Streptoccocus pyogenes: a forgotten cause of severe community-acquired pneumonia.
We report a case of severe community-acquired pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Lancefield Group A streptoccocus) that was complicated by a streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Although this micro-organism is an uncommon cause of community-acquired pneumonia, previously well individuals may be infected and the clinical course may be fulminant. A household contact was the likely point of infection. Invasive group A streptococcal disease continues to remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the community and therefore will continue to be encountered by intensive care physicians. Treatment of Group A streptococcal infection remains penicillin; however, clindamycin should be added in severe infection.
Birch
C
C
Intensive Care Unit, Wellington Hospital, New Zealand.
Gowardman
J
J
D000328:Adult; D017714:Community-Acquired Infections / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018410:Pneumonia, Bacterial / Q000382:microbiology*; D012772:Shock, Septic / Q000382:microbiology; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000209:etiology*; D013297:Streptococcus pyogenes