Necrotizing fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis (pronunciation: nek-ruh-TIE-zing fas-e-I-tis) is a rare but serious bacterial skin infection that spreads quickly and kills the body's soft tissue.

Etymology

The term "Necrotizing fasciitis" is derived from the Greek words "nekros" (meaning "dead" or "death"), "tizein" (meaning "to cause to melt"), and "fascia" (a band or sheet of connective tissue beneath the skin).

Causes

Necrotizing fasciitis is caused by several types of bacteria, most commonly Group A Streptococcus (GAS), but also Clostridium, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aeromonas hydrophila. These bacteria can enter the body through a minor cut or scrape and can spread quickly along the fascia, a layer of connective tissue beneath the skin.

Symptoms

Early symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis include red or purplish areas of skin that spread quickly, severe pain and fever. Later symptoms may include ulcers, blisters, or black spots on the skin, changes in the color of the skin, pus or oozing from the infected area, and dizziness, fatigue, or diarrhea.

Treatment

Treatment for necrotizing fasciitis typically involves antibiotics and surgery to remove the infected tissue. In severe cases, amputation of the affected limb may be necessary.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Necrotizing fasciitis
Wikipedia's article - Necrotizing fasciitis

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