Managing Pediatric Invasive Group A Streptococcal Infections: Updated Guidelines

Although most pediatric infections with Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus (GAS) are mild, this pathogen can also cause serious invasive disease, including deeper skin and soft-tissue infections, necrotizing fasciitis, osteoarticular infections, and less commonly, bacteremia, meningitis, and toxic shock syndrome. Beta-lactams are the cornerstone of therapy for these invasive infections, but recommendations have varied on when to add antitoxin antibiotics, such as clindamycin, and adjuvant nonantibiotic therapies, such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). The latest gu…