Trends in 393 necrotizing acute soft tissue infection patients 2000–2008

Determining the optimal antibiotic duration for skin and soft tissue infections

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Optimal duration of therapy in SSTIs - a heterogeneous group of infections - remains unknown. The advances in knowledge of antibiotic duration of treatment in selected SSTIs that can impact clinical practice and published in the last 18 months are reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent evidence indicates that few patients receive guideline concordant empiric antibiotics and appropriate duration in the United States, although this likely can be extrapolated to other countries. One of the most commonly identified opportunities to improve antibiotic stewardship is duration of therapy more than 10 days. The long-standing debate regarding the significance of abscess size and its impact on clinical response to antibiotics, following proper drainage, is increasingly shifting towards the conclusion that abscess size is not directly associated with cure.In obese patients with SSTI, there is no benefit to longer antibiotic durations for SSTIs in patients with obesity, and it appears that longer antibiotic duration of therapy was associated with increased treatment failure. In diabetic foot infections (DFO), two randomized studies suggest that in the presence of osteomyelitis, the total duration of antibiotic therapy for patients treated nonsurgically does not need to be more than 6 weeks. In a prospective, randomized, noninferiority, pilot trial, patients with DFO who underwent surgical debridement and received either a 3-week or 6-week course of antibiotic therapy had similar outcomes and antibiotic-related adverse events. In patients with necrotizing soft tissue infections, successive observational studies clearly suggest that short duration of antibiotic treatment after NSTI source control is as well tolerated and effective as a longer course. It appears that 48 h would be enough. The possibility of fixed versus individualized approaches to therapy for common bacterial infections, including SSTIs merits to be considered seriously. Fully individualized therapy may be an ideal approach to maximize the benefits and minimize the harms of antimicrobials. Much more work is needed before this strategy becomes feasible.

SUMMARY

There is increasing evidence that shorter duration of treatment is better in different types of SSTIs. Paradoxically, evaluation of real-life clinical practice indicates that long treatments continue to be commonly given to this population.

Perforated colon cancer complicated by necrotizing soft tissue infection: A case report and literature review

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are rare but life-threatening complications of colorectal cancer, often overlooked during patient diagnosis and treatment. NSTIs progress rapidly, leading to significant tissue damage and elevated mortality rates. This report presents the case of a 71-year-old male who presented with abdominal pain and distention, later diagnosed with perforated colon cancer and NSTI of the left abdominal wall. Following admission, the patient developed septic shock and acute kidney injury. Emergency surgery was performed, including radical resection of the colon cancer, proximal colostomy, and extensive debridement of necrotic tissue. Postoperatively, Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) was used alongside standard treatments, contributing to a relatively rapid recovery. At the 30-month follow-up, no evidence of tumor recurrence was observed.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis Score

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a lethal soft tissue infection involving skin and subcutaneous tissue with significant morbidity and mortality.

AIM

To validate the diagnostic and prognostic role of the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) scoring system for NF in patients who present with soft tissue infections.

METHODS

The study was conducted on 100 patients who presented with soft tissue infections. Based on the histopathological findings, they were divided into NF and non-necrotizing soft tissue infection groups. Patients were clinically assessed. The lab parameters were assessed and the LRINEC score was calculated. Patients were stratified based on score and grouped into low, intermediate, and high risk. For patients who went into sepsis, the death rate and length of hospital stay, including ICU, were noted based on the scoring system.

RESULTS

In our study, the diagnostic role of LRINEC score ≥ 6 had a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 62.7%, and score ≥ 8 had a sensitivity of 67.3% and specificity of 82.3% with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 78.5 and negative predictive value (NPV) of 72.4, of which 8 is a better cut-off as a diagnostic criterion. The area under the curve was found to be 0.835. To predict the prognostic role, a cut-off value was calculated from the receiver operating characteristic curves of both mortality and sepsis patients in relation to the LRINEC score of 9. With the LRINEC score cut-off as 9, with mortality and sepsis as variables, the sensitivity was 50% and 53.3%, specificity was 94.2% and 91.4%, PPV was 78.9% and 72.7%, and NPV was 81.4% and 82%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The LRINEC score is quick, safe, reproducible, noninvasive, cost-effective, and easily calculated, and has high sensitivity and specificity to predict early diagnosis, and it could be used for risk stratification and prognosis of necrotizing soft tissue infections.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment in the management of necrotising soft-tissue infections: results from a Danish nationwide registry study

OBJECTIVES

Application of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) treatment in the multidisciplinary setting of necrotising soft-tissue infection (NSTI) is debated as a considerable number of studies are of low quality with marked prognostication bias due to inadequately addressing disease severity. The objective of this study was to associate HBO2 treatment with mortality in patients with NSTI including disease severity as a prognostic variable.

DESIGN

Nationwide population-based register study.

SETTING

Denmark.

PARTICIPANTS

Danish residents with NSTI patients between January 2011 and June 2016.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Thirty-day mortality was compared between patients receiving and patients not receiving HBO2 treatment using inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity-score matching with predetermined variables (age, sex and weighted Charlson comorbidity score, presence of septic shock and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II)).

RESULTS

A total of 671 NSTI patients were included with a median age of 63 (52-71), 61% male sex, 30% had septic shock and a median SAPS II of 46 (34-58). Patients who received HBO2 treatment (n=266) were younger and had lower SAPS II, but a larger fraction had septic shock compared with patients not receiving HBO2 treatment. Overall, all-cause 30-day mortality was 19% (95% CI 17% to 23%). The statistical models were in general acceptably balanced with covariates reaching <0.1 absolute standardised mean differences and patients receiving HBO2 treatment were associated with lower 30-day mortality (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.53, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In analyses using inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score analysis, patients treated with HBO2 treatment were associated with improved 30-day survival.

Eight Tales of Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis and Free Tissue Transfer

OBJECTIVES

Aggressive surgical debridement is required in cervical necrotizing fasciitis, and in severe defects, subsequent free tissue transfer might be necessary. However, there is concern that the inflammatory environment of the infection site may threaten free flap viability, particularly with concerns for thrombosis of feeding vessels and compromised tissue integration. Cases in the head and neck area are rare, so there are limited data regarding outcomes of free tissue transfer in these patients.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review assessed patients with cervical necrotizing fasciitis treated at an academic tertiary hospital between 2015 and 2021. Twenty-five patients were identified, and eight required free tissue transfer after adequate surgical debridement. Treatment, hospital course, and demographic data were collected on these eight patients.

RESULTS

All flaps had full survival at follow up (median follow up 3 months, range 1-39 months) without concerns for vascular compromise.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that in patients with large soft tissue defects due to cervical necrotizing fasciitis, free tissue transfer may be a safe treatment modality.

