Group A streptococcal septicemia, meningitis and cerebral abscess: case report and literature review

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Published on: July 1, 2018

Siba Prosad Paul1, Susie Jerwood

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, St. Richard's Hospital, Chichester, United Kingdom.

The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|June 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can cause serious infections, including rare brain abscesses in children. This case highlights the need for prompt diagnosis and extended antibiotic treatment for invasive GAS disease.

Area of Science:

  • Bacteriology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a significant global bacterial pathogen.
  • GAS infections rarely affect the central nervous system, accounting for approximately 1% of childhood meningitis.
  • Otitis media and sinusitis are recognized risk factors for brain abscess in invasive GAS disease.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy young boy presented with GAS sepsis and meningitis.
  • The patient subsequently developed a brain abscess.
  • This invasive GAS infection necessitated a prolonged course of intravenous antibiotics.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates a rare progression of invasive GAS disease from sepsis and meningitis to brain abscess in a pediatric patient.
  • Highlights the potential severity and complications of GAS infections, even in previously healthy individuals.
  • Emphasizes the critical need for vigilant monitoring and aggressive management of GAS infections.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering GAS as a potential cause of central nervous system infections in children.
  • Suggests that prompt recognition and management of otitis media or sinusitis may be crucial in preventing invasive GAS complications.
  • Reinforces the necessity of prolonged antibiotic therapy for severe invasive GAS infections, including brain abscess, to ensure favorable outcomes.

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