In this article we explore different necrotising fasciitis facts, helping you understand more about the condition.
What is necrotising fasciitis?
Necrotising fasciitis is a bacterial infection of the body’s deep tissues – known medically as the subcutaneous tissue. It sees bacteria release a harmful toxin into the body, causing the tissue, muscle and blood vessels to break down. This leads to tissue death, also called ‘tissue necrosis’.
How do you get necrotising fasciitis?
You get necrotising fasciitis when certain types of bacteria get into the body’s subcutaneous tissue. There are different types of bacteria that can cause necrotising fasciitis. Most are caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
The bacteria can reach the body’s subcutaneous tissue via a break in the skin, be it a scratch, graze or surgical wound. Alternatively necrotising fasciitis may arise as a result of another infection. For example, MRSA can lead to a secondary infection such as necrotising fasciitis.
Is necrotising fasciitis contagious?
Necrotising fasciitis is not contagious. However, it is possible to catch an infection such as MRSA that leads to necrotising fasciitis.
What are the symptoms of necrotising fasciitis?
Necrotising fasciitis will cause a fever with an intense pain at the site of infection. Often there is no apparent cause for this pain. With time the skin will change colour, turning dark red to purple/black. There will also be pus-filled blisters on the skin. As the skin becomes necrotic an open wound will develop.
How is necrotising fasciitis diagnosed?
Necrotising fasciitis can be diagnosed through a patient’s symptoms alone. Various tests will verify a diagnosis. A blood test will confirm the presence of an infection. A surgical exploration will reveal dishwater-coloured fluid in the fluid, which is consistent with a tissue infection. A swab can also be sent to a laboratory to ascertain the type of bacteria causing the infection.
How is necrotising fasciitis treated?
Necrotising fasciitis is treated with intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and surgical debridement. More than one operation may be needed because all of the affected tissue must be removed.
Can you die from necrotising fasciitis?
Necrotising fasciitis can be fatal. It is possible to successfully treat necrotising fasciitis with immediate treatment. However, the infection moves very quickly – if treatment is not given in time the patient will experience life-threatening complications such as sepsis and multi-system organ failure.
What if doctors are to blame for delays in treatment?
If healthcare professionals are to blame for a delay in necrotising fasciitis treatment, the level of care will be deemed substandard. If this causes a patient to suffer harm, there could be grounds for a medical negligence compensation claim. Contact us for more information.
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