong study association with colorectal neoplasia. It is a classic 'bug and body-site link' teaching point.
What is the Gram stain of Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis)?
Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis) is Gram positive.
What are the lab clues for Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis)?
Lab clues for Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis) include Bile-esculin positive, Group D antigen, Grows in bile, and Does not grow in 6.5% NaCl (contrast with Enterococcus).
What is Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis) commonly confused with?
Streptococcus gallolyticus (bovis) is commonly confused with Enterococcus (also group D) and Viridans streptococci.
Original student-study summary. Sources checked: OpenStax Microbiology 2e, NCBI Bookshelf Medical Microbiology, and CDC topic pages where applicable; reviewed 2026-06. Educational only; no diagnosis, treatment, dosing, or specimen-handling guidance.