153: Necrotizing Fasciitis Flashcards
What characterizes necrotizing fasciitis?
Necrotizing fasciitis is characterized by rapid progression of infection, spreading along the fascial plane, leading to progressive necrosis and high mortality rates if not diagnosed and managed promptly.
What are the common predisposing comorbidities associated with necrotizing fasciitis?
Common predisposing comorbidities include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, IV drug abuse, peripheral vascular disease, venous stasis, obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse, cirrhosis, malignancy, corticosteroid use, and chronic kidney disease.
What is the typical source of bacterial introduction in necrotizing fasciitis cases?
The majority of necrotizing fasciitis cases are community acquired via bacterial introduction through a break in the skin. In some cases, the site of bacterial introduction is never identified.
What are the clinical scenarios where polymicrobial infections are particularly high in necrotizing fasciitis?
Polymicrobial infections are particularly high in bowel-associated infections, decubitus ulcers, IV drug users, and spread from genital sites.
What is the most likely source of infection for a patient with necrotizing fasciitis and a history of recent abdominal surgery?
The most likely source of infection is bowel-associated, such as a perianal abscess or penetrating abdominal trauma.
How does corticosteroid use predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Corticosteroid use suppresses the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
What is the most likely site of infection for a patient with necrotizing fasciitis and a history of recent episiotomy?
The most likely site of infection is along the uterus or at the episiotomy site.
How does alcohol abuse predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Alcohol abuse impairs immune function and liver function, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does venous stasis predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Venous stasis leads to poor circulation and tissue hypoxia, creating an environment conducive to infection.
How does smoking predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Smoking impairs vascular function and immune response, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does malignancy predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Malignancy can lead to immunosuppression and tissue breakdown, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does chronic kidney disease predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Chronic kidney disease impairs immune function and wound healing, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does cirrhosis predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Cirrhosis impairs immune function and liver detoxification, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does obesity predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Obesity is associated with poor circulation and immune dysfunction, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does peripheral vascular disease predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Peripheral vascular disease leads to poor circulation and tissue hypoxia, creating an environment conducive to infection.
How does diabetes predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Diabetes impairs immune function and wound healing, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does cardiovascular disease predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
Cardiovascular disease impairs circulation and tissue oxygenation, increasing susceptibility to infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
How does IV drug use predispose to necrotizing fasciitis?
IV drug use introduces pathogens directly into the bloodstream or tissues, increasing the risk of infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
What was the average number of admissions for necrotizing soft-tissue infections in the United States from 1998 to 2010?
The average was between 3800 to 5800 admissions annually.
What was the prevalence of pediatric necrotizing fasciitis between 2010 and 2015?
It was 0.8 per 1 million patient-years.
What role do bacterial enzymes play in necrotizing fasciitis?
Bacterial enzymes assist in tissue breakdown and rapid progression of the disease.
What is the significance of polymicrobial infections in necrotizing fasciitis?
They are often polymicrobial with up to 5 pathogens identified in many cases.
What are the early cutaneous features of necrotizing fasciitis?
Early features include erythema, pain, and surrounding edema that mimic classic cellulitis.
What systemic symptoms may arise as necrotizing fasciitis progresses?
Early complaints include malaise, fever, nausea, and vomiting. As the condition worsens, patients may experience tachycardia, disorientation, and lethargy.