A severe disease caused by Streptococcus pyogenes that causes a type of toxic shock syndrome and produces enzymes that destroy proteins and allow the bacteria to invade the human epithelial cells; also referred to as flesh-eating bacteria and group A, beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The infection moves along the fascia (membrane covering of the body under the skin, as well as the various muscle groups); may also be caused by Staphylococcus aureus, vibriovulnificus, clostridium perfringens, and Bacteriodes fragilis.