Fulminant infection and toxic shock syndrome caused by Streptococcus pyogenes

Two patients presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with features of toxic shock syndrome, including hypotension, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), renal and hepatic insufficiency and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Computed tomography (CT) scan identified the source of infection in one patient. At laparotomy, pelvic peritonitis and massive edema of the pelvic retroperitoneal tissue was found. The other patient had myonecrosis of the forearm necessitating amputation. Intra-operative cultures of tissue in each case yielded Streptococcus pyogenes, Group A. These patients were treated early with clindamycin and intensive supportive care as well as surgery, and both made a full recovery. Because of the necessity of early recognition of the varied presentation of these infections, the clinical features as well as essential interventions are emphasized. We review the pathophysiology of invasive Group A streptococcal infection to increase awareness of these uncommon but fulminant and often lethal infections.