Hemodialysis Patient with Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome and Penile Necrosis

Intern Med. 2023 Jan 1;62(1):135-138. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.9467-22. Epub 2022 May 31.

Abstract

A 72-year-old man on hemodialysis due to diabetic nephropathy presented with a fever and penile pain. Although his physical examination was unremarkable, his general condition deteriorated. Penile necrosis was observed by evening on the same day of presentation, and the patient died the next morning. Blood cultures revealed the presence of Group G Streptococcus, leading to a diagnosis of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). Autopsy suggested penile necrosis due to septic shock. STSS in hemodialysis patients with vascular calcification, even in the absence of calciphylaxis, can lead to severe organ damage due to ischemia.

Keywords: Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp.; diabetes mellitus; elderly patient; equisimilis; hemodialysis; penile necrosis; streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Necrosis
  • Penile Diseases*
  • Renal Dialysis
  • Shock, Septic* / complications
  • Streptococcal Infections* / complications
  • Streptococcal Infections* / diagnosis
  • Streptococcus
  • Vascular Diseases*