Regional Variations in Microbiology and Outcomes of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Frequency, microbiology, and outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) could vary across the United States because of differences in locoregional and environmental factors. We synthesized the literature from across the regions of the United States on NSTIs in a systematic review/meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched and screened. DerSimonian-Laird random-effects meta-analyses were performed using 'meta' package in R to determine pooled prevalences. Meta-regression analyses examined moderator effects of risk factors. Results: Twenty-seven studies (2,242 total patients) were included. Pooled prevalences of polymicrobial and monomicrobial infections were 52.2% and 39.9%, respectively. The prevalence of monomicrobial NSTIs increased over the last two decades (p = 0.018), whereas polymicrobial infections declined (p = 0.003). Meta-regression analysis showed that most polymicrobial NSTIs were Fournier gangrene (p < 0.001), whereas monomicrobial NSTIs mostly affected extremities (p < 0.001). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated (predominantly in the South), followed by Bacteroides spp. (predominately in the East) and Streptococcus pyogenes. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) accounted for 11.9% of NSTIs, mainly in the South. The overall mortality rate was 17.8% and declined over last two decades (p < 0.001), with the lowest rate reported in the last decade at 13% without any regional differences. Conclusions: Advancement in the management of NSTIs may have contributed to the observed decline in NSTI-related mortality in the United States. However, the proportion of monomicrobial NSTIs seems to be increasing, possibly because of increased comorbidities affecting extremities. Causative organisms varied by region. Multi-center observational studies are warranted to confirm our observations.

The LRINEC Score-An Indicator for the Course and Prognosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis?

Background: The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis score (LRINEC) is a simple tool used to support early diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the LRINEC is suitable as a progression and prognosis parameter in patients with NF. Methods: In this retrospective study, laboratory data of 70 patients with NF were analyzed. The LRINEC was calculated for every patient at the time of hospital admission and postoperatively after surgical interventions. Furthermore, the LRINEC was examined as a prognostic factor for survival. Results: The overall lethality of our series was 20 out of 70 (28.6%). A highly significant LRINEC decrease was found for serial debridements. The largest decrease was observed after the first debridement. There was a significant difference between the initial LRINEC of deceased and surviving patients. A cut off value of >6.5 (7 LRINEC points) resulted in an optimal constellation of sensitivity (70%) and specificity (60%) to predict lethality in patients with NF. Conclusions: The LRINEC significantly decreases after surgical debridement. An initial LRINEC equal or greater than seven is an independent prognostic marker for lethality and can help to identify high-risk patients.

WSES/GAIS/WSIS/SIS-E/AAST global clinical pathways for patients with skin and soft tissue infections

Skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs) encompass a variety of pathological conditions that involve the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue, fascia, or muscle, ranging from simple superficial infections to severe necrotizing infections.

Together, the World Society of Emergency Surgery, the Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery, the Surgical Infection Society-Europe, The World Surgical Infection Society, and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma have jointly completed an international multi-society document to promote global standards of care in SSTIs guiding clinicians by describing reasonable approaches to the management of SSTIs.

An extensive non-systematic review was conducted using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases, limited to the English language. The resulting evidence was shared by an international task force with different clinical backgrounds.

Are Readmission and Reoperation Rates for Lower Extremity Necrotizing Fasciitis Different Between Patients With and Without Diabetes Mellitus?

Necrotizing fasciitis is a condition associated with high morbidity and mortality unless emergent surgery is performed. This study aims to understand the hospital course of diabetic and nondiabetic patients managed for lower-extremity necrotizing fasciitis by identifying factors contributing to readmissions and reoperations. About 562 patients treated for lower-extremity necrotizing fasciitis were selected from the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database between 2012 and 2017. The unplanned reoperation and readmission rates for all patients during the 30-day postoperative period were 9.4% and 5.3%, respectively. Out of 562 patients with lower-extremity necrotizing fasciitis, 326 (58.0%) patients had diabetes. Diabetes patients were more likely to undergo amputation (p < .00001). Neither readmission (6.1% vs 4.2%, p = .411) nor reoperation (8.6% vs 10.6%, p = .482) were significantly different between patients with and without diabetes. Neither readmission (7.2% vs 4.0%, p = .159) nor reoperation (4.1% vs 3.7%, p = .842) were significantly different between patients undergoing amputation and nonamputation procedures. In simple logistic regression, factors associated with unplanned reoperation included poorer renal function, thrombocytopenia, longer duration of surgery, longer hospital length of stay, postoperative surgical site infection, postoperative respiratory distress, and postoperative septic shock. Body mass index >30 kg/m² was associated with decreased odds of readmission. In multiple logistic regression, surgical site infection was the only predictor of reoperation (adjusted odds ratio 7.32, 95% confidence interval 2.76-19.1), and any amputation was associated with readmission (adjusted odds ratio 4.53, 95% confidence interval 1.20-29.6). Further study is needed to understand patient characteristics to better direct management. However, the current study elucidates patient outcomes for a relatively rare condition.

Patient Characteristics and Outcomes in Necrotizing Soft-tissue Infections: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study in a Tertiary Care Center Intensive Care Unit in South India

Background

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are life-threatening infections characterized by progressive destruction of muscle, fascia, and overlying subcutaneous tissue. Prospective studies in the field are few, and data from the Indian subcontinent are bleak. Prompt diagnosis and timely treatment are critical for optimal outcomes. The aims of this study are to provide detailed information on the clinical profile of patients with NSTIs and to identify predictors of mortality in order to pick up reversible factors that may improve outcomes.

Materials and methods

This study was a prospective cohort study of adult patients with NSTIs in a tertiary center in South India. All patients who were admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (ICU) of the institute with a diagnosis of NSTI were screened and enrolled. All patients were managed according to the local protocol for treatment of NSTIs and intensive care support.

Results

In our cohort of patients, simple and multiple logistic regression analysis showed that four factors, namely, AKIN stage 3, shock, need for mechanical ventilation for more than 3 days, and low serum albumin values were found to be significantly associated with higher mortality.

Conclusion

The successful management of these patients calls for early diagnosis, resuscitation, surgical debridement, appropriate and timely antibiotics, and early ventilatory weaning before multi-organ failure associated with shock and AKI occurs.

How to cite this article

Kurian GP, Korula PJ, Jacob JM, Desha AMK, Karuppusami R, Kandasamy S. Patient Characteristics and Outcomes in Necrotizing Soft-tissue Infections: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study in a Tertiary Care Center Intensive Care Unit in South India. Indian J Crit Care Med 2022;26(4):452-456.

