Streptococcus pyogenes AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH A NECROTISING FASCIITIS

Abstract

Streptococcus pyogenes is a bacterium from the normal microbiota and inhabits the skin and mucous membranes. It is usually associated with pharyngitis and tonsillitis, but it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a rare, destructive and rapidly progressive disease. This disease affects the subcutaneous tissue and the superficial fascia, resulting in destruction of the tissues, which can cause loss and even death, if not diagnosed and treated quickly. Certain factors of virulence of the bacteria and factors of predisposition of the individual are necessary to the development of necrotizing fasciitis. After invasion of the microorganism and during 24 to 72 hours, the infection spreads rapidly, the tissue changes its tone and lesions with blisters are formed. Because of its rapid development, the diagnosis must be accurate and treatment initiated as quickly as possible. Magnetic resonance imaging ensures a rapid diagnosis of the disease, since routine microbiological examinations are more time-consuming. To avoid the worsening of the disease, a set of antibiotics are used along with the surgical debridement. Despite being a rare disease, about 225,900 individuals worldwide are affected per year. Greater care should be taken with more susceptible patients, aiming an early diagnosis to minimize possible complications and even death of the patient.