Necrotizing fasciitis

Trop Doct. 2004 Jul;34(3):175-8. doi: 10.1177/004947550403400320.

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare but rapidly progressive and potentially fatal disease condition. It is characterized by progressive inflammation and extensive necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and fascia, sparing the underlying tissue. It is a poly-bacterial infection and is associated with profound systemic toxicity, considerable morbidity and a high mortality rate. The outcome is influenced by early recognition and radical surgical debridement. We present a report of six cases of NF who presented to our surgical service within the past 5 years.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / epidemiology*
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / etiology
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / mortality
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / pathology
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Medical Records
  • Middle Aged
  • Nigeria / epidemiology
  • Retrospective Studies