Sometimes nicknamed “flesh-eating bacteria,” necrotizing fasciitis is a serious, yet rare, bacterial skin infection that spreads quickly. It can cause loss of limbs, or even death, within a short period of time. The condition can be caused by one or more kinds of bacteria that attack and kill the skin, fat just beneath the skin, and fasciae, which is thin tissue that encloses muscles or organs. Because of the seriousness of the disease, prompt treatment is crucial. Necrotizing fasciitis rarely spreads between people. If you’re healthy, have a strong immune system, and practice good hygiene and proper wound care, your chances of getting it are very low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Causes of Necrotizing Fasciitis
Necrotizing fasciitis occurs after a wound or injury — such as a cut, scrape, bruise, burn, or insect bite — becomes infected. While anyone can get necrotizing fasciitis, most people who get it have other health problems that weaken their immune system and make it difficult for their body to fight infection. These conditions may include diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, or other chronic health conditions. Group A Streptococcus bacteria are considered the most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis. Some other bacteria that may cause the infection include:
KlebsiellaClostridiumBacteroidesEscherichia coli (E. coli)Staphylococcus aureusAeromonas hydrophila
Necrotizing Fasciitis Symptoms
Symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis usually start within hours of an injury. Early on, you may notice:
Discomfort near the injuryWorsening of the pain that seems unusual for the type of injuryFlu-like symptoms such as chills, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, general malaise, weakness, muscle pain, and feverSwollen, red, or hot skin and tissue
As the condition worsens, symptoms may include:
Worsening of early symptomsDehydration and reduced urinationDrop in blood pressure and rapid heartbeatAll-over body rash that looks like a sunburnUlcers, blisters, or black spots on skinToxic shock (a life-threatening reaction)
If toxic shock occurs, the organs begin to shut down, and death may soon follow.
Necrotizing Fasciitis Treatment
Treatments for necrotizing fasciitis vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of bacteria causing the condition and areas of the body affected. Treatment options include:
Removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissueAntibiotics (including Cleocin (clindamycin), Vancocin (vancomycin), penicillin, or other drugs)AmputationInduced sedation and ventilationVacuum assisted closure, which helps draw wound edges together, remove infectious materials, and promote new tissue growthTreatment for complications such as toxic shock, organ failure, or respiratory distressAggressive wound care and repeated lab testsOxygen therapySkin grafts
Once the infection is healed, your doctor may also recommend physical rehabilitation, prosthesis, and psychological or social support.
