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Nagayama J, Sato T, Takanori I, Kouji K, Mitsunobu N. Necrotising fasciitis with extensive necrosis caused by Lactobacillus: a case report. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:425. [PMID: 38649870 PMCID: PMC11034093 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09291-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening soft-tissue infection that rapidly destroys the epidermis, subcutaneous tissue, and fascia. Despite their low virulence, Lactobacillus spp. can cause NF, and because of its rare incidence, there is limited information about its molecular and clinicopathological characteristics. We report a rare case of NF in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosed on admission and severe obesity due to infection with two types of Lactobacillus spp. that manifested in extensive necrosis. CASE PRESENTATION A 48-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with a complaint of difficulty walking due to severe bilateral thigh pain. She presented with mild erythema, swelling, and severe skin pain extending from the pubic region to the groin. The patient was morbidly obese, had renal dysfunction, and had diabetes mellitus diagnosed on admission.; her LRINEC (Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotising Fasciitis) score was 9, indicating a high risk of NF. An exploratory surgical incision was made, and NF was diagnosed based on fascial necrosis. Emergent surgical debridement was performed, and cultures of the tissue culture and aspirated fluid/pus revealed two types of Lactobacillus spp.: Lactobacillus salivarius and L. iners. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), where antibiotics were administered and respiratory and circulatory management was performed. Diabetic ketoacidosis was detected, which was treated by controlling the blood glucose level stringently via intravenous insulin infusion. The patient underwent a second debridement on day 11 and a skin suture and skin grafting on day 36. The patient progressed well, was transferred from the ICU to the general ward on day 41, and was discharged unassisted on day 73. CONCLUSIONS Lactobacillus spp. are rarely pathogenic to healthy individuals and can scarcely trigger NF. However, these bacteria can cause rare infections such as NF in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with diabetes and obesity, and an early diagnosis of NF is imperative; surgical intervention may be required for the prevention of extensive necrosis. The LRINEC score may be useful for the early diagnosis of NF, even for less pathogenic bacteria such as Lactobacillus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nagayama
- Advanced Medical Emergency Department and Critical Care Center, Japanese Red Cross Maebashi Hospital, 389-1, Asakura-machi, 371-0811, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan.
| | - Takeo Sato
- Center for Community Clinical Education, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, 329-0498, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi-ken, Japan
| | - Ishida Takanori
- Advanced Medical Emergency Department and Critical Care Center, Japanese Red Cross Maebashi Hospital, 389-1, Asakura-machi, 371-0811, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Koga Kouji
- Advanced Medical Emergency Department and Critical Care Center, Japanese Red Cross Maebashi Hospital, 389-1, Asakura-machi, 371-0811, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Nakamura Mitsunobu
- Advanced Medical Emergency Department and Critical Care Center, Japanese Red Cross Maebashi Hospital, 389-1, Asakura-machi, 371-0811, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
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Molewa MC, Ogonowski-Bizos A, Els M, Birtles CM, Kolojane MC. The microbiological profile of necrotising fasciitis at a secondary level hospital in Gauteng. S Afr J Infect Dis 2024; 39:542. [PMID: 38726018 PMCID: PMC11079368 DOI: 10.4102/sajid.v39i1.542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a fulminant soft tissue infection that requires timely diagnosis, urgent surgical debridement, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy. The choice of empiric antimicrobial therapy depends on the microorganisms cultured and the antimicrobial resistance profile of the institution. Necrotising fasciitis has not been studied in our setting. Objectives The aim of the study was to audit the microbiological profile of NF and antimicrobial susceptibility profile. Method This was a retrospective study in a secondary level hospital from the period of 2014-2020. The patients' demographic data, clinical features, location of infection, comorbidities, laboratory and microbiological profiles were analysed. Results There were 53 patients during 2014-2020 with median age of 45.5 (38.5-56.0) years. The majority of the patients were males (35 [66.04%]), had no comorbidities (25 [47.17%]), and the lower limb was the most common anatomic site (17 [32.08%]). Type II (monomicrobial) NF was the predominant type (31 [58.49%]). Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent Gram-positive bacteria (18 [38%]) and Escherichia coli, the main species isolated in the Gram-negative bacteria (14 [36%]) with susceptibility to cloxacillin (94%) and amoxicillin and/or clavulanic acid (92%), respectively. Conclusion Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the most common bacteria with low rate of antimicrobial resistance. Amoxicillin and/or clavulanic acid and an adjunctive clindamycin are appropriate antimicrobial therapy for empiric treatment for NF in our setting. Contribution Amoxicillin and/or clavulanic acid and an adjunctive clindamycin can be used as an empiric treatment for NF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbavhalelo C Molewa
- Department of Surgery, Edenvale Regional Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Mariska Els
- Department of Surgery, Edenvale Regional Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cheryl M Birtles
- Department of Surgery, Edenvale Regional Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Molebogeng C Kolojane
- Infection Control Services Laboratory, National Health Laboratory Services, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Suijker J, Pijpe A, Hoogerbrug D, Heymans MW, van Zuijlen PPM, Halm JA, Meij-de Vries A. IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIALLY MODIFIABLE FACTORS TO IMPROVE RECOGNITION AND OUTCOME OF NECROTIZING SOFT-TISSUE INFECTIONS. Shock 2024; 61:585-591. [PMID: 38315508 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000002325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background : Necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTIs) present a surgical emergency of increasing incidence, which is often misdiagnosed and associated with substantial mortality and morbidity. A retrospective multicenter (11 hospitals) cohort study was initiated to identify the early predictors of misdiagnosis, mortality, and morbidity (skin defect size and amputation). Methods : Patients of all ages who presented with symptoms and were admitted for acute treatment of NSTIs between January 2013 and December 2017 were included. Generalized estimating equation analysis was used to identify early predictors (available before or during the first debridement surgery), with a significance level of P < 0.05. Results : The median age of the cohort (N = 216) was 59.5 (interquartile range = 23.6) years, of which 138 patients (63.9%) were male. Necrotizing soft-tissue infections most frequently originated in the legs (31.0%) and anogenital area (30.5%). More than half of the patients (n = 114, 54.3%) were initially misdiagnosed. Thirty-day mortality was 22.9%. Amputation of an extremity was performed in 26 patients (12.5%). Misdiagnosis was more likely in patients with a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (β = 0.20, P = 0.001), and less likely when symptoms started in the anogenital area (β = -1.20, P = 0.003). Besides the established risk factors for mortality (septic shock and age), misdiagnosis was identified as an independent predictor of 30-day mortality (β = 1.03, P = 0.01). The strongest predictors of the final skin defect size were septic shock (β = 2.88, P < 0.001) and a skin-sparing approach to debridement (β = -1.79, P = 0.002). Conclusion : Recognition of the disease is essential for the survival of patients affected by NSTI, as is adequate treatment of septic shock. The application of a skin-sparing approach to surgical debridement may decrease morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Martijn W Heymans
- Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jens A Halm
- Trauma Unit, Amsterdam UMC location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Suijker J, Wurfbain L, Emmen AMLH, Pijpe A, Kwa KAA, van der Vlies CH, Nieuwenhuis MK, van Zuijlen PPM, Meij-de Vries A. The Role of Burn Centers in the Treatment of Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections: A Nationwide Dutch Study. J Burn Care Res 2023; 44:1405-1412. [PMID: 37227902 PMCID: PMC10628513 DOI: 10.1093/jbcr/irad073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Patients with extensive and complex wounds due to Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections (NSTI) may be referred to a burn center. This study describes the characteristics, outcomes, as well as diagnostic challenges of these patients. Patients admitted to three hospitals with a burn center for the treatment of NSTI in a 5-year period were included. Eighty patients (median age 54 years, 60% male) were identified, of whom 30 (38%) were referred by other centers, usually after survival of the initial septic phase. Those referred from other centers, compared to those primarily admitted to the study hospitals, were more likely to have group A streptococcal involvement (62% vs 35%, p = .02), larger wounds (median 7% vs 2% total body surface area, p < .001), and a longer length of stay (median 49 vs 22 days, p < .001). Despite a high incidence of septic shock (50%), the mortality rate was low (12%) for those primarily admitted. Approximately half (53%) of the patients were initially misdiagnosed upon presentation, which was associated with delay to first surgery (16 hours vs 4 hours, p < .001). Those initially misdiagnosed had more (severe) comorbidities, and less frequently reported pain or blue livid discoloration of the skin. This study underlines the burn centers' function as referral centers for extensively affected patients with NSTI. Besides the unique wound and reconstructive expertise, the low mortality rate indicates these centers provide adequate acute care as well. A major remaining challenge remains recognition of the disease upon presentation. Future studies in which factors associated with misdiagnosis are explored are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaco Suijker
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Association of Dutch Burn Centres, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Tissue Function and Regeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisca Wurfbain
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk M L H Emmen
- Department of Surgery, Rode Kruis Ziekenhuis, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk Pijpe
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Association of Dutch Burn Centres, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly A A Kwa
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis H van der Vlies
- Burn Centre, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Trauma Research Unit, Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne K Nieuwenhuis
- Association of Dutch Burn Centers, Burn Centre, Martini Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Centre for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Research group Healthy Ageing, Allied Health Care and Nursing, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen, Groningen, Nederland
| | - Paul P M van Zuijlen
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Tissue Function and Regeneration, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Surgical Centre, Emma Children's Hospital, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annebeth Meij-de Vries
- Burn Centre, Red Cross Hospital, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, Rode Kruis Ziekenhuis, Beverwijk, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Surgical Centre, Emma Children's Hospital, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Hua C, Urbina T, Bosc R, Parks T, Sriskandan S, de Prost N, Chosidow O. Necrotising soft-tissue infections. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:e81-e94. [PMID: 36252579 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00583-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of necrotising soft-tissue infections has increased during recent decades such that most physicians might see at least one case of these potentially life-threatening infections in their career. Despite advances in care, necrotising soft-tissue infections are still associated with high morbidity and mortality, underlining a need for continued education of the medical community. In particular, failure to suspect necrotising soft-tissue infections, fuelled by poor awareness of the disease, promotes delays to first surgical debridement, amplifying disease severity and adverse outcomes. This Review will focus on practical approaches to management of necrotising soft-tissue infections including prompt recognition, initiation of specific management, exploratory surgery, and aftercare. Increased alertness and awareness for these infections should improve time to diagnosis and early referral to specialised centres, with improvement in the prognosis of necrotising soft-tissue infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Hua
- Service de Dermatologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France; Epidemiology in Dermatology and Evaluation of Therapeutics, Université Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France; Groupe Infectiologie Dermatologique-Infections Sexuellement Transmissibles, Société Française de Dermatologie, Paris, France
| | - Tomas Urbina
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Romain Bosc
- Service de Chirurgie Plastique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France
| | - Tom Parks
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Shiranee Sriskandan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK; MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nicolas de Prost
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France; CARMAS Research Group, UPEC-Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne, Faculté de médecine de Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Olivier Chosidow
- Service de Dermatologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Créteil, France; Groupe Infectiologie Dermatologique-Infections Sexuellement Transmissibles, Société Française de Dermatologie, Paris, France; Research group Dynamyc, Faculté de Santé de Créteil, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, USC ANSES, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France.
