A Rare Case of Primary Group A Streptococcal Peritonitis

Abstract

Primary Group A streptococcal peritonitis is a rare clinical entity that is almost always associated with underlying disease. Group A streptococcus commonly causes upper respiratory tract infections and cutaneous infections such as impetigo and erysipelas. However, Group A streptococcus has rarely been associated with gastrointestinal infections. This is a case report describing a previously healthy adult male who developed primary Group A streptococcal peritonitis. Diagnostic laparoscopy resulted in identification of peritonitis without an identifiable intra-abdominal source. Appropriate antibiotic therapy was instituted. Culture of blood, sputum, urine, and urethra were all pathogen free. The patient made a complete recovery and was dismissed from the hospital on oral clindamycin and cephalexin. To the best of our knowledge this report represents the only documented case of primary Group A streptococcal peritonitis in a male patient without any significant past medical history.