Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can quickly destroy skin, fat and the tissue covering the muscles within a very short time. This infection, also known as "flesh-eating disease," requires immediate medical attention to prevent irreversible damage or life-threatening complications. In this post, we take a closer look at how this infection develops, who is most at risk and what to do if symptoms arise.
What causes necrotizing fasciitis?
Necrotizing fasciitis is caused by several types of bacteria, some of which are also responsible for other infections, such as strep throat and impetigo. While these bacteria usually only cause mild infections, in rare cases, they can lead to this severe condition. Necrotizing fasciitis-causing germs can enter the body through:
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An insect bite, burn or cut
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Wounds that come in contact with seawater or freshwater or by eating contaminated oysters
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Injuries to the intestines, such as from surgery or tumors
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A muscle strain or bruise, even if there is no break in the skin
Who is most at risk?
Anyone can contract this infection, and many people are in good health before becoming infected. The risk of getting contracting necrotizing fasciitis increases if you:
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Have a weak immune system
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Live with chronic health problems such as diabetes, cancer, or liver or kidney disease
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Have cuts in your skin, including surgical wounds
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Recently had chickenpox or another viral infection that cause a rash
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Use steroid medicines, which can lower the body's resistance to infection
Can necrotizing fasciitis spread from person to person?
It is not common for someone to spread necrotizing fasciitis to another person. The bacteria that cause the disease only lead to infection when they enter the body through a cut or other break in the skin.
If you've been in close contact with someone who has necrotizing fasciitis and notice any symptoms of infection, see your doctor immediately.
To help prevent infection, wash your hands often and always clean cuts, scrapes, burns, sores and bites.
What are the symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis?
Symptoms of this infection often begin suddenly after an injury. Seek medical care immediately if you experience:
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Pain that improves over 24 to 36 hours and then suddenly worsens
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Pain that is more intense than you would expect from the size of the wound or injury
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Skin that is red, swollen and hot to the touch
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A fever and chills
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Nausea and vomiting
If left untreated, the infection may spread rapidly, causing severe reactions including toxic shock syndrome, gangrene, organ failure and death.
How is necrotizing fasciitis diagnosed?
Diagnosing necrotizing fasciitis involves evaluating how suddenly your symptoms started and how quickly the infection spreads. Your doctor may test the infected tissue for bacteria. They may also order X-rays, a CT scan or an MRI to examine organ damage or to determine how much the infection has spread.
How is necrotizing fasciitis treated?
Many patients receive treatment in the hospital's intensive care unit (ICU). Treatment may include:
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Surgery to remove infected tissue and fluids to stop the spread of infection
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Surgery is almost always required, and most people need several to control the infection
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Depending on the severity of the infection and where it has spread, limbs or organs may be removed to save the person's life
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Medicines such as antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection
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Procedures to treat complications such as shock, breathing problems and organ failure
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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy to prevent tissue death, promote healing and help fight infection
Early treatment of necrotizing fasciitis is critical. The sooner treatment begins, the more likely you will recover from the infection and avoid serious complications
Learn more about the team of Infectious Disease providers and the conditions we treat here.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
