[Streptococcal gangrene. A report on 9 cases (author's transl)]

The authors have treated 9 cases of streptococcal gangrene of the limbs. They describe the clinical features:local oedema, erythema, and cyanotic spots. In 7 of the cases the infected general condition was very severe. At operation, the subcutaneous soft tissues were grey-green without pus. The authors have reviewed the literature and consider that treatment should be based on early excision of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Antibiotics are of great help but are not sufficient by themselves. Nine patients reached a stable state but sequelae have been severe with one disarticulation of the shoulder, one ankylosis of the wrist, one ankylosis of the knee and one generalised stiffness of the hand. Only five patients have been completely cured.