NECROTIZING FASCIITIS (FLESH-EATING BACTERIA)

Necrotizing Fasciitis, commonly known as “Flesh-Eating Bacteria,” is a rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that rapidly destroys skin, fat, and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). When we say “necrotizing,” we’re talking about tissue death, while “fasciitis” refers to inflammation of the fascia, which is the tissue beneath our skin.

This condition is categorized as a type of necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI), posing a significant threat to life as it targets the skin, muscles, and soft tissue, causing patches of tissue to perish. It spreads rapidly and aggressively within an infected individual, leading to tissue death at the site of infection and potentially fatal consequences if immediate treatment is not administered.

Causes

The common culprit behind necrotizing fasciitis is the group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria, the same type responsible for strep throat. However, various bacteria, such as Vibrio vulnificus (commonly found in water), staphylococcus, among others, have also been associated with the disease.

The infection initiates when these bacteria invade the superficial fascia, a layer of connective tissue situated beneath the skin.

Transmission of flesh-eating bacteria occurs through several means, including:

Surgical wounds
Puncture wounds or non-breaking skin injuries
Burns
Minor cuts and scrapes
Insect bites
Abrasions

In some instances, the source of infection remains unidentified. Once established, the infection swiftly decimates muscle, skin, and fat tissue, illustrating the urgent need for intervention.

Types of Necrotizing fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis comes in two primary types:

Type I, known as polymicrobial, occurs when multiple bacteria, typically a combination of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, instigate the infection.
Type II, or monomicrobial, is usually caused by a single bacterium, either group A streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Prevalence

Although considered rare, Necrotizing Fasciitis can occur in anyone, regardless of age or health status. However, individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses like diabetes, or those with compromised skin barriers are at higher risk. In the United States alone, approximately 700 to 1,150 cases are diagnosed annually. Shockingly, up to one out of every five cases of necrotizing fasciitis results in death, although it is a rare occurrence in children.

Symptoms

The onset of symptoms associated with flesh-eating bacteria infection typically occurs within the initial 24 hours. These symptoms often resemble those of the flu or a less severe skin infection. They may also mirror common post-surgical complaints, such as:

Severe pain, extending beyond the skin, accompanied by visible swelling or redness
Inflammation
Fever
Nausea

Symptoms typically manifest as a combination of the following:

Escalating pain around a minor cut, abrasion, or any other skin opening
Pain intensity surpassing the expected level for the appearance of the wound
Redness and warmth surrounding the wound, although symptoms may originate from other parts of the body
Flu-like symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, fever, dizziness, weakness, and overall discomfort
Profound thirst due to dehydration

Advanced symptoms usually emerge around the infected area within 3 to 4 days post-infection. They encompass:

Swelling, potentially accompanied by a purplish rash
Development of large, violet-colored marks evolving into blisters filled with dark, foul-smelling fluid
Discoloration, peeling, and flakiness as tissue death (gangrene) sets in
Sensations of dizziness, fatigue, or nausea

Critical symptoms, which typically manifest within 4 to 5 days post-infection, may involve:

Severe plummet in blood pressure
Onset of toxic shock
Loss of consciousness

Risk Factors

Certain risk factors and underlying health conditions can elevate the likelihood of contracting necrotizing fasciitis. These include:

Alcohol abuse
Cancer
Childhood chickenpox
Cirrhosis (permanent liver damage)
Diabetes
Heart disease affecting the heart valves
Chronic kidney disease
Lung disease, including tuberculosis
Peripheral vascular disease
Steroid use
Use of injectable or IV drugs

In extremely rare instances, issues with dental, tonsil, salivary gland, and sinus health can also lead to facial necrotizing fasciitis.

Diagnosis

Prompt diagnosis of flesh-eating bacteria (necrotizing fasciitis) is crucial for survival, given its rapid progression within the body.

Upon examination and symptom review, if a doctor suspects necrotizing fasciitis, immediate hospital admission is likely for further evaluation and testing.

Diagnostic tests for flesh-eating bacteria include:

Blood tests: Elevated levels of white blood cells are indicative of a potential infection with flesh-eating bacteria.
Tissue biopsy: In some cases, exploratory surgery may be necessary to extract tissue from the infected area. This tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for identification of the specific bacteria causing the infection. Treatment for the infection is initiated promptly, even before receiving the test results.
CT scan: This imaging technique aids in visualizing the accumulation of fluid and pus within the body. Additionally, it helps identify the presence of gas bubbles beneath the skin, which can confirm the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis.

