[Fulminant streptococcus infection of soft tissue]

In recent years there has been an apparent increase in severe infections produced by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococci in developed countries. Necrotizing fascitis and myositis are two rare but fearsome complications caused by this microorganism.

Two cases of fulminant soft tissue infection recently observed in the authors' center are presented and the clinical presentation and differential diagnosis commented upon.

The first case was a necrotizing fascitis at a surgical wound which appeared following a gynecological surgery. The second case reports gluteal myositis following intramuscular injection. In both cases the evolution was disastrous.

Streptococcus pyogenes may produce fulminant infections in patients without underlying disease either spontaneously or following minimum traumas. The most frequent involvement is of the soft tissues. This virulence at a local tissue and systemic level has been associated with the production of exotoxin.