Myositis and Deep Suppurative Soft Tissue Infections Caused by Group a Streptococcus.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• A recent increase in invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections, primarily pneumonia, has been observed in Europe during late 2022 and 2023.
• Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a significant bacterial pathogen capable of causing a range of infections, from mild pharyngitis to severe invasive disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report three cases of invasive group A streptococcal myositis.
• To describe the clinical presentation of persistent subcutaneous suppuration associated with iGAS myositis.
• To alert clinicians to the potential for protracted complications in iGAS infections.

Main Methods:

• Case series reporting clinical data of three patients diagnosed with invasive group A streptococcal myositis.
• Review of clinical course, treatment (prolonged antibiotics), and outcomes.
• Analysis of the characteristic persistent suppuration of subcutaneous tissue.

Main Results:

• Three patients presented with invasive group A streptococcal myositis.
• All cases exhibited persistent suppuration of the subcutaneous tissue, a notable complication.
• Treatment required prolonged courses of antibiotics.

Conclusions:

• Invasive group A streptococcal myositis can lead to prolonged and severe complications, including persistent suppuration.
• The findings underscore the importance of recognizing and managing these protracted manifestations of iGAS infections.
• Continued surveillance for emerging patterns and complications of iGAS is crucial for public health.