DIARRHEA AND PERITONITIS IN SEPSIS DUE TO GROUP-A STREPTOCOCCUS

During the last years the cases of severe group A streptoccus infectio n have increased. The clinical manifestation of this streptococcal tox ic shock syndrome is similar to the better known toxic shock syndrome (TSS) provocated by staphylococcus. Shock, bacteremia and acute respir atory distress syndrome are common features, and death has been associ ated with this infection in 30% of patients. We present the case of a 46-year-old man who fell gravely ill with sepsis, diarrhoe, scarlatina rash, desquamation of hands and feet and acute abdomen caused by grou p A streptococcus infection. Finally we discussed the possible port of entry of this infection, the different clinical manifestation and the concepts of treatment.