Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS)

During the last 10 years there has been an increasing interest in the streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) due to its often very dramatic clinical course and the high mortality despite adequate antibiotic therapy. The deeper knowledge acquired recently on the intricate interplay between the virulence factors of the streptococci and the host may contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease and to increased possibilities for successful therapy. It was therefore our intention to highlight some recent reports fully aware of the fact that time will only allow for a limited penetration on this complex field of research.