What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Flesh-eating bacteria
• Soft tissue gangrene

What is Necrotizing Fasciitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Necrotizing fasciitis is an infection caused by bacteria that results in the destruction of skin, fat, and tissue.
• Many different bacteria can cause this infection, including group A Streptococcus, Klebsiella, Clostridium, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. They find their way into the body following a cut or open wound, spreading rapidly and causing unwanted, often harmful symptoms. 
• It can affect any part of the body

Who gets Necrotizing Fasciitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare infection. Out of all individuals who get infected, 1 in 4 die from it.
• The infection can occur in both men and women of all ages. 
• No racial or geographical predilection is noted

What are the Risk Factors for Necrotizing Fasciitis? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors of necrotizing fasciitis include:

• Weak immune system
• Chronic health problems
• Cuts/open wounds
• Recent viral infections

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Necrotizing Fasciitis? (Etiology)

• Necrotizing fasciitis is caused by bacterial infection. When bacteria enter the body, they multiply and rapidly spread.
• As bacteria spread, they infect flat layers of membrane, called fascia, which are connective bands of tissue that surround muscles, nerves, fat, and blood vessels. When they come into contact with these tissues, they cause rapid destruction of them.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Necrotizing Fasciitis?

Common signs and symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis include:

• Red, swollen skin
• Ulcers/blisters
• Soreness
• Fever
• Shock
• Sweating With or without Chills
• Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea

How is Necrotizing Fasciitis Diagnosed?

• Necrotizing fasciitis is usually diagnosed by medical professionals by looking at your skin. If red, swollen, sore skin is noted, necrotizing fasciitis is suspected.
• To confirm diagnosis, CT scans, x-rays, blood tests, or skin tissue biopsies may be conducted on the affected region.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Necrotizing Fasciitis?

Complications may arise from necrotizing fasciitis. As the infection spreads throughout the body, blood infections can occur, which are often deadly. Scarring and disfigurement may occur if the infection is not promptly treated. Necrotizing fasciitis may also cause the loss of arm or leg movement or use. In severe cases, death may also occur.

How is Necrotizing Fasciitis Treated?

• Immediate treatment of necrotizing fasciitis is important to prevent severe complications or death. These include:
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotics
  • Surgery to drain the sore
  • Surgery to remove infected tissue
  • Immunoglobulins to fight infection
  • Skin grafts
  • Amputation if infection is severe
  • Hyperbolic oxygen therapy (prevents further tissue death)

How can Necrotizing Fasciitis be Prevented?

• There is no full-proof method of preventing bacterial infection that causes necrotizing fasciitis. To reduce the likelihood that bacterial infection occurs, frequent hand-washing is important.
• It is also important to promptly clean scrapes, cuts, sores, and burns to prevent bacteria from attacking. 

What is the Prognosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Most people who become infected with necrotizing fasciitis are able to improve their condition and return to normal functioning. This requires rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment.
• The infection often leaves scarring or skin deformities behind, and while these are usually not life-threatening, they can impact the individual’s state of being.
• Delay in treatment can result in loss of infected body part and in some cases can even cause death.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Necrotizing Fasciitis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/infection-center/