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The impact of necrotizing soft tissue infections on the lives of survivors: a qualitative study. Qual Life Res 2023:10.1007/s11136-023-03371-8. [PMID: 36840905 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03371-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) are potentially lethal infections marked by local tissue destruction and systemic sepsis, which require aggressive treatment. Survivors often face a long recovery trajectory. This study was initiated to increase understanding of the long-term impact of NSTI on health related quality of life (HRQoL), and how care may be improved. METHODS Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data from 25 NSTI-survivors obtained through two focus groups (n = 14) and semi-structured interviews (n = 11). RESULTS The median age of the participants was 49 years, 14 were female. The median time since diagnosis was 5 years. Initial misdiagnosis was common, causing delay to treatment. Survivors experienced long-term physical consequences (scarring, cognitive impairment, fatigue, sleeping problems, recurrent infections), psychological consequences (traumatic stress symptoms, fear of relapse, adjusting to an altered appearance, sexual issues) and social and relational consequences (changes in social contacts, a lack of understanding). The disease also had a major psychological impact on family members, as well as major financial impact in some. There was a strong desire to reflect on 'mistakes' in case of initial misdiagnosis. To improve care, patient and family centered care, smooth transitions after discharge, and the availability of understandable information were deemed important. CONCLUSION This study reveals that NSTI have a large impact on physical and psychosocial wellbeing of survivors and their relatives. Except for a few differences (misdiagnosis, fear for re-infection and actual re-infection), the patient experience of patients with NSTI is largely similar to those of burn survivors. Thus, questionnaires to assess HRQoL in burn survivors may be used in future NSTI studies.
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Ling XW, Zhang TT, Ling MM, Chen WH, Huang CH, Shen GL. Th1/Th2 cytokine levels: A potential diagnostic tool for patients with necrotizing fasciitis. Burns 2023; 49:200-208. [PMID: 36195489 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) has emerged as rare but rapidly progressive, life-threatening severe skin and soft tissue infection. We conducted a study to investigate whether Th1/Th2 cytokines could serve as biomarkers to distinguish NF from class III skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). METHODS A retrospective review was performed for 155 patients suffering from serious skin and soft tissue infections from October 2020 to February 2022. Th1/Th2 cytokines were obtained from peripheral blood and wound drainage fluid samples. Data on demographic characteristics, causative microbiological organisms, Th1/Th2 cytokines, c-reactive protein, procalcitonin and white blood cell (WBC) were extracted for analysis. Factors with statistical difference(p < 0.1) were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. The clinical differential diagnostic values of interleukin-2(IL-2), IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interferon-r (IFN-r) were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULTS Among the 155 patients, 66(43%) patients were diagnosed as NF. We found no significant difference for sex, age, location of infection, coexisting condition, predisposition, duration of symptoms before admission and micro-organisms, WBC, procalcitonin and c-reactive protein in NF and class III SSTIs group. NF had higher levels of IL-6 in serum (50.46 [24.89, 108.89] vs. 11.87 [5.20, 25.32] pg/ml; p<0.01), IL-10 in serum (3.45 [2.03, 5.12] vs. 2.51 [1.79, 3.29] pg/ml; p<0.01), IL-2 in wound drainage fluid (0.89 [0.49, 1.33] vs. 0.63 [0.14, 1.14] pg/ml; p = 0.02), IL-6 in wound drainage fluid (5000.84 [1392.30, 13287.19] vs. 1927.82 (336.65, 6759.27) pg/ml; p<0.01), TNF-a in wound drainage fluid (5.20 [1.49, 22.97] vs. 0.96 [0.12, 3.21] pg/ml; p<0.01) and IFN-r in wound drainage fluid (1.32 [0.47, 4.62] vs. 0.68 [0.10, 1.88] pg/ml; p = 0.02) as compared to the class III SSTIs. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that IL-6 in serum, IL-10 in serum and TNF-a in wound drainage fluid exhibited independently significant associations with diagnosis of NF(p<0.05). In ROC curve analysis of IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-a and IFN-r for diagnosis of NF, the area under the curve (AUC) of IL-6 in serum could reach to 0.80 (p<0.001). Using 27.62 pg/ml as the cut off value, the sensitivity was 74% and the specificity was 79% in IL-6 in serum. CONCLUSIONS Th1/Th2 cytokines, IL-6 in serum in particular, are potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of NF in the early stage. However, larger patient populations with multiple centers and prospective studies are necessary to ensure the prognostic role of Th1/Th2 cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Wei Ling
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Ting-Ting Zhang
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Meng-Meng Ling
- Department of Information, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Wei-Hao Chen
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Chun-Hui Huang
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Guo-Liang Shen
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
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Breidung D, Malsagova AT, Loukas A, Billner M, Aurnhammer F, Reichert B, Megas IF. Causative Micro-Organisms in Necrotizing Fasciitis and their Influence on Inflammatory Parameters and Clinical Outcome. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2023; 24:46-51. [PMID: 36521174 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2022.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a potentially fatal soft tissue infection. Four types of pathogens can be distinguished in the pathogen spectrum, although there are strong regional differences with regard to the most common pathogens. Patients and Methods: All cases of NF between 2003 and 2021 with an identified causative agent were analyzed retrospectively. The cases were divided into three groups: polymicrobial, gram-positive and gram-negative. Demographic factors, localization of infection, inflammatory parameters, and clinical outcome were compared between the three groups. Results: A total of 95 cases were analyzed, 41% of which were caused by multiple pathogens. A gram-positive pathogen was reported in 40% of cases and a gram-negative pathogen in 19%. There were significant differences between the three groups with respect to age (with patients in the gram-negative group being on average the oldest) and intensive care unit admissions (which was most frequent in the polymicrobial group). Conclusions: The pathogen spectrum of NF has rarely been studied in a large patient population. Gram-positive pathogens account for the majority of monomicrobial infections in our study. Nevertheless, we recommend calculated broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy given the high number of polymicrobial infections and gram-negative infections. Gram-negative infections may be associated with increased mortality, elevated procalcitonin levels, and are relatively frequent in NF of the lower extremities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Breidung
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Asja T Malsagova
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Alexios Loukas
- Department of Genetics, Development, and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Moritz Billner
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Felix Aurnhammer
- Institute of Clinical Hygiene, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Bert Reichert
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Ioannis-Fivos Megas
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
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Shayan-Moghadam R, Nejad EB, Zolghadr H, Nabian MH. A rare case of fully recovered necrotizing fasciitis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BURNS AND TRAUMA 2023; 13:1-7. [PMID: 36935879 PMCID: PMC10018066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe soft tissue infection caused by bacterial fascia invasion and quick spreading to the muscle and subcutaneous tissues. Treatments of NF should be conducted by extensive debridement and antibiotic therapies. This report presented a 53-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypothyroid who was referred to our medical center with lower limb pain and significant swelling after mild trauma. The patient was diagnosed with NF due to E. coli. She underwent surgical interventions for debridement and long-term antibiotic therapy. The patient recovered successfully without complications or range of motion (ROM) restriction in the hip and knee. It is recommended that immediate actions be taken in NF cases to preserve the remaining tissues and provide better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Shayan-Moghadam
- Orthopedics Resident, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Trans-disciplinary Applied Research, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehran, Iran
| | - Erfan Babaei Nejad
- Orthopedics Resident, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Trans-disciplinary Applied Research, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Zolghadr
- Orthopedics Resident, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Trans-disciplinary Applied Research, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nabian
- Associated Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Trans-disciplinary Applied Research, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehran, Iran
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Chen GH, Wang Y, Zhang RJ, Leng DL, Li L. Rectal malignant tumor complicated with perianal necrotizing fasciitis: A case report. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2022; 30:1095-1100. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v30.i24.1095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perianal necrotizing fasciitis (PNF) has been reported to be caused by multiple factors, but rectal malignant tumors, as an extremely rare predisposing factor, are often easily overlooked by surgeons.
