Group A Streptococcus Pneumonia in a Previously Healthy Individual: Is It Still a Thing?

Abstract

Group A streptococcus (GAS) is known to cause many different kinds of infections, including invasive pneumonia in rare cases. When it is the causative agent, it is associated with a more severe disease course, but it can often be adequately treated if caught early enough. We hereby present the case of a 32-year-old male with no past medical history who presented with fever, hemoptysis, and tachycardia. Laboratory results showed leukocytosis, hyponatremia, mild transaminitis, and elevated creatine kinase. Initial imaging findings and clinical presentation were concerning for tuberculosis (TB) vs. community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), as it yielded a consolidation in the right upper lobe. The patient had no obvious risk factor except for imprisonment two years prior to symptoms onset. Empirical antibiotics and steroids were started. Quantiferon and acid-fast bacteria (AFB) were negative, but sputum and blood cultures were positive for Streptococcus pyogenes, ruling out TB. Antibiotic therapy was narrowed down. The patient responded well to therapy, with subsequent resolution of symptoms. The current body of knowledge regarding respiratory infections caused by GAS is limited by multiple factors, including its relative rarity and the diversity of how it can present, especially in a developed country. Its mimicry characteristics of other clinical entities, such as TB, can be deceiving, which can delay appropriate treatment if it occurs in settings where the diagnostic tools are not readily available. By sharing more cases and atypical presentations of this disease, the clinical presentations of this pathogen can be more fully understood, and it can be more rapidly identified and treated.