Necrotising fasciitis is a devastating condition which can cause death within days. Even those who survive can be left physically disabled by the illness and the nature of the necessary treatment. It is imperative to be alert to those patients and circumstances which could increase the chances of developing this condition.
Significant Circumstances
Most people who develop necrotising fasciitis have a wound or cut to the skin which offers the bacteria a point of entry into the deep, soft tissue of the body. Therefore, there are some circumstances which are more conducive to the development of the condition than others:
- A person who has recently been injured, or received a cut or bite
- A person who has recently undergone surgery or other medical procedures
- Someone who is immobile for an extended period of time – perhaps due to long-term mobility problems or recovering from surgery – and is at risk of developing pressure sores
In these circumstances, any symptoms of intense pain or flu-like symptoms need careful monitoring.
Susceptible People
Equally, although anyone can develop necrotising fasciitis, there are certain groups of people who are more susceptible and require close attention.
- The elderly are more likely to develop necrotising fasciitis and are possibly more likely to die from it, too
- People suffering Type 1 diabetes are thought to be more susceptible to necrotising fasciitis
- People who already have a weakened immune system are more susceptible to necrotising fasciitis
- People with an alcohol dependency seem to be more vulnerable to the condition
- People with chronic heart failure are susceptible to the infection
- People who are obese are also more vulnerable to the infection
Medical Conditions
Necrotising fasciitis has also been known to develop following an inter-abdominal problem such as a ruptured bowel or perforated appendix. People who have been treated for these types of conditions who develop signs of infection need to be assessed for evidence of serious conditions such as sepsis, MRSA or necrotising fasciitis, all of which can cause severe illness and death.
Medical Negligence
Necrotising fasciitis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages and yet early diagnosis is vital if the patient is to have the greatest chance of survival.
Where patients present to a medical practitioner in circumstances conducive to necrotising fasciitis, it is imperative that their symptoms are investigated promptly.
If there is a failure to recognise or act on key symptoms, the medical practitioner may be regarded as having given a substandard level of medical care.
Speak to a solicitor about a necrotising fasciitis claim
If you or a loved one have suffered with the appalling effects of necrotising fasciitis which could have been avoided with an earlier diagnosis, contact us to discuss your experience with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
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