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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Rising Incidence of Group A Streptococcal Musculoskeletal Infections in Pediatric Patients
Sarah Bradley1, Cody Ashy2, Henry Baird3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.
Orthopedics
|July 7, 2026
Summary
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) musculoskeletal infections in children are rising, with a nearly 3-fold increase observed. These infections show distinct seasonal patterns, peaking in the fall, unlike Staphylococcus aureus infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Musculoskeletal Infections
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) musculoskeletal infections (MSKI) are an emerging cause of pediatric illness.
- Understanding seasonal trends of pediatric MSKI is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate epidemiologic trends and seasonal patterns of pediatric MSKI.
- To compare GAS MSKI with Staphylococcus aureus infections.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of surgically treated pediatric MSKI patients (2015-2023).
- Analysis of demographics, clinical data, and culture results.
- Statistical analysis of seasonal variation using odds ratios and Fisher's exact tests.
Main Results:
- GAS MSKI increased nearly 3-fold from 2019-2023, while S. aureus infections declined.
- GAS infections peaked in fall (37.5%) and were associated with a viral prodrome.
- S. aureus infections peaked in summer (64.3%).
Conclusions:
- Pediatric GAS MSKI incidence is rising significantly.
- GAS MSKI exhibit distinct seasonal patterns, primarily in the fall.
- These findings emphasize the need for awareness and management strategies for pediatric GAS MSKI.
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