Impact of Early Surgical Intervention of Plastic Surgeons on the Prognosis of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection

Background

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rare, severe bacterial infection that causes rapidly progressive soft tissue necrosis from the skin to the muscle. The gold standard for treating NSTI is a prompt diagnosis, early surgical debridement of necrotic tissue, and antimicrobial therapy. This study investigated the relationship between the involvement of plastic surgeons and the clinical course of NSTI cases treated at Yokosuka General Hospital Uwamachi.

Methodology

This study involved 28 patients with NSTI who were treated at Yokosuka General Hospital Uwamachi. Patient background, outcomes (mortality and amputation), and days to the first surgery were compared in the early and nonearly plastic surgery intervention groups. Moreover, the duration of treatment was also compared in surviving patients. Differences between the two groups were analyzed using Fisher’s direct probability test, Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of continuous variables between the two groups, and Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was used for the bivariate correlation coefficient. The significance level was set at <5%.

Results

There were eight and 20 patients in the early and nonearly plastic surgery intervention groups (14 in later intervention and six in nonintervention), respectively. A difference in the median number of days to the first surgery between the early (zero days) and the nonearly (two days) intervention groups was significant (p = 0.002). In the survival groups, the median treatment duration in the early (n = 8) and nonearly (n = 13) intervention groups was 44 and 82 days, respectively, which was significantly shorter in the early intervention group (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

The number of days until the first surgery and the length of the treatment period were significantly shorter in the early plastic surgery intervention group than in the nonearly intervention group.

Associations between YKL-40 and markers of disease severity and death in patients with necrotizing soft-tissue infection

Background

Necrotizing soft-tissue infection (NSTI) is a severe and fast-progressing bacterial infection. Prognostic biomarkers may provide valuable information in treatment guidance and decision-making, but none have provided sufficient robustness to have a clinical impact. YKL-40 may reflect the ongoing pathological inflammatory processes more accurately than traditional biomarkers as it is secreted by the activated immune cells, but its prognostic yields in NSTI remains unknown. For this purpose, we investigated the association between plasma YKL-40 and 30-day mortality in patients with NSTI, and assessed its value as a marker of disease severity.

Methods

We determined plasma YKL-40 levels in patients with NSTI (n = 161) and age-sex matched controls (n = 65) upon admission and at day 1, 2 and 3.

Results

Baseline plasma YKL-40 was 1191 ng/mL in patients with NSTI compared with 40 ng/mL in controls (p < 0.001). YKL-40 was found to be significantly higher in patients with septic shock (1942 vs. 720 ng/mL, p < 0.001), and in patients receiving renal-replacement therapy (2382 vs. 1041 ng/mL, p < 0.001). YKL-40 correlated with Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (Rho 0.33, p < 0.001). Baseline YKL-40 above 1840 ng/mL was associated with increased risk of 30-day mortality in age-sex-comorbidity adjusted analysis (OR 3.77, 95% CI; 1.59–9.24, p = 0.003), but after further adjustment for Simplified Acute Physiology Score II no association was found between YKL-40 and early mortality.

Conclusion

High plasma YKL-40 to be associated with disease severity, renal-replacement therapy and risk of death in patients with NSTI. However, YKL-40 is not an independent predictor of 30-day mortality.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06760-x.

Resolution of organ dysfunction as a predictor of long-term survival in necrotizing soft tissue infections: Analysis of the AB103 Clinical Composite Endpoint Study in Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections trial and a retrospective claims database-linked chart study

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are an acute surgical condition with high morbidity and mortality. Timely identification, resuscitation, and aggressive surgical management have significantly decreased inpatient mortality. However, reduced inpatient mortality has shifted the burden of disease to long-term mortality associated with persistent organ dysfunction.

METHODS

We performed a combined analysis of NSTI patients from the AB103 Clinical Composite Endpoint Study in Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections randomized-controlled interventional trial (ATB-202) and comprehensive administrative database (ATB-204) to determine the association of persistent organ dysfunction on inpatient and long-term outcomes. Persistent organ dysfunction was defined as a modified Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (mSOFA) score of 2 or greater at Day 14 (D14) after NSTI diagnosis, and resolution of organ dysfunction defined as mSOFA score of 1 or less.

RESULTS

The analysis included 506 hospitalized NSTI patients requiring surgical debridement, including 247 from ATB-202, and 259 from ATB-204. In both study cohorts, age and comorbidity burden were higher in the D14 mSOFA ≥2 group. Patients with D14 mSOFA score of 1 or less had significantly lower 90-day mortality than those with mSOFA score of 2 or higher in both ATB-202 (2.4% vs. 21.5%; p < 0.001) and ATB-204 (6% vs. 16%: p = 0.008) studies. In addition, in an adjusted covariate analysis of the combined study data sets D14 mSOFA score of 1 or lesss was an independent predictor of lower 90-day mortality (odds ratio, 0.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.13-0.53; p = 0.001). In both studies, D14 mSOFA score of 1 or less was associated with more favorable discharge status and decreased resource utilization.

CONCLUSION

For patients with NSTI undergoing surgical management, persistent organ dysfunction at 14 days, strongly predicts higher resource utilization, poor discharge disposition, and higher long-term mortality. Promoting the resolution of acute organ dysfunction after NSTI should be considered as a target for investigational therapies to improve long-term outcomes after NSTI.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic/epidemiology study, level III.

Dynamic Changes in Microbial Composition During Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections in ICU Patients

Introduction: Recent studies described the threat of emerging multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, but few data are available for necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections (NSTI). In a cohort of ICU patients admitted for NSTI, we describe the dynamic changes of microbial population during repeated surgeries.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study compiled consecutive cases admitted for the management of severe NSTI. Clinical characteristics, NSTI features, morbidity and mortality data were collected. The microbiological characteristics of surgical samples obtained during initial surgery were compared with those obtained during the first reoperation, including persistence of initial pathogens and/or emergence of microorganisms. Risk factors for emergence of microorganisms and MDR bacteria were assessed by univariable and multivariable analyses.

Results: Among 100 patients {63% male, 58 years old [interquartile ratio (IQR) 50–68]} admitted for NSTI, 54 underwent reoperation with a median [IQR] delay of 3 (1–7) days. Decreased proportions of susceptible strains and emergence of Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococci and enterococci strains, were reported based on the cultures of surgical specimen collected on reoperation. On reoperation, 22 (27%) of the isolated strains were MDR (p < 0.0001 vs. MDR bacteria cultured from the first samples). Broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy as first-line therapy was significantly associated with a decreased emergence of microorganisms. Adequate antibiotic therapy from the initial surgery did not modify the frequency of emergence of microorganisms (p = 0.79) and MDR bacteria (p = 1.0) or the 1-year survival rate.

