What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Flesh-eating bacteria infection
• Soft tissue gangrene
• Fournier gangrene

What is Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection? (Definition/Background Information)

• Necrotizing soft tissue infection is a rare bacterial or fungal infection that results in the destruction of muscles, skin, and soft tissue.
• Bacteria and fungi enter the body and rapidly multiply, leading to destruction of body tissue. Depending on where the infection attacks, tissue loss can be localized or widespread.
• In many cases, tissue destruction is coupled with other life-threatening conditions, including multi-system organ failure and septic shock.

Who gets Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• While men and women of all ages are susceptible to getting necrotizing soft tissue infection, people over the age of 50 are at a greater risk. 
• No racial, geographical or racial predilection is noted

What are the Risk Factors for Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors of necrotizing soft tissue infection include:

• Open wounds/cuts/burns
• Intravenous drug abuse
• Recent surgery 
• Reduced immune functioning
• Malnutrition
• Chronic health problems

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection? (Etiology)

• Necrotizing soft tissue infection is caused by harmful bacteria or fungi entering the body and rapidly replicating.
• As the bacteria or fungi grow, they release harmful toxins that kill tissue, interfere with blood flow to tissue, and break down material in the tissue. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection?

Common signs and symptoms of necrotizing soft tissue infection include:

• Red-purple, swollen skin
• Re-opening of wounds and release of pus or fluid
• Wide-spread pain
• Fever, Sweating, Chills
• Nausea, Vomiting, Weakness, Shock
• Tachycardia
• Toxic delirium

How is Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Diagnosed?

• To diagnose necrotizing soft tissue infection, a physical exam is conducted. Medical professionals will look at the condition of your skin. If a bacterial infection is suspected, further tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include:
• Skin biopsy
• CT scan
• MRI
• blood test such bacterial and fungal cultures

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection?

Complications may arise when necrotizing soft tissue infection occurs. These can include:

• Widespread infection throughout the body
• Blood infections
• Scarring of affected tissues
• Amputation of limbs
• Loss of functionality of body parts
• Death can result if the condition is not diagnosed early and failure to give appropriate treatment.

How is Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Treated?

• To treat necrotizing soft tissue infection, antibiotics are immediately administered through an IV. This will kill the bacteria and prevent further spread through the body.
• Fluids lost through vomiting or diarrhea are replaced with Intravenous fluids  
• Surgery may also be conducted to drain the area of infection and remove dead tissue.
• If systemic infection also occurs, immunoglobulins may be prescribed to fight the infection.
• In more severe cases, skin grafts or amputation may be necessary. 

How can Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection be Prevented?

• There is no fully effective method of preventing necrotizing soft tissue infection. There are, however, preventative measures that can be taken that reduce the likelihood that an infection will occur.
• Thorough cleaning of wounds/burns/cuts is important to reduce the chances of bacteria entering the body.
• Individuals should also be sure to take precautions when taking part in potentially dangerous activities.

What is the Prognosis of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• With prompt diagnosis and treatment, most individuals who get necrotizing soft tissue infection are able to improve and resume normal functioning. Otherwise, death may occur. 
• In some cases, scarring, skin deformities, or loss of functioning may occur.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/infection-center/