Acne, Pimples and Skin Disorders |
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Necrotizing Skin Infection, Causes, Symptoms, Necrotizing Treatment
Necrotizing fasciitis may be monomicrobial and caused by S. pyogenes , Vibrio vulnificus , or Aeromonas hydrophila. It is also known as flash eating disease and may occur following surgery or in patients with peripheral vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, decubitus ulcers, and spontaneous mucosal tears of the gastrointestinal or gastrourinary tract (i.e., Fournier gangrene).
This type of infection develops when bacteria enter the body, usually through a minor skin injury or abrasion.
Necrotizing Skin Infections are estimated that there are between 90 and 200 cases per year in Canada, and about 20 to 30 percent of these are fatal.
Gas gangrene is a rapidly progressive infection caused by Clostridium perfringens , Clostridium septicum, Clostridium histolyticum , or Clostridium novyi .
Some necrotizing skin infections spread deep in the skin along the surface of the muscle (fascia) and are termed necrotizing fasciitis. Other necrotizing skin infections spread on the outer layers of skin and are termed necrotizing cellulitis.
This disease is caused by one or more aggressively multiplying bacterial species, most often group A strep. It usually occurs in someone with some kind of underlying illness or severe injury. Necrotizing fasciitis and gas gangrene may cause necrosis of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle. Cutaneous findings of purple bullae, sloughing of skin, marked edema, and systemic toxicity mandate prompt surgical intervention.
These infections occur when certain bacteria escape from the intestine and spread to the skin. The bacteria may initially create an abscess in the abdominal cavity and spread directly outward to the skin, or they may spread through the bloodstream to the skin and other organs.
For severe group A streptococcal and clostridial necrotizing infections, parenteral clindamycin and penicillin treatment is recommended (A-II) . A variety of antimicrobials directed against aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as against anaerobes, may be used in mixed necrotizing infections (B-II) .
A doctor makes a diagnosis of necrotizing skin infection based on its appearance, particularly the presence of gas bubbles under the skin. X-rays may show gas under the skin as well.
Treatment Tips in Necrotizing Skin Infection
- Seek immediate medical attention if you have the symptoms of flesh-eating disease.
- If you have been in close contact with someone who has flesh-eating disease caused by GAS, consult your doctor. It may be a good idea to take antibiotics as a precaution.
- Take proper care of minor wounds and cuts. Wash the affected area in warm soapy water, and keep it clean and dry with a bandage
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