Conclusion: The emergence of microorganisms, including MDR bacteria, is frequently noted in NSTI without affecting mortality.

Non-necrotizing and necrotizing soft tissue infections in South America: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study analyzed and described factors related to necrotizing or non-necrotizing soft tissue infections (SSTIs) in a hospitalized patient population in Northeastern South America.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included patients hospitalized with SSTIs between January 2011 and December 2016. The main factors related to necrotizing SSTIs (NSTIs) or non-necrotizing SSTIs were analyzed together or separately.

RESULTS

Of 344 SSTI patients (161 [46.8%] non-necrotizing, 183 [53.2%] necrotizing), NSTI patients had a higher incidence of heart disease (P = 0.0081) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD; p < 0.001), more antibiotic use, and longer hospital stay (P < 0.001). NSTI was associated with a 9.58, 33.28, 2.34, and 2.27 times higher risk of PAD (confidence interval [CI] 3.69-24.87), amputation (7.97-139), complications (1.45-3.79), and death (1.2-4.26), respectively, than non-necrotizing SSTI. The risk factors associated with amputation were PAD (P < 0.001) and poor glycemic control during hospitalization (P = 0.0011). Factors associated with higher mortality were heart disease (P < 0.001), smoking (P = 0.0135), PAD (P = 0.001), chronic renal failure (P = 0.0039), poor glycemic control (P = 0.0005), and evolution to limb irreversibility (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with NSTI have greater illness severity, with a greater association with PAD and amputation. Patients with poor glycemic control more frequently underwent amputation and died.

[Necrotizing fasciitis-a surgical emergency]

Necrotizing fasciitis is a fulminant and potentially life-threatening infection of the skin and soft tissue. It is usually caused by a combination of different bacteria and is often due to assumed minor trauma. Clinically, only relatively insignificant skin changes are initially present, such as blistering or erythema. They are often accompanied by excessive pain. In the further course, the massive systemic reaction becomes predominant. The diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is primarily clinical, which can be supported by laboratory parameters (LRINEC score) and computed tomography imaging. Decisive for the prognosis is the immediate initiation of surgical treatment by radical debridement. Additionally, the calculated administration of a combination of different antibiotics should be initiated. As part of the further complex intensive care treatment, a regular reevaluation of the wounds is carried out. Multiple débridements are always necessary until plastic surgery for defect coverage can be carried out.

Antimicrobial Resistance in ESKAPE Pathogens

Antimicrobial-resistant ESKAPE ( Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) pathogens represent a global threat to human health. The acquisition of antimicrobial resistance genes by ESKAPE pathogens has reduced the treatment options for serious infections, increased the burden of disease, and increased death rates due to treatment failure and requires a coordinated global response for antimicrobial resistance surveillance. This looming health threat has restimulated interest in the development of new antimicrobial therapies, has demanded the need for better patient care, and has facilitated heightened governance over stewardship practices.

Antimicrobial Resistance in ESKAPE Pathogens

Antimicrobial-resistant ESKAPE ( Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) pathogens represent a global threat to human health. The acquisition of antimicrobial resistance genes by ESKAPE pathogens has reduced the treatment options for serious infections, increased the burden of disease, and increased death rates due to treatment failure and requires a coordinated global response for antimicrobial resistance surveillance. This looming health threat has restimulated interest in the development of new antimicrobial therapies, has demanded the need for better patient care, and has facilitated heightened governance over stewardship practices.

Obesity Is Not an Independent Predictor of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Outcomes

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are a group of rapidly progressive infections of the skin and its underlying tissue. These infections result in substantial morbidity and mortality. The focus of this study was to determine if obesity is associated with a worsened clinical outcome or prolonged hospital course for patients with NSTIs. Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with NSTI presenting to a single tertiary hospital. Fat content, measured with body mass index (BMI) and abdominal fat thicknesses, including subcutaneous and visceral fat, were compared against primary and secondary outcomes of NSTIs. Results: We found that women had a higher mortality rate compared with men (27% vs. 15% mortality). Women also had an increased subcutaneous abdominal fat thickness (55.7 vs. 36.9 mm, p = 0.028). However, no measurements of fat, BMI, subcutaneous fat, or visceral fat differed between survivors and mortalities of NSTIs. In fact, with the exception of a higher BMI in those who developed acute kidney injury (AKI, p = 0.034), we found no correlation between increases in fat measurement and secondary outcome, including propensity to develop sepsis during hospitalization, length of hospital stay, length of intensive care stay, or antibiotic usage. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted, and we found no statistically significant differences in primary or secondary outcomes. Conclusion: Women appear to have a higher mortality in NSTI, although the reasons for this are unclear. Obesity, as measured by BMI, subcutaneous, and visceral fat thicknesses, does not appear to be an independent risk factor.

[Necrotizing fasciitis-a surgical emergency]

Necrotizing fasciitis is a fulminant and potentially life-threatening infection of the skin and soft tissue. It is usually caused by a combination of different bacteria and is often due to assumed minor trauma. Clinically, only relatively insignificant skin changes are initially present, such as blistering or erythema. They are often accompanied by excessive pain. In the further course, the massive systemic reaction becomes predominant. The diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis is primarily clinical, which can be supported by laboratory parameters (LRINEC score) and computed tomography imaging. Decisive for the prognosis is the immediate initiation of surgical treatment by radical debridement. Additionally, the calculated administration of a combination of different antibiotics should be initiated. As part of the further complex intensive care treatment, a regular reevaluation of the wounds is carried out. Multiple débridements are always necessary until plastic surgery for defect coverage can be carried out.

Management of necrotising fasciitis within a burns centre: do outcomes differ?

INTRODUCTION

Many similarities exist between the care of necrotising fasciitis (NF) and burn injury patients. Each group represents a small but complex cohort requiring multiple theatre trips, specialist reconstruction, meticulous wound care and multidisciplinary management. Over a six-year period, we sought to examine the clinical outcomes of NF patients managed within a burns centre against those managed by a plastic surgery service.

METHODS

A retrospective case-note review was performed for all identifiable patients referred to our institution's designated burns centre or plastic surgery service between 2008-2014. Patient characteristics, length of stay, wound-related and clinical outcomes were extracted and descriptively presented with statistical analysis performed for survival and length of stay.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients were included in the study (burns centre [B]: 17 patients; plastic surgery service [P]: 12 patients). Median total length of stay (B: 37 vs. P: 50 days, P=0.38), local length of stay (27 vs. 19 days, P=0.29) and survival till discharge (94.4% vs. 100%, P=0.73) demonstrated no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Caring for NF patients within a burns centre facilitated easier access to specialist reconstructive expertise and multidisciplinary care but did not lead to statistically significant differences in length of stay or survival. The management of NF within a burns centre facilitated provision of high-quality care to a highly challenging patient group.

