Final answer:
The isolation of Gram-positive cocci in the blood suggests the possibility of an abscess, and these bacteria can cause severe infections including septicemia and septic shock if not treated promptly.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Gram-positive cocci from Bergey's Group 17 are isolated in the blood, the possibility of an abscess should be considered. These bacteria, which include notorious pathogens such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, are capable of inducing serious infections. Particularly in instances where there is an absence of abundant phagocytes, bacterial infections can spread unhindered, leading to complications such as septicemia, septic shock, and even death.
These bacteria can gain access into the circulatory and lymphatic systems through various routes, including contaminated catheters, dental procedures, piercings, or wounds. If an infection by these bacteria is left untreated, it may progress from a minor localized infection to a severe systemic condition. Diagnosis often involves blood cultures and may require additional imaging studies to detect any abscesses. Moreover, identifying Gram-negative bacteria in the blood could indicate a risk of septic shock due to the release of large quantities of LPS (lipopolysaccharides).