Necrotizing fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare life-threatening skin and soft tissue infection. Most commonly the result of trauma, it rapidly spreads through the fascial planes and causes necrosis of the subcutaneous tissues. The disease is classified into different types depending on the underlying bacteria...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Surgery (Oxford) 2023-10, Vol.41 (10), p.657-662
Main Authors: Wray, Charlotte, Salim, Omar-Adam, Marsland, Daniel
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Cellulitis
debridement
infection
invasive group A streptococcus
monomicrobial
polymicrobial
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Summary:Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare life-threatening skin and soft tissue infection. Most commonly the result of trauma, it rapidly spreads through the fascial planes and causes necrosis of the subcutaneous tissues. The disease is classified into different types depending on the underlying bacteria responsible, with Group A streptococcus reported as the most common organism found. Reaching a diagnosis of NF is often challenging due to its non-specific signs and symptoms. A delay to recognition and treatment significantly increases the risk of mortality. Risk scoring systems can be helpful to assist with diagnosis. Patients typically present with symptoms of systemic infection and sepsis which requires management in an intensive care setting. The treatment for NF is aggressive surgical debridement and the provision of broad-spectrum cover with intravenous antibiotics. Although it is uncommon, knowledge of this life-threatening emergency is essential for surgical trainees across all specialties.
ISSN:0263-9319
1878-1764
DOI:10.1016/j.mpsur.2023.08.006