Early recognition and treatment are critical. Diagnostic tests include blood counts and urinalysis as well as cultures of blood or fluid from a wound site. Antibiotics of choice include penicillin, erythromycin, and clindamycin. An invasion of bacteria into the bloodstream. Bacteremia can be associated with these infections, but it is not always present.
Treatment depends on the specific clinical findings.
Pain is common, usually in an extremity, sometimes in the abdomen or chest. The condition progresses to confusion and coma. Blood pressure drops, kidneys malfunction, and soft tissues may be infected. The source of streptococcus, when identified, is most often the site of a minor wound or bruise. The syndrome occurs most often in healthy adults between the ages of 20-50.