A previously healthy young female presented with multi-organ failure and bilateral swollen legs.
A previously healthy young female brought by ambulance to the accident and emergency department with a one-week history of fever and swelling of both legs. On examination, she was in shock with respiratory failure and mild renal impairment. Both her legs were oedematous, right more than the left with purple discoloration to the skin. CT of the abdomen was negative except for swelling of the gluteal and proximal thigh muscles (Fig1). MRI of both thighs showed oedema of the fascial planes and muscles with large volume of fluid deep to left tensor fascia lata (Fig 2). Ultrasound guided aspiration drew pus. Emergency open wound debridement was performed. This confirmed the diagnosis of myositis. A blood culture grew group A, B-haemolytic streptococci.
Group A streptococci (GAS) are a rare cause of myositis, involving mostly adult patients in tropical regions [1]. Only 21 cases of streptococcal myositis or myonecrosis were reported between 1900 and 1985. Additional cases have been described in more recent reports [2,3]. Streptococcal myositis is associated with a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from a subacute localized form with good prognosis to a serious acute presentation involving rapidly progressive disease, shock, multiple organ failure and a high case fatality rate (80 to 100%). Our patient had the more serious form of the disease, having presented with bacteremia, shock and respiratory failure.
Although intense pain may be the only presenting symptom, the diagnosis of streptococcal myositis is generally suggested by the presence of swelling of the involved muscle tissue, fever and cutaneous alterations such as erythema or purple discoloration, petechiae or vesicles. Ultrasonography, computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging can be valuable adjuncts to confirming the diagnosis by revealing edema of muscle tissue, abscess formation and inflammation [1]. A raised serum CPK can also be helpful in supporting the diagnosis.
Necrotizing fasciitis, a more common form of invasive GAS disease, can generally be distinguished from streptococcal myositis during surgical exploration. However, these two clinical conditions have overlapping characteristics and may be present simultaneously in the same patient [4].
The mainstay of treatment for GAS pyomyositis is surgical debridement in addition to parenterally administered antibiotics.
Streptococcal myositis
From the provided CT and MRI images of both thighs, the following findings are noted:
Based on the patient’s young age, acute onset, significant bilateral leg swelling, and multiple organ failure, the following differential diagnoses should be strongly considered:
Considering the patient’s background as a young female, previous healthy status, multiple organ failure, imaging findings, and clinical symptoms (such as severe bilateral leg pain, fever, shock, and respiratory failure), the most likely diagnosis is Streptococcal Myositis, i.e., an invasive muscle infection caused by Group A streptococci.
Given the aggressive nature of this condition, if necrosis or more extensive muscle involvement is suspected, further confirmation through surgical exploration and pathogen analysis (bacterial culture, pathology) is necessary.
Once Streptococcal Myositis/Pyomyositis is confirmed or highly suspected, comprehensive treatment must begin without delay:
Rehabilitation and Exercise Prescriptions can gradually be introduced once the acute phase of infection has passed and inflammatory markers have stabilized or decreased significantly. It is advisable to create a stepwise recovery program based on the patient’s muscle strength and cardiopulmonary function:
Throughout the rehabilitation process, personalized adjustment is crucial. If new pain, swelling, or discomfort arises, the training plan should be reassessed and modified immediately.
Disclaimer:
This report is based solely on the current imaging and clinical information for reference and does not substitute for an in-person consultation or professional medical advice. If any abnormalities or worsening of the condition occur, please consult a medical professional or contact a specialized medical institution promptly.
Streptococcal myositis