Individuals who have had close contact with someone diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis should also undergo testing if they exhibit symptoms of an infection, ensuring early detection and intervention.

Treatments

Treatment for necrotizing fasciitis, caused by flesh-eating bacteria, encompasses various approaches, tailored to the disease stage at the onset of treatment. These treatments may include:

Intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy: Administered directly into the bloodstream, antibiotics combat the bacterial infection.
Surgery: Surgical intervention is crucial to remove damaged or dead tissue, halting the spread of the infection.
Medications: Some patients may require medications to stabilize blood pressure, ensuring adequate circulation throughout the body.
Amputations: In severe cases, where the infection has extensively damaged limbs, amputation may be necessary to prevent further spread and save the patient’s life.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: This treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, aiding in the preservation of healthy tissue and enhancing the body’s healing process.
Cardiac monitoring and breathing aids: Close monitoring of heart function and respiratory support may be necessary to manage complications arising from the infection.
Blood transfusions: In cases of severe blood loss or compromised blood function, transfusions may be required to restore adequate blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity.
Intravenous immunoglobulin: This treatment helps bolster the body’s immune response, aiding in the fight against the infection.

Home Care Tips

While home care for Necrotizing Fasciitis is limited due to its severity, it’s essential to practice good wound care and hygiene to prevent infections. Keep wounds clean, covered, and monitor for any signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, or swelling.

Complications

Complications associated with necrotizing fasciitis can be severe and may include:

Sepsis: The body’s overwhelming response to infection can lead to systemic inflammation and organ dysfunction.
Shock: Severe drop in blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion can result in shock, a life-threatening condition.
Organ failure: The infection may cause damage to various organs, leading to their failure.
Amputation: Extensive tissue damage may necessitate the amputation of affected limbs to prevent further spread of the infection and save the patient’s life.
Severe scarring: Healing from necrotizing fasciitis can result in significant scarring, affecting both physical and psychological well-being.
Death: Despite treatment efforts, necrotizing fasciitis can be fatal, particularly if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Prevention

Preventing necrotizing fasciitis, caused by flesh-eating bacteria, involves adopting simple yet effective measures to reduce the risk of infection. These preventive steps include:

Hand hygiene: Regularly washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers helps minimize the spread of bacteria, including those responsible for necrotizing fasciitis.
Wound care: Properly cleaning and covering oozing, draining, or open wounds with clean, dry bandages can prevent bacteria from entering the body and causing infections.
Seek medical attention: If you sustain a serious or deep wound, such as a puncture or gunshot wound, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical treatment to prevent potential complications, including necrotizing fasciitis.
Avoid swimming or using hot tubs: Refrain from swimming or using hot tubs if you have an open wound or an existing skin infection to avoid exposure to potentially harmful bacteria present in water sources.

Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine available to prevent necrotizing fasciitis.

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, swelling, redness, or fever, especially if you have a recent injury or wound that shows signs of infection. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Outlook/Prognosis

Early diagnosis and immediate, aggressive treatment are paramount in combating this rare skin infection. Many individuals may require multiple procedures to remove damaged and infected tissue. If you notice persistent redness and swelling of the skin that does not improve, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your doctor promptly. Early intervention can significantly improve the outlook for individuals affected by necrotizing fasciitis.

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Necrotizing Fasciitis (Flesh-Eating Bacteria)”.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. “Necrotizing Fasciitis”.
Mayo Clinic. “Necrotizing Fasciitis”.
Medscape: “Necrotizing Fasciitis Clinical Presentation,”=
Merck Manuals: “Necrotizing Skin Infections.””
Canadian Journal of Surgery: “Necrotizing fasciitis secondary to chickenpox infection in children.”
Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Necrotizing soft tissue infection.”
Cleveland Clinic: “Necrotizing Fasciitis (Flesh-Eating Disease).
National Necrotizing Fasciitis Foundation
American College of Chest Physicians: “Necrotizing Fasciitis and Deep Soft Tissue Infections in the ICU.”
National Organization for Rare Diseases: “Necrotizing Fasciitis.”
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America: “Evaluation and Management of Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections.”
BMC Research Notes: “A case of labio-facial necrotizing fasciitis complicating acne.”

FLESH-EATING BACTERIA NECROTIZING FASCIITIS