Impact of a multidisciplinary care bundle for necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections (NSTIs) require both prompt medical and surgical treatment. The coordination of multiple urgent interventions by care bundles has improved outcome in other settings. This study aimed to assess the impact of a multidisciplinary care bundle on management and outcome of patients with NSTIs.

METHODS

Patients with NSTIs admitted between 2006 and 2017 were compared according to admission before or after bundle implementation (2012-2013). This bundle consisted mainly in (1) the creation of a multidisciplinary task force; (2) management guidelines on empirical antibiotics, intensive care unit admission criteria, a triage algorithm to accelerate operating room access; and (3) an active communication policy. Patient recruitment and management were compared between pre- and post-implementation periods. Main outcome was day 60-censored hospital survival.

RESULTS

Overall, 224 patients were admitted: 60 before, 35 during, and 129 after bundle implementation. Admission after implementation was associated with increased yearly admissions (10 [8-13] vs 30 [24-43] patients/year, p = 0.014) and decreased mortality (30 vs 15%, HR = 0.49 [0.26-0.92]; p = 0.026) but was no longer a protective factor for mortality after adjustment on confounding factors (adjusted HR = 0.90 [0.43-1.88], p = 0.780). There was no significant difference regarding time to surgery (0 [0-1] vs 0 [0-1] days, p = 0.192) or rate of antibiotic treatment within 24 h (98% vs 99%, p > 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of a multidisciplinary care bundle for NSTIs was feasible, but in a retrospective study from an already experienced center was not associated with significantly increased survival after adjustment.

An elevated glycemic gap predicts adverse outcomes in diabetic patients with necrotizing fasciitis

Background

Diabetes is the most common comorbidity of necrotizing fasciitis (NF), but the effect of stress-induced hyperglycemia (SIH) on diabetic patients with NF has never been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess whether SIH, as determined by the glycemic gap between admission glucose levels and A_1C-derived average glucose levels, predicts adverse outcomes in diabetic patients hospitalized with NF.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the glycemic gap and clinical outcomes in 252 diabetic patients hospitalized due to NF from 2011 to 2018 in a single medical center in Taiwan. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analyze the optimal cutoff values for predicting adverse outcomes. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify significant predictors of adverse outcomes.

Results

In total, 194 diabetic NF patients were enrolled. Compared with patients without adverse outcomes, patients with adverse outcomes had significantly higher glycemic gaps, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels; lower albumin and hemoglobin levels; greater incidence of limb loss; and longer hospital and intensive care unit stays. The glycemic gap positively correlates with the laboratory risk indicator for NF scores, APACHE II scores and CRP levels. A glycemic gap of 146 mg/dL was the optimal cutoff value for predicting adverse outcomes using the ROC curve. Compared with patients with glycemic gaps ≤146 mg/dL, those with glycemic gaps >146 mg/dL had higher APACHE II scores and incidence rates of adverse outcomes, especially bacteremia and acute kidney injury. Multivariate analysis revealed that a glycemic gap >146 mg/dL and APACHE II score >15 were independent predictors of adverse outcomes, while the presence of hyperglycemia at admission was not.

Conclusions

An elevated glycemic gap was significantly independently associated with adverse outcomes in diabetic NF patients. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate the role of the glycemic gap in NF patients with diabetes.

Molecular profiling of tissue biopsies reveals unique signatures associated with streptococcal necrotizing soft tissue infections

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are devastating infections caused by either a single pathogen, predominantly Streptococcus pyogenes, or by multiple bacterial species. A better understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these different NSTI types could facilitate faster diagnostic and more effective therapeutic strategies. Here, we integrate microbial community profiling with host and pathogen(s) transcriptional analysis in patient biopsies to dissect the pathophysiology of streptococcal and polymicrobial NSTIs. We observe that the pathogenicity of polymicrobial communities is mediated by synergistic interactions between community members, fueling a cycle of bacterial colonization and inflammatory tissue destruction. In S. pyogenes NSTIs, expression of specialized virulence factors underlies infection pathophysiology. Furthermore, we identify a strong interferon-related response specific to S. pyogenes NSTIs that could be exploited as a potential diagnostic biomarker. Our study provides insights into the pathophysiology of mono- and polymicrobial NSTIs and highlights the potential of host-derived signatures for microbial diagnosis of NSTIs.

Necrotizing skin and soft-tissue infections in the intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing skin and soft-tissue infections (NSTI) are rare but potentially life-threatening and disabling infections that often require intensive care unit admission.

OBJECTIVES

To review all aspects of care for a critically ill individual with NSTI.

SOURCES

Literature search using Medline and Cochrane library, multidisciplinary panel of experts.

CONTENT

The initial presentation of a patient with NSTI can be misleading, as features of severe systemic toxicity can obscure sometimes less impressive skin findings. The infection can spread rapidly, and delayed surgery worsens prognosis, hence there is a limited role for additional imaging in the critically ill patient. Also, the utility of clinical scores is contested. Prompt surgery with aggressive debridement of necrotic tissue is required for source control and allows for microbiological sampling. Also, prompt administration of broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy is warranted, with the addition of clindamycin for its effect on toxin production, both in empirical therapy, and in targeted therapy for monomicrobial group A streptococcal and clostridial NSTI. The role of immunoglobulins and hyperbaric oxygen therapy remains controversial.

IMPLICATIONS

Close collaboration between intensive care, surgery, microbiology and infectious diseases, and centralization of care is fundamental in the approach to the severely ill patient with NSTI. As many aspects of management of these rare infections are supported by low-quality data only, multicentre trials are urgently needed.

Obligate anaerobes are abundant in human necrotizing soft tissue infection samples - a metagenomics analysis

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are associated with high morbidity and mortality and are increasing in incidence. Proper identification of the microbial causes of NSTIs is a crucial step in diagnosis and treatment, but the majority of data collected are culture based, which is biased against fastidious organisms, including obligate anaerobes. The goal of this study was to address this gap in knowledge by characterizing NSTI microbial communities through molecular diagnostics. We performed 16S rRNA sequencing on human NSTI samples and identified five genera most commonly found in NSTIs (Prevotella, Bacteroides, Peptoniphilus, Porphyromonas, and Enterococcus). We found that a >70% contribution of obligate anaerobes to the bacterial population distribution was associated with NSTI mortality, and that NSTI samples, from both survivors and non-survivors, had an increased relative abundance of gram negative bacteria compared to those of abscess patients. Based on our data, we conclude that obligate anaerobes are abundant in NSTIs and a high relative abundance of anaerobes is associated with a worse outcome. We recommend increasing anaerobe antibiotic coverage during the treatment of NSTIs even when anaerobes are not found by traditional clinical microbiology methods, and especially when there is a clinical suspicion for anaerobe involvement.

