Balanitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes:: a report of two cases

Streptococcus pyogenes (the Lancefield group A streptococcus) is a cause of pharyngitis and impetigo. However, it has rarely been implicated as a sexually transmitted pathogen. We herein report two cases of severe balanitis due to S. pyogenes in sexually active men. It is postulated that penile cellulitis developed following the invasion of S. pyogenes through a traumatic abrasion acquired during fellatio performed by commercial sex workers. Both patients were treated successfully with oral administration of penicillin.