Necrotizing Fasciitis Caused by Group A Streptococcus.

Background: Group A Streptococcus causes a variety of human infections, including the life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis, which may be ignored by the patient. From hours to days, the infection may progress from an apparently benign skin lesion, usually mistaken for a spider or insect bite, to a highly lethal disease. We present a case of 57-year-old male with skin lesions on swelling left upper limb.

Methods And Results: The culture of secretion from epidermis and blood were positive for Group A Streptococcus (GAS), type β hemolytic streptococcus. Intensive anti-infection therapy was applied. However, the necrosis of the limb deteriorated rapidly. He died from multiple organ failure, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and disseminated intravascular coagulation 13 days later.

Conclusions: Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly progressive, destructive bacterial infection. Early recognition is the most important factor for survival.