Facial necrotising fasciitis following rhytidectomy

Rhytidectomy is the most common surgical procedure used to rejuvenate the appearance of the aging face and neck. Necrotising fasciitis is a rapidly progressing, life-threatening, bacterial infection of the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the fascia. We report a case of necrotising fasciitis of the face caused by a group A streptococcal infection after rhytidectomy on a healthy female patient. An abscess on her hand that had been caused by an infection related to a venous catheter had provided a potential entry for the pathogen, and treatment combined both surgical debridement and antibiotics. The operation had resulted in large tissue losses around the ears, which we treated by healing by second intention.

Skin Infections

The primary care provider will commonly see skin and soft tissue infections in the outpatient setting. Skin and soft tissue infections range from the uncomplicated impetigo to the potentially lethal necrotizing fasciitis. This article reviews these infections based on their underlying etiology: bacterial, fungal, and viral causes. This article discusses the etiology, presentation, evaluation, and management of impetigo, bullous impetigo, erysipelas, cellulitis, periorbital cellulitis, orbital cellulitis, folliculitis, furuncles, carbuncles, abscess, necrotizing fasciitis, sporotrichosis, tinea corporis, tinea pedis, tinea capitis, Herpes Simplex Virus, zoster, molluscum contagiosum, and warts.

Urgences dermatologiques en réanimation : infections nécrosantes de la peau et des parties molles et toxidermies graves

Les urgences dermatologiques nécessitant une admission en réanimation sont rares mais associées à une mortalité élevée et à de lourdes séquelles à long terme. Elles sont essentiellement représentées par les infections nécrosantes des tissus mous (également appelées : dermohypodermites bactériennes nécrosantes-fasciites nécrosantes [DHBN-FN]) et par les toxidermies graves que sont les nécrolyses épidermiques (comprenant le syndrome de Lyell ou nécrolyse épidermique toxique [NET], le syndrome de Stevens-Johnson [SJS] et le DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms)). Elles ont pour caractéristiques communes un diagnostic souvent difficile, la nécessité d’une approche multidisciplinaire et de soins paramédicaux lourds et spécifiques, imposant fréquemment le transfert dans un centre expert. Le traitement des DHBN-FN est médicochirurgical, associant un débridement chirurgical précoce et une antibiothérapie probabiliste à large spectre. La présence de signes de gravité locaux (nécrose, crépitation, douleur intense) ou généraux (sepsis, choc septique) est une indication d’urgence à l’exploration chirurgicale. Sa précocité est le principal facteur pronostique modifiable, les recommandations de thérapeutiques complémentaires (immunoglobulines intraveineuses, oxygénothérapie hyperbare, pansement à pressions négatives, ...) reposant à ce jour sur un faible niveau de preuve. L’élément essentiel de la prise en charge des toxidermies graves est la recherche et l’arrêt du médicament imputable, facteur essentiel du pronostic. Le SJS et le NET, en général associés à une ou plusieurs atteintes muqueuses, entraînent dans les formes les plus graves une défaillance cutanée aiguë. La prise en charge repose sur les soins de support (correction des troubles hydroélectrolytiques, prévention de l’hypothermie, prévention et traitement des épisodes infectieux, analgésie et anxiolyse, soins locaux). Les complications infectieuses et respiratoires sont les principales causes de décès à la phase aiguë. Aucun traitement spécifique n’a fait la preuve de son efficacité à ce jour. Le diagnostic de DRESS est difficile, et la prise en charge doit être multidisciplinaire. Sa gravité tient aux possibles atteintes viscérales associées (hépatique, rénale et cardiaque) qui justifient dans les formes graves d’une corticothérapie urgente.

Healthcare Resource Utilization Associated with Burns and Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Single-Center Comparative Analysis

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) patients are increasingly managed in burn units. Although treated similarly to burns, the healthcare resource utilization (HRU) in NF appears to be greater. Accurate knowledge of the HRU is important to better allocate resources and to compare outcomes between units. The goal of this study is to provide better understanding of the HRU for NF compared with burns. A retrospective chart review of patients ≥18 years admitted to two regional tertiary referral centers with either NF or burns requiring surgery. The authors examined age, sex, %TBSA, geographic region, anatomical location, length of stay (LOS) in hospital, LOS in intensive care unit, number of operative procedures, number of packed red blood cells transfused, amputation, death, and use of free tissue transfer or skin graft. There were 210 NF and 209 burn patients. The NF cohort had a smaller TBSA (3.3 vs 10.0%), longer LOS (20 vs 14 days), and consequently a longer LOS/%TBSA (6.0 vs 1.5 days). This difference persisted after adjusting for age. More of the NF cohort (44.8%) spent ≥1 day in the intensive care unit. The NF cohort also had more procedures (median 2 vs 1), required blood (46.2 vs 16.7%), died in hospital (13.3 vs 4.3%), had an amputation (12.4 vs 4.8%), or required free tissue transfer (7.6 vs 2.9%). This study shows that NF requires substantially more HRU compared with burns. This information is important in recognizing the impact of these patients on burn units and planning for allocation of appropriate resources.

[Postoperative quality of life of patients with a bacterial necrotizing dermis-hypodermitis or necrotizing fasciitis, a ten-year study]

INTRODUCTION

Bacterial necrotizing dermis-hypodermitis and necrotizing fasciitis (BNDH-NF) are serious life-threatening soft-tissue infections. The object is to evaluate the quality of life (QOL) of patients who have been operated in our plastic surgery departement.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of cases who have been treated at Nancy University Hospital between 2005 and 2014. We analyzed the perioperative data (demographic, clinical, bacteriological), the surgical data (excision, reconstruction) and the follow up data (consequences, mortality). The quality of life was assessed by the Short-Form 36 score, and the patients' satisfaction was assessed by a four-level scale.

RESULTS

We analyzed 23 patients with an average age of 60 years (28-84 years). The main comorbidities were diabetes (43 %) and obesity (39 %). The average number of surgical excision was about 1.9 (1-5) and the average excised body surface area was about 5 % (1-16 %). The short-term mortality was about 17 %. The mortality rate has been statistically correlated with the surgically excised body surface area (short-term 95 days: P=0.02; and long-term: P=0.003). The statistical analysis has shown a strong relative linear relationship between number of surgical excision and the physical score of QOL (P<0.001), between number of surgical excision and mental score of QOL (P=0.032), and between age and physical score of QOL (P≤0.021). The statistical analysis has also shown a strong relative linear relationship between E. coli infections and physical score of QOL (P=0.01). The percentage of patients' satisfaction in our study was evaluated at 86 %.

