Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome complicating preseptal cellulitis.
OBJECTIVE
Although substantial morbidity is uncommon in preseptal cellulitis, the incidence of severe infection resulting from group A streptococcal infection is increasing.


METHODS
A 62-year-old man was initially examined for preseptal cellulitis sustained after minor trauma to his brow. The patient rapidly experienced shock and multisystem organ failure. Intensive medical therapy prevented circulatory collapse and death.


RESULTS
A diagnosis of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome secondary to group A beta hemolytic streptococcal infection was made based on culture results and clinical course.


CONCLUSIONS
The ophthalmologist plays an essential role in diagnosing this condition. Aggressive and timely treatment are essential to preventing death.
Meyer
M A
MA
Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Chicago, USA. mmeyer@nwu.edu
D002481:Cellulitis / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D015818:Eye Infections, Bacterial / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D005138:Eyebrows / Q000293:injuries / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009102:Multiple Organ Failure / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D012772:Shock, Septic / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D013297:Streptococcus pyogenes / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D013577:Syndrome