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[A killer bacteria caused fasciitis with sepsis. Prompt handling saved the patient's life]
H Brändström1, A Rydvall, B Stegmayr
1Norrlands Universitetssjukhus, Umeå.
Abstract:
The article consists in a case report of a patient with rapidly progressive pain in the axillary region and deterioration in his clinical condition during the course of a skin infection, found to have pectoral muscle fascitis, and in whom progressive septic shock was accompanied by multiorgan failure. Blood culture yielded streptococci group A type 1 M1. In addition to conventional intensive care, he was treated with antibiotics, inotropic drugs, plasma exchange, and infusion of antithrombin and immunoglobulin. Surgical intervention such as fasciotomy was avoided initially and later proved unnecessary as the patient recovered well.
Insights
A patient with severe skin infection developed pectoral muscle fasciitis and septic shock. Prompt treatment with antibiotics, plasma exchange, and immunoglobulin led to recovery without surgery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- A case report detailing a patient with a severe skin infection presenting with rapidly progressive axillary pain and clinical deterioration.
- The patient developed pectoral muscle fasciitis, progressing to septic shock and multiorgan failure.
Observation:
- Blood cultures identified streptococci group A type 1 M1 as the causative agent.
- The patient's condition rapidly worsened, indicating a severe systemic infection.
Findings:
- Treatment included intensive care, antibiotics, inotropic drugs, plasma exchange, antithrombin, and immunoglobulin infusion.
- Initial avoidance of surgical intervention, such as fasciotomy, was followed by a successful recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential severity of streptococcal skin infections and the effectiveness of combined medical therapies.
- Aggressive medical management, including plasma exchange and immunoglobulin, can be successful in treating severe pectoral muscle fasciitis and associated septic shock, potentially avoiding surgical intervention.