CASE SUMMARY An elderly male patient was admitted due to "right perianal swelling and pain with fever for 3 d" and was diagnosed with PNF, rectal mass, and perianal abscess. The mass was diagnosed as rectal adenocarcinoma after debridement. According to the patient's condition, re-debridement intervention and antibiotic adjustment were given, followed by colostomy and radical resection of the adenocarcinoma. The patient recovered well after 3 mo of follow-up.
CONCLUSION The present case suggests that high attention should be paid to etiological factors of PNF in clinical practice to avoid delayed treatment due to missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis. For patients with rectal malignant tumors and PNF, early diagnosis is very important, and it is still recommended to give priority to the treatment of PNF in the acute phase after diagnosis, followed by comprehensive treatment of rectal malignant tumors, which is of great significance for the prognosis of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Hua Chen
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ru-Jie Zhang
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Dong-Ling Leng
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
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11
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Decision support system and outcome prediction in a cohort of patients with necrotizing soft-tissue infections. Int J Med Inform 2022; 167:104878. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2022.104878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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12
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Breidung D, Grieb G, Malsagova AT, Barth AA, Billner M, Hitzl W, Reichert B, Megas IF. Time Is Fascia: Laboratory and Anamnestic Risk Indicators for Necrotizing Fasciitis. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2022; 23:747-753. [PMID: 36191292 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2022.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Necrotizing fasciitis is a potentially fatal soft tissue infection in which the timing of surgical intervention significantly affects clinical outcome. The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score, the Site other than the lower limb, Immunosuppression, Age <60 years, Renal impairment (creatinine >141), and Inflammatory markers (CRP ≥150, WCC >25) (SIARI) score, and procalcitonin levels are intended to aid in the decision-making process to differentiate between necrotizing fasciitis and soft tissue infections. Methods: A retrospective analysis of cases of necrotizing fasciitis and soft tissue infections treated at Klinikum Nürnberg was performed. The two scores as well as procalcitonin levels were tested for their diagnostic value and a new score, the Laboratory and Anamnestic Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LARINF), was created based on the results. Results: Procalcitonin, LRINEC score, and SIARI score showed insufficient discriminatory ability in our study. The newly created LARINF score combined laboratory parameters of the LRINEC score (hemoglobin and C-reactive protein) with procalcitonin and three comorbidities, resulting in a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 75% and the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.83. Conclusions: The LARINF score is a novel decision-supporting tool. The decision, in which cases surgical exploration should be initiated, remains a clinical one. However, the score seems to provide an improved basis for identifying a rare clinical picture.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Breidung
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Gerrit Grieb
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhoehe, Berlin, Germany
- Burn Center, Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Asja T Malsagova
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Andrè A Barth
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Moritz Billner
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Research and Innovation Management (RIM), Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Program Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Bert Reichert
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Ioannis-Fivos Megas
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Center for Severe Burn Injuries, Paracelsus Medical University, Klinikum Nürnberg, Nuremberg, Germany
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13
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Nawijn F, Kerckhoffs MC, van Heijl M, Keizer J, van Koperen PJ, Hietbrink F. Impact of Comorbidities on the Cause of Death by Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2022; 23:729-739. [PMID: 36067160 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2022.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to identify the cause of death in patients with necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) stratified by patient's pre-existing comorbidities (American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] classification 3/4 vs. ASA 1/2). Differences in clinical presentation, mortality rate, and factors associated with mortality between those two comorbidity groups were investigated. Patients and Methods: A retrospective multicenter study of patients with NSTIs between 2010 and 2020 was conducted. The primary outcome was the cause of death within the first 30 days. Furthermore, factors associated with mortality were identified. All analysis were stratified by severity of comorbidities (ASA 1/2 or ASA 3/4). Results: Of the 187 patients, 39 patients (21%) died within 30 days. American Society of Anesthesiologists 1/2 patients (overall mortality rate, 11%) died more often as direct result of the infection compared with ASA 3/4 patients (overall mortality rate, 33%) (ASA 1/2 group: 92% vs. ASA 3/4 group: 48%; p = 0.013). American Society of Anesthesiologists 3/4 patients died more often due to withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies based on assumed poor outcome after severe critical illness (ASA 1/2 group: 52% vs. ASA 3/4 group: 8%; p = 0.013). Conclusions: Mortality rates of patients with NSTIs varied from 11% in previously healthy patients to 33% in patients with multiple or severe comorbidities. The predominant cause of mortality was overwhelming infection and associated sepsis in healthy patients whereas in patients with multiple or severe pre-existing medical disease, death most often occurred after treatment limitations based on patient's wishes and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Nawijn
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Monika C Kerckhoffs
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mark van Heijl
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jort Keizer
- Department of Surgery, St. Antonius Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J van Koperen
- Department of Surgery, Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
| | - Falco Hietbrink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Dhanasekara CS, Marschke B, Morris E, Kahathuduwa CN, Dissanaike S. Regional Variations in Microbiology and Outcomes of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2022; 23:634-644. [PMID: 35904966 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2022.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chathurika S Dhanasekara
- Department of Surgery, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Brianna Marschke
- Department of Surgery, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Erin Morris
- Department of Surgery, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Chanaka N Kahathuduwa
