A Case of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection with Suspected Familial Infection

Necrotizing soft tissue infections are rapidly progressing and life-threatening conditions commonly caused by group A Streptococcus among other bacteria.We herein report a case of necrotizing soft tissue infection caused by group A Streptococcus that was suspected to have occurred within a family and provide a literature review.A 36-year-old male patient presented with swelling and discoloration of the left hand joint area, leading to a diagnosis of necrotizing soft tissue infection.He had been caring for his grandmother-in-law, who had died of necrotizing soft tissue infection two days before visiting the first hospital.Surgical debridement was performed under general anesthesia, followed by tissue removal.The patient recovered favorably and was discharged.Necrotizing soft tissue infections involve infections of the skin and soft tissues that rapidly progress and have a high mortality rate.Familial transmission is rare, suggesting the possibility of contact transmission.Therefore, it is crucial for families and healthcare workers to consider the possibility of necrotizing soft tissue infection transmission and to take appropriate precautions.