A Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae Serotype 5 in Saskatchewan. Issue 1 (2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dawar, Meenakshi; Russell, Bob; McClean, Karen; Levett, Paul N; Tyrrell, Gregory J; Irvine, James
• Is Part Of: Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology =. Volume 19:Issue 1(2008)
• Page Start: 69
• Page End: 71
• Publication Date: 2008
• Subjects: Aboriginal -- Canada -- Necrotizing fasciitis -- Streptococcus pneumoniae; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Infection; Communicable Diseases; Communicable Disease Control; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1155/2008/246468
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1712-9532

Abstract

Abstract : Necrotizing fasciitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare and grave condition, and only a few cases have been reported. Suggested risk factors include minor trauma, systemic lupus erythematosus, immunosuppression secondary to medication, use of intramuscular anti-inflammatories and alcoholism. A fatal case of pneumococcal necrotizing fasciitis that occurred in a 51-year-old woman with a history of alcohol abuse and oral anti-inflammatory use is presented. Her condition was caused by a multi-etiology outbreak of community-acquired pneumonia, from which S pneumoniae serotype 5 was also isolated. The case description outlines the subtle presentation and rapid clinical progression of this condition. Because serotype 5 antigen is included in the polysaccharide 23-valent pneumococcal vaccine, the present case highlights the importance of pneumococcal immunization programs in Canada.