Group A Streptococcus in the Gynecologic Patient

BACKGROUND Over the past few decades, physicians have been reminded of the potential for serious complications arising from group A streptococcal (GAS) infections. These infections continue to pose a serious threat, primarily because the pathophysiology of these infections is complex. This article reviews some of the features of GAS infections and presents two case reports of GAS pelvic infections in women. CASE The two patients discussed both had unusual presentations for pelvic inflammatory disease. In both cases, there was strong concern that a serious gastrointestinal process was occurring. Both improved dramatically after aggressive irrigation of their abdominal cavities and administration of antibiotics. CONCLUSION Appropriate and aggressive use of antibiotics and reduction of bacterial load through debridement and irrigation are crucial in treating serious GAS infections.