Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but dangerous bacterial infection that involves the tissues under the skin as well as the adjacent organs and muscles. The condition is sometimes called as the “flesh-eating” disease. Take note that the bacteria do not “eat” the flesh but release toxins that impair the neighboring tissue.
The condition can develop from a minor injury such as a small wound but becomes worse rapidly and can be dangerous if not detected early and promptly treated.
Indications
The indications of necrotizing fasciitis arise rapidly in hours or days. It might not be evident initially and strikingly resembles less serious conditions such as gastroenteritis, flu or cellulitis.
The initial symptoms might include:
- Small but sore scratch or cut on the skin
- Significant pain that is out of proportion to any damage to the skin
- Fever and other flu-like symptoms
After a few hours up to days, the following might develop:
- Redness and swelling in the sore area where it feels firm to the touch
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Darkened blotches on the skin that turn into blisters filled with fluid
If not promptly treated, the infection can spread throughout the body and trigger symptoms such as weakness, dizziness and confusion.
Management of necrotizing fasciitis
Necrotizing fasciitis requires treatment in a healthcare facility. The main treatment options include:
- Surgery to eliminate the infected tissue – the surgical procedure might be repeated several times to ensure that all the infected tissues are removed and it might be needed to amputate the affected limbs
- Antibiotics – various types are administered directly into a vein
- Supportive treatment – this includes treatment to regulate the blood pressure, organ function and fluid levels
Individuals with the condition often require monitoring in an intensive care unit and might be needed to stay for several weeks. While hospitalized, the individual should be isolated from others to lessen the risk for spreading the infection.