Infectious Diseases
Sepsis, antibiotics, common infections.
Use as a study guide only. These notes are part of a free open-access medical education (FOAMed) project and may contain errors or outdated information. Always verify against current guidelines (e.g. eTG, RACGP, local health district policies) and reputable sources before applying anything to patient care. See the full disclaimer.
From the wards
Clinical pearls & learnings
Tips and tricks collected over the years — a living list that grows with every rotation. Use as a study guide only and check current guidelines before acting on anything.
Invasive group A streptococcus
Recognising and managing iGAS
Invasive group A strep is a notifiable disease. Watch closely for toxic shock syndrome and necrotising fasciitis — both can progress with alarming speed.
- Benzylpenicillin plus clindamycin — clindamycin's toxin-suppressing effect (switching off bacterial protein/toxin synthesis) is why it's added, not just for extra Gram-positive cover
- Source control — surgical debridement early if necrotising fasciitis is suspected
- Chemoprophylaxis for household contacts — oral cefalexin BD for 10 days, extending up to 30 days from the last exposure if a new case occurs in that window
Treatment