What complication can result from GABHS infection?

What complication can result from GABHS infection?

• A. Scarlet fever
• B. Chickenpox
• C. Measles
• D. Whooping cough

Answer: (A)

GABHS throat infections can produce a toxin that triggers scarlet fever. The erythrogenic toxin leads to a diffuse, sandpaper-like red rash, fever, and a strawberry tongue, often with flushed cheeks and pale around the mouth. The rash tends to start on the trunk and spread outward, and desquamation can occur as it resolves. This link to a toxin-producing GAS strain makes scarlet fever the typical result of a GABHS infection, distinguishing it from other illnesses listed, which are caused by viruses or different bacteria and are not complications or manifestations of GAS. Treating with antibiotics helps prevent further problems such as rheumatic fever.

GABHS throat infections can produce a toxin that triggers scarlet fever. The erythrogenic toxin leads to a diffuse, sandpaper-like red rash, fever, and a strawberry tongue, often with flushed cheeks and pale around the mouth. The rash tends to start on the trunk and spread outward, and desquamation can occur as it resolves. This link to a toxin-producing GAS strain makes scarlet fever the typical result of a GABHS infection, distinguishing it from other illnesses listed, which are caused by viruses or different bacteria and are not complications or manifestations of GAS. Treating with antibiotics helps prevent further problems such as rheumatic fever.