[Beta-hemolytic streptococcal bacteremia in adults].

The serogroups A (Streptococcus pyogenes), B (Streptococcus agalactiae) and S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (group C and G) are generally defined as beta-hemolytic streptococci. Beta-hemolytic streptococci cause a variety of infections ranging from skin and soft-tissue infections to severe invasive infections such as necrotizing fasciitis (NF) and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). The case fatality rate due to bacteremias caused by beta-hemolytic streptococci is 15%. The use of clindamycin in combination with benzylpenicillin has been shown to be of benefit. The use of intravenous immunoglobulin is suggested in STSS in combination with antibiotics and surgery.