38. Bacterial infections (pyoderma): etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, classification

NECROTIZING FASCIITIS

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an uncommon but rapidly progressive and life-threatening infection of the deep dermis, adipose tissue and subcutaneous fascia. A mixture of pathogens, usually including streptococci and anaerobes, is responsible for this rare condition which is a surgical emergency. At first the infection resembles a dusky, often painful, cellulitis, but it quickly turns into an extending necrosis of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. A deep ‘stab’ incision biopsy through the skin into the fascia may be necessary to obtain material for bacteriological culture. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may help to establish how far the infection has spread.