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Streptococcus pyogenes bacteraemia: an old enemy subdued, but not defeated.
P Ispahani1, F E Donald, A J Aveline
1Department of Microbiology, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, U.K.
The Journal of Infection
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A) bacteremia is a serious condition with a 35% mortality rate, often originating from skin or respiratory infections. Early recognition of shock is critical for improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Bacteremia caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A hemolytic streptococci) is a significant clinical concern.
- Previous studies have highlighted the challenges posed by this pathogen despite its penicillin susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteremia at University Hospital, Nottingham over a 7-year period.
- To analyze patient demographics, sources of infection, clinical features, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of all identified cases of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteremia.
- Data collection on patient characteristics, infection sources, presence of shock, and mortality.
Main Results:
- Forty cases of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteremia were identified, constituting 2% of all bacteremia cases.
- The overall mortality rate was 35%, with a 60% mortality in patients experiencing shock.
- Common sources included skin/soft tissue (23 cases) and respiratory tract (8 cases).
- 40% of patients presented with shock, a critical indicator of poor prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus pyogenes bacteremia remains a significant challenge, particularly in patients presenting with shock.
- Despite antibiotic susceptibility, high mortality rates underscore the need for prompt diagnosis and management.
- The high incidence of shock in this cohort warrants further attention and research.