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Background
Group A streptococci (GAS) cause a variety of life-threatening infectious complications,
including necrotizing fasciitis (NF), purpura fulminans (PF), and Streptococcal toxic
shock syndrome (strepTSS), in which bacteremia is associated with shock and organ
failure.
Methods
We reviewed our experience in the management of patients with necrotizing GAS infections
from 1991 to 1995.
Results
Eight adult patients (6 NF, 2 PF) were identified. Patients presented with fever,
leukocytosis, and severe pain, and rapidly developed shock and organ dysfunction.
The diagnosis of strepTSS was confirmed in 6 cases. A total of 54 surgical procedures
were required, including widespread debridements and amputations. Two patients died
(25%).
Conclusions
Recognition of the need for aggressive diagnosis and surgical treatment of this most
rapidly progressive surgical infection is necessary for successful management.
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Article info
Footnotes
**Presented at the 48th Annual Meeting of the Southwestern Surgical Congress, Scottsdale, Arizona, April 28–May 1, 1996.
Identification
Copyright
© 1996 Excerpta Medica, Inc. All rights reserved. Published by Elsevier Inc.
