Necrotizing fasciitis: A challenging diagnosis

Ashraf F. Hefny, Hani O. Eid, Mudher Al-Hussona, Kamal M. Idris, Fikri M. Abu-Zidan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

45 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate our recent experience in diagnosis and management of necrotizing fasciitis. Records of patients who were diagnosed as having necrotizing fasciitis at Al-Ain Hospital in the period between March 2003 and August 2005 were studied retrospectively with regard to clinical features, risk factors, diagnosis, causative organisms, treatment, and outcome. Eleven patients, eight of whom were men of low socio-economic status, were studied. The median age (range) was 46 (8-65) years. The main risk factor was diabetes mellitus in seven patients (64%). The provisional clinical diagnosis was incorrect in seven patients (64%). Pure β-hemolytic streptococcus group A or B was the cousative organism in five patients (46%). Most of our patients underwent multiple surgical debridements with a median range of two (1-11) operations. Two patients died (overall mortality rate 18%). High clinical suspicion is essential for the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. Accurate early diagnosis, aggressive resuscitation, using proper antibiotics, and extensive surgical debridement are essential for a favorable outcome.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)50-52
Number of pages3
JournalEuropean Journal of Emergency Medicine
Volume14
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2007

Keywords

  • Diagnosis
  • Gangrene
  • Necrotizing fasciitis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Emergency Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Necrotizing fasciitis: A challenging diagnosis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this