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA.,Department of Laboratory Sciences and Primary Care, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Sharmila Dissanaike
- Department of Surgery, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
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15
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Use of Clindamycin for Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Decreases Amputation Rate. J Orthop Trauma 2022; 36:327-331. [PMID: 35727000 DOI: 10.1097/bot.0000000000002324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the impact of clindamycin use on mortality and amputation rates in patients with necrotizing fasciitis. DESIGN Retrospective review. SETTING Level 1 trauma center, single-center study. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS All patients from 2008 to 2019 with a diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. One hundred ninety patients were included in statistical analysis. INTERVENTION Use of clindamycin in the initial antibiotic regimen in the treatment of necrotizing soft tissue infection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Amputation and mortality rates. RESULTS Patients who received clindamycin had 2.92 times reduced odds of having an amputation when compared with their counterparts, even when American Society of Anesthesiologist scores, comorbidities, smoking, drug use, alcohol consumption, race, ethnicity, sex, and age were controlled for and regardless of other antibiotics started (P = 0.015). There was no significant difference in mortality rate between those patients who did and did not receive clindamycin as part of their initial antibiotic regimen (8.3% vs. 11.6%, respectively; P = 0.453). CONCLUSION The use of clindamycin in the initial antibiotic regimen for treatment of NSTI was shown to significantly decrease rates of amputation but not mortality. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
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16
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He X, Xiang X, Zou Y, Liu B, Liu L, Bi Y, Kan D. Distinctions between Fournier's gangrene and lower extremity necrotising fasciitis: microbiology and factors affecting mortality. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 122:222-229. [PMID: 35598736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, we aimed to illustrate distinctions between Fournier's gangrene (FG) and lower extremity necrotising fasciitis (NF) and screen out possible risk factors of poor prognosis for each cohort. METHODS The medical records of qualified patients with NF admitted to the Second People's Hospital of Yibin from January 2016 to June 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. All participants were anatomically categorised into FG and lower extremity NF groups, and their baseline data and microbiological results were compared. Further comparisons of critical parameters were conducted between survivors and nonsurvivors within each group. RESULTS A total of 49 patients were included in the study with a median age of 58 years, and overall mortality was 20.4%. There were 18 patients with FG and 31 patients with lower extremity NF. A microbiology distinction was found-the predominance of gram-negative infection in FG and gram-positive infection in lower extremity NF. High Fournier's gangrene severity index scores (greater than 7), advanced age, procalcitonin and D-dimer value were identified as risk factors for FG, and the presentation of sepsis was an alarming indicator for lower extremity NF. CONCLUSIONS The distinction of microbiology might provide advice for appropriate antibacterial administrations. In addition, with practical prognostic predicting tools, clinicians might be able to identify patients at increased risk and intervene promptly to avoid unfavourable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng He
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Second People's Hospital of Yibin (the Yibin Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University), Sichuan, China.
| | - Xin Xiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yong Zou
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Second People's Hospital of Yibin (the Yibin Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University), Sichuan, China.
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Second People's Hospital of Yibin (the Yibin Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University), Sichuan, China
| | - Lili Liu
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Second People's Hospital of Yibin (the Yibin Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University), Sichuan, China
| | - Yaodan Bi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Daohong Kan
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Second People's Hospital of Yibin (the Yibin Hospital of West China Hospital, Sichuan University), Sichuan, China
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17
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Chen YC, Liou YT, Tsai WH, Chen LW. Prognostic Role of Subsequent Thrombocytopenia in Necrotizing Fasciitis Without Liver Disease. Ann Plast Surg 2022; 88:S99-S105. [PMID: 35225855 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening disease with a fulminant presentation. Although early diagnosis can be aided by combining physical examination, the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis score, and computed tomography, a mortality rate of 30% is still reported. In the modern times, an economical and efficient biomarker for predicting mortality in NF patients is still lacking. Platelet count is typically measured in routine blood tests and aids in predicting disease severity. We aimed to clarify the role of platelet count as a predictive factor for aspects of prognosis, such as mortality and surgical outcomes, in patients with NF. METHODS We identified 285 patients with NF between 2018 and 2020 in a single medical center in southern Taiwan. Medical records were collected for the evaluation of patients with thrombocytopenia. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for different outcomes. RESULTS We included 115 patients with confirmed diagnoses of NF. Twelve patients died with a mortality rate of 10.4%. Patients with thrombocytopenia exhibited a higher mortality rate (20.9% vs 4.2%, P = 0.006), more shock episodes (51.2% vs 11.1%, P < 0.001), higher intensive care unit admission rate (46.5% vs 13.9%, P < 0.001), and longer hospital length of stay (37.49 ± 24.12 days vs 28.82 ± 14.63 days, P = 0.037) than those without thrombocytopenia. All patients infected with Vibrio species exhibited thrombocytopenia. In multivariate analysis, independent risk factors for mortality were thrombocytopenia (odds ratio, 4.57; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-19.25) and single gram-negative bacterial culture from the wound (odds ratio 6.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.58-29.96). CONCLUSIONS In patients with NF and subsequent thrombocytopenia, a higher mortality rate, greater numbers of shock episodes, higher demand for intensive care unit, and longer hospital length of stay were observed than in those without thrombocytopenia. In patients with NF, platelet count is a valuable and economic indicator of prognosis. Once thrombocytopenia developed in patients with necrotizing fasciitis, aggressive antibiotic treatment and surgical management are required to improve the chances of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ching Chen
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery
| | - Yaw-Tzeng Liou
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung
| | - Wei-Hsuan Tsai
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery
