Table 1 Diagnostic criteria for group A streptococcal TSS [2, 9]

A. Isolation of group A streptococcus:

 (1) From a sterile site

 (2) From a non-sterile body site

B. Clinical signs of severity

 (1) Hypotension

 (2) Clinical and laboratory abnormalities (requires two or more of the following):

  (a) Renal impairment

  (b) Coagulopathy

  (c) Liver abnormalities

  (d) Acute respiratory distress syndrome

  (e) Extensive tissue necrosis, i.e. necrotising fasciitis

  (f) Erythematous rash

Definite case: A1 + B (1 + 2)

Probable case: A2 + B (1 + 2)