Multifocal Invasive Streptococcus Pyogenes Infection in Previously Healthy Child: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Background: Invasive streptococcus pyogenes infections are rarely seen in healthy children. The multifocal nature of the following case is unusual and presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for the treating physician. Case presentation: In this case report, we discuss an otherwise healthy 11-year-old boy with a multifocal invasive streptococcus pyogenes infection presenting with a myriad of musculoskeletal complications at distant sites. He suffered from multiple abscesses, septic arthritis of sternoclavicular joint and multiple sites of osteomyelitis, osteitis and tenosynovitis in the neck hand and foot. A significant course of intravenous antibiotic therapy was required for resolution of disease.Conclusions: Streptococcus pyogenes is a common culprit in head and neck infections. This case is unique because of the multifocal nature of our patient’s infection. The Otolaryngologist – Head and Neck Surgeon should acknowledge the potential for rare and diffuse complications from invasive streptococcus pyogenes infection.