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18
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Nawijn F, van Heijl M, Keizer J, van Koperen PJ, Hietbrink F. The impact of operative time on the outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections: a multicenter cohort study. BMC Surg 2022; 22:3. [PMID: 34996417 PMCID: PMC8742342 DOI: 10.1186/s12893-021-01456-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The primary aim of this study was to identify if there is an association between the operative time of the initial debridement for necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) and the mortality corrected for disease severity. Methods A retrospective multicenter study was conducted of all patients with NSTIs undergoing surgical debridement. The primary outcome was the 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were days until death, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, length of hospital stay, number of surgeries within first 30 days, amputations and days until definitive wound closure. Results A total of 160 patients underwent surgery for NSTIs and were eligible for inclusion. Twenty-two patients (14%) died within 30 days and 21 patients (13%) underwent an amputation. The median operative time of the initial debridement was 59 min (IQR 35–90). In a multivariable analyses, corrected for sepsis just prior to the initial surgery, estimated total body surface (TBSA) area affected and the American Society for Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, a prolonged operative time (per 20 min) was associated with a prolonged ICU (β 1.43, 95% CI 0.46–2.40; p = 0.004) and hospital stay (β 3.25, 95% CI 0.23–6.27; p = 0.035), but not with 30-day mortality. Operative times were significantly prolonged in case of NSTIs of the trunk (p = 0.044), in case of greater estimated TBSA affected (p = 0.006) or if frozen sections and/or Gram stains were assessed intra-operatively (p < 0.001). Conclusions Prolonged initial surgery did not result in a higher mortality rate, possible because of a short duration of surgery in most studied patients. However, a prolonged operative time was associated with a prolonged ICU and hospital stay, regardless of the estimated TBSA affected, presence of sepsis prior to surgery and the ASA classification. As such, keeping operative times as limited as possible might be beneficial for NSTI patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12893-021-01456-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Nawijn
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Mark van Heijl
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, Diakonessenhuis, The Netherlands
| | - Jort Keizer
- Department of Surgery, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J van Koperen
- Department of Surgery, Meander Medical Center, Hoogland, The Netherlands
| | - Falco Hietbrink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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19
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Nawijn F, de Gier B, Brandwagt DAH, Groenwold RHH, Keizer J, Hietbrink F. Incidence and mortality of necrotizing fasciitis in The Netherlands: the impact of group A Streptococcus. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1217. [PMID: 34872527 PMCID: PMC8650531 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06928-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the exact incidence of necrotizing soft tissue infections. The few incidences reported in international literature are not directly relatable to the Netherlands, or other European countries, due to geographic heterogeneity in causative micro-organisms involved. This resulted in the aim of this study to map the incidence, mortality rate and hospital course of necrotizing fasciitis infections in the Netherlands to gain insight in the incidence of necrotizing fasciitis in the Netherlands and the associated mortality and health care burden. METHODS This nationwide retrospective database study used three distinct data sources to map the incidence of necrotizing fasciitis in the Netherlands between 2014 and 2019, being data from the Dutch Hospital Data (DHD) foundation, data from Osiris-AIZ, which is a database of notifiable diseases managed by regional Public Health Services (GGD) and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), and previously published studies on necrotizing fasciitis conducted in the Netherlands. RESULTS The incidence of necrotizing fasciitis in the Netherlands is estimated to be approximately 1.1 to 1.4 cases per 100,000 person years, which corresponds to 193-238 patients per year. Of all necrotizing fasciitis infections, 34 to 42% are caused by the group A Streptococcus. Annually, 56 patients die as a result of a necrotizing fasciitis infection (mortality of 23-29%) and 26 patients undergo an amputation for source control (11-14%). Patients stay a mean of 6 to 7 days at the intensive care unit and have a mean hospital length of stay of 24 to 30 days. CONCLUSION The combination of nationwide databases provides reliable insight in the epidemiology of low-incidence and heterogenic diseases. In the Netherlands, necrotizing fasciitis is a rare disease with group A Streptococcus being the most common causative micro-organism of necrotizing fasciitis. The prior Dutch cohort studies on necrotizing fasciitis report slightly higher sample mortality rates, compared to the population mortality. However, necrotizing fasciitis remain associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, risk at amputation and health care burden characterized by prolonged ICU and hospital stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Nawijn
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Brechje de Gier
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Diederik A H Brandwagt
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service (GGD) Region Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rolf H H Groenwold
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jort Keizer
- Department of Surgery, Sint Antonius Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Falco Hietbrink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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20
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Urbina T, Canoui-Poitrine F, Hua C, Layese R, Alves A, Ouedraogo R, Bosc R, Sbidian E, Chosidow O, Dessap AM, de Prost N. Long-term quality of life in necrotizing soft-tissue infection survivors: a monocentric prospective cohort study. Ann Intensive Care 2021; 11:102. [PMID: 34213694 PMCID: PMC8253876 DOI: 10.1186/s13613-021-00891-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Compared to other life-threatening infection survivors, long-term health-related quality of life (QOL) of patients surviving necrotizing soft-tissue infections (NSTI) and its determinants are little known. In this monocentric prospective cohort including NSTI survivors admitted between 2014 and 2017, QOL was assessed during a phone interview using the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD), the activity of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL (IADL) scales and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). The primary outcome measure was the SF-36 physical component summary (PCS). NSTI patients were compared according to intensive care unit (ICU) admission status. ICU survivors were matched on SAPS II with non-NSTI related septic shock survivors. Results Forty-nine NSTI survivors were phone-interviewed and included in the study. Median PCS was decreased compared to the reference population [− 0.97 (− 2.27; − 0.08) SD]. Previous cardiac disease was the only variable associated with PCS alteration [multivariate regression coefficient: − 8.86 (− 17.64; − 0.07), p = 0.048]. Of NSTI survivors, 15.2% had a HAD-D score ≥ 5 and 61.2% an IES-R score ≥ 33. ICU admission was not associated with lower PCS [35.21 (25.49–46.54) versus (vs) 41.82 (24.12–51.01), p = 0.516], but with higher IES-R score [14 (7.5–34) vs 7 (3–18), p = 0.035] and a higher proportion of HAD-D score ≥ 5 (28.6 vs 4.0%, p = 0.036). Compared to non-NSTI septic shock-matched controls, NSTI patients had similar PCS [33.81 (24.58; − 44.39) vs 44.87 (26.71; − 56.01), p = 0.706] but higher HAD-D [3.5 (1–7) vs 3 (1.5–6), p = 0.048] and IES-R scores [18 (8–35) vs 8 (3–19), p = 0.049]. Conclusions Long-term QOL in NSTI survivors is severely impaired, similarly to that of non-NSTI septic shock patients for physical compartments, but with more frequent depressive and/or post-traumatic stress disorders. Only ICU admission and previous cardiac disease were predictive of QOL impairment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13613-021-00891-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Urbina
- Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 75571, Paris Cedex 12, France.,Sorbonne Université, Université Pierre-Et-Marie Curie, Paris 6, France.,Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Florence Canoui-Poitrine
- Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France.,Service de Santé Publique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Camille Hua
- Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France.,Service de Dermatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Richard Layese
- Service de Santé Publique, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Aline Alves
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Rachida Ouedraogo
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Romain Bosc
- Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 Avenue du Marechal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000, Créteil, France.,Henri Mondor Breast Center, Henri Mondor Hospital, 51 Avenue du Marechal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000, Créteil, France.,Biology of the NeuroMuscular System, INSERM Team U955-E10, Paris East University, 94000, Créteil, France
| | - Emilie Sbidian
- Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France.,Service de Dermatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France.,Centre D'Investigation Clinique 1430, Inserm, 94010, Créteil, France
| | - Olivier Chosidow
- Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France.,Service de Dermatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France
| | - Armand Mekontso Dessap
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France.,Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France.,Groupe de Recherche Clinique CARMAS, Université Paris Est-Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Nicolas de Prost
- Service de Médecine Intensive Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Créteil, France. .,Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne (UPEC), Créteil, France. .,Groupe de Recherche Clinique CARMAS, Université Paris Est-Créteil, Créteil, France.
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21
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Toraih E, Hussein M, Tatum D, Reisner A, Kandil E, Killackey M, Duchesne J, Taghavi S. The burden of readmission after discharge from necrotizing soft tissue infection. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2021; 91:154-163. [PMID: 33755642 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000003169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The need for extensive surgical debridement with necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) may put patients at high risk for unplanned readmission. However, there is a paucity of data on the burden of readmission in patients afflicted with NSTI. We hypothesized that unplanned readmission would significantly contribute to the burden of disease after discharge from initial hospitalization. METHODS The Nationwide Readmission Database was used to identify adults undergoing debridement for NSTI hospitalizations from 2010 to 2017. Risk factors for 90-day readmission were assessed by Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS There were a total of 82,738 NSTI admissions during the study period, of which 25,076 (30.3%) underwent 90-day readmissions. Median time to readmission was 25 days (interquartile range, 9-49 days). Fragmentation of care, longer length of index stay (>2 weeks), and Medicaid status were independent risk factors for readmission. Median cost of a readmission was US $10,543. Readmission added 174,640 hospital days to episodes of care over the study period, resulting in an estimated financial burden of US $1.4 billion. CONCLUSION Unplanned readmission caused by NSTIs is common and costly. Interventions that target patients at risk for readmission may help decrease the burden of disease. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Economic/Epidemiological, level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Toraih
- From the Department of Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana
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22
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Necrotizing Fasciitis: a Clinical Case and a Review of the Literature. SERBIAN JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY AND VENEREOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/sjdv-2020-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis is a soft tissue, life-threatening infection with a fulminant and often fatal course. Early diagnosis is usually delayed as the onset of the disease is often masked in the form of erysipelas or cellulite. The condition is characterized by necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and underlying fascia. We describe a case of a 42-year-old man with a complaint of erythema, fever and severe pain in his right leg 4 days before hospitalization. The patient was admitted and treated with a diagnosis of erysipelas. A few hours after admission, in connection with a drastic deterioration in the general condition and dermatological status, he was transferred to a purulentseptic ward with a fulminant picture of necrotizing fasciitis. Debridement and fasciotomy were performed successfully and timely. Good prognosis and survival in patients with NF correlate directly with the complex of measures. Appropriate antibiotics and intensive general support avoid massive systemic diffusion. Early and adequate surgical debridement and fasciotomy are associated with improved survival.
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23
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Pavlekić S, Ječmenica D, Alempijević Đ. An Unusual Case of Gas Gangrene in Intravenous Heroin Addict. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.5822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Gas gangrene is a clostridium infection primarily of muscle tissue, most commonly caused by C. perfringens. Clinical diagnosis is usually made by local inspection of the wound: the infected tissue shows characteristic signs of tissue inflammation with blistered changes. The disease can starts suddenly, 4-6 hours after the injury, but most commonly the incubation period lasts 2-4 days. Without proper medical intervention, death occurs in 4-24 hours after the development of the first symptoms, but even with timely and adequate therapy, the lethality is very high (around 12%). Due to its fulminant course, in all cases with fatal outcomes, a forensic autopsy is an obligatory procedure. However, discovering the entrance gate and source of infection is not an easy task, especially in the absence of a traumatic injury.