CONCLUSION

We have found that multiple surgical excisions, an advanced age of patients and E. coli infections have been associated with poor QOL. The mortality rate increased in relation with the importance of excised body surface. In spite of the gravity of these infections, our patients were satisfied of their treatment.

Virulence Characteristics of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains from Patients with Necrotizing Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Two types of Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) strains are currently emerging: hypervirulent (hvKP) strains and carbapenem-resistant (CR-KP) strains. To date, these two strain types rarely overlap. Recent reports, however, suggest that CR-KP strains are increasing in virulence. hvKP strains frequently present as highly invasive infections, such as necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections (NSSTI). To examine whether CR-KP strains with features of hvKP were present in our U.S. hospital, we retrospectively identified four cases of CR-KP NSSTI diagnosed between January 2012 and January 2016. Whole-genome sequencing was used to perform multilocus sequence typing, capsular typing, and identification of virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes. Additionally, the virulence of each isolate was determined in vitro and using murine pneumonia and subcutaneous infection models. We identified one CR-KP isolate that possessed features of hypervirulent KP, including a hypermucoviscous phenotype, K2 capsule, and resistance to phagocytosis. Of the four CR-KP isolates, two had no evidence of enhanced pathogenicity in either mouse model, demonstrating that low-virulence strains can cause NSSTI in immunosuppressed patients. The remaining two isolates exhibited low virulence in the pneumonia model but high virulence in the subcutaneous infection model, suggesting that the virulence attributes of these isolates are adapted to causing NSSTI.

Fungal Infections Increase the Mortality Rate Three-Fold in Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs) result in significant morbidity and mortality rates, with as many as 76% of patients dying during their index admission. Published data suggest NSTIs rarely involve fungal infections in immunocompetent patients. However, because of the recent recognition of fungal infections in our population, we hypothesized that such infections frequently complicate NSTIs and are associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained Acute and Critical Care Surgery (ACCS) database spanning 2008-2015 and including more than 7,000 patients was queried for patients with NSTIs. Microbiologic data, demographics, and clinical outcomes were abstracted. Risk factors and outcomes associated with NSTI with positive intra-operative fungal cultures were determined. Frequencies were compared by χ² and continuous variables by the Student t-test using SPSS. Because the study included only archived data, no patient permission was needed.

RESULTS

A total of 230 patients were found to have NSTIs; 197 had intra-operative cultures, and 21 (10.7%) of these were positive for fungi. Fungal infection was more common in women, patients with higher body mass index (BMI), and patients who had had prior abdominal procedures. There were no significant differences in demographics, co-morbidities, or site of infection. The majority of patients (85.7%) had mixed bacterial and fungal infections; in the remaining patients, fungi were the only species isolated. Most fungal cultures were collected within 48 h of hospital admission, suggesting that the infections were not hospital acquired. Patients with positive fungal cultures required two more surgical interventions and had a three-fold greater mortality rate than patients without fungal infections.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest series to date describing the impact of fungal infection in NSTIs. Our data demonstrate a three-fold increase in the mortality rate and the need for two additional operations. Consideration should be given to starting patients on empiric anti-fungal therapy in certain circumstances.

Epidemiology and Outcomes of Hospitalized Children With Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology and outcome of hospitalized children with a diagnosis of necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs).

METHODS

Demographic and outcome data of children 1 month to 18 years of age with a diagnosis of NSTI (International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision diagnosis codes 728.86 and 729.4) were extracted from the Kids' Inpatient Database 2009 and 2012. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done to determine the factors affecting mortality. The sample data were weighted to get national estimates.

RESULTS

A total of 446 children with NSTI (prevalence of 1.12/10,000 discharges) were included. Males comprised 54%. The median age was 10 (interquartile range 4-16) years. The mortality rate was 6%. In addition, 29.3% of children with NSTI were discharged to either skilled nursing facilities or to home health care compared with 4.5% of children without NSTI (odds ratio 8.9; 95% confidence interval 7.3-10.9; P < 0001). A bacterial infection was reported in 72.1% of children. An infection with Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Gram-negative bacteria, anaerobic bacteria, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus areus and polymicrobia was present in 34.5%, 21.8%, 8.6%, 3.9%, 18.7% and 13.6% of cases, respectively. A compartment syndrome, severe sepsis/septic shock and toxic shock were documented in 4.4%, 22.2% and 3.2% of the cases, respectively. Severe sepsis/septic shock, the need for mechanical ventilation and Hispanic race were associated with increased mortality, whereas skin/muscle surgery was associated with lower mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

NSTI in children is associated with high morbidity. The mortality is higher with the presence of severe sepsis/septic shock and among Hispanics and lower with surgical intervention.

A Multi-Center Review of Care Patterns and Outcomes in Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections

BACKGROUND

Surgical debridement and broad-spectrum empiric antibiotics are first-line therapy for necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI). The objective of this multi-center retrospective review was to evaluate antimicrobial agent initiation and duration and compare outcomes in the treatment of patients with NSTI.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This review included adults with NSTI, as indicated by International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification codes 728.86, 608.33, or 040.0, who were admitted to three academic institutions between 1/1/09 and 5/15/14. Demographics, antibiotic practices, operative management, and clinical outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 341 patients were identified at the three centers. Subjects were comparable in age (median 53 years, p = 0.14), gender (67% male, p = 0.57) and body mass index (median 31.9 (p = 0.31) between sites. No significant difference was found in time from admission to start of empiric antibiotic therapy between the three centers (median 1 d for each, p = 0.70), but duration of antibiotic therapy was significantly different (Site A = 16 d, Site B = 12 d, Site C = 9 d, medians, p < 0.001). Although total number of operations differed between sites (median of two at Sites A and B, three at Site C, p = 0.001), sites consistently operated on the day of patient arrival to their facility, and the number of debridements did not differ (median of two for all sites, p = 0.10). Mortality rate (Site A = 22%, Site B = 18%, and Site C = 9%, p = 0.02) and length of stay for survivors (Site A = 29 d, Site B = 16 d, Site C = 19 d, medians, p = 0.001) was significantly different among centers.

CONCLUSIONS

Variation in antibiotic duration between centers with expertise in the care of NSTI illustrates how little is known about best care practices for patients with NSTI. Future studies should emphasize development of evidence-based practices for NSTI management to further improve the outcomes of this complex group of patients.

Thoracoabdominal necrotising soft tissue infection secondary to enterocutaneous fistulae: a case report

OBJECTIVE

Necrotising soft tissue infection is a rare surgical emergency, which requires immediate and aggressive surgical debridement. Following control of the infection, patients are often left with large defects, with wound reconstruction and closure creating significant challenges. Here we describe a case of extensive thoracoabdominal necrotising soft tissue infection and provide a discussion on the standard of care and treatment based on a current literature review.

