When Sepsis Kills: A Fatal Cascade of Invasive Group A Streptococcal Sepsis

Abstract

Presentation
A previously healthy 22-year-old woman presented with right groin pain, unilateral leg swelling, and dyspnoea following recent infection and minor trauma. She was hypotensive and tachycardic with a painful, mottled limb and oxygen saturations of 91%.

Diagnosis
Investigations demonstrated lactic acidosis, coagulopathy, pulmonary emboli, visceral infarcts, and necrotising soft-tissue infection. Cultures confirmed Streptococcus pyogenes.

Treatment
Despite antibiotics, emergency surgery, and advanced life support, the patient died of multiorgan failure.

Discussion
iGAS infection can mimic thromboembolic disease and requires urgent recognition.