37. Necrotizing fasciitis. Etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment. Complications.

Question 1

Necrotizing fasciitis

Answer 1

• Rapidly spreading infection=>
• Necrosis of subcutaneous tissue=>
• Severe tissue damage

Question 2

Causes of necrotizing fasciitis

Answer 2

• Aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms=>
• Infection enters body through break skin=> cuts, scrapes, surgical wounds

Question 3

Clinical features of necrotizing fasciitis

Answer 3

• Severe pain=>disproportionate to appearance
• Rapidly spreading inflammation
• Necrosis of subcutaneous tissue
• Flu-like symptoms
• Skin changes=> blisters, bullae, or darkened skin patches
• Crepitus

Crepitus- (a crackling sensation under the skin) due to gas production by bacteria

Question 4

Necrotizing fasciitis diagnosis

Answer 4

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging studies=> X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
• Laboratory tests =>elevated white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP)
• Blood cultures and tissue samples=> identify causative microorganisms

Question 5

Treatment for necrotizing fasciitis

Answer 5

• Surgical intervention=>Immediate and aggressive surgical debridement (removal) of necrotic tissue
• Antibiotic therapy=> Broad-spectrum

Question 6

Complications of necrotizing fasciitis

Answer 6

• Sepsis
• Shock=> severe infection and systemic inflammation
• Extensive tissue loss