Gangrene Due to the Hemolytic Streptococcus — A Rare but Treatable Disease

GANGRENE due to the hemolytic streptococcus has been recognized as a distinct clinical entity since Meleney's1 classic description in 1924. It is relatively rare in the English-speaking countries. Misdiagnosis is common, and the resulting mortality and morbidity are extraordinarily high.2,3 Most physicians, having never seen a case, are likely not to recognize the pathognomonic features, which occur early in virtually all cases. Effective and time-proved therapy is available, but success depends on early recognition.Case ReportA 64-year-old widow (G.N.H.C.H. 397082) was admitted to the Grace—New Haven Hospital on February 12, 1964. Eighteen hours previously, when seen by a neighbor, . . .