Necrotising Fasciitis Flashcards
1
Q
Definition
A
a life-threatening infection that spreads rapidly across fascial planes
2
Q
Aetiology
A
Usually polymicrobial involving streptococci, staphylococci, bacterioides and coliforms
3
Q
Risk factors
A
o Diabetes o Peripheral vascular disease o Leg ulcers o Malignancy o Immunosuppression o Steroid use o Puncture/surgical wounds
4
Q
Epidemiology
A
RARE
5
Q
Presenting symptoms
A
o Pain
• Often seems SEVERE and out of proportion to the apparent physical signs
o Predisposing event (e.g. trauma, ulcer, surgery)
6
Q
Signs on physical examination
A
o Area of erythema and oedema
o Haemorrhagic blisters may be present
o Signs of systemic inflammatory response and sepsis (high/low temperature, tachypnoea, hypotension)
7
Q
Investigations
A
- Bloods - FBC, U&Es, glucose, CRP and blood culture
- Wound Swab, Pus/Fluid Aspirate - MC&S
- X-ray of affected area
