[The many faces of Group A Streptococcal infections, case-series of invasive infections in children in Iceland]

Abstract

In recent months the incedence of invasive group A streptococcal infections (Streptococcus pyogenes) has increased worldwide. In the Children's Hospital Iceland 20 such cases were admitted during a four month period, until which time the avarage was one or two children admitted with an invasive GAS infection per year. To demonstrate the variability in the presentation of these invasive infections four cases were chosen for discussion in this case-series. Empyema with toxic shock syndrome, meningitis, orbital abscess and fascitis of the leg are reviewed.

Keywords: GAS; abscess; fasciitis; meningitis; toxic shock syndrome.