METHOD

A 53-year-old female presented with bilious and feculent discharge from her surgical incision two weeks after a total abdominal hysterectomy. She was found to have two enterocutaneous fistulae and an extensive abdominal wall necrotising soft tissue infection extending to the lower thorax. Wide excision and debridement were performed, leaving a large triangular defect. Following serial washouts and debridements, a biologic mesh with openings for the enterocutaneous fistulae was used to cover the fascial defect Results: Postoperatively, the patient was discharged to a nursing facility where she remained on total parenteral nutrition due to high fistula output. She subsequently underwent fistulectomy nine months later followed by skin grafting. To date, she has not had any recurrent fistulae or infection.

CONCLUSION

Necrotising soft tissue infection resulting in a large abdominal wall defect secondary to enterocutaneous fistulae poses a significant challenge for source control and abdominal wall reconstruction. After serial debridements, use of biologic mesh for temporary closure followed by staged resection of the bowel with abdominal wall reconstruction can be performed.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

The authors have no personal financial or institutional interest in any of the drugs, materials, or devices used.

Prognostic factors in necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTI): A cohort study

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing soft-tissue infection (NSTI) is uncommon but life-threatening. A recent meta-analysis estimated the overall mortality at 23.5%.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to identify risk factors associated with mortality in a cohort of patients with NSTI in a tertiary care center.

METHODS

We identified 512 patients with NSTI between 1996 and 2012 in the national hospital database Program for Medicalization of Information Systems and examined risk factors of mortality with NSTI by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

We included 109 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of NSTI; 31 (28%) died at a median follow-up of 274 days (range 2-6135 days). On multivariate analysis, independent risk factors of mortality were age older than 75 years (hazard ratio [HR] 4.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8-10.3), multifocal NSTI (HR 5.9, 95% CI 1.9-18.5), severe peripheral vascular disease (HR 5.1, 95% CI 1.5-17.0), hospital-acquired infection (HR 3.9, 95% CI 1.4-10.7), severe sepsis (HR 7.4, 95% CI 1.7-33.1), and septic shock on hospital admission (HR 13.9, 95% CI 3.8-50.4).

LIMITATIONS

This was a retrospective cohort, which disallows a precise record of the delay between diagnosis and surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our findings for this robust cohort of patients with a definite diagnosis of NSTI could help clinicians stratify NSTI severity at clinical course onset.

The Prediction Predicament: Rethinking Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections Mortality

BACKGROUND

Our study sought to identify independent risk factors predisposing patients with necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) to mortality from among laboratory values, demographic data, and microbiologic findings in a small population. To this end, a retrospective review was conducted of the medical records of all patients with NSTI who had been treated at our institution from 2003 to 2012 (n=134).

METHODS

Baseline demographics and comorbidities, clinical and laboratory values, hospital course, and the microbiologic characteristics of surgical incision cultures were recorded. Each variable was tested for association with survival status and all associated variables with p<0.15 were included in a logistic regression model to seek factors associated independently with mortality.

RESULTS

Surprisingly, no demographic or pre-existing condition proved to be a predictor of mortality. Two laboratory values had an inverse correlation to mortality: High C-reactive protein (CRP) and highest recorded CRP. Of surgical incisions that grew bacteria in culture, 33.6% were polymicrobial. Mortality rates were highest with Enterococcus-containing polymicrobial infections (50%), followed by those containing Pseudomonas (40%), and Streptococcus spp. (27%). Understanding why so many studies across the literature, now including our own, find such disparate results for correlation of NSTI mortality with patient data may lie in the fundamentally dynamic nature of the organisms involved.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that no single factor present on admission is a robust predictor of outcome; it is likely that survival in NSTI is predicated upon a complex interaction of multiple host and microbial factors that do not lend themselves to reduction into a simple formula. It is also abundantly clear that the well-established principles of NSTI surgery should continue to be followed in all cases, with an emphasis on early debridement, irrespective of apparent severity of initial presentation.

Epidemiology of necrotizing infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes at an Iowa hospital

The present study was performed to characterize the epidemiology of necrotizing soft tissue infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (n=14) and Staphylococcus aureus (n=14) isolates collected at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. An additional 9 S. pyogenes isolates were collected from patients being treated for mild respiratory infections and served as a comparison sample in the analysis. Patient data corresponding to the isolates (n=37) were also collected in order to identify risk factors or comorbid conditions possibly correlated with necrotizing fasciitis (NF). The prevalence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus among the study isolates was 35.7% (5/14), and the prevalence of the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) gene was 57% (8/14). The S. pyogenes NF (wound) isolates (n=14) belonged to 10 different emm types, none of which appeared to be associated with more severe disease when compared to the milder infection (throat) samples (n=9). Comorbid conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease were significantly associated with NF. The results indicate that there may be a high prevalence of the PVL virulence factor in NF infections and that spa type t008 may be responsible for the increasing incidence of S. aureus NF infections in Iowa.

Necrotising soft tissue infection in a UK metropolitan population

INTRODUCTION

Necrotising soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rare but life threatening diagnosis. Geographic, economic and social variances influence presentation and prognosis. As the current literature does not reflect a UK metropolitan population, we conducted a retrospective chart review to establish pertinent features relevant to our practice.

METHODS

Patients with histologically confirmed diagnoses of NSTI presenting to two London teaching hospitals between January 2007 and July 2013 were included in the study. Features of presentation, surgical and medical management, microbiological findings and outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients with histologically confirmed NSTI were included. Two age clusters were identified, with means of 46 years (standard deviation [SD]: 10 years) and 80 years (SD: 6 years). Pain, erythema and sepsis were common findings. Hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia and type II diabetes mellitus were common co-morbidities. A third of younger patients had human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis C, with a quarter dependent on drugs and/or alcohol. The mean Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotising Fasciitis (LRINEC) score was 5.8 (SD: 3.3). The lower extremities, groin and perineum were common sites of infection. Fourteen patients required inotropic support and seventeen required transfusions. The median number of surgical procedures was 5 (range: 1-17). Group A Streptococcus was the most frequently identified pathogen. Five patients died. Being elderly, female sex and failure to use clindamycin as a first-line antibiotic were associated with significantly higher mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to other recent series, group A streptococcal monomicrobial NSTI remains the most common presentation in our population. Survival is anticipated in young patients, regardless of premorbid status. Elderly patients have a poor prognosis. The negative predictive value of the LRINEC score is questioned. Use of clindamycin as a first-line antibiotic is supported.