CASE PRESENTATION: Male, 27 years old, an intravenous heroin addict for about 10 years, injured his left leg in a traffic accident. He only visited the doctor after 5 days. Upon examination, it was determined that there were no externally visible injuries and no fracture, and he was given a splint immobilization for an ankle luxation. Twelve days after the accident (or 7 days after the immobilization) his mother found him unconscious.
CONCLUSION: From medicolegal aspects, it’s important to have in mind even the less frequent paths of infection, in order to give an expert professional opinion on origin and cause of death.
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24
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Watkins RR, David MZ. Approach to the Patient with a Skin and Soft Tissue Infection. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2021; 35:1-48. [PMID: 33494872 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of a skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) requires careful attention to a patient's history, physical examination, and diagnostic test results. We review for many bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens that cause SSTIs the clues for reaching a diagnosis, including reported past medical history, hobbies and behaviors, travel, insect bites, exposure to other people and to animals, environmental exposures to water, soil, or sand, as well as the anatomic site of skin lesions, their morphology on examination, and their evolution over time. Laboratory and radiographic tests are discussed that may be used to confirm a specific diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard R Watkins
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, 224 West Exchange Street, Akron, OH 44302, USA; Department of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Michael Z David
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Blockley Hall 707, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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25
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Duane TM, Huston JM, Collom M, Beyer A, Parli S, Buckman S, Shapiro M, McDonald A, Diaz J, Tessier JM, Sanders J. Surgical Infection Society 2020 Updated Guidelines on the Management of Complicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2021; 22:383-399. [PMID: 33646051 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2020.436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Surgical Infection Society (SIS) Guidelines for the treatment of complicated skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) were published in October 2009 in Surgical Infections. The purpose of this project was to provide a succinct update on the earlier guidelines based on an additional decade of data. Methods: We reviewed the previous guidelines eliminating bite wounds and diabetic foot infections including their associated references. Relevant articles on the topic of complicated SSTIs from 2008-2020 were reviewed and graded individually. Comparisons were then made between the old and the new graded recommendations with review of the older references by two authors when there was disparity between the grades. Results: The majority of new studies addressed antimicrobial options and duration of therapy particularly in complicated abscesses. There were fewer updated studies on diagnosis and specific operative interventions. Many of the topics addressed in the original guidelines had no new literature to evaluate. Conclusions: Most recommendations remain unchanged from the original guidelines with the exception of increased support for adjuvant antimicrobial therapy after drainage of complex abscess and increased data for the use of alternative antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jared M Huston
- Departments of Surgery and Science Education, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | | | - Adam Beyer
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Sara Parli
- Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Sara Buckman
- Department of Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Mark Shapiro
- Acute Care Surgery, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Amy McDonald
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jose Diaz
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Tessier
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas Texas, USA
| | - James Sanders
- Department of Pharmacy and Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas, USA
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26
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Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infections: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Aspects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 33079362 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57616-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
The term necrotizing soft-tissue infection (NSTI) encompasses a heterogenous group of patients with necrotizing infections, involving any body part. NSTI is diagnosed by surgical exploration, where necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and/or muscle tissue, undermining of the skin, thrombosis of the superficial veins, and deliquescent tissue can be seen. Patients can present with vague symptoms, and approximately half of patients experience severe pain. The clinical presentation and microbiological etiology vary according to affected body site, with NSTI located to the extremities being dominated by monomicrobial group A streptococcal infections, and NSTI located to the anogenital area dominated by polymicrobial infections. No set of diagnostic criteria exists, and suspicion of the diagnosis should come from careful clinical examination and signs of local or systemic severity. Laboratory blood values show no distinct pattern but resemble those of sepsis. Imaging can aid the diagnostic process but must not delay surgical intervention.
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27
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Tufan A, Tartar R, Yiğit B, Baran E, Eren H, Citgez B. Necrotizing fasciitis as a complication of depilatory cream. TURKISH JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/tjps.tjps_130_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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28
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Peters J, Iacobelli J, Ryan E. Recurrent Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report of Fulminant and Sub-Acute Necrotizing Fasciitis in a Diabetic Patient. Cureus 2020; 12:e12153. [PMID: 33489565 PMCID: PMC7813526 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.12153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon and deadly disease entity characterized by rapidly progressing skin and soft tissue destruction. It presents on a spectrum from an initially indolent appearing sub-acute form to a hyperacute fulminant course. It may often be misdiagnosed due to the paucity of signs early in the disease course and as it can initially mimic other less serious soft tissue infections. Necrotizing soft tissue infections have both high morbidity and mortality. We present a case of a 72-year-old male patient with two anatomically and temporally separate necrotizing infections. The first necrotizing infection was diagnosed after an extended time, due to the subacute disease course in the setting of an abdominal wall infection. The second presentation was a hyperacute fulminant course in the setting of a necrotizing infection of the scrotum. In both instances, once identified, appropriate management was followed: resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and most importantly radical surgical debridement. Extensive multidisciplinary inpatient and outpatient input was required to aid the patient's recovery. The presented case demonstrates the necrotizing soft tissue infection's spectrum of disease and the diagnostic dilemma it presents to family physicians and emergency departments alike. The only definitive management step is immediate and radical resection of the affected tissue. Extensive debridement and the resultant tissue defect require comprehensive multidisciplinary care during the extended rehabilitation and wound care treatment plan. Rapid recognition, urgent surgical debridement, and specialist care are required to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with necrotizing soft tissue infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emily Ryan
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, AUS
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