Group a Streptococcus causing necrotizing fasciitis and toxic shock syndrome after medical termination of pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Group A Streptococcus is an aerobic gram-positive bacteria known to cause cutaneous infections. Invasive infections can lead to toxic shock syndrome with multiorgan failure and mortality rates of 25-48%.

CASE: A healthy, young woman developed necrotizing fasciitis, myonecrosis, and toxic shock syndrome after an elective medical termination of pregnancy. This patient had confirmed group A Streptococcus on blood cultures and underwent surgical debridement. After aggressive surgical treatment, below-the-knee amputation, and antibiotic therapy, the patient survived.

CONCLUSION: This case demonstrates the need for prompt recognition and treatment of necrotizing fasciitis/toxic shock syndrome.