Group A streptococcal infection of an intramuscular venous malformation: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Intramuscular venous malformations are uncommon benign masses of vascular origin that can occur anywhere in the body. They can be small and clinically insignificant or can be large and violate tissue planes and viscera. Presentation is as variable as the extent of the lesions. They can be diagnosed as a result of local pain and swelling or as incidental findings. Rarely, venous malformations can get infected and present with fever or other more severe systemic symptoms. The literature is sparse regarding infection of intramuscular venous malformations. This case describes the presentation, diagnosis, and management of a patient with group A streptococcal infection of a previously undiagnosed intramuscularvenous malformation in a patient who presented to our pediatric emergency department.