Toxic streptococcal syndrome |
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Authors: | Duncan G Stanford Katherine E Georgouras Joseph Konya Bryan Pang |
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Affiliation: | The Dermatology Centre, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
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Abstract: | The reappearance of more virulent strains of exotoxin-producing streptococci over the past decade has led to the re-emergence of invasive Group A streptococcal infections and the recognition of a new syndrome resembling staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. Toxic streptococcal syndrome is characterized by fever, shock, multiorgan system failure and a desquamating scarlatiniform rash. It usually occurs in otherwise healthy young adults, often in association with a severe soft tissue infection and has a 30% mortality rate. The case of a 37-year-old obese man, who rapidly developed features of this syndrome after an antecedent pharyngitis and cellulitis, is presented. There was serological evidence of a recent Group A streptococcal infection. Intensive organ supportive measures and intravenous antibiotic therapy led to his gradual recovery. |
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Keywords: | cellulitis Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis serology streptococcal toxic shocklike syndrome |
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