Necrotizing Fasciitis - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Necrotizing Fasciitis

An uncommon disorder caused by bacteria in which the skin and soft tissues below it as well as the fat and the tissue which covers the muscles is damaged, is known as Necrotizing fasciitis.



The disorder causes the tissues to deteriorate swiftly and therefore, individuals suffering from Necrotizing Fasciitis are also known to be affected by "flesh eating" bacteria.  Although the disorder is very uncommon it can be fatal as almost 30 % of infected individuals succumb to it.

Cellulitis Necrotizing Fasciitis - Risk Factors and Causes

Necrotizing fasciitis has a higher risk of affecting individuals with immune systems that are weak, those who suffer from lifelong disorders such as Diabetes and cancer, those who have open wounds and those who have lately been affected by viral ailments such as chicken pox.  The disorder itself can be caused by a variety of Bacteria. Streptococcus Pyogenes is the most frequently occurring type of bacteria that causes necrotizing fasciitis.



This bacterium is also known to cause other ailments such as impetigo and Strep throat. Disorders caused by these bacteria are typically milder.

Vibrio Vulnificus is a bacterium that affects open wounds when they come in contact with the salty sea water or when handling sea creatures such crabs and oysters.  Individuals suffering from lifelong liver ailments have a higher likelihood to be affected by this disorder. Numerous bacteria in the intestine cause yet another type of necrotizing fasciitis which frequently affects individuals who suffer from ailments such as Diabetes.

The disorder manifests itself rapidly though symptoms that normally afflict the lower limbs but can also occur throughout the body. Typical symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis are abrupt and increased pain in the area that is affected followed by fevers, bouts of throwing up and queasiness.

Another sign is the appearance of reddish bumps or lesions filled with pus in the infected region. However, these symptoms may not manifest immediately if the affected area is beneath the tissue. As the disorder deteriorates, symptoms may include passing out which is the result of the blood pressure dropping. Finally, flaking and shedding or stained skin at the affected site is indicative of tissue mortality or gangrene.

Medical attention is immediately required when necrotizing fasciitis is suspected in an individual. It is imperative to care for the disorder as promptly as possible. The earlier medical attention is delivered it better the chances of the individual to recuperate and evade any fatality.

Remedies include surgery to eradicate the affected tissue and curb the contagion. Antibiotics are also used to rid the affected area of the disorder causing bacteria. Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy is also used to inhibit tissue mortality and thereby support recuperation.