Emerging infectious diseases
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Emerging Infect. Dis. · Jul 1995
Review Comparative StudyStreptococcal toxic-shock syndrome: spectrum of disease, pathogenesis, and new concepts in treatment.
Since the 1980s there has been a marked increase in the recognition and reporting of highly invasive group A streptococcal infections with or without necrotizing fasciitis associated with shock and organ failure. Such dramatic cases have been defined as streptococcal toxic-shock syndrome. ⋯ Current concepts in the pathogenesis of invasive streptococcal infection are also presented, with emphasis on the interaction between group A Streptococcus virulence factors and host defense mechanisms. Finally, new concepts in the treatment of streptococcal toxic-shock syndrome are discussed.