What is Necrotizing Fasciitis (Flesh-eating Bacteria)
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but serious bacterial infection that causes the death of the skin and underlying tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but it is more common in the limbs, genitals, and abdomen. It can spread quickly and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The symptoms include severe pain, fever, redness, swelling, blisters, and black spots on the skin. The bacteria that cause necrotizing fasciitis usually enter the body through a wound or injury. People with weak immune systems, diabetes, obesity, alcoholism, or drug abuse are more at risk of getting this infection. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms, medical imaging, and tissue biopsy. The treatment involves surgery to remove the infected tissue, antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and supportive care to prevent complications.
What are the signs and symptoms of Necrotizing Fasciitis
The signs and symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis can vary depending on the stage and severity of the infection. According to the sources I found, some of the common signs and symptoms are:
- A red, warm, or swollen area of skin that spreads quickly
- Severe pain, including pain beyond the area of the skin that is red, warm, or swollen
- Fever
- Ulcers, blisters, or black spots on the skin
- Changes in the color of the skin
- Flulike symptoms, such as body aches, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, and chills
What are the causes of Necrotizing Fasciitis
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but serious bacterial infection that causes the death of the skin and underlying tissues. It can be caused by different types of bacteria, but the most common cause is group A Streptococcus (GAS), also known as “flesh-eating bacteria”. GAS bacteria usually enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, burn, insect bite, puncture wound, or surgical wound. Other types of bacteria that can cause necrotizing fasciitis include Vibrio vulnificus, which live in water, and Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause staph infections. These bacteria can also enter the body through wounds or injuries. People with weak immune systems, diabetes, obesity, alcoholism, or drug abuse are more at risk of getting this infection. Necrotizing fasciitis can spread quickly and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The symptoms include severe pain, fever, redness, swelling, blisters, and black spots on the skin. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms, medical imaging, and tissue biopsy. The treatment involves surgery to remove the infected tissue, antibiotics to kill the bacteria, and supportive care to prevent complications.
FAQ About Necrotizing Fasciitis
How is necrotizing fasciitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is based on the symptoms, medical imaging, and tissue biopsy. However, diagnosis can be difficult and acting fast is key. Delayed diagnosis and treatment can increase the risk of death and amputation.
Who is at risk of getting necrotizing fasciitis?
People with weak immune systems, diabetes, obesity, alcoholism, or drug abuse are more at risk of getting this infection. Other risk factors include cancer, pregnancy, chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, and malnutrition.
What are the complications of necrotizing fasciitis?
Necrotizing fasciitis can cause serious complications such as sepsis (a life-threatening response to infection), shock (a sudden drop in blood pressure), organ failure (when one or more organs stop working properly), gangrene (when tissue dies due to lack of blood flow), scarring (permanent marks on the skin), disfigurement (changes in appearance), and disability (loss of function or ability).
Is there a dermatologist near me in St. Louis that offers treatment for Necrotizing Fasciitis?
Yes. At our St. Louis dermatology office we offer treatment for Necrotizing Fasciitis to patients from St. Louis and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.