NECROTIZING FASCIITIS
27 Jun 2019
ABSTRACT –
Necrotizing Fasciitis is a rare condition in which a flesh eating bacteria spreads the infection in the fascial planes of connective tissue very quickly that results in its death. It is a type of soft tissue infection and can become severe, if not treated on time.
CAUSES –
Necrotizing Fasciitis is usually caused by common bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus. However, there are several other types of bacteria which can give rise to this condition:
- Aeromonas hydrophila
- Clostridium
- E.coli
- Klebsiella
- Staphylococcus aureus
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness
- Fever
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Irregular urination
- Redness and swelling
DIAGNOSIS –
- Physical Examination
- Blood Test
- CT or MRI Scans
- Laboratory testing like biopsy to analyze fluid and tissue sample to detect the infected bacteria
TREATMENT –
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)
- Intravenous Antibiotic Therapy
- Surgery to eradicate damaged or dead tissues which prevents the spread of infection.
- Medications such as strong antibiotics
- In some case, amputations of affected limbs is recommended
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy to protect healthy tissues
- Observing heart activity
- Breathing aids
- Blood Transfusions
PREVENTION –
- Maintain good hygiene
- Wounds must be treated promptly
- Avoid physical contact with people who carry Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infection
- Avoid eating sea foods which might be contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus bacteria.
- Stay in healthy surroundings and environment
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
- It’s a non-prevalent condition wherein around 1 in 100,000 people gets affected with this condition in some areas of the world.