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Toxic streptococcal syndrome
Author(s) -
Stanford Duncan G,
Georgouras Katherine E,
Konya Joseph,
Pang Bryan
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
australasian journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.67
H-Index - 53
eISSN - 1440-0960
pISSN - 0004-8380
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-0960.1997.tb01136.x
Subject(s) - medicine , pharyngitis , toxic shock syndrome , cellulitis , rash , group a , exotoxin , immunology , streptococcus pyogenes , dermatology , staphylococcus aureus , microbiology and biotechnology , biology , bacteria , toxin , genetics
SUMMARY 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.