Early surgery for limb preservation in Group A Streptococcus-induced necrotizing soft tissue infection and subsequent soft tissue infection: A case report

Abstract

Background: Group A Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) causes necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) necessitating exploration, surgical debridement, and possibly limb amputation. Case presentation: A 45-year-old man presented with traumatic injury of the left carpal region, vomiting, and diarrhea. The swelling and pain in the left forearm worsened with sensorimotor deficits, and his skin color deteriorated. Emergent exploration was performed for limb preservation; GAS was detected in an exudate, and debridement was performed on postoperative day 2 for streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. He recovered uneventfully and was discharged; however, he returned after 2 months with GAS-induced STI at the same site and received antimicrobial treatment. Conclusion: Exploration and subsequent debridement are crucial for effective treatment of NSTI.

Keywords

• Amputation
• Debridement
• Group A streptococcus
• Necrotizing soft tissue infection
• Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome