Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Caused by Group A Streptococcus: A Case Report and Literature Review
Sarah Elfituri, Dinesh Shah, Shailesh Dalvi
Background: Group A Streptococcus (GAS) can occasionally cause severe, life- threatening infections.
We present a case in which a GAS infection led to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Case Presentation: A 43-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with a sore throat, hoarseness,
and flu-like symptoms. He subsequently developed a productive cough with purulent green sputum.
Laboratory investigations revealed acute kidney injury (AKI) and elevated inflammatory markers,
including a raised white blood cell (WBC) count and C-reactive protein (CRP). Initially managed for
pneumonia and AKI, further testing identified GAS in a sputum sample, although blood cultures remained
negative. He required oxygen therapy, intravenous antibiotics, and haemodialysis. As his respiratory
status rapidly deteriorated with worsening sepsis, a chest X-ray confirmed ARDS, necessitating
mechanical ventilation. Given the severity of his condition, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was
administered, leading to a favourable response.
Conclusion: ARDS should be considered in cases of septic shock to prevent fatal outcomes, as delayed
recognition contributes to high mortality rates. Early diagnosis and aggressive management—including
fluid resuscitation, appropriate antibiotic therapy, IVIG, and infection control—can significantly
improve survival.
