Treating invasive Group A Streptococcal infections

Abstract

Streptococcus pyogenes is a gram-positive, beta-haemolytic bacterium, commonly responsible for acute pharyngitis and skin infections. It has the ability to cause severe invasive Group A Streptococcal (iGAS) disease and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide. Cases of invasive disease have increased in recent years, with particularly virulent subtypes appearing more frequently. The treatment of invasive disease includes appropriate antibiotics (Cefotaxime/Benzylpenicillin and Clindamycin), supportive care and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Continued surveillance is important during this period of increased disease activity in order to further our knowledge about mechanism of disease and to inform treatment and preventative measures. A successful vaccine against GAS could reduce the global burden of disease.