Toxic Shock Syndrome Due to Streptococcus pyogenes: A Case Series
Tiago Tavares1, Jerónimo Domingos1, Valériya Zaruba2
1General Surgery, Unidade Local de Saúde da Arrábida (ULSA), Setúbal, PRT.
Cureus
|October 2, 2025
Summary
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is a severe, life-threatening infection caused by group A Streptococcus. Early recognition and multidisciplinary treatment are crucial for patient survival and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Toxicology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is a severe, rapidly progressing illness with high mortality.
- Group A Streptococcus produces exotoxins that act as superantigens, driving the syndrome's pathophysiology.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
318
Introduction:For diagnosing acute pyelonephritis, a comprehensive patient history is collected to identify symptoms such as dysuria, frequent or urgent urination, flank pain, or costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness that may suggest a kidney infection.Physical ExaminationDuring the physical examination, CVA tenderness is assessed. This involves gentle percussion over the costovertebral angle, where tenderness often indicates a kidney infection.Diagnostic TestsUrinalysis: Used to identify white...
318
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
493
Pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the renal parenchyma and collecting system, including the renal pelvis, tubules, and interstitial tissue of one or both kidneys. It can be classified as either acute—a sudden, severe infection—or chronic, which refers to long-term or recurrent kidney infections.The primary cause of acute pyelonephritis (APN) is bacterial infection, with Escherichia coli accounting for approximately 70-80% of cases. Other bacteria, such...
493
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
1.8K
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
1.8K
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
447
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
447
Endocarditis I: Introduction
393
Introduction:Endocarditis is the infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart and its valves. When the heart muscle is involved, the condition is termed myocarditis, while an infection of the outer lining is called pericarditis. Infective endocarditis (IE) primarily affects the endocardium, where pathogens adhere to the valves or lining, forming vegetation that can lead to severe complications. Infective endocarditis occurs when microorganisms, usually bacteria from other body...
393
Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
570
The pathophysiology of urinary tract infections (UTIs) encompasses several progressive stages, beginning with bacterial colonization and culminating in potential systemic complications if untreated. UTIs are primarily initiated by bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, which often originate from the gastrointestinal tract and migrate to the urinary system through the periurethral area. This migration can occur via several routes, including improper hygiene practices